Head of NT Major Events Tim Watsford resigns amid tension among bureaucrats

SIMMERING tensions within parts of the public service are believed to have led to the shock resignation of the Territory’s head of Major Events, Tim Watsford.

NT Major events general manager Tim Watsford has resigned

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SIMMERING tensions within parts of the public service are believed to have led to the shock resignation of the Territory’s head of Major Events, Tim Watsford.

High-level sources have told the NT News how red tape and slow decision-making have upset many executive public servants connected with the tourism industry.

It is believed other high-level public servants are ready to jump ship if things don’t change quickly.

The NT News understands the issues stem from leadership within the tourism portfolio.

Mr Watsford spoke briefly with the NT News from the commercial jet flying him out of the Territory for a holiday.

He confirmed he had resigned and said he was looking forward to a few days’ leave.

He declined to give reasons why he has resigned

The NT Major Events Office issued a short statement saying:

“Tim Watsford has resigned as General Manager of Northern Territory Major Events Company (NTMEC), with his last day being Thursday, 30 April, 2020.

The recruitment process to hire a new General Manager for NTMEC will begin early next year. The NTMEC Board and staff cohort wish Tim the best of luck for his future endeavours and thank him for his commitment to the business over the past two years.”

Tourism Minister Lauren Moss said “Tim Watsford has been instrumental in delivering on events and festivals as part of the Government’s Turbocharging tourism initiative.”

“He has overseen the successful Bruce Munro Tropical Light Festival and delivered a bigger BASSINTHEGRASS at Mindil Beach,” he said.

“He has also delivered a bigger and better Parrtjima Festival in Light in Alice Springs. Both events have seen record numbers under his helm.

“Mr Watsford will continue in the role until the completion Tropical Light. We wish him all the best for the future and he’ll no doubt remain a great ambassador for the Territory.”

The NT News understands Mr Watsford announced to the Major Events board on Wednesday that he would step down from the role in April to allow for a smooth transition.

The board and his staff are understood to be shocked and saddended by his resignation.

Mr Watsford took on the job in March last year after previously working as General Manager of Major Events and Engagement at the NRL.

In the Territory, Mr Watsford has been instrumental in driving change within Major Events, including moving Bassinthegrass to Mindil Beach, as well as overseeing the V8 Supercars.

He was also crucial in bringing Bruce Munro’s Tropical Light to Darwin and has negotiated key sporting event deals.

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High-level government sources say Mr Watsford’s resignation is a major loss for the Territory.

It is understood tensions have simmered within the public service for months among certain bureaucrats connected to the tourism industry.

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Sources have suggested Mr Watsford and others have become frustrated with government processes, red tape and getting things done in a timely manner.

Mr Watsford was No.45 on the Territory’s Most Powerful list last year.

It is not believed Mr Watsford has a job to go to but his intention is to relocate interstate with his young family.