The re-launched Tourism Whitsundays had its first Board meeting on Monday 4 April 2016, and a new Executive Board have been elected to steer the organisation moving forward.

The new Chairman of Tourism Whitsundays is Mr Al Grundy, a previous Board member and owner of local business Explore Whitsundays.

Mr Grundy is a passionate advocate for the Whitsundays and has been an enthusiastic supporter of the local tourism industry for many years.

Other office bearers for the Tourism Whitsundays Board are Mr Nick Hortle from Cruise Whitsundays as Deputy Chairman, Mr Andrew Telford from Macrossan & Amiet Solicitors as Secretary, and Mr David Stielow from Explore Hamilton Island as Treasurer.

Outgoing Chairman Mr Trevor Rees did not stand for an office bearer position, and the Board thanked him for his significant contribution and time dedicated to the organisation since December 2015.

Mr Rees remains a Board Director of Tourism Whitsundays and will continue as a valuable contributor in that role.

Other Board Directors include Ms Jan Claxton from Ocean Rafting, Mr Matt Boileau from Hamilton Island Enterprises, Ms Toni Ward from Whitsunday Jetski Tours, Mr Scott Wilkinson from Daydream Island Resort and Spa, and Mr Jonathon Freeman from Bowen Tourism and Business.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Andrew Wilcox and Ms Rachael Klitscher from Tourism and Events Queensland will also sit on the Board as major funding partners of Tourism Whitsundays.

Mr Grundy was delighted to accept his new position with Tourism Whitsundays, and is looking forward to working closely with members and industry.

“We have an opportunity to really drive growth and change in our industry, and the new Board structure will give us a clearer focus,” he said.

“I'm excited to be leading Tourism Whitsundays at this critical time, with the recent growth in visitor numbers and expenditure proving the Whitsundays is one of Australia's most spectacular destinations.”

To learn more about Tourism Whitsundays and the region, visit the website at  www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES, CONTACT:

Joanne Hennessy

PR & Communications Specialist Tourism Whitsundays

Ph: 07 4948 5917 or 0417 765 736

Email: communications@wmdl.com.au