Our Story
The Mi’gmaq were known as Gesgapegiawag, or the wandering people, after years of nomadic life in search of land as foretold by the elders. They finally came upon this land of which a child had dreamt of and established a community on the estuary of the Gesgapegiag River, where the river widens and turns to salt. Their leader, Wagatasg, chose this area for its richness and beauty. It is a place which the Spirit has set aside for its children.
Our Approach
Culture and entertainment tourism represents the greatest opportunity for Gesgapegiag to grow as a destination. Venues, events, attractions and festivals large and small are an integral part of Gesgapegiag’s image, culture, reputation, economic prosperity, fun and cultural vitality.
Tourism Gesgapegiag works closely with private and public sector partners to develop Gesgapegiag as a culture and entertainment destination.
Meet the Team
Results from community engagement and consultation sessions determined that the Micmacs of Gesgapegiag Band would respond to the needs and interests of the community by focusing on Tourism as one of three identified priorities. The Aboriginal cultural tourism sector is growing, which is why it is a priority within Gesgapegiag’s Strategic Plan for Economic Development. This led to the creation of an official Tourism Initiative pursued by Gesgapegiag’s Economic Development Department. Three new positions were created in order to do so: Tourism Manager, Tourism Coordinator and Relais de la Cache Manager.
Hollie Larocque
Economic Development Director
Shyleigh Larocque
Administrative Assistant
Roberta Billingsley
Senior Development Officer
Roberta has nearly 20 years of experience working on regional mandates within the sectors of economic, community and social enhancement. Her work ranges from entrepreneur accompaniment to more complex economic endeavors that include creating partnerships and sourcing financial support for consistent capacity, and business development.
Bonnie Jerome
Project Coordinator
Bonnie Jerome is a member of the community and is currently the Project Coordinator to the Economic Development here in Gesgapegiag. She has been with the department since August of 2016 and has been a huge asset to the development of the Economic growth. She has shown how resourceful she can be and enjoys working on projects to see them through to its highest potential.
Marina Gedeon
Bookings Coordinator/ Receptionist
Percy Carli-Jerome
On-site Supervisor
Walter Jerome
Tourism Manager
Walters goals is to engage Gesgapegiag Community members in productive and sustainable tourism activities that will allow this sector to grow in a positive, forward thinking process and ultimately drive tourism to become a leader in Gespeg’ewa’gi Tourism and offer authentic Mi’kmaq experiences while respecting our core values. Watler has many achievements including: Co-founder of the Tri-cultural Committee, Nous Trois-Nesisieg-We Three, which aims to celebrate the Mi’kmaq, Francophone, and Anglophone cultures who co-exist in Gespeg’ewa’gi through history, language, art, food, and sharing with one another each of our unique stories. This would not be possible without maintaining and seeking partnerships within our region whose visions are in line with the Micmacs of Gesgapegiag.
Most recently, Gesgapegiag has purchased two properties. First, Les Chalets de l’Anse Ste-Hélène which is a renowned chalet rental property with bayside lodging that includes an iconic chalet-boat replicating one of Jacques Cartier’s vessels. Second, Le Relais de la Cache situated along the Route 299 nestled up river amongst picturesque mountain views.
Chalets de l’Anse Ste-Hélène
As of September, 2017, the Micmacs of Gesgapegiag Band are the proud new owners of this beautiful property. We offer accommodations for various sized groups all year round. The Grande Hermine is a replica of the boat that was used by Jacques Cartier during his voyage to North America and more specifically the Chaleur Bay.
Relais de la Cache
Le Relais de la Cache was recently re-acquired by the Micmacs of Gesgapegiag Band and features lodging, a fuel station and a small restaurant to accommodate hunters, anglers and snowmobilers.