The former chairman of Tourism Australia and Tourism and Events Queensland Bob East has been appointed chair of Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting, 23 October.
East is the chair of Experience Co (ASX:Exp), Australian Venue Co, Leisure Accommodation Collective and the Gold Coast Suns. With a group of tourism operators, he created the Mantra Group and developed it into the largest Australian-based accommodation provider. He led the company to a successful ASX listing and to its acquisition by Accor.
TTNQ chief executive officer Mark Olsen welcomed Bob East and thanked John O’Sullivan for his three years of service as chair. O’Sullivan has been appointed as the new chair of the Board of Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ).
“It is fitting that we have a chair with the depth of experience that Bob East brings in accommodation, experiences and global marketing to take up the mantle of TTNQ chair after the great leadership shown by John O’Sullivan,” Olsen said.
O’Sullivan said it had been a privilege to serve as the chair of TTNQ over the past three years.
“I have enjoyed my time working the Board, Mark and the broader team on delivering campaigns for our members. I wish Bob, Mark and the Board all the best for the future,” he said.
East said he was excited to join TTNQ.
“The region is known as a star performer across the nation. It’s the perfect blend of amazing natural beauty, incredible operators and a spirit of working together as a region,” he said.
Chief marketing officer of the Cairns Adventure Group Lisa Chambers and inbound cruise operator Shorex Australia founder James Coughlan were elected to the two vacant TTNQ Board positions.
