GOABC President’s Corner

GOABC

PRESIDENT’S CORNER

Spring transitions to summer and summer to fall. Year over year, the life of the outfitter is predictable with its patterns of preparation, execution, and recovery. This year, however, has disrupted the usual process in almost every way imaginable (and some not), yet presented new opportunities too. It has been up to each one of us to decide which ones we’ve chosen to take.

When I first became president of the GOABC, I expressed my ranking of priorities to the membership: Family first, business second, then GOABC. I believe most people prioritize the same way that I do. Day to day, however, the lines can become blurred. This crazy COVID year has given me the opportunity to delineate and give each of these three important parts of my life the attention it deserves.

To say I enjoy time with my family is an understatement. Our outings, adventures and shenanigans always create incredible memories, and I am grateful to have had more time to invest in this area of life. I’ve never been home with them like this at this time of the year. We’ve made the most of it and will cherish these unique memories throughout our lifetimes.

I’ve also taken the chance to reevaluate the business in ways I’ve never been able to before. When I entered outfitting, I had certain reasons and goals. The sudden suspension of the usual day in, day out has allowed me to work on our business, instead of in it. I’ve had some deep conversations with all of my family and had time to take stock of what the 35 years of investment have produced. Have we achieved the goals we’ve aimed to? Are we living the lifestyle we dreamed of when we hitched our wagon to this star? And how can we best leverage this downtime to level up and make Prophet Muskwa even better in the years ahead?

The GOABC family has been part of my life for many years. I am proud to see how the members, board, and staff have drawn closer to face this challenge together. I’ve heard it said that, although we are all in the same storm, we are each in a different boat. Each outfitting operation is unique and every one of us has come at the current challenges from our unique perspective, with our own unique strengths. Although the board discussed issuing a blanket recommendation regarding client deposits, in the end we agreed that everyone needed to do what was best for their operation, their family, and their

Sean Olmstead & Family President, GOABC

clients. It has been so gratifying to hear the many stories of how everyone affected has been working together to find productive paths through this that work for everybody.

Something tells me that we’ve got a way to go yet. However, I believe if we keep a steady hand on the rudder, we’ll make it through – stronger together and better for having taken the time to focus on what matters.

Our Vision

A province with a strong and stable guide outfitting industry and abundant wildlife populations for all to enjoy, both today and in the future.

Our Mission

As passionate advocates for wildlife, the Guide Outfitters Association of British Columbia is the recognized voice of the guide outfitting family. With integrity and professionalism, GOABC promotes the conservation, stewardship and sustainable use of wildlife.

Wildlife

FIRST

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