2026 Tribute to Tourism Awards Gala Recipients

*nominee group shot (full list of nominees in previous news section post)

Award recipients are…

Event of the Year (budget over 10k) – sponsored by CJRB Radio: This Tribute recognizes a hallmark festival or event that creates a substantial economic impact within the local community, attracts visitors from outside the region/province/country, generates regional/national media attention and positively promotes Southwest Manitoba.

Virden Indoor Rodeo & Wild West Daze

*presented by Betty Sawatzky (left) from CJRB Radio

The Virden Indoor Rodeo & Wild West Daze has established itself as one of Manitoba’s premier rodeo events, drawing competitors and spectators from across Canada and internationally while delivering significant tourism, cultural, and economic impact to the region. Recognized multiple times as “Rodeo of the Year” by both the Manitoba Rodeo Cowboys Association and the Canadian Cowboys Association, the event combines elite competition with family-friendly programming, community celebrations, and strong volunteer involvement. Through continuous innovation, infrastructure investments, strategic marketing, and deep community partnerships, the rodeo has grown into a defining tradition for Virden that celebrates western heritage while generating substantial regional visitation and economic activity each year.

Event of the Year (budget under 10k) – sponsored by Pinnacle Event Rentals: This Tribute recognizes a hallmark festival or event that creates a substantial economic impact within the local community, attracts visitors from outside the region/province/country, generates regional/national media attention and positively promotes Southwest Manitoba.

ArtFest/Amazing Race Neepawa – by ArtsForward

*presented by Jennifer Watson from Brandon First (right) on behalf of Pinnacle Event Rentals

ArtFest Neepawa has evolved into an innovative, community-driven tourism experience that combines public art, interactive exploration, and cultural celebration to showcase Neepawa as a vibrant destination. What began as a small arts initiative has grown into a dynamic festival featuring live art, murals, the expanding Neepawa Art Trail, cultural programming, and an interactive Amazing Race experience that saw 39 teams participating and approximately 1,000 visitors throughout the community in 2025. Through creative programming, strong partnerships, and a focus on creating lasting tourism assets, ArtsForward has successfully strengthened community pride, increased visitation, and generated meaningful economic and cultural impact for Neepawa year-round.

Brandon Event of the Year (over 10k) – sponsored by Brandon Tourism/Brandon First: This award is presented to a hallmark festival or event that creates substantial economic impact within the City of Brandon, attracts visitors from outside the City/Province Country, generates Regional/National media attention and positively promotes the City of Brandon.

Westman Multicultural Festival – Brandon

*presented by Sara Girard/Lanny Stewart (left/centre) from Brandon First/Brandon Tourism

The Westman Multicultural Festival turns Brandon into a lively hub of global culture each winter, transforming the city into a vibrant celebration of culture, cuisine, music, and community connection. Drawing more than 25,000 visitors over three days, the volunteer-led festival showcases diverse cultural experiences through 11 immersive pavilions, live performances, authentic cuisine, and city-wide programming that encourages exploration throughout Brandon. Powered by an extensive volunteer network of over 1,000 and strong community collaboration, the event not only highlights the diversity that shapes Brandon, but also drives significant tourism activity, strengthens cultural connections, and reinforces the city’s reputation as a welcoming and dynamic destination.

Marketing Excellence – sponsored by Travel Manitoba: This award is presented to a business, organization, event, or attraction that has developed an effective traditional, digital or social media marketing campaign that increases tourism to Southwest Manitoba.

Section 6 Brewing Co. – Brandon

* Presented by Allison Dalke (left) from Travel Manitoba

Section 6 Brewing Co., located in Brandon, has successfully built a distinct and recognizable brand that reflects the character, culture, and hospitality of the Westman region. Through prairie-inspired branding, approachable craft beer offerings, and a thoughtfully designed taproom experience, the brewery has created a welcoming destination that resonates with both locals and visitors alike. The brewery has become known not only for its high-quality products, but also for its ability to create an atmosphere that encourages connection, community gathering, and authentic local experiences. By combining strong visual identity, authentic storytelling, organic social media growth, and active participation in regional events and collaborations, Section 6 has strengthened Brandon’s tourism appeal while showcasing the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Southwest Manitoba.

Partnership – sponsored by Pattison Media Group: The Tribute recognizes alliances that demonstrate a co-operative approach to tourism development and promotion.

