Our Team

Destination Byron Visitor Industry Association Incorporated is managed by a skills based board of ten people.

The newly appointed 2026 Board brings together a diverse and experienced group of leaders from across the visitor economy — spanning tourism operations, tourism marketing, destination management, media, events, communications, PR, and small business management.

Jeanie Wylie

Jeanie Wylie

Co-founder of Frida’s Field – a regenerative farm, restaurant and event-space in the Byron Bay Hinterland. She is passionate about using business as a force for good in the world.

President
A woman with dark hair wearing red glasses and a white sleeveless dress, smiling outdoors with shadowed foliage in the background.

Petrina Maxwell

Owner of Agent 86 Experiences, a local event experience agency and DMC (Destination Management Company). 20+ experience in Communications and Business Events.

Vice President
A woman with blonde hair, smiling, wearing a black blazer with gold buttons, a white top, and white pants, standing against a plain white background.
A middle-aged woman with dark brown hair and light skin, wearing a black sleeveless top, a black choker necklace, and small hoop earrings, outdoors with blurred trees in the background.
Portrait of a bald man with clear glasses, light skin, faint beard, wearing a black shirt, smiling softly against a plain background.
A man with a beard, smiling, wearing a white t-shirt and a necklace, standing with his hands behind his back in a wooded area with trees and greenery. 
Secretary

Sarah Anderson

Sarah is the founder and MD of GTI Tourism, a multi-awarded destination representation, marketing and PR agency. At Destination Byron she’s working to build a thriving visitor economy that better supports the Byron community and regenerates the natural environment.

A man with gray hair and a beard smiling outdoors, with pink flowers and greenery in the background.
A woman with blonde hair and a black sleeveless top holding a folder with a sketch of a lighthouse and the words 'BYRON inside out' written on it.
Portrait of a smiling woman with blonde curly hair, wearing a white dress with a belt, standing in front of a floral wallpaper.
A woman with long blonde hair smiling, wearing a blue blazer and teal earrings, standing in front of copper brewing equipment. 
Treasurer

Rick Slater

Publisher of byronbay.com since 1997, a long-standing digital platform supporting Byron’s visitor economy.

Operates an event and project management company with more than 25 years of industry experience, specialising in large-scale outdoor events and promotional activations, high-profile food and wine festivals, and destination events, particularly within unique and environmentally sensitive public spaces and parklands.

Board Member

Margot Natoli

Board Member

Suzie Bradley

Founder of Adhere Marketing and publisher of Byron Inside Out, Byron Bay’s trusted in-room visitor guide. She works with local businesses and accommodation providers to share useful information and inspiration that supports the region’s visitor economy.

Matt Leedham

Tourism and media executive with more than 25 years’ experience and founder of Karryon, a leading Australian travel industry media platform. Based in Byron Bay, he supports sustainable tourism and a strong visitor economy.

Dean “Dingo” Hampel

Board Member

Founder of Localing Australia, with 18+ years in tourism, arts and culture. He specialises in tailor-made touring and strategic collaboration, focused on delivering meaningful, locally led experiences that strengthen regional visitor economies.

Nicole Spencer

Founder of Lionsgate Events and co-owner of Heartwood Farm Byron Bay. With more than 30 years’ experience in business operations and client service, she supports a high-quality visitor experience while respecting the Shire’s character.

Cr Sarah Ndiaye

Board Member

As the Mayor of Byron Shire, Sarah Ndiaye is a dedicated advocate for equality, environmental protection, and vibrant public spaces. A former high school teacher and ABC radio producer, Sarah is passionate about creating an inclusive, caring environment for all residents.

Board Member
Board Member