TOURISM Western Australia’s Managing Director, Carolyn Turnbull, has announced her departure after steering the agency for close to three years.
“After careful consideration and reflection, I have decided to embark on a new journey, accepting a leadership position dedicated to advancing the growth of Western Australia’s tourism and hospitality sector,” she shared.
“It has been an incredible privilege to serve in the role of Managing Director at Tourism WA. Together, we achieved remarkable milestones in fortifying the Western Australian visitor economy.”
Among those milestones was a huge increase in the state’s visitor spend, which hit a record-braking $17.7 billion – 31% higher than pre-COVID levels in 2019.
Turnbull also played a pivotal role in launching the Western Australia Visitor Economy Strategy (WAVES) 2033, creating WA’s new global tourism brand, ‘Walking On A Dream’, and supporting the resumption and launch of nonstop flights between 19 international destinations and Perth.
Other notable achievements for the agency during Turnbull’s tenure include sponsoring its highest-ever volume of events, resulting in $206 million in economic impact, as well as delivering the WA Cruise Tourism Strategic Plan, Jina Plan, National Parks Tourism Experience Development Package and Tourism Workforce Development Program.
Di Bain, Tourism WA Chair, stated “Carolyn’s leadership has been instrumental in launching numerous initiatives, programs, and securing substantial funding, all of which have contributed to the impressive growth of tourism in our state”.
The State Government also thanked the industry stalwart for her service and dedication, with Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti stating “Carolyn has played a huge role in steering Western Australian tourism out of the pandemic and overseen some major achievements for Tourism WA and the state”.
Turnball’s last day at the agency will be 10 May, with details of her new position to be kept under wraps until she commences on 01 June.
In the meantime, Tourism WA’s Executive Director of Strategy and Engagement, Stephanie Underwood, will take over Turnbull’s duties until a permanent replacement is found.
