Speakers

General Manager Brand and Strategy at Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort

When to see her:

Session Five Panel: Sustainability as a catalyst for change

Amy Gash was born and raised on the Gold Coast.

Her family are the current leaseholders and custodians of Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort and owner-operators of Gold Coast-based Air Charter company Seair Pacific.

Since graduating from the University of Queensland with a degree in Hotel and Tourism Management, she has worked in all facets of the business, building a solid foundation of knowledge to run and operate a remote island resort, notably obtaining her pilot’s license in 2019.

In 2022, Amy was awarded the Young Achiever Award for outstanding contribution to the Queensland Tourism Industry.

Currently working as the General Manager Brand and Strategy, Amy hopes to encourage and motivate young people to pursue a career in tourism and continue to share the island’s conservation efforts with the world.

Director-General at Department of Tourism  and Sport

When to see him:

Session three panel: Working Together Towards Tourism 2032

Andrew joined the department in late 2021. He was appointed Director-General a year later, leading the government’s objectives to grow and strengthen the state’s visitor economy, innovation agenda and participation in sport and recreation.

Previously, Andrew spent over six years as an executive in the Northern Territory, leading teams at Tourism NT (including StudyNT), Screen Territory and Liquor and Gaming and Racing.

Andrew has an extensive background leading high-performing teams in Australia's tourism, major events, entertainment, sport and cultural industries and internationally to drive visitation and investment.

Deputy Director-General (Policy, Planning and Investment), Transport and Main Roads

When to see him:

Session Three Panel: Working Together Towards Tourism 2032

Andrew has over twenty years' experience in transport delivering in strategic policy, regulation, infrastructure and planning.

Andrew sets the future direction of the transport system in Queensland creating and shaping key strategies, policies and plans for an integrated transport system that supports the safe and efficient movement of people and goods, while driving value for the community and delivering on decarbonisation outcomes.

Andrew's responsibility is to ensure investment across road, rail and public transport, active transport, and freight networks is balanced and part of a single integrated transport network as part of the $32.1 billion program.

Deputy Director-General, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and Partnerships

When to see him:

Session Three Panel: Working Together Towards Tourism 2032

Ben leads the management of Queensland’s parks and forests, including partnerships with First Nations peoples to protect cultural values, support sustainable land use and provide nature-based recreation and ecotourism opportunities.

Ben is responsible for protecting threatened species, managing interactions between people and protected species, managing selected World Heritage areas, and leading the Queensland Indigenous Land and Sea Ranger program.

Ben is also responsible for the delivery of the Great Barrier Reef Joint Field Management Program, in partnership with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

Deputy Chair Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), QTIC Indigenous Working Group and Traditional Owner

When to see him:

Session One: Future Focus – Destination IQ Summary

Cameron is a Quandamooka man from Moreton Bay, Brisbane, South East Queensland, connected to the Githabul People in New South Wales. As a graduate, Cameron is on the University of Queensland Law Advisory Board and is a leisure management graduate from Griffith University, majoring in Tourism, Sport and Parks Planning and Development. He has worked previously in the legal industry for Clayton Utz Lawyers and more than 15 years in local and state governments, delivering First Nations policies and programs, including the Backing Indigenous Arts Program and the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair.

From 2013 to 2019 Cameron was the CEO for the Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC) – the Native Title Body for Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) and Mulgumpin (Moreton Island) that owns Minjerribah Camping, jointly manages both the Naree Budjong Djarra and Kunungai Gheebulum National Parks, and runs the Quandamooka Festival. During that time, he became elected Deputy Chair of the Queensland Tourism Industry Council, assisting in industry outcomes like the Queensland First Nations Tourism Plan, Destination IQ, the Year of Indigenous Tourism and establishing the Queensland First Nations Tourism Council.

