The travel industry is mourning the loss of colleague and friend, Jackie McKeown, director Visitor Services at VisitCanberra, who was involved in an accident near her home on the weekend.
“Our heartfelt condolences go to Jackie’s family,” the VisitCanberra team posted on LinkedIn.
“This news has profoundly affected the VisitCanberra team, especially those at the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre (CRVC), which Jackie led so effectively as director of Visitor Services for the past three years.
“Jackie was a valued member of our Canberra tourism family, and her impact on the local industry was significant. Our thoughts are with all who knew and worked with her.
“Farewell, Jackie – you leave such a positive legacy, and you will be terribly missed by us all.”
Messages of condolence flowed on the post for McKeown who also held roles at Capital Hotel Group, Travelodge WynyardTravelodge Wynyard, Bedarra Island Resort and Lizard Island Resort.
“I’m incredibly saddened to hear this news. I met Jackie a few months ago when her team came to visit my gallery. She was so enthusiastic about the visitor experience and wrote back to me immediately with opportunities for me. I’m incredibly grateful to her and the VC team. Sending my love and strength to the team, her family and colleagues,” wrote Canberra’s GOST (Gallery of Small Things) art gallery director Anne Masters.
Wrote Scott Sadler AM: “One of the most amazing manager of people, businesses and the ACT institution Regatta Point information centre. An unbelievable mother and friend to anyone that she met. Just the most beautiful women who pushed the boundaries and succeeded in many ways.”
“A born leader, a powerhouse, she always acted with respect, integrity and authenticity as she confidently and naturally climbed the P&O Australian Resorts ladder,” wrote Leigh Espie. “Like her colleagues in Canberra, there are many broken hearts in the P&O Family today. My heart goes out to her family, friends and colleagues. We’ll never forget our Jacka Macca.”
