Inaugural Board of Directors appointed for South Australia’s Mid North and Yorke Tourism Zone

As part of the South Australian Tourism Commission’s plan for strengthening regional tourism, the first new Destination Management Zone is being piloted across the Mid North, Yorke Peninsula, Clare Valley, and Southern Flinders Ranges.

The inaugural Board of Directors has been appointed for South Australia’s Mid North and Yorke Tourism Zone, marking a significant step in strengthening regional tourism leadership and collaboration across the Mid North, Yorke Peninsula, Clare Valley, and Southern Flinders Ranges.

The Mid North and Yorke Tourism Zone is being piloted as the first new Destination Management Zone to strengthen local tourism governance and better respond to regional opportunities and challenges.

The new Board will provide strategic direction, foster partnerships across communities, and support sustainable tourism growth throughout the region. The appointed Directors bring a wealth of regional knowledge, leadership experience, and a shared commitment to advancing tourism:

• Sandy Verschoor (Chair)
• Anne Minion
• Angela Ruddenklau
• Bridget Johns
• Belinda Heinrich
• Dylan Strong
• John Bell

This diverse group ensures the tourism zone reflects local priorities while aligning with broader tourism strategies for South Australia.

Former Adelaide Lord Mayor Sandy Verschoor has been appointed Chair of the Board, bringing extensive leadership experience and a focus on regional development.

Ms Verschoor said tourism is the lifeblood of our regions, and the Mid North and Yorke Tourism Zone represents an extraordinary opportunity to showcase the unique people, places, and stories that make this part of South Australia so special. 

"I am honoured to lead this inaugural Board, bringing together passionate local leaders who share a commitment to sustainable growth and genuine collaboration. Together, we will work with our communities and partners to ensure the Mid North, Yorke Peninsula, Clare Valley, and Southern Flinders Ranges thrive as vibrant, welcoming destinations for visitors and locals alike," Ms Verschoor said.

Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison congratulated the new Board on their appointments, “the Board appointment of South Australia’s new Mid North and Yorke Tourism Zone is a major milestone in our work to ensure our State’s tourism regions are operating at their best."

"At the heart of tourism is connection to people, which is exactly what this Board represents. With abundant regional knowledge, expertise and passion for the tourism region, I am confident the new Board will foster a tourism community that sees the people, land, and culture of the Yorke Peninsula, Clare Valley and the Southern Flinders thrive," Minister Bettison said.

South Australian Tourism Commission Chief Executive Officer, Emma Terry said the establishment of