From 'Best Job' to no job for Qld tourism chief

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This was published 11 years ago

From 'Best Job' to no job for Qld tourism chief

By Tony Bartlett

The man who gave Tourism Queensland its biggest coup with the Best Job in the World campaign, is now out of a job.

Anthony Hayes' sudden resignation as chief executive comes as TQ undergoes major reorganisation under the hand of Tourism Minister Jann Stuckey, and fears among some in the corporation that its funding could be slashed in next month's state budget.

In an open letter this afternoon Mr Hayes said his time at TQ had been an experience he would never forget.

"Not everything worked perfectly all the time, but geez we had a red hot go," he said.

The man whose trademark attire of jeans and open-necked shirts reflected the relaxed nature of the state he so passionately marketed, heaped praise upon his staff.

But he said his time had come.

"Someone very wise once told me that being TQ CEO was the best job in the world, but you should only do it until that one morning when you wake up and realise you have reached the end of your time.

"That time has come for me now. Now I need to find out what comes next."

Daniel Gschwind, chief executive of the Queensland Tourism Industry Council, said Mr Hayes' departure was part of the normal process of renewal under a fresh government.

"Anthony can leave with his head held high," he said.

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"He's led the organisation for five years in often very difficult times and TQ still has the respect of the industry and we wish him well. He's done a good job."

Mr Hayes, who at times had a turbulent relationship with Ms Stuckey, led the Best Job in The World campaign which broke global marketing records and was widely recognised as the most successful ever run anywhere in the world.

AAP

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