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.
The Riverina Murray region encompasses 149,000 square kilometres, 22 local government areas, 16 National Parks and is home to over 275,000 people. The region is one of the most diverse in NSW and includes the sub-regions of Outback Riverina, Central Murray, Albury-Hume, Snowy Valleys, Eastern Riverina, and Western Riverina.
Destination Riverina Murray is the destination manager and facilitates visitor economy growth through effective representation and coordination of the region’s tourism industry. Key responsibilities include:
Destination Riverina Murray’s 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.
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.
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 in affiliation with 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 committed focus on forming customer centric solutions through collaborative partnerships. Craig currently leads the Economic, Community and Visitor Services function of Temora Shire Council.
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. A 4th generation farmer, she also hosts Lost and Found; a boutique on-farm retreat. Her professional acumen includes a Bachelor of Agricultural Science and a Masters in Environmental Management and Economic Development.
Driven to enhance sense of belonging, entrepreneurism and innovation within the local VE, Katrina is also a member of Western Murray Land Improvement Group board and the Rural Bank Agri Advisory Committee.
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.
