NSW Tourism Association welcomes former tourism minister as new chair

The NSW Tourism Association has announced the appointment of a new board of directors led by former state tourism minister Stuart Ayres as independent chair.
Ayres, a former NSW minister for tourism, enterprise, investment, trade, and sport, brings an incredible depth of experience and strategic insight to guide the association through a transformative time for the tourism sector, the association said. He also currently holds the role of CEO for the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) NSW development industry body, a position he took on in May 2024.
Joining him is vice chair Lori Modde, MAICD FICDA MBA, current CEO of Outdoors NSW & ACT, who has been a cornerstone in establishing the NSW Tourism Association as a voice for the local industry.
With 30 years in the travel industry, her passion and dedication have laid a strong foundation for the association’s continued growth, the Association said.
The new board of directors
- Alexandra (Ali) Cassim – BridgeClimb Sydney, head of marketing, product, and digital
- Cameron Arnold OAM – Regen Tourism, CEO and founder
- Ian Wood – Merlin Entertainments, divisional director Australia & New Zealand
- John Hughes – Luna Park Sydney, CEO
- Josh Dolgoy – Royal Caribbean Group, head of government relations Oceania
- Ken Corbett – Australian Attractions, managing director
- Nick Lester – Sealink Marine & Tourism, general manager Sydney Harbour
NSW Tourism Association is a representative body for all tourism businesses within the state with a focus on business development and providing a voice on issues important to the NSW visitor economy. The association said the new board is committed to addressing the challenges and opportunities ahead, with priorities including:
- Boosting visitor numbers and spend 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,” Ayres said. “I look forward to working with our dedicated management team and directors in support of visitor economy businesses across the state.”
Modde expressed her enthusiasm for the new role and the Association.
“It has been a privilege to help establish the NSW Tourism Association,” Modde said. “I am excited to continue working alongside this outstanding board to support operators and communities across the state.”
CEO Natalie Godward said: “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.”
Feature image: Former NSW minister for tourism, Stuart Ayres.
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