Presenters and Leaders


The beauty, natural significance and variety of habitats found in the Columbia Valley attract many biologists, naturalists and conservationists who work to understand and preserve our natural ecosystems. Wings over the Rockies Nature Festival has traditionally depended on the expertise of such people to make presentations and lead field trips through the wetlands, lakes, grasslands, and forests flanking the Columbia River. There are also local enthusiasts who have devoted years to observing birds and have gained an impressive expertise in birding. Our leaders and presenters contribute their time, energy and knowledge in their desire to educate and instill an appreciation for nature. Thanks to these dedicated volunteers!

2025 Presenters and Leaders Bios and Photos

  

Click on a name to read the biography of any one of the presenters and leaders.


Presenters

  • Caio Paagman - Evening Presenter
  • Copper Point Resort
  • Gareth Thomson - Evening Presenter
  • Harry Manx - Live Music Signature Event
  • Jenny Feick - Luncheon Presenter
  • Keltie and Stan Masters - Luncheon Presenters
  • Signature Film Event - 'Wildflowers' Documentary and Directors' Presentation
  • Signature Gala Event with Dr. Rob Butler - Keynote Speaker
  • Signature Music Event with Harry Manx
  • Steve Burrows - Evening Presenter
  • Tyerel Raven - Luncheon Presenter

Leaders

  • Andrea Petzold
  • Ben Mitchell-Banks
  • Brian Wesley
  • Brian Wesley and Bob Littlejohns
  • Brian Wesley and Keynote Speaker Dr. Rob Butler
  • Brian Wesley and Steve Burrows
  • Bryon Benn
  • Cajsa Fredin - Matsdotter Metals
  • Cam Gillies
  • Catriona Leven
  • Chris Skinner - Playwest Experiences
  • Columbia Lake Stewardship Society and Lake Windermere Ambassadors
  • Columbia River Paddle
  • Conrad Kain's Kitchen & Grill
  • Dallas Hussar - Invermere Public Library
  • Dallas Hussar and Japhy Hunt - Invermere Public Library
  • David Bradley and Brian Wesley
  • David Gibson
  • Denise Hoffgaard
  • Don Delaney and Kathleen Mpulubusi
  • Doug Yukes
  • Elena Olsen
  • Fairmont Hot Springs Resort
  • Four Points Books
  • Gareth Thomson
  • Georgie West
  • Herrie ten Cate
  • Jakub Olesinski
  • Japhy Hunt - Invermere Public Library
  • Jen Abra and Natalie Ruby - Black Star Studios
  • Jennifer Bowes
  • Jenny Feick and Ian Hatter
  • Joan Gallaway and Lori Jo Jamieson
  • Jody Allair
  • John Zehnder
  • Jon Bisset
  • Katherine Friedley and Adrian Pery - Back 40 Outdoor Events
  • Kathleen Mpulubusi
  • Keltie and Stan Masters
  • Kicking Horse Coffee & Cafe
  • Kim Weaver
  • Kimberley Rae - Kimberley Rae Sanderson Photography
  • Lana Banham - Homestead Harvest
  • Lori Baugh Littlejohns - Columbia Valley Arts
  • Lyle Grisedale
  • Lyle Grisedale and Brian Wesley
  • Mara Nelson
  • Meghan Anderson
  • Pat Bavin - Forest Therapy with Pat Bavin
  • Patrick Carrick - Columbia Valley Drumming
  • Priya Biswas and Archie Miller - Photography
  • Rachel Darvill and Verena Shaw
  • Randy Harris and Dianne Cooper
  • Randy Hopkins and Shelagh Wrazej
  • Rick Kubian
  • Robyn Oliver and Shona Robichaud - Pottery Playground
  • Rocky River Grill
  • Ron and Tracy Grams
  • Ryan Bavin
  • Steve Michel and Shelagh Wrazej
  • Steve Pratt and Greg Scott
  • Winderberry Nursery & Edible Acres Farm & Café