Tofino, BC, October 28, 2015 – Joining the outpouring of support for everyone affected by the recent marine accident, Tourism Tofino today acknowledged the contribution of Tofino’s marine adventure sector to the area’s visitor experience. Approximately one million visitors from all over the world come to Tofino annually to enjoy the area’s celebrated beaches, restaurants,accommodations, and outdoor adventures. More than a dozen whale and wildlife watching tour operators in Tofino provide excursions to tens of thousands of visitors between March and October each year.

“As the first whale watching company in Tofino, Jamie’s Whaling Station is a valued member of the tourism ecosystem and a key partner in promoting Tofino’s unique attributes to visitors,” said JJ Belanger, Board Chair, Tourism Tofino. “We stand in solidarity with Jamie Bray, his staff and crew members, and with our remarkably caring community during this challenging time. Our thoughts are with everyone who was on board during the accident, and to the families and friends who lost loved ones. Bolstered by our recent community gathering, we have begun the healing process, and Tofino and our surrounding First Nation communities are now stronger together.”

“We fully expect that the marine adventure sector will continue to be an important part of the Tofino experience,” added Belanger. “We are looking forward to working with Jamie’s and all of our stakeholders to welcome and serve visitors. While many tour operators curtailed operations early this week out of respect to Jamie and his team, the majority of Tofino’s marine adventure companies resumed regular tour schedules today.”

For information about Tourism Tofino and its hundreds of stakeholders, please visit www.tourismtofino.com.

Members of the media requiring additional information about the marine accident on October 25, 2015 are invited to contact:

Emergency Management BC Media Contact

Solicitor General

Media contact phone: 250 213‐3602

About Tourism Tofino www.tourismtofino.com

Tourism Tofino is a destination marketing organization (DMO) promoting Tofino’s extensive attributes, local events and hospitality industry businesses. Tourism Tofino also partners with other tourism organizations to create awareness of regional tourism initiatives for visitors worldwide.

Tourism Tofino Media Contact

Lynda Kaye

Kaye Public Relations for Tourism Tofino lynda@kayepr.com

250‐266‐5293