Tourism Powell River, the destination marketing association for the Upper Sunshine Coast, has appointed Russell Brewer to the position of president.
Brewer brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the not-for-profit board, which is considered interim until the organization’s annual general meeting slated for mid May, when elections for the coming year will take place. Brewer is the current president of Powell River Métis Society, past-president of Club Bon Accueil (French Club) and director for Powell River Track and Field Club. Brewer is also the current president of the Powell River Cycling Association, one of the local organizations responsible for bringing BC Bike Race to Powell River in 2010 and 2011.
“Tourism is a natural fit for me, and for this community as a whole,” said Brewer. “Our tourism assets are extraordinary all along the Upper Sunshine Coast, including world-class hiking, biking, boating, fishing, diving, canoeing, arts and culture, sightseeing, or simply experiencing our pristine coastal nature. Tourism Powell River exists to ensure our world-class tourism products and experiences are positioned effectively on the global tourism stage. We are out to diversify our local economies and tourism plays a vital role in that.”
Brewer replaces Chris McNaughton, who announced his retirement from the position in December, 2010. McNaughton served three years as president, helping to bring the organization to its favourable position within the community.
“During my term as president I had the pleasure of working with a diverse group of board members, all of whom contributed to building a strong and vibrant destination marketing organization for Powell River,” said McNaughton. In recent years the association has been successful in attracting over $300,000 in partnered activity and completed a number of major projects including the creation of an image library, meetings and retreats marketing and the formation of Sunshine Coast Tourism.
“Russell will bring a youthful energy and strong leadership skills to the board as its new president,” said McNaughton, as he expressed his congratulations to Brewer.
For more information about the association, readers can contact Darren Robinson, executive director, at 604.485.4000.