Prairie Gateway Tourism – Virden

*presented by Hayden Remillard (right) from Pattison Media Group

Prairie Gateway Tourism has built a strong regional partnership between the Town of Virden and the RM of Wallace-Woodworth to promote tourism, support local businesses, and showcase the unique experiences found throughout the Prairie Gateway region. Through collaborative initiatives such as Burger Week, digital tourism guides, community events, social media campaigns, and partnerships with local organizations and attractions, the organization has increased awareness of the region while encouraging visitors to explore its restaurants, businesses, outdoor experiences, and cultural events year-round. By combining creative marketing, regional cooperation, and community-focused programming, Prairie Gateway Tourism continues to strengthen tourism development and economic activity across Southwest Manitoba.

Employee of the Year – sponsored by The UPS Store:  This award recognizes a front-line employee in the tourism industry who demonstrates service excellence and has made outstanding contributions to the tourism industry.

Dean Hammond – Brandon

*presented by Lanny Stewart (right) from Brandon Tourism on behalf of The UPS Store

Dean Hammond has played a significant leadership role in shaping Brandon’s tourism landscape through his work with Brandon Riverbank Inc. and Brandon Tourism. As Executive Director, he has helped guide the growth of the Riverbank Discovery Centre and the broader Assiniboine River corridor into a vibrant year-round destination that blends recreation, culture, events, and community connection. Through initiatives such as the “Back to the River” master plan, strong regional partnerships, and a collaborative leadership approach, Dean has made a lasting impact on visitor experiences and the continued growth and reputation of tourism in Brandon and Southwest Manitoba.

Volunteer of the Year – sponsored by Filmed by Silas: This Tribute recognizes an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the community without financial compensation.

Stan Peck – Boissevain

*presented by Silas Hofer (left) from Filmed by Silas

Stan Peck has devoted countless volunteer hours to preserving and enhancing Boissevain’s model railway attraction, helping transform it into a cherished tourism experience within the Irvin Goodon International Wildlife Museum. As a founding member of the original Boissevain Model Railway Museum, Stan has spent many years rebuilding, maintaining, and expanding the detailed operational exhibit, contributing specialized skills, creativity, and passion to ensure it continues to delight visitors of all ages. Through his dedication, leadership, and ongoing commitment to the attraction’s success, Stan has played a vital role in strengthening Boissevain’s tourism offerings and preserving a unique community attraction for future generations.

Indigenous Tourism – sponsored by The Backyard on Aberdeen by Aida’s Catering: This award recognizes excellence in the delivery of a product or service that demonstrates cultural authenticity and sensitivity to the ecological, cultural and economic integrity of the community.

National Indigenous People’s Day – Brandon

*presented by Aida Harrison (left) from The Backyard on Aberdeen/Aida’s Catering

National Indigenous Peoples Day in Brandon is a powerful celebration of Indigenous culture, history, and community connection, bringing together thousands of attendees for a day of authentic teachings, performances, ceremonies, and cultural experiences at the Riverbank Discovery Centre. Led by a diverse committee of partners, the event highlights First Nations, Métis, and Inuit traditions through interactive educational programming, Indigenous artists and performers, traditional foods, storytelling, medicine teachings, and ceremonies that foster understanding, healing, and reconciliation. Through its strong cultural authenticity, community collaboration, and significant regional attendance, the celebration continues to strengthen Indigenous tourism, cultural awareness, and economic activity within Brandon and Southwest Manitoba.

Small Business of the Year – sponsored by Community Futures Westman: This award recognizes a tourism business, facility, event or attraction with less than 20 employees that provides exceptional visitor experiences that result in a high level of customer satisfaction through the experiences or services provided.

Deer Meadow Farmacy – Oak Lake

*presented by Bill Hogan (right) from Community Futures Westman

Deer Meadow Farmacy has created a unique agri-tourism experience in Southwest Manitoba by combining regenerative farming, sustainable food production, and hands-on visitor education in an authentic rural setting near Oak Lake. Operated by Sean and Kristi-Lyn Buckley and family, the farm invites visitors to connect directly with local food systems through farm tours, educational experiences, seasonal events and ethically raised products that reflect a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and community wellness. Through exceptional customer service, innovative zero-waste farming practices, and immersive experiences such as the Enchanted Farm Tour & Supper, Deer Meadow Farmacy has become a respected destination that strengthens Southwest Manitoba’s tourism appeal while promoting sustainable living and local agriculture.

Thank you to our special guests, sponsors and all who showed up to celebrate with us!