On October 28, 2025, the Ontario Tourism Awards of Excellence were hosted at the Ottawa Conference & Event Centre, Ontario, to celebrate the achievements and recognize the outstanding contributions to Ontario’s tourism sector. These awards honour excellence and innovation by individuals and organizations that contribute to the growth of Ontario’s tourism industry through strategic tourism partnerships, impactful marketing initiatives, and media outreach at the provincial, national, and international levels.
A range of categories were recognized at the awards. Below is a summary of winners and nominees from South Eastern Ontario:
Tourism Champions of the Year
Trevor Norris
Bay of Quinte Regional Marketing Board – “Trevor’s leadership has elevated the professional profile of Ontario’s tourism industry, especially in rural regions. His work was featured by Destination Canada as a national case study in regenerative tourism, and he continues to mentor other destinations across Canada in sustainable experience development. Congratulations, Trevor!
Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Presented by Air Canada
John Wright
Kingston Destination Group – “John’s defining achievement came with the acquisition and development of Kingston’s 1000 Islands Cruises and Kingston Trolley Tours, which he and his wife, Kim, grew into two of the city’s most iconic tourism brands. Their vision and dedication helped shape Kingston’s waterfront, extend the tourism season, and create unforgettable visitor experiences.” Congratulations, John.
Tourism Marketing Partnership Award
Winner: Tourism Kingston, Alphabet Creative & Partners
Total Solar Eclipse
Congratulations TK!!
Travel Media Story Award
Nominee: Bay of Quinte – Lauren Yakiwchuk
(Justin+Lauren) 3 Days in the Bay of Quinte Region: The Ultimate Itinerary
Travel Media Photography Award
Winner: Bay of Quinte – Marie Michele Doucet
Belleville Holiday Guide
Congratulations, Marie Michele and BoQ!
Tourism Marketing Campaign Award – Under 50k
Nominee: Downtown Kingston BIA – Find It Here
Culinary & Agritourism Award
Winner: The Royal Hotel’s Restaurant
Congratulations, Royal Hotel, and Visit the County!
Bonnie Ruddock, Executive Director of RTO 9 Regional Tourism Organization, commented, “We are fortunate to collaborate with outstanding organizations and individuals across our region who are deeply committed to advancing the tourism industry. The leaders of these organizations are innovative and passionate about their communities, and it’s inspiring to see their achievements celebrated in South Eastern Ontario.”
Congratulations to all on your well-deserved nominations. Your dedication and contributions continue to make South Eastern Ontario an exceptional destination and enrich Ontario’s broader tourism landscape.
About RTO 9
RTO 9 is a regional tourism organization established in 2010 that is funded by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Gaming. RTO 9 actively promotes tourism in the South Eastern Ontario region and works to support and grow the tourism industry through marketing, product development, investment attraction, and workforce development initiatives.