Katelyn Aslett Appointed Chair of Tourism Whitsundays

Katelyn Aslett Appointed Chair of Tourism Whitsundays

MEDIA RELEASE - 02 MARCH 2026

Tourism Whitsundays announced the appointment of Katelyn Aslett (Collins) as its new Chair last Thursday, marking an important leadership transition for the region’s peak tourism body.

Professionally known as Katelyn Aslett, Mrs Collins brings a diverse national and international background to the role spanning export development, aviation, strategic marketing, philanthropy and frontline regional tourism operations.

Currently the owner-operator of hospitality, bar and retail outlets at Whitsunday Coast Airport, Kate is directly engaged in the delivery of visitor experiences at the region’s primary gateway.

Kate said she was honoured to accept the position.

“The Whitsundays is one of Australia’s most iconic destinations. It is a privilege to step into this role and to work collaboratively with operators, stakeholders and government to strengthen and grow our visitor economy in a sustainable, strategic and inclusive way.”

Kate’s career reflects a consistent track record of innovation, commercial leadership and international engagement.

As an independent fashion designer, manufacturer and retailer, she received both an industry award recognising export excellence and an Australian Export Development Grant supporting international market expansion. She represented Australian enterprise at major global trade and promotional events including G’Day USA, and international fashion weeks in Milan and Singapore.

She later served as Business Development and Marketing Manager for Adagold Aviation, a leading private jet operator engaged in both luxury tourism travel and government contract aviation. In that role, Kate was actively involved in international market development across Europe, the United States and South East Asia building strategic commercial partnerships and navigating high-level government relationships.

The Chair role carries substantial responsibility in destination advocacy, strategic marketing oversight, government engagement and long-term regional planning.

Kate said her focus would be unity, transparency and measurable outcomes across the entire Whitsunday region.

“Tourism is the driving industry of Airlie Beach and our island destinations, and it remains the economic engine of our region. At the same time, its impact extends well beyond the coastline supporting businesses, families and jobs in Bowen, Collinsville and Proserpine.

While much of our visitor activity is concentrated in a relatively small but vital geographic area, the benefits of a strong tourism sector flow right across the wider region. My priority is to ensure Tourism Whitsundays works cohesively and strategically so that every community connected to our visitor economy feels included and supported.”

Her appointment takes effect immediately.

Tourism Whitsundays also extends its sincere thanks to outgoing Chair Julie Telford, who has led the board since 2020 and provided steady leadership as the region navigated the impacts of COVID-19. Julie guided Tourism Whitsundays through a period of recovery and strategic growth, strengthening partnerships and championing the region as one of Australia’s leading visitor destinations.

Chief Executive Officer, Tim Booth, paid tribute to Julie’s impact.

“Julie has been an exceptional Chair and a passionate advocate for our region,” said Tim. “Her strategic insight, steady leadership and deep commitment to our tourism operators have helped shape a clear and confident direction for our organisation. On behalf of the board, staff and industry stakeholders, I would like to sincerely thank Julie for her dedication and significant contribution and wish her all the best for the next chapter.” 

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To read more about the Tourism Whitsundays board, click here.

About Tourism Whitsundays: Tourism Whitsundays (TW) is the organisation responsible for destination marketing and visitor attraction for the Whitsunday region. It is the lead agency recognised by Tourism and Events Queensland and the Whitsunday Regional Council to lead the promotion of the region as a tourism destination. Tourism Whitsundays markets all aspects of the region including the Great Barrier Reef, Whitsunday Islands and Coast, accommodation, boating and sailing, fishing, touring, recreational activities, adventure, dining, shopping, weddings and honeymoons, conferencing and business events.