The NSW Tourism Association has announced the appointment of its new board, led by The Hon Stuart Ayres as its independent Chair.

Mr Ayres, a former NSW Minister for Tourism, Enterprise, Investment, Trade and Sport, replaces Lori Modde, who returns to the board as Vice Chair.

“It’s a real privilege to be appointed as the independent Chair of the NSW Tourism Association, Mr Ayres said.

"There has never been a more important time for the tourism industry to have a strong and passionate voice in NSW. I’m excited by the challenge and look forward to working with our dedicated management team and fellow directors in support of visitor economy businesses across our state.”

Ms Modde said: “It has been a privilege to help establish the NSW Tourism Association and see it grow into a trusted voice for our industry. I am excited to continue in my role as Vice Chair and to work alongside this outstanding new board to support tourism operators and communities across the state.”

The new directors represent a broad cross-section of industry leaders. They include:

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

The board's priorities include increasing visitor numbers and expenditure in NSW, supporting a vibrant regional tourism sector, fostering sustainable practices and enhancing collaboration opportunities across the sector.

NSW Tourism Association CEO Natalie Godward said: “The calibre of our new board is unmatched, and I am so excited to work with such distinguished leaders. Their collective experience and insights will be instrumental as we navigate the path forward for tourism across NSW.”