Claude-Jean Harel receives the Fred Heal Tourism Ambassador Award

March 15, 2010

SASKATOON – Saskatchewan’s tourism industry honoured businesses and individuals at the 21st annual Saskatchewan Tourism Awards of Excellence Gala, which was celebrated on Monday, March 15 at TCU Place in Saskatoon.

“The Saskatchewan Tourism Awards of Excellence Gala is an opportunity for our sector to celebrate its stars,” Dr. Lynda Haverstock, President/CEO of Tourism Saskatchewan, said. “It is a privilege to honour these entrepreneurs, employees, volunteers, and businesses that soar “above and beyond” expectation to make our province a superb destination. Tourism Saskatchewan is delighted to host this annual tribute. We extend our heartiest congratulations and thanks to all of the award recipients and nominees.”

Among those whose contribution was recognized: Great Excursions' Claude-Jean Harel who received the Fred Heal Tourism Ambassador Award. Here is how the 12-person tourism industry committee which selected the 45 finalists and 16 award recipients from nearly 90 nominations summed up Claude-Jean Harel's contribution to the Saskatchewan tourism industry:

"Claude-Jean Harel launched Great Excursions in 1998 as Saskatchewan’s leading destination management company, focusing exclusively on the development, marketing, and promotion of authentic Saskatchewan tourism experiences. Since that time, Claude-Jean has worked with many individuals and organizations to promote the province, resulting in new visits from domestic and international markets through the publication of articles, films, photographs, and books. Among other activities, Claude-Jean has worked with tourism operators to create and enhance tourism products in the form of festivals and events, tours, and local bounty initiatives. He produced and chaired Regina’s Ice and Fire Carnival, delivered dozens of workshops, webinars, and presentations on Saskatchewan, and was associate editor of the Canadian Tourism Commission’s Tourism Magazine."

About Fred Heal

Fred Heal was an outstanding contributor to tourism in Saskatchewan. He played a key role in the development of Wanuskewin Heritage Park, and helped direct the Meewasin Valley Authority to International award-winning status. Fred conceived and developed the Partners FOR the Saskatchewan River Basin project, which involved organizing a network of people from the South Saskatchewan River's origin in the mountains to its final destination , Hudson Bay. Fred also helped lead the team that developed SasExpo '86. The Tourism Ambassador Award was named for Fred in recognition to our province and to the Saskatchewan tourism industry.