The Interlakes Economic Association (IEA), the Fishing Highway Tourist Association and a group of Interlakes entrepreneurs, contractors and developers promoted the Interlakes area at the Edmonton Cottage Life & Cabin Show, April 24-26.
The goal was to showcase all that Interlakes has to offer to attract businesses, tourists and new residents to the area. The 1200-square-foot Interlakes booth was one of the largest at this exhibition that attracted more than 10 000, visitors and specifically targets the recreational homeowner market.
Reaction to the Interlakes booth was highly encouraging, with many followup inquiries coming in at the participation companies, says IEA president Dianne Lawson.
“The spacious and elaborate displays gave many visitors who are not familiar with the South Cariboo a first impression of what the Interlakes has to offer. Many expressed their amazement and admiration for the abundance of fishing lakes and the beautiful scenery they watched on the four large screen projectors mounted on 16-foot-high log posts donated by a local log builder.
The Interlakes community has undertaken this huge project to boost economic growth at a time when concentrated efforts are needed, Lawson says.
“The budget for this trade show was about $30,000. All expenses were carried by the participating companies, and the local non-profit groups contributed with endless volunteer hours to make it happen. This effort is a shining example of a community eager to help themselves.