Recently, Cameron has been undertaking key First Nations projects for Tourism Events Queensland, Tropical Tourism North Queensland and Screen Queensland. He advises the Queensland Government on its Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Legacy Committee and its Consultative Committee to establish a Voice to the Queensland Parliament, the Queensland Workforce Roundtable and as a member of the Arts Queensland First Nations Arts and Cultural Panel. In 2023, Cameron has been part of international Austrade delegations advocating First Nations economic advancement. He is building on his capacity-building work with First Nations in Papua New Guinea through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Co-owner of Mitchell Grass Retreat, Longreach

When to see him:  

Session Five Panel: Sustainability as a catalyst for change

When it comes to hospitality in the Outback, you don’t get much more genuine than David Neal. Opening Mitchell Grass Retreat, a luxury glamping retreat, was a dream in the making for David and partner Tanya. Building on experience from previously shared management of Longreach Motor Inn and Saltbush Retreat, David and Tanya were ready to ‘up the ante’ in 2020 with a Longreach and Central West first: glamping.

They wanted to create an authentic luxury outback experience with low environmental impact and seamlessly blend into the Mitchell Grass landscape. Glamping tents ticked all the boxes for three key guest benefits: technology-detox, nature-based break and spending quality time with friends and families.

In a true testament to their belief in this new venture, Mitchell Grass Retreat opened in 2020 – mid-pandemic. Inundated with calls from luxury travel agents over this time, their luxury eco-friendly accommodation concept proved a hit with their targeted high-end market. David would be the first to say that ‘listening and actioning feedback’ from their guests and agents has played a big part in their continued success. They were delighted with the industry recognition achieved through their 2021 and 2022 Queensland and Australian Tourism Awards wins.

Queensland Small Business Commissioner

When to see her:

Session three panel: Working Together Towards Tourism 2032

Dominique Lamb is an experienced stakeholder advocate. Previously, as CEO of the National Retail Association (NRA), Dominique advocated on all areas of policy at a federal and state government level.

For instance, she played an integral role in the development of the federal leasing code throughout the COVID lockdown period with industry organisations representing landlords and tenants.

Before this, Dominique was Director of NRA Legal providing industrial relations and employment law advice. Dominque has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to the industry with multiple awards and finalist nods.

Founder of the Dylan Alcott Foundation

When to see him:

Session two interview and panel: Embracing the ‘Year of Accessible Tourism’ now and beyond 2032

Former Australian of the Year, Dylan Alcott AO, is one of the country’s most successful and well recognised Paralympians. In 2021 he became the only male in any form of tennis to win the 'Golden Slam', winning the Australian, French, Wimbledon and US Open Championships, together with his gold medal from the Tokyo Paralympic Games.

In 2017, Dylan launched the Dylan Alcott Foundation, a foundation created to help young Australians with a disability achieve their goals in the workplace, on the sporting field or at university.

Dylan was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2022 for distinguished service to paralympic sport, particularly to tennis, and as a role model for people with disability, and to the community through a range of organisations.

Managing Director IRONMAN Group Oceania

When to see him:

Session Five Panel: Sustainability as a catalyst for change

After competing in his first triathlon event in 1986, Geoff Meyer caught the thrill of the ‘events world’ and has had some level of involvement since. With over 20 years of event management experience, Geoff has worked extensively across the Asia Pacific Region, with a five-year stint in Singapore and now back home in Queensland.

Geoff’s team at IRONMAN Oceania is responsible for delivering over 28 events in the region annually, and his vast experience includes all facets of event management from development to delivery.

Along with the IRONMAN suite of events, Geoff has been essential in delivering and managing several National and World Championship events, including the ITU World Championships, the UCI Road Cycling World Championships, and the Singapore and Auckland marathons.

Geoff is a strong and respected team leader, very experienced at managing the triple constraint for projects: cost, time and quality, and is committed to delivering consistently professional, safe, world-class events that generate excitement, inspiration, passion and participation for all ages and abilities.

