Two additions to queenslands events board

QUEENSLANDERS, Wallaby Tim Horan and Olympian Lisa Curry-Kenny join former Qantas CEO Geoff Dixon as part of a new-look Queensland Events board charged with finding more job-creating events for Queensland.

Premier Anna Bligh outlined the new direction in State Parliament’s annual Estimates Hearings.

“A review of Queensland Events by consultant David Williams shows that our $1 billion a year events industry is in need of re-invigoration. Other states copied our blueprint for events and advanced their own efforts,” says Bligh.

“My Government commissioned the review so that we remain competitive and that we have the best structures and strategies in place.

“This is what I have charged Mr Dixon and his new board to deliver and they will.

“I thank past members — Ben McCarthy, Tracy Stockwell, Adrienne Ward, Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale, Clare McFarlane, Warwick Marler, and especially previous chair Des Power — for their efforts and their commitment.”

Other members of the new board include; Chris White, Stephen Gregg, Cathy Hunt and Judith McLean.

“Mr Williams’ review also identified that there were synergies with Tourism Queensland and recommended that its CEO should also be an events corporation director so Anthony Hayes will also be appointed.” she says.

“The new structure and focus will provide the appropriate mix of skills and experience to build on the work of the previous board in growing the events industry in Queensland.”