Rocks on Rosalind director Finn Vedelsby has been named Bendigo Tourism Board chair.
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Mr Vedelsby said he is taking over the mantle of chair at an exciting time for tourism in Bendigo.
“I’m really proud to represent an industry and excited to be in tourism in Bendigo today,’ he said. “Bendigo has been mentioned by the federal tourism minister as a leader in tourism and has been popular destination for international guests.
“We have a new five-year plan worked from the previous board and with a new energetic group I would like to maintain that level of passion of and excitement (that the board has had).”
Mr Vedelsby returned to Bendigo in 2006 after working in some of the county’s best restaurants and bars.
He said he has seen an increase in overnight visitors and more holiday-makers enjoying the city’s cafes and restaurants.
“I have been in Bendigo in hospitality for about 10 years and seen a notable increase in international visitors,” he said. “Not just what (statistics) are published, I’ve seen it in real time at the coal face. So many are staying overnight, eating in our cafes and restaurants and doing our tours and enjoying our experiences.”
Mr Vedelsby will be joined by five new faces on the 10-person Bendigo Tourism Board which works with the City of Greater Bendigo’s tourism and major events unit to increase visitors to the city while providing training and opportunities to its members.
Bendigo Heritage Attractions chief executive, Chateau Dore owner Nicole Walker, Welcome Stranger Motel owner, Charles Loftus, Robe owner Fiona Rooke and Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival treasurer Julius Porlai junior are the Bendigo Tourism Board’s newest committee members.
Mr Abbott will act as deputy chair, Ms Walker takes on the treasurer role, Ms Rooke has been named public relations officer while Mr Loftus and Mr Porlai will serve as committee members.
They join secretary Colin Johnston and fellow committee members Sonia Anthony, Paul Greblo and Yvonne Wrigglesworth.
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