The Winnipeg tourism industry's volunteer of the year says he does it because he believes in what he's doing.

Gerry Suski volunteers about 400 hours per year at the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada.

He says many people don't know the rich history of aviation in Winnipeg.

"Air Canada started their company right here in Winnipeg, called Trans-Canada Airlines. The first national airline across Canada was started right here in Winnipeg by James A. Richardson. Also, a little known fact is there was a company out of Minneapolis called Northwest that used to come into Winnipeg... and they had a run into Winnipeg from Minneapolis that made Winnipeg the first international airport in Canada," says Suski.

The sixth annual Winnipeg Tourism Awards of Distinction was held at the Fort Garry Hotel yesterday.

The awards show is put on by Economic Development Winnipeg. CEO Dayna Spiring says tourism is a huge money-maker for the city, and she says it's important to recognize those who help bring more people to Winnipeg.

"I think a lot of people don't appreciate the tourism economy is to our overall economy... it's getting more and more popular, and there are so many Winnipeggers that are championing great experiences in Winnipeg," she says.

There were eleven award winners in total. The lifetime achievement award went to Sherraine Christopherson.