CEO
Denise Brown is affectionately known as ‘DD’ harking back to a shortcut for her maiden name ‘Deveney’. As Chief Executive Officer of Outback Queensland Tourism Association , DD brings 38-years tourism experience and dedication to Outback Queensland, it’s communities and tourism operators.
As CEO she advocates for the regions, Councils and operators to ensure the voice and needs of Outback Queensland is heard in a timely and forthright nature. With a solid understanding of the different needs across the regions, DD lobbies for destination marketing and infrastructure funding initiatives and allocations to drive destination development in line with future consumer expectations, rising market demand and lifting experience development opportunities. As CEO, she manages the day to day responsibilities of the organisation, working to serve members interests and the promotion of tourism in Outback Queensland.
DD has a deep understanding of the tourism industry having worked across the accommodation sector, as an inbound tour operator and product manager; as a Destination Director with TEQ for the Outback and Gold Coast, and more recently working in aviation and cruise attraction.
Nothing is more certain in the world than the love DD shares for the industry and communities of Outback Queensland and her devotion to family and her precious pup – Lola.
E: ceo@outbackqueensland.com.au
Ph: +61 438 394 492
OPERATIONS MANAGER
Kelly Hensley is an experienced tourism professional with more than 20 years across regional destinations, industry development and program delivery. As Operations Manager at Outback Queensland Tourism Association, she leads whole-of-region projects spanning destination planning, marketing and agritourism, working with councils, industry and government to align local needs with state and national priorities. Her career includes 12 years with Tourism and Events Queensland managing the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) and representing Queensland nationally, as well as earlier roles in resort and retail operations at Ayers Rock Resort, Hayman Island and Paradise Bay Eco Escape, and as Marketing Coordinator for the Clare Valley at the South Australian Tourism Commission. Kelly is committed to inclusive, sustainable tourism growth and to building strong partnerships that deliver lasting benefits for regional communities.
E: kelly.hensley@outbackqueensland.com.au
Ph: +61 400 812 350
PROJECT MANAGER
Sam Ireland is Project Manager at Outback Queensland Tourism Association, bringing strong expertise in communications and stakeholder engagement from her previous roles with Tourism Australia and Tourism Queensland. She leads regional projects that span destination development, marketing and events, working with councils, operators and government to deliver outcomes that benefit both industry and community. Sam’s background in national and state tourism organisations gives her a deep understanding of how to connect Outback Queensland’s stories to wider audiences and ensure projects are delivered with impact.
E: sam@outbackqueensland.com.au
MARKETING COORDINATOR
Emily Ridder is an experienced tourism marketer with a strong background in destination promotion and campaign coordination.
In her role as Marketing Coordinator for Outback Queensland, Emily will assist in the development and delivery of hands-on marketing initiatives by managing content, coordinating campaigns, engaging with stakeholders and supporting membership initiatives. Her work ensures each project reflects the unique character of Outback Queensland while aligning with the broader strategic goals.
With four years in the tourism industry, she brings a creative and collaborative approach to her work along with a genuine passion for regional Queensland.
When she is not spending time with her family she will be planning next adventure, whether it’s a weekend road trip or discovering something close to home.
E: marketing@outbackqueensland.com.au
Ph: +61 477 966 368
PROJECT MANAGER
Melanie has a background of 30 years in tourism marketing for Australian destinations, both in Australia and overseas. Previous positions have included senior marketing roles for Tourism and Events Queensland, Tourism Australia, and Tourism Sunshine Coast. Destination and tourism branding and strategy, and membership management are where her core skills and expertise lie. She also self-published travel magazines for 16 years – with a focus on regional destinations and sustainable travel.
Melanie grew up in Toowoomba, but the Outback is her second home – she has enjoyed family 4WD camping adventures and exploring the Outback all her life.
As our Projects Manager, Melanie works closely with our OQTA members, industry partners, and Councils, developing marketing projects and implementing marketing activities, with the aim to bring more visitors to our region. Please contact her direct with any marketing enquiries. Melanie is also the Project Manager for OQ Assist.
E: travellersguide@outbackqueensland.com.au
Ph: +61 409 440 501
PROJECT MANAGER
Susan Maynard is a senior tourism professional with more than 20 years’ experience in digital marketing and industry engagement. Through her consultancy, Connect Tourism, she has delivered projects for Tourism and Events Queensland, Outback Queensland Tourism Association, Visit Sunshine Coast and Brisbane Economic Development Agency. Susan specialises in social media strategy and content, helping tourism businesses and destinations grow their reach and connect with audiences online. She currently manages all social media content for OQTA, bringing deep digital expertise and a strong understanding of regional tourism storytelling.
E: projects@outbackqueensland.com.au