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 the Operations Manager at OQTA, bringing a wealth of experience from her previous role managing the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) for Tourism and Events Queensland. With deep product knowledge of the regions within the Outback, Kelly has built a strong reputation for delivering outstanding customer service to many industry partners and councils. Kelly is primarily tasked with overseeing operations, however contributes to marketing and communication strategies, and plays a key role as an ambassador for the Outback Queensland Tourism Association.
Kelly’s background spans a diverse range of roles in tourism and operations. She previously called Paradise Bay Eco Escape home and ensured a high-level guest satisfaction, and as the Marketing Coordinator for Clare Valley at the South Australian Tourism Commission, where she managed digital communications and print projects. Additionally, Kelly has significant operations experience, having managed large teams and retail departments at Ayers Rock Resort and Hayman Island Resort. Her broad expertise in tourism, customer service, and operations makes her a valuable asset to OQTA.
E: admin@outbackqueensland.com.au
Ph: +61 400 812 350
MARKETING 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 Marketing 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: marketing@outbackqueensland.com.au
Ph: +61 409 440 501