From a sustainability perspective, the IRONMAN event looks at all avenues to reduce environmental impacts, including partnering with Tangaroa Blue at IRONMAN Cairns or Closed Loop at Noosa Triathlon to minimise landfill use and are consistently now reaching 90% recycle or biodegradable. Their team is constantly searching for new initiatives, like reusable toggles instead of zip ties, solar light towers, plastic-free event sites, and old, recycled mesh signage that comes back as storage bags. They partner with Tourism Noosa – the ‘Tree for Tourism’ tree rehabilitation program, where over the last few years, they have been able to donate tens of thousands of dollars towards their own ‘mini forest’.

Owner of BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort

When to see him:

Session 2 panel: Embracing the ‘Year of Accessible Tourism’ now and beyond 2032

Greg is a second-generation caravan park owner of BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, purchased by the McKinnon Family 30 years ago. Since purchasing the park in 1993, it has completely transformed into the 4.5-star, multi-award-winning resort it is today.

Greg's experience includes not only the day-to-day operations of the resort but also being heavily involved and a proactive mentor in the industry, including several years as a Director of Caravanning Queensland, of which he is a current board member, the Chairman and Insurance Advisory Panel Member for the BIG4 Holiday Parks Advisory Council and also on the board for Tourism Whitsundays all of which he has held for many years.

As a QTAB Accessible Accredited business in all accessibility modules, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort recognises the importance of understanding the challenges faced by travellers with disabilities, meeting the diverse needs of the accessible market and ensuring guests have confidence in the resort's accessible offerings. From initiatives identified in its accessible/inclusive action plan to relevant accreditations and training, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort continues to embrace accessible infrastructure, this year focusing on facilities for the vision impaired, complementing the resort's existing amenities, including five self-contained, accessible-friendly cabins and autism sensory room.

Deputy Director-General, Arts Queensland

When to see her:

Session three panel: Working Together Towards Tourism 2032

Kirsten oversees the Department’s investment and policy activities in the arts. This includes the Queensland Government’s investment in the Queensland Cultural Centre and funding of major arts companies.

Kirsten provides corporate governance support to the state’s arts statutory bodies and government-owned companies. She also manages arts investment and infrastructure funding programs.

Director – Media Potential

Jillian will MC the 2023 DestinationQ Forum.

Jillian is a familiar face on Queensland television – with over 25 years' experience as a journalist, newsreader and TV presenter with the Seven and Nine networks. She’s currently a presenter on Channel Seven’s much-loved lifestyle program, Weekender.

A career in the media spotlight has also led to a successful communication business, Media Potential, coaching corporate leaders, athletes and influencers to be engaging and unforgettable communicators, on and off camera.

Jillian, with business partner and vocal coach Suzanne Stark, gives you practical lessons and tips developed over decades in TV to sharpen those ‘soft skills’ in an entertaining and valuable workshop.

Jillian is also highly respected as a host and moderator across various events, from economic forums to opening night galas. She is proud to serve on the Women in Media Queensland Committee.

CEO Trade and Investment Queensland

When to see him:

Session Five Panel: Sustainability as a catalyst for change

Justin was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ) to drive the future of Queensland’s investment and export. As part of TIQ’s portfolio, Justin is also responsible for Study Queensland and Migration Queensland.

Justin has held senior executive roles with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and is an accomplished diplomat. Justin led the Capability Taskforce, improving Australia’s Foreign and Trade capabilities and was Australia’s Commissioner General to the World Expo in Dubai from 2017 to 2021. Previously with the Department of Defence, he has delivered major global programs and served on numerous operational deployments in the Royal Australian Navy.

Community and Partnerships Manager at Village Roadshow

When to see her:

Session Two Panel: Embracing the ‘Year of Accessible Tourism’ now and beyond 2032

Lauren Horner is a Gold Coast-born tourism professional with more than two decades of experience in the industry, both domestically and internationally. Throughout her career, she has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of travel and its potential to bring positive change to communities.

