Wednesday, October 27, 2021 – The City of Langford, in partnership with Sooke to Port Renfrew Regional Tourism Association, Malahat Nation, Malahat Skywalk and Destination BC, announced the formation of a new tourism marketing collective. The Spirit Loop is positioned to promote unique tourism experiences in Langford, Sooke, Port Renfrew and Malahat regions. The collective was formed in 2019, however, the announcement and rollout of the first campaign assets were stalled due to limited access to tourism businesses and travel restrictions related to COVID-19. Funding for the project is provided by each above-noted partner with matching funds from Destination BC’s co-op marketing program. The program has been funded for two years, with the campaign positioned to grow and evolve with further support from private sector businesses and other key stakeholders.
“This partnership supports Indigenous tourism and is an example of reconciliation in action,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “The Spirit Loop highlights how Indigenous tourism businesses are connecting people and communities and encouraging visitors to spend time at several destinations while creating a deeper connection – what a great way to showcase all there is to eat, play and stay on this part of Vancouver Island!”
Part of the marketing assets includes a short documentary-style film highlighting a 3-night road trip hosted by Derek Juno. The 14-minute short captures the essence of each region and features unscripted interviews and moments caught during the 4-day seamless shoot.
In addition to the short documentary, local musician Vince Vaccaro was hired to write, produce and perform the original soundtrack for the documentary, including one main theme song and multiple interludes. The song will be officially launched by Vaccaro this November on Spotify. The soundtrack will be part of a road trip playlist curated especially for the Spirit Loop campaign.
Visit spiritloop.ca to learn more.
Media Contacts:
Sooke Regional Tourism Association
Ryan Chamberland
250-858-3611 | ryan@vancouverislandlodge.ca
City of Langford
Donna Petrie, Manager of Business Development
250-391-3403 | dpetrie@langford.ca
Malahat Nation
Josh Handysides, Chief Administrative Officer
250-701-1966 | josh.handysides@malahatnation.co
Malahat Skywalk
Ken Bailey, General Manager
604-815-9107 | ken.bailey@malahatskywalk.com
Port Renfrew Economic Development Task Force
Peter Doukakis, Executive Director
250-478-9525 extension 246 | pdoukakis@worklink.bc.ca