Destination Riverina Murray is one of seven Destination Networks established in 2017 to increase visitation and contribute towards achieving the NSW Government’s overnight visitor expenditure goal for 2030. The operations of the Destination Networks are funded by the NSW government through Destination NSW, the government’s lead agency for tourism and major events.
Our mission is to strengthen the region’s visitor economy by developing strong partnerships with Destination New South Wales, Murray Regional Tourism, Thrive Riverina, Local Governments, National Parks and Wildlife Service and industry stakeholders to collectively contribute towards increasing visitation, expenditure and dispersal within the Riverina Murray region.
Our key responsibilities include:
Did you know that there are 3,232 tourism related businesses in Riverina Murray?
During 2023-24, we directly supported and mentored 89 of these tourism operators to develop tourism product and related outcomes.
Other outcomes for local business included:
For wider industry and government, our achievements included:
See the full list in our 23-24 Milestone Report.
Destination Riverina Murray is led by a board of skills based Directors who have been appointed for a 3 year term.
Matthew is a highly experienced entrepreneur and the proud owner of The Coffee Pedaler cafes. With a Bachelor of Business and a remarkable 25-year industry track record, his expertise and passion shine through every endeavor. Nestled in the picturesque town of Tumut, he finds solace, inspiration and adventure amidst the mountains, through his cycling, skiing, and hiking interests. As the Chair of DRM, Matthew is eagerly committed to enhancing opportunities for both existing and emerging operators in the region, and is dedicated to driving growth and prosperity to leave an indelible mark on the local Visitor Economy.
Mary is a dedicated rural enthusiast with a lifelong connection to the heart of Australia. Her professional trajectory spans from nursing to organisational development consulting. Mary has held key roles in health service management, tertiary education and academic research. Her qualifications include a Masters in Applied Science, a Bachelor of Nursing, and Diplomas in Management, Project Management, Population Health, and Education (Tertiary). Her commitment to education and rural development has been recognised in peer reviewed publications and academically and former fellowships with the University of Melbourne and an Honorary Associate with La Trobe University.
In addition to her academic achievements, Mary established her own consultancy primarily focused on collaborating with not-for-profits, local government, and businesses, contributing her expertise to foster growth and development in rural communities. Mary also coordinates the Fischer Community Leadership Program and has held the position of Chair of Regional Development Australia (RDA) Murray for 5 years; a voluntary position appointed by the Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, facilitating economic development across 9 Local Government Areas on the NSW side of the River Murray.
Mary’s community contributions have earned her multiple community services awards. She resides in Jingellic, located in the picturesque Upper Murray region where she and her husband run a beef enterprise.
Craig was raised on a broadacre cropping and sheep farm in the Riverina. Whilst working in hospitality operations, he attained a BA in Hotel Management from AIHS / Cornell University before relocating to the UK to pursue a career in business.
Craig’s diverse experience spans a range industries and disciplines, with a focus on forming customer centric solutions through collaborative partnerships. Craig currently leads the Economic, Community and Visitor Services function of Temora Shire Council whilst operating a boutique accommodation and events space, Harberton House.
As the former Chair Riverina Regional Tourism and the creator of the Canola Trail marketing collective, Craig is passionate about driving visitation to the Riverina Murray region.
Sara has worked in visitor economy operations across the globe; having lived and worked in several countries. Her directorship roles have featured the business of theme parks, events and theatre. She has played an active role in award-winning events and tourism experiences – both here and overseas – and is a current member of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions.
As the current owner of the Lock10 & Weir Restaurant in Wentworth, Sara is active in the local community and is eager for the projects and opportunities that lie ahead for the region.
Katrina is the co-owner of Barham Avocados and a dedicated advocate for fostering a sense of belonging and entrepreneurship within the local community. In addition to her farming endeavours, Katrina hosts Lost and Found – a boutique on-farm retreat. As a fourth-generation farmer, she brings a rich heritage and deep commitment to her work. Her professional qualifications include a Bachelor of Agricultural Science and a Masters in Environmental Management and Economic Development.
Destination Riverina Murray acknowledges the many Aboriginal Nations and Aboriginal People of the Riverina Murray region as the traditional carers and custodians of the land that we all now live and work on. We pay our respect to Elders past, present and emerging. Destination Riverina Murray values the diversity of this region and works in partnership with local Aboriginal communities to respectfully celebrate and share Aboriginal culture with visitors to the region and also with locals who live here.
