Digby Pines Press Releases

Nscc, Digby Pines Golf Resort And Spa Partner To Support Unique On-Site Hospitality And Culinary Diploma Programs

Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa
Nova Scotia Community College
Media Release
February 13, 2023

DIGBY, N.S. - Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) and Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa have joined forces to offer programs and an environment that will foster hospitality business and culinary management education on site, at one of Nova Scotia's renowned, historic resorts.

In its first year, up to 30 students will have an opportunity to take part in this unique partnership. Those accepted to the two-year Business - Hospitality program will have the option to stay in nearby accommodations. While completing their studies, students will be supported by both NSCC (Burridge Campus - Digby Learning Centre) and the resort, with faculty teaching on site. The Business - Hospitality program starts September 2023, and the two-year Culinary Management program is anticipated to begin September 2024 - adding seats for another 20 learners.

The two partners signed an MOU February 7, 2023 outlining the collaborative supports which will include on-site teaching spaces, hands-on work experience and options such as accommodations, transportation, meal plans, part-time work and work placements.

"This partnership with NSCC is a proud moment for historic Digby Pines; we now have an important stake in the future of hospitality-training in Nova Scotia," says Glenn Squires, president of The Pines' ownership group. "This public/ private partnership is first-of-a-kind in Canada and as the Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa begins its next phase of development, hospitality and eventually culinary students, will have the opportunity to be up-close-and-personal with leading edge hospitality growth. This is a game-changer for all involved."

Bear River First Nation is lead partner in the group that purchased The Pines from the Province of Nova Scotia in December 2019.

"It's another proud moment for Bear River First Nation as we, once again, see our concepts - as important as this partnership with NSCC - come to fruition through hard work and dedication of the partners," says Chief Carol Dee Potter of Bear River First Nation. "We hope Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa will continue to bring benefits to our communities and beyond."

Scott MacPherson, NSCC's Dean of the School of Business and Creative Industries, says that the program will provide great hands-on and on-site experience and valuable community connections. "The hospitality and tourism sectors are major contributors to our economy. These programs will connect students with local experts -- experiencing how they operate first-hand." He adds, "It is our hope that by including the option for accommodations, transportation, meals and direct experience, this program will eliminate some of the barriers for students interested in the sector and once graduated, these learners will add their talents to this important and growing field."

Nova Scotia’s Iconic Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa
Opens Year-Round

It’s the first time that guests can enjoy the 93-year-old coastal destination in all seasons

DIGBY, N.S. – When Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa opens for the season on April 29, 2022, its doors are staying open for good.

 

“We are renovating this iconic coastal resort to offer year-round accommodations and activities,” said Glenn Squires, president of The Pines’ ownership group. “Our guests will enjoy Digby Pines in all seasons for the first time in its 93-year history. We’re excited for the growth this will bring to The Pines and Digby region overall.”


Renovations currently underway will see an estimated $12 million invested over the next 18 months. This includes winterizing Digby Pines for year-round operation as a vacation destination and economic engine for Southwestern Nova Scotia. Ultimately, there is potential for $100 million in investment in The Pines over the next five to seven years, through the creation of a vacation village of investment properties that The Pines would manage for the individual owners.


“We are very excited about this historic investment in the future of Digby Pines, Bear River First Nation and the wider Digby region,” said Chief Carol Dee Potter, of Bear River First Nation. Bear River First Nation is lead partner in the group that purchased The Pines from the Province of Nova Scotia in December 2019. “In the Mi’kmaq language, pjila'si is an expression of welcome and respect. This is what we want all guests to feel when they come to Digby Pines.”


Upgrades already completed or underway include:

  • Replacing the heating and air conditioning systems in the main lodge
  • Updating the roof and exterior of the lodge, including winterization
  • The addition of a new patio to the restaurant
  • The addition of a coffee and wine bar in the lobby
  • New carpeting throughout the building
  • Upgrading and winterizing The Pines’ 31 cottages.


“We will ensure that our guests in 2022 will not be impacted by our progressive renovations; in fact, they will benefit from them,” Squires said. “Our aim is to bring more visitors to Digby to enjoy the world-class experiences we have to offer: our genuine hospitality, our vibrant cultures, our breathtaking coastline, our beautiful accommodations, our magnificent golf course and spa here at Digby Pines – and, of course, the best seafood in the world.”


Digby-Annapolis MLA Jill Balser said with the year-round opening of Digby Pines, more visitors will be able to enjoy all that the Digby area has to offer. “You will always be amazed by the community’s generosity and welcoming nature,” she said. “The region offers some of the finest activities in the province, from whale watching to playing a round of golf at the Digby Pines Golf Course. You won't want to miss it." 


The renovations and year-round opening of the resort has created excitement in the community, said Digby Mayor Ben Cleveland. He added that The Pines is committed to sourcing goods and services locally and that many local tradespeople have been working on the renovations. “People around here are proud to become part of making the resort a world-class, year-round facility.”


Chris d’Entremont, MP for West Nova, said for its entire history, The Pines has been an iconic tourist destination and economic driver to the region. “It is an amazing place to discover, and rediscover, the beauties of our region that make it such a unique destination,” he said. “I would like to congratulate Digby Pines Resort and Spa on their reopening and wish them a successful season!”


Financing for the refurbishment is in place through Peace Hills Trust, Canada’s largest and oldest First Nations-owned federally regulated financial institution, operated by Samson Cree Nation.

 

Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa is perfectly situated overlooking the beautiful Annapolis Basin, and has been welcoming guests since 1929. It boasts an 18-hole golf course designed by world-renowned architect Stanley Thompson, a luxurious spa and stunning outdoor pool amid an expansive, manicured property.

 

Facebook – Twitter - Instagram - Linkedin

 

For more information, please contact:

Glenn Squires

President, Digby Pines ownership group

gsquires@pacrimhospitality.com

(902) 401-6640




Share by: