FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 10, 2025
Brad Kozak and Trevor Norris to be named Tourism Champions of the Year at 2025 Ontario Tourism Awards of Excellence
Toronto, ON - Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) is proud to announce that Brad Kozak, Program Director of Golf in Ontario, and Trevor Norris, Senior Manager, Destination Development, Bay of Quinte Regional Marketing Board will both receive the 2025 Tourism Champion of the Year Award.
This prestigious honour will be presented at the Ontario Tourism Awards of Excellence on October 29, 2025, at the Ottawa Conference & Event Centre. The celebration begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets, individual or tables, are available for purchase through the TIAO website, here.
Changing the Game
Brad Kozak has transformed Ontario’s golf sector into a dynamic, bookable, and export-ready tourism product. Since launching Golf in Ontario in 2015, Brad has built a province-wide program that connects nine tourism regions, over 50 golf courses, and more than 25 accommodation partners. His leadership has driven measurable economic impact, with the program generating over $1.39 million in revenue in 2024 alone.
From developing multi-day golf packages and implementing a real-time quoting system, to forging national brand partnerships and diversifying Ontario’s golf audience, Brad has redefined what golf travel can mean for the province.
“Brad Kozak is not just a champion, he’s a catalyst,” said Chuck Thibeault, Executive Director of Central Counties Tourism. “Because of Brad and the Golf in Ontario program, golf has become the reason thousands of visitors explore our regions each year. His ability to build and sustain partnerships where others have struggled is what makes him a true Tourism Champion.”
Golf in Ontario has become a model of innovation and collaboration, inspiring regional growth and elevating Ontario’s reputation as a premier golf destination. Brad’s work continues to support tourism operators, drive group travel bookings, and open new markets for the province.
From Experience to Impact
Trevor Norris has redefined what it means to be a tourism leader in Ontario. Over the past decade, he has transformed the Bay of Quinte into a nationally recognized hub for regenerative tourism, sports tourism, and experiential travel. His work has led to the launch of over a dozen community-rooted experiences, the region’s GreenStep Sustainable Destination Certification, and a climate action plan in development through the Travel Foundation’s “Destination Climate Champions” program.
In 2024, Trevor helped generate over $1.3 million in economic impact through major sporting events like the Canada Soccer U-15 National Championships, World Junior Hockey pre-tournament camps, and record-breaking golf travel bookings through the Golf in Ontario program. He also spearheaded the “Get Free Gas!” shoulder season initiative, incentivizing overnight stays with EV and fuel rebates that boosted local business revenues.
“Trevor has proven to be a credible salesman for our rural way of life because he’s fully bought into it,” said MPP Tyler Allsopp, Bay of Quinte. “He has not only brought national events and investment to our region, but he also coached local operators to develop regenerative experiences that leave our communities better off. His passion, innovation, and commitment to sustainability make him an outstanding Tourism Champion.”
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.
Celebrating our Champions
TIAO is honoured to recognize both Brad Kozak and Trevor Norris for their passion, innovation, and leadership within their respective tourism communities. "Brad and Trevor embody the values, vision, and impact that make exceptional Tourism Champions. We are honoured to celebrate their contributions to Ontario’s tourism industry,” said Andrew Siegwart, President and CEO, Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO). “Their achievements demonstrate that bold ideas and purposeful collaboration can deliver meaningful economic and social growth, redefining tourism product development while creating exciting and authentic visitor experiences.”
Join us in Ottawa to celebrate Brad Kozak and Trevor Norris and the many change makers shaping Ontario’s tourism future.
About TIAO
The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) represents the voice of tourism in the province, advocating for the interests of its diverse industry membership and working with stakeholders to promote growth and create a favourable business environment. www.tiaontario.ca
About the Ontario Tourism Awards of Excellence Gala Reception and Dinner:
The Ontario Tourism Awards of Excellence celebrate success and recognize those who have made outstanding contributions to Ontario’s tourism industry. The Tourism Champion of the Year Award is presented to an individual who embodies the spirit of tourism in Ontario. Additional Awards will be presented in eighteen categories at the Gala Dinner.
Date: Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Location: Ottawa Conference & Event Centre, Ottawa, Ontario
Reception Time: 6:30 p.m.
Dinner Time: 7:30 p.m.
Tickets and Tables: Can be purchased through the TIAO website, here.
Tourism Awards of Excellence Categories: 2025 Ontario Tourism Awards of Excellence
Media Contact
Tourism Industry Association of Ontario
Email: communications@tiaontario.ca
Website: www.tiaontario.ca