The NSW Tourism Association Has Appointed The Former Tourism Minister As Its New Chair.

Ayres, a former NSW Minister for Tourism, Enterprise, Investment, Trade, and Sport, brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight to steer the association through a transformative period for the tourism sector, according to the association. He also currently serves as CEO of the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) NSW, a role he assumed in May 2024.

Joining him is Vice Chair Lori Modde, MAICD FICDA MBA, the current CEO of Outdoors NSW & ACT. Modde has been instrumental in establishing the NSW Tourism Association as a key advocate for the local industry.

With 30 years of experience in the travel industry, Modde's passion and dedication have played a crucial role in laying the foundation for the association's continued growth, the Association noted.

The new board of directors includes:

• Alexandra (Ali) Cassim – Head of Marketing, Product, and Digital, BridgeClimb Sydney
• Cameron Arnold OAM – CEO and Founder, Regen Tourism
• Ian Wood – Divisional Director Australia & New Zealand, Merlin Entertainments
• John Hughes – CEO, Luna Park Sydney
• Josh Dolgoy – Head of Government Relations Oceania, Royal Caribbean Group
• Ken Corbett – Managing Director, Australian Attractions
• Nick Lester – General Manager Sydney Harbour, Sealink Marine & Tourism

The NSW Tourism Association represents all tourism businesses within the state, focusing on business development and advocating for issues crucial to the NSW visitor economy. The association emphasized that the new board is committed to tackling the challenges and opportunities ahead, with key priorities including:

• Boosting visitor numbers and spending across NSW
• Supporting vibrant regional tourism and sustainable practices
• Enhancing collaboration across the sector

“There has never been a more important time for the tourism industry to have a strong and passionate voice in NSW,” said Ayres. “I look forward to working with our dedicated management team and directors to support visitor economy businesses across the state.”

Modde shared her excitement for the new role and the association, adding, “It has been a privilege to help establish the NSW Tourism Association. I am excited to continue working alongside this outstanding board to support operators and communities across the state.”

CEO Natalie Godward expressed her confidence in the new leadership: “The calibre of our new board is unmatched. Their collective insights will be instrumental as we champion tourism across NSW. We are inspired by the leadership and vision of this extraordinary team and are ready to tackle the future, fostering growth, sustainability, and innovation for the benefit of all.”

“Let’s work together to make NSW the ultimate destination for visitors, creating lasting impacts for our communities and the economy,” she concluded.