The recipient of the Government of Northwest Territories’ (GNWT) 2021 Park Operator of the Year Award is Bottomline Events Planning, run by Lisa Tesar and Lona Collins.
This past summer, the GNWT’s Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) received substantial feedback from campers that the team at Fred Henne Territorial Campground operates a clean, safe and active campground, providing visitors of all ages with a variety of activities and experiences.
Lisa and Lona have been park operators at Fred Henne for the past 12 years, cultivating interpretive and cultural programming for visitors. Long-time Northerners, they consistently offer campers opportunities to engage with local Indigenous Elders through storytelling and workshops on traditional crafts like jewelry making, sewing and beading. They provide voyageur canoe rides on special days, as well as activities for children like bird watching and interactive nature experiences.
With more than 20 team members and additional special events staff, Lisa and Lona, through Bottomline Events, have fostered a lively summer community at the park.
Quote
“I am proud, once again, to honour the achievements and high standards of the NWT’s parks operators. Lisa Tesar and Lona Collins have set a standard for parks across the territory, providing a haven and sense of normalcy for residents during the global pandemic. I have no doubt that once we are able to welcome visitors back to the territory, these ambassadors will continue their exceptional approach to creating positive, memorable experiences for all who drive through the gate of Fred Henne Territorial Park.”
- Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment
Quick facts
- The NWT Parks Operator of the Year Award has been in place since 2006, celebrating the service and hospitality of Northern parks operators.
- Lisa Tesar and Lona Collins have been business partners since 2004, in retail and numerous event planning projects.
- Fred Henne Territorial Park has 75 powered sites, 40 non-powered sites (including nine tent pads) and is consistently the NWT’s busiest park, hosting approximately 10,000 overnight visitors a season.
Related links
For media requests, please contact:
Jacqueline McKinnon
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
867-767-9202 ext. 63039