Tourism chief spearheads new era on Norfolk Island

Tourism chief spearheads new era on Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island Tourism has appointed a top tourism marketer to lead its operations as it forges a new era for the island's biggest and most vibrant industry.

Steve McInnes takes up the island-based general manager's role on July 18 after almost four years as the national sales manager for Australian ski resort Kosciusko Thredbo Pty Ltd.

A graduate of Sydney University of Technology, McInnes has a degree in business marketing and a diploma in tourism management. McInnes has also held a range of sales and marketing positions with Qantas, TIAS, Viva! Holidays, Westpac Travel and NSW's Countrylink rail service.

McInnes’ appointment follows the start-up of new adventure, eco and cultural tours on the island, new luxury accommodation and the debut of gourmet restaurants and cafes.

Norfolk Island Tourism has also signaled it wants to develop a long-term branding campaign to promote the island to younger travellers as a stylish, romantic and adventure destination.

“An exciting new era is obviously unfolding for Norfolk,” McInnes said.

“My role will be to grow and expand the appeal of the island, help cultivate the product mix, build yield and maximise tourism opportunities for both the island and the travel industry in New Zealand and Australia.”

Located 1,056 km north of Auckland, Norfolk Island is an external territory of Australia. The 8km by 5km island has an infamous convict history. Last year 9,280 New Zealanders visited the sub-tropical island, a 40 per cent increase on 2003.

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