Just as a symphony orchestra creates magnificent sound from individual musicians executing specific parts, individual projects working together can create economic growth. We have proof in Powell River of how events and organizations contribute to diversifying the region’s economy.
This week and last, Pacific Region International Summer Music Academy (PRISMA) and the International Harp Academy of the Pacific, hosted by Powell River Academy of Music, have been taking place in Powell River. Both events attract instructors and students from around the world, as well as tourists who travel to the community just for the performances.
While residents benefit from the cultural experience and the high calibre of musicians who share their gifts with audiences, the community reaps economic benefits as well. In 2010, the precursor to PRISMA, the Symphony Orchestra Academy of Music (SOAP) generated a minimum of 1,141 local hotel/billet nights, 3,423 contracted meals and 96 local bus trips. A 2009 report estimated SOAP generated $1 million in new revenues for the region.
Next Tuesday, 550 participants, as well as support crews and organizers, arrive in Powell River for the BC Bike Race. The spin-off from this event continues to create economic benefits for the region.
Mountain biking is a growing sector in the tourism industry. It’s estimated that it attracts 2.5 million tourists to BC annually and 1.7 million return up to five times, the highest rate of return among destination tourists. Mountain bike riders spend an average of $100 a day and stay an average of five days. The top activity is fine dining and 40 per cent stay in hotels and resorts.
Recent studies indicate that mountain bike tourism generated $600,000 in Rossland between July 1 and the September long weekend last year and $930,000 in Golden during the same time period.
Both sectors, as well as more, are an integral part of the community’s economic revitalization strategy. Destination marketing for Powell River has expanded to encompass the community’s strong arts, culture and heritage sector and outdoor recreation activities such as hiking and mountain biking, along with the more traditional focus on fishing and boating.
Because of the dedicated work of numerous volunteers, coupled with support from local governments and businesses, both cultural and outdoor-recreation-based events and activities are contributing to diversifying the community’s economy, creating jobs and keeping small businesses viable. With each of the sectors playing their individual parts, the results blend together to create a world-class destination.
