The Manitouwadge-Hillsport Tourism Association was formed in the year 2000. The Association began as one of the founders felt the accommodation sector of the Community needed to work as a group. This offered benefits to all as we could pool our money, resources and ideas together for better advertising, trade show attendance, etc.

From the beginning we realized our Association could not function as just an accommodation group in order to prosper. Our group began meeting less frequently due to other commitments, but in late 2004/2005 we returned to the table with goals and new ideas. We began by hosting regular monthly meetings, prepared a constitution, membership application and formed an executive. If we were to make this happen, we had to have a goal and take the proper channels for our Association.

Briefly, we cater to both locals and visitors to promote Manitouwadge’s unique lifestyle and entertainment options. The benefits we are striving for include:

• Increased spending in our hospitality industry by tourists and residents
• Retention of current residents by providing an enjoyable lifestyle
• Attracting future residents who enjoy these events and lifestyle

In June 2005 our Association hosted a 3-day ATV Jamboree with a parade, family ride on Saturday and a poker run on Sunday. Some locals then departed on their ATV's and traveled to Hornepayne, Dubreuilville and Wawa. This event, which started in Manitouwadge, was partnered with the ATV Algoma Association and the Town of Wawa, who then hosted an ATV jamboree weekend.

After having a successful event, we then decided to host an ATV Mud-Bath Classic on September 10, 2005, with approximately 20 happy, muddy participants. We were sure to make this event more successful the following year. As a Non-Profit Group, we were able to apply for funding through the Superior North Community Futures Development Corporation. We were also fortunate enough to receive some funding to host our 2nd Annual ATV Jamboree to be held on June 24 & 25, 2006. Posters and this website were created, signs erected, and location determined. We are on our way to a much larger, successful event that will continue to be hosted yearly.

If anyone would like to join our Association they may do so by contacting Jesse Gervais at jesse@northadventure.ca. The last few months we have been meeting every second Wednesday, as we have many plans to develop. At normal times, we host monthly meetings on the third Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm at KG’s Bar & Lounge.