Introducing Your New BCSF Board: Leading with Passion and Purpose!

As the winter snow melts away, the BC Snowmobile Federation (BCSF) is embracing a new wave of excitement: the introduction of our 24/25 Board of Directors!

Gathering for their inaugural meeting in Valemount, BC, during the BCSF Annual General Meeting April 5-7, 2024, the new board is eagerly gearing up to take the reins and navigate our snowmobiling community through an exhilarating year ahead. This diverse team represents the incredible breadth of diversity across our province, encompassing a wide range of club sizes, values, and geographical regions. Snowmobilers of British Columbia, we invite you to join us in extending a warm welcome to the passionate riders who will be leading our community into the future.

We're excited to announce the appointment of Adam McDonald as the new President of BCSF, alongside the addition of three new Directors to our team. We extend a warm welcome to Adam and our new Directors, who bring fresh perspectives and energy to our organization. As we transition, we're grateful to Peter Doyle, our esteemed past President, for his ongoing dedication as he moves into the role of Director to ensure a seamless handover. Additionally, we extend heartfelt thanks to Director Curtis Pawliuk for his years of invaluable service as he retires from the board.

Let's take a closer look at our new board of directors

Adam McDonald (BCSF President) brings over two decades of snowmobiling experience, offering a wealth of insight into the industry's evolution and challenges. With a remarkable tenure as the President of the Merritt Snowmobile Club spanning 15 years and serving on the BCSF Board for five years, Adam is primed to shape the organization's trajectory with his leadership and foresight. Beyond his dedication to snowmobiling, Adam has devoted five years to volunteering as a firefighter, demonstrating his commitment to community service. An ardent outdoor enthusiast, Adam finds solace and joy in exploring the natural beauty of the great outdoors.

Peter Doyle (BCSF Past President / Director), a proud member of the Kamloops Snowmobile Club, is a seasoned leader and vocal advocate for snowmobiling. As the outgoing president of the British Columbia Snowmobile Federation, he played a pivotal role in guiding the federation's initiatives and fostering collaboration among clubs province-wide. Peter's passion for snowmobiling extends to enjoying the sport with all three generations of his family.

Amanda L'Heureux (BCSF Secretary), a dedicated backcountry snowmobiler from Prince George, BC, has been actively involved in the snowmobiling community since 2018, serving as a director and currently as the secretary of the federation. She is a founding member of the Kakwa Park Snowmobile Club and also holds the position of secretary for the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC. Amanda's passion for the outdoors extends through all seasons, enjoying a variety of activities beyond snowmobiling.

Gerald Gelderman (BCSF Treasurer), a devoted snowmobiling enthusiast, has been actively involved with the Coquihalla Snowmobile Club for over 15 years, serving as its General Manager in recent years. With a strong background in technology and accounting, Gerald brings essential skills to the BCSF board, where he currently serves as Federation Treasurer. His expertise helps strengthen the federation and other clubs, enhancing the sport he passionately believes is the best recreational activity.

Brian McBrearty (BCSF Director), born and raised in Fort St. John, has been a dedicated member of the Northland Trail Blazers Snowmobile Club for many years. His extensive experience in snowmobiling provides him with a unique insight into the needs of the snowmobiling community, especially in northern and rural areas. Passionate about accessing remote back-country, Brian enjoys activities like camping, hunting, ice-fishing, and exploring the wilderness, embracing the natural world beyond developed infrastructure.

Chris Block (BCSF Director), brings over five decades of snowmobiling experience, deeply rooted in his love for the outdoors. Formerly the chair of the Kelowna Snowmobile Club, Chris has transitioned into his role with the BCSF, where he utilizes his expertise and unwavering passion to shape the future of the sport. One of Chris's greatest joys is sharing the thrill of snowmobiling with his family, cherishing each moment spent together in the wilderness.

Dave Baines (BCSF Director) found himself unexpectedly drawn to the heart of the mountains, where he wholeheartedly embraced the snowmobiling community with the Elkford Snowmobile Club. Throughout his journey, Dave honed his skills in environmental permitting, government relations, and Indigenous engagement. Now, as a member of the BCSF Board, Dave is eager to leverage his expertise to assist snowmobilers in minimizing their environmental impact while contributing to Indigenous reconciliation efforts.

Derek Bauchman (BCSF Director) has a passion for snowmobiling began at a young age when his grandfather introduced him to the sport in Winnipeg. However, it was upon moving to BC that his obsession truly took root. With years of dedicated service on the Kelowna Snowmobile Club board, Derek now brings his wealth of experience and commitment to his new role as director with the BC Snowmobile Federation.

Doug Brackett (BCSF Director), a proud member of the Nelson Snow-Goers, brings a wealth of business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit to his role within the BCSF. With a deep-seated passion for riding powder and embarking on family cabin trips, Doug's commitment to land access work is underscored by his expertise in seamlessly integrating technology solutions.

Kathy Burke (BCSF Director), a proud member of the Similkameen Snowmobile Club and lifetime member of the Revelstoke Snowmobile Club. Her dedication to snowmobiling spans years of valuable contributions, including many notable fundraising initiatives. Beyond her club affiliations, Kathy sees snowmobiling as more than just a sport—it's a cherished way to bond with family, embark on adventures, and connect with like-minded friends.

Laurie Snowball (BCSF Director) has been deeply involved in the Williams Lake Powder Kings Snowmobile Club when her family introduced her to the sport over 10 years ago. Serving in various roles including Media Director and Treasurer, Laurie brings her passion to the BCSF as Nominations Chair. Alongside her family, Laurie dedicates her time to promoting snowmobiling as a family sport, fostering a strong community of volunteers, and enjoying the great outdoors year-round.

As we welcome our new board members to the team, we also celebrate the achievements of the board over the past year. With a renewed sense of purpose and dedication, we eagerly embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we are committed to upholding the core values of our organization and ensuring the continued thriving of snowmobiling in BC. As we embark on this exciting journey, we look forward to serving and connecting with riders and clubs across the province in the coming months. Stay tuned for updates, events, and plenty of opportunities to engage with your fellow snowmobilers as we ride into a bright future together!

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