Johnathan Thurston joins board of Tourism and Events Queensland

Rugby league star Johnathan Thurston is among five new industry representatives appointed to the board of Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ).

Announcing the appointment of Thurston, along with Nancy Bamaga, Sarah Kelly, Brenda LaPorte and Chris Mills, TEQ Chairman Brett Godfrey stated “these appointments represent tremendous depth and diversity which will ensure that we continue to pursue our core objective of growing tourism and events in Queensland.”

Godfrey will continue as Chair of TEQ, while two of the existing board members, James Dixon and Karen Hanna Miller, will return for a second consecutive term, with Cairns-based Dixon becoming Deputy Chair.

Queensland Department of Innovation, Tourism Industry Development and the Commonwealth Games director General Damien Walker also continues on the board.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said this board has the skills and experience to take tourism and events in Queensland to the next level.

Premier Palaszczuk advised “JT (Thurston ) is a much-loved Queenslander, an influencer and a leader both on and off the field.

“I am looking forward to hearing his advice and insights as to how we can grow an industry that is vital to regional communities.”

Thurston stated that he was looking forward to working with TEQ, adding “living in regional Queensland, I also know and understand how important events are to our communities, not only attracting visitors but also providing a great source of pride.”