Best Job candidates explore the Sunshine and Fraser Coasts
Posted by editor (editor) on Oct 06 2009
2009 >>

Two of the finalist for Tourism Queensland's Best Job in the World recruitment campaign will explore the Sunshine and Fraser Coasts over the next few days, Tourism Minister Peter Lawlor announced today.

“Clarke Gayford from New Zealand and American Greg Reynan who lives in Singapore will visit Hervey Bay, Lady Elliot Island, Fraser Island, Noosa Heads, Imbil, Pomona and Beerwah over the coming few days,” Mr Lawlor said.

“During their travels they will participate in activities such as mountain biking, stand up paddle surfing, snorkelling around Lady Elliot Island and viewing sea life from a glass-bottomed boat, four-wheel driving on beaches and through rainforest, interacting with native animals at Australia Zoo and will also visit FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championships being held on the Sunshine Coast.

“Both Clarke and Greg will stay overnight in a variety of hotels and resorts throughout the regions, experiencing the breadth and quality of local accommodation options, and will dine at some of the regions most well known restaurants.

“The tour has been organised by Tourism Queensland in partnership, Tourism Sunshine Coast, Fraser Coast South Burnett Tourism and with support from local operators.”

Mr Lawlor said the two finalists have had a challenging few weeks, culminating in an intensive three-day interview process at Hamilton Island.

“Clarke and Greg narrowly missed out on the island caretaker position, which yesterday went to Ben Southall from Britain,” Mr Lawlor said.

“These candidates absolutely wowed us ensuring Queensland was at the forefront of media in their respective countries during the campaign, all while holding down full-time jobs and family commitments.

“With more than 34,000 applications, the Caretaker of Islands of the Great Barrier Reef was arguably the most sought-after job in the world.

"The worldwide response to Best Job in the World campaign was nothing short of phenomenal and achieved more than $100 million worth of global publicity for Queensland.

“International tourism is a key economic driver for Queensland and during challenging economic times, activities such as the Best Job in the World campaign are crucial to increasing the visibility and profile of Queensland destinations and products in international markets.

“We are committed to generating interest from international markets and will do everything possible to maximise the benefits for Queensland.”

Last changed: Oct 06 2009 at 2:29 PM