March 3, 2023

Gander, NL – Hospitality Newfoundland & Labrador hosted its Annual Tourism Excellence Awards Gala on Thursday night, the grand finale of the 39th Annual Conference and Trade Show, which took place in Gander from February 28th to March 2nd. The Gala featured the presentation of the 2023 Tourism Excellence Awards, recognizing the outstanding tourism operators, employees, and partners who make valuable contributions to the provincial tourism industry.

“Hospitality NL members are our hardworking entrepreneurs and business leaders, cultural ambassadors, and tourism innovators who are committed to strengthening and growing tourism in our province,” said Hospitality NL CEO, Craig Foley.

This year’s awards included the first annual Celebrate NL Tourism Employee Award of Excellence, which recognizes front-line employees whose professionalism, dedication, attitude, and quality of service exemplify excellence in the tourism industry in Newfoundland and Labrador.

“We have a labour shortage on our hands, making our superstar employees all the more precious,” said Deborah Bourden, Chair of Hospitality NL. “But there are meaningful, lifelong careers in tourism. Our people are our greatest asset.

The following is a list of awards and award recipients:
Cruise Vision Award: Dennis O’Keefe
Parks Canada Sustainable Tourism Award: Gros Morne Adventures in Norris Point
Bed & Breakfast Award of Excellence: Hill Road Manor Bed & Breakfast in Grand Falls Windsor
Food & Beverage Award of Excellence: Joe Bowers, Taproom Manager – Quidi Vidi Brewing Company
H. Clayton Sparkes Accommodator of the Year: The Wilds Resort in Salmonier Line
BDC Tourism Innovator Award: Hew & Draw Hotel in Corner Brook
CBDC Tourism Business Award of Excellence: Fishers’ Loft Inn in Port Rexton
Corporate Partner Award of Excellence: Quidi Vidi Brewing Company
Tourism Champion Award: Rex Avery from Steele Hotels
Celebrate NL Tourism Employee Award of Excellence: Joy Cronin, Front Desk Agent–The Capital Hotel

Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023, Hospitality Newfoundland & Labrador is the provincial tourism association, representing tourism interests, taking action on behalf of tourism businesses, and fostering positive messages to help the industry grow and prosper. Hospitality NL’s Conference and Trade Show is the largest annual gathering of tourism operators within the province and took place in Gander, February 28th to March 2nd, 2023.