I commenced as CEO of Fraser Coast Tourism & Events in February 2026, so I've been in the role for several months. It has been an exciting start, getting to know the region, our industry operators and the community. It is a spectacular region to work.

 

I've worked in tourism and destination marketing for more than two decades, with much of that time focused on regional tourism, visitor economy development, and destination leadership, mainly in Victoria, and now loving Queensland like a local.

 

Before joining Fraser Coast Tourism & Events, I was CEO of Tourism East, supporting the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges visitor economy. Earlier in my career, I worked across tourism, sport, events, economic development, emergency management and executive leadership roles, which gave me a strong appreciation for how visitor experiences, events, business and communities connect.

 

Travel media help turn places into stories that people can imagine themselves experiencing. I enjoy working with journalists and creators who are genuinely curious, ask thoughtful questions and often notice details that locals take for granted. Great travel media can inspire travel, support regional businesses and create lasting emotional connections with a destination.

 

A lack of preparation and poor communication. I love the motto of the six P's - proper preparation prevents pretty poor performance. Tourism can sometimes develop a “just in time” approach, but as a relationship-driven industry, I value people who are responsive, respectful of others' time, work collaboratively and are committed to delivering on their promises. I also think we should always remember that behind every tourism business is a local family, team or community.

 

One of my most memorable media experiences was hosting international food and travel writers as part of the 2016 World's 50 Best Restaurants list in Melbourne. Showcasing regional produce, wine and food was a real highlight, as was learning which food experiences genuinely excited them on a glabal scale. Seeing a visitor become truly moved by a place is what tourism is all about. When a strong sense of place is connected with the sights, smells, tastes and stories of food and drink, it creates memories that stay with people long after the trip ends.

 

I'm drawn to destinations that combine nature, culture and a strong sense of place. Right now, the Fraser Coast is hard to go past. Between World Heritage-listed K'gari, the annual humpback whale migration, coastal villages and welcoming communities, it offers experiences that are uniquely Australian and uniquely Queensland. As someone who loves the outdoors, I often find myself wondering why anyone would want to be anywhere else.