Lauren's passion for accessibility was ignited with the launch of Hopo Gold Coast Ferry, the region's sole DDA-compliant water transport service. Understanding the significance of our stunning waterways and oceans, she collaborated with Sea World Cruises to ensure their marine tourism experiences are accessible to everyone.

As Community & Partnerships Manager at Village Roadshow, Australia's largest theme park operator, Lauren is dedicated to making some of the world's most thrilling entertainment, rides, and slides accessible to everyone. Her commitment to inclusivity extends beyond infrastructure changes, as she strives to create a welcoming and accommodating environment for all visitors.

Lauren holds a Bachelor of Communication and a Master of Business Administration from Griffith University, contributing to her strategic approach to driving accessibility initiatives within the tourism sector.

She continues to advocate for industry advancement, demonstrating that tourism can be a force for good when it embraces inclusivity and accessibility for all.

CEO of Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ)

When to see him:

Session Two Panel Moderator: Embracing the ‘Year of Accessible Tourism’ now and beyond 2032

Mark Olsen is the CEO of Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ), the Destination Management Organisation for the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics rainforests.

The region has over 2,500 visitor experiences promoted under the Cairns and Great Barrier Reef brand, Leave Greater, with sustainable tourism as its core philosophy.

The region’s bold ambition is that every visitor will leave as a custodian of the region and its stories and will, through their experience, leave the destination greater through conservation programs for our precious environment and preservation of the world’s oldest living culture.

Before joining TTNQ, Mark was the CEO of EarthCheck Consulting for ten years and, before that, he spent nearly ten years in various roles at Tourism and Events Queensland.

Operations Manager at Paradise Resort Gold Coast

When to see him:

Session Two Panel: Embracing the ‘Year of Accessible Tourism’ now and beyond 2032

As the resort operations manager, Matt has a keen eye for the quality of guest services throughout all departments. Matt's passion lies in creating transformational travel opportunities for families in which they can form lasting family memories and deepen family bonds. For the past 12 years, Matt has committed himself to growing an inclusive environment throughout Paradise Resort.

Matt's original role at the resort was managing the daily activities and supervising kids club sessions. With a wide variety of activities and events daily, Matt's vision has been to be adaptable and cater to all additional needs, both physically and mentally. Matt has been instrumental in making Paradise Resort the number one family destination resort in Australia.

At Paradise Resort, the focus is 100% on the guest's journey. They provide services to families and children that ensure children of all ages and abilities can experience the holiday of a lifetime. The staff are trained to manage many additional needs, including autism, Asperger's, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy. Paradise Resort Gold Coast is very comfortable dealing with children's additional needs. They take every opportunity to ensure children at the resort have an equal opportunity to participate, engage and feel comfortable in their zone for kids club.

Deputy Director-General (Disability, Seniors and Carers), Child Safety, Seniors and Disability Services

When to see him:

Session three panel: Working Together Towards Tourism 2032

Max Wise has worked for the Queensland Government for over 35 years, including almost 20 years in senior leadership roles. He has extensive experience in regulatory, oversight and service delivery, across a range of portfolios including justice, treasury, health, child protection, disability and seniors.

During 2022-23, Max led the development of Queensland’s Disability Plan 2022-27: Together, a better Queensland, which outlines how Queensland will implement Australia’s Disability Strategy to improve the lives of people with disability. He also led preparation of the Future Directions Statement for an Age-friendly Queensland, which Government approved in October 2022, and which confirms the Queensland Government’s commitment to delivering a contemporary seniors’ strategy that will support seniors to live full and enriching lives and help build a more age-friendly Queensland.

Max continues to drive the inclusion and participation of people with disability, seniors and carers. This work includes strengthening, streamlining and administering key safeguards for people with disability, seniors and carers and monitoring the performance of the NDIS in Queensland.

Economist

When to see her: Session 4: Economic resilience in the tourism industry

Nicki Hutley is a highly experienced economist with broad-based expertise gained over three decades in financial and investment markets and economic consulting.

After many years in the corporate world, Nicki is now an independent economist, advising governments, businesses and not-for-profits on many policy issues, but focusing on climate change, the environmental and social impact, and how these intersect with the economy.

Nicki is a councillor on the Climate Council. Other roles include Chief Economic Adviser to the Customer-Owned Banking Association and JANA Investments Sustainability Advisory Committee member. Nicki is also passionate about gender equity issues and is an advisory board member for the Financy Women’s Index, which reports on economic progress indicators for women.

Nicki holds an Honours degree in Economics. In 2021, she was elected President of the New South Wales branch of the Economics Society of Australia. She is also a committee member of the Australian Business Economists.

Nicki is a frequent media commentator and regular guest on The Drum and The Project.

Chief Executive Officer - Tourism and Events Queensland

When to see her:

Session One: Future Focus – The Tourism and Events Pathway to 2032

Session Three Panel: Working Together Towards Tourism 2032

Patricia O'Callaghan is an experienced Chief Executive Officer who has held significant senior executive positions over the past 15 years and is passionate about growing companies and communities and bettering people's lives.

Trish joined Tourism and Events Queensland as CEO in January 2023, after heading up Destination Gold Coast from February 2021 – December 2022 and following nine years with Townsville Enterprise, first as General Manager for Tourism and Events before being promoted to CEO, a position she held for five years.

With extensive experience in strategy development, advocacy, corporate communications, government, stakeholder and media relations and marketing, Patricia has a proven record of working with communities to convert strategy into tangible outcomes.

Patricia was previously accepted into the Australian American Young Leadership Dialogue, was named 2018 BOSS Young Executive by the Australian Financial Review and received the 2014 Australian Institute of Management – Young Manager of the Year Award for Queensland.

Senior Consultant, Get Skilled Access

When to see her:

Session two panel: Embracing the ‘Year of Accessible Tourism’ now and beyond 2032

Stephanie is passionate about inclusion and changing dated misconceptions of Disability. She has a strong focus on creating accessible travel experiences and increasing employment opportunities for people with disability. Diagnosed at 19 with a degenerative eye condition Stephanie gradually lost her vision over 10 years and is now completely blind.

As a Senior Consultant at Get Skilled Access, Stephanie’s lived experience and the skills she has acquired through her prior careers in real estate, tourism and hospitality greatly contribute to her work with clients, enabling her to  provide tangible and sustainable advice to improve the inclusion experience for people with disability.

Stephanie has played an integral role in the successful delivery of the 2022-2023 Accessible Tourism in Queensland project. Further her expertise and lived experience has lead to her appointment as a judge for the 2023 Queensland Tourism Awards. Stephanie brings an open approach to her work, speaking from the heart about her experiences to assist clients with their disability and inclusion goals.

Founder and CEO of EarthCheck

When to see him:

Session Five Panel Facilitator: Sustainability as a catalyst for change

Stewart Moore is the founder and CEO of EarthCheck, the world’s leading scientific certification, consulting and advisory group for sustainable destinations and tourism organisations.

Stewart is one of the Asia Pacific’s most experienced planning and management consultants.

He has over 30 years of experience in a wide range of disciplines including business and strategic planning, policy development, tourism destination management and marketing, sustainability, risk management, and corporate and social responsibility.

Award-winning documentary-maker, television presenter and businessperson

When to see him:

Session Six: Motivation to keep the momentum

Todd is an adventurer, award-winning documentary maker, television presenter and businessman. He is the co-creator of the Earth Hour initiative, one of the largest environmental movements in history. The Financial Review and News Limited ranked him as one of the most influential executives in Australia.

Todd is also the breakout star of the hit ABC show The Gruen Planet and a co-host on the Channel 10 news show, The Project. He is the writer, producer and host of the award-winning documentary series Redesign My Brain, Life on the Line, Mirror Mirror and Discovery International adventure-science series BodyHack.

Outside of work, Todd enjoys mountaineering and has climbed to the top of Mount Everest unguided.