Tourism CEO to resign
Mary-Clare Power reveals her departure from organisation soon
THE outgoing CEO for Southern Queensland Country Tourism believes the Darling Downs’ tourism sector is better placed for the future than when she joined seven years ago.
Mary-Clare Power revealed yesterday she wouldn’t seek a contract renewal with the government-funded tourism body past June, instead planning to seek opportunities in Brisbane and be closer to family.
Ms Power said she was proud of the body’s achievements during her time as the CEO, a role in which she expected to only spend a couple of years.
“We’ve achieved an enormous amount in that time, but it’s time to explore new opportunities for myself,” she said.
“For me, it’s been about elevating this region up into the eyes of the domestic and international markets and taking industry on that ride with us.
“We have great interest in this region, with several international markets, and we can talk to them and show them the products we have.”
Ms Power’s departure comes amid speculation of a possible new entity created from Southern Queensland Country Tourism and the privately-owned Tourism Darling Downs.
Ruth Wetmore left the John Wagner-led organisation at the end of her contract late last year.
Ms Power said she would assist the organisation to help with the transition to a new CEO.
SQCT chair Dr Jane Summers thanked her for her work with the organisation.