Muskoka Tourism Hosts 2023 AGM and Welcomes New Board of Directors

A new strategy, a renewed focus on collaboration, and four times the marketing activity to make a significant impact on Tourism in Muskoka

MUSKOKA April 27, 2023: Muskoka Tourism Marketing Agency (MTMA) held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) on April 26^th at South Muskoka Curling & Golf Club. The event brought together tourism operators, industry partners, and local dignitaries. MTMA also welcomed special guest speaker, Loren Christie from Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce to bring even greater value to attendees of their AGM.

MTMA Executive Director Val Hamilton shared plans for the future of Muskoka Tourism and provided insight into the results of their 2022 marketing efforts, which included driving over 20 million impressions, 1 million website sessions, and sending over 500,000 referrals to tourism operators in Muskoka. Val Hamilton also highlighted MTMA’s robust winter campaign, stating, “We delivered a powerful campaign aimed at taking Muskoka’s huge summer fanbase and turning them into even bigger fans of our winter experiences.” She further added that their success is strengthened by revitalized partnerships with Destination Ontario, FedNor, and Explorers’ Edge.

The members of Muskoka Tourism elected Chris Bosworth, CMO from Algonquin Outfitters and Randy Pielsticker, General Manager from Hidden Valley Ski Area to the Board of Directors joining eleven returning Board members. Outgoing Chair, Kelly Haywood shared excitement for the future of the organization. “The Board is so pleased with the enormous impact Val and the team at MTMA have made and we are thrilled for the future of Muskoka Tourism,” commented Haywood.

The Board of Directors elected Michael Simonett, Director of Rooms & Revenue from ClubLink as their new Chair for the 2023 – 2024 term.

“This year will be an exciting one for Muskoka Tourism. With four times more marketing power compared to 2019, we will ensure Muskoka is positioned as THE must-experience destination in Ontario,” commented Val Hamilton, Executive Director.

MUSKOKA TOURISM BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
CHAIR: Michael Simonett, ClubLink
VICE CHAIR: Adam Frederick, South Muskoka Curling & Golf Club
TREASURER: Debbie Eccles, Sunset Cruises
Kelly Haywood, Huntsville/LOB Chamber of Commerce
Jordan Waines, Muskoka Steamships/Discovery Centre
Wendy Turner, Deerhurst/Muskoka Bay Resort
Randy Pielsticker, Hidden Valley Ski Area

Chris Bosworth, Algonquin Outfitters
Janet Denstedt, Muskoka Beachside Cottages
Sharon Hales, Christie’s Mill
Jon Massey, Resort Support Canada
Brenda Rhodes, District of Muskoka
Peter Johnston, District of Muskoka