New destination tourism manager for Whitsundays

WHITSUNDAYS Marketing and Development Limited (WMDL) has appointed Rebecca Nicol to the role of destination tourism manager, starting next week.

Rebecca joins WMDL from Delaware North Companies, where she has worked as the company’s senior marketing manager, responsible for the marketing of four iconic Australian resorts: Lizard Island, Heron Island, El Questro and Kings Canyon.

Originally from a small town in Ohio, USA, Rebecca began her career in the travel industry in 1986 and has since taken on high-level marketing roles in the travel and tourism sector in North America and Australia, including the role of Air New Zealand’s Director of Marketing – The Americas.

Since moving to Australia in 2007 she has also held senior marketing positions at Virgin Australia and Tourism Western Australia.

WMDL Executive Director Jeff Aquilina said Rebecca brought “a wealth of knowledge and international experience” to the WMDL team.

“And I am confident that her experience and passion for the region will allow us to gain even greater momentum for the Whitsundays,” he said.

In her new role, Rebecca will head up the tourism marketing team and lead the strategic direction of WMDL’s marketing efforts for the region.

“Coming from a strong commercial background, I bring insight into the day-to-day issues and pressures facing travel and tourism operators, and understand the importance of driving tangible business results,” she said.

An avid sailor and outdoor enthusiast, Rebecca has a strong connection to the region.

“I spent my first Australian holiday in the Whitsundays, and it has held a very special place in my heart ever since,” she said.

“I am absolutely thrilled that I will now call the region home, and my husband and I are looking forward to becoming a part of the local community.”