Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture
Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture and Tourism NT CEO, Simonne Shepherd, has today announced she will be departing the Northern Territory, and will leave her role as CEO of the Department on 20 March, 2020.
During Ms Shepherd's time with the Department, the Territory's 2030 tourism industry strategy was delivered, as well as a refreshed Tourism brand and a range of Turbocharging Tourism deliverables, including the opening of the new George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens visitor and events centre and an unprecedented boost to grow tourism.
A significant infrastructure program delivering new and refurbished sporting facilities and arts trail stimulus programs valued at $64 million was also achieved and continues to enhance regional and remote communities.
Ms Shepherd is leaving the Territory for family reasons.
Interim arrangements will be in place, with Andrew Hopper initially acting in the role of Chief Executive Officer following Ms Shepherd's departure.
As noted by Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture CEO Simonne Shepherd
"It has been an absolute pleasure to lead the Department during a period of significant growth for tourism, with an unprecedented investment from the Northern Territory Government aimed at increasing holiday visitors.
"Results for Year-to-Date Sept 2019 include an 8.9 per cent increase in total domestic holiday visitors and a 6 per cent increase in total international holiday visitors.
"I am incredibly proud of the Department's work to successfully deliver on government priorities and services to the community, which further reinforces the hard work and collaboration between the Department's staff and industry.
"I acknowledge and thank all the staff from the department, across all divisions; Community Participation, Sport and the Arts, Parks, Wildlife and Heritage, Tourism and Events, Executive Services and Strategic Services.
"I feel honoured to have worked across such a diverse portfolio."
