The NSW Government’s creation of its new statutory tourism and events authority, Destination NSW, took another step forward today with the announcement by Minister for Tourism and Major Events, George Souris, that Ms Sandra Chipchase has been appointed as its Chief Executive Officer.
“Ms Chipchase’s credentials are impeccable, most recently having headed up the highly successful Melbourne Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (MCVB). It’s yet another win for NSW.
“Ms Chipchase’s appointment is another demonstration of the Government’s commitment to Destination NSW and its charter to aggressively promote tourism and major events and I am pleased to announce Ms Chipchase appointment,” Mr Souris said.
Mr Souris said that the strength of Ms Chipchase’s skill set, outstanding track record and extensive international experience would enhance Destination NSW’s capability to drive a new era of tourism marketing from the statutory authority.
“Sandra Chipchase has been selected to head up Destination NSW because she brings an outstanding track record of success in driving domestic and international tourism, marketing innovation, major events and business events acquisition and building high performance teams.
“She brings with her a wealth of experience, having held senior positions in Sydney, Frankfurt, Hannover, Chicago and New York, most recently leading the Melbourne Convention and Visitors Bureau, as well as serving on several Federal and State industry boards.
“She was recently acknowledged by the peak body, Meetings & Events Australia, by winning its award for Outstanding Contribution to Industry.”
Mr Souris said the new statutory authority would drive the NSW Government’s determination to double expenditure by tourists in NSW by 2020 and represented another key election commitment achieved under the NSW Government’s 100 Day Action Plan.
The legislation to create Destination NSW by aggregating Events NSW, Tourism NSW, Regional Tourism Organisations , Business Events and the Greater Sydney Partnership, passed the Parliament last week and has received the Governor’s assent.
“Today’s announcement is another step along the way to getting on with the business of boosting tourism and helping rebuild the State’s economy. I look forward to working with Ms Chipchase and the new Board when it is appointed ”, Mr Souris, said.
