Bob East appointed chair of Tourism Tropical North Queensland

Bob East has been appointed as the new chair of Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ), succeeding John O’Sullivan. East, who previously served as the chair of Tourism Australia’s board, brings extensive experience in accommodation, global marketing, and destination management. He also holds leadership roles with Experience Co, Australian Venue Co, the Leisure Accommodation Collective, and the Gold Coast Suns.

TTNQ Chief Executive Mark Olsen noted that O’Sullivan’s leadership was instrumental in navigating the post-pandemic recovery. The organization faces a new period of destination marketing with a reduced budget. Alongside East, Lisa Chambers of the Cairns Adventure Group and James Coughlan of Shorex Australia were also appointed to the TTNQ board.

In a separate industry development, Neil Scales has stepped in as the Chair of the Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) following the passing of Bruce Baird. Scales, a former Director General of the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, will hold the position through the 2027 fiscal year.