Tourism Whitsundays yet to name new CEO to replace Natassia Wheeler

At a critical time in Covid-19 recovery, the industry body has a significant vacancy to fill after the shock resignation of its Chief Executive Officer.

A question mark hangs over who will lead Tourism Whitsundays through the critical Covid-19 recovery phase.

The region’s tourism organisation is yet to name a replacement for its outgoing CEO, who resigned last week after eight years with the organisation.

Natassia Wheeler issued a statement via the official TW Facebook page saying “the time is right for new leadership to guide the team and region” and that the mother-of-three was ready to “look to (her) next chapter”.

There has been no announcement regarding a possible successor, with TW declining to comment except to say the board was still discussing the matter.

Ms Wheeler’s departure comes as TW welcomes a $3.4 million federal government cash injection to support new marketing campaigns and industry development.

Ms Wheeler said the funding Dawson MP George Christensen announced on Thursday would play an integral role in the industry “getting back on its feet” by helping businesses and tourism operators who were heavily reliant on international tourism to adapt and evolve their products and experiences to suit the domestic market.

In her statement last week, Ms Wheeler said it had been an honour to have forged strong relationships with all levels of government and stakeholders during her tenure as CEO, and she was confident the region would continue to benefit from these.

“Tourism Whitsundays is in a strong position and continues to punch well above its weight in terms of driving outcomes, and these next 12 months will be no different,” she said.

Industry operators praised Ms Wheeler for her dedication to the role, with Airlie Beach restaurateur Kevin Collins describing her as “an inspirational leader”.

“Tourism Whitsundays has never been in better shape and Tash deserves the thanks and praise of everybody,” Mr Collins said.

“She stepped in in a period of turmoil and she’s done an amazing job.

“She was their first female leader and she can stand there shoulder to shoulder with the best of them as an inspiration to women and to the industry in general.”

Tourism Whitsundays’ AGM and board selection for the new year will take place on September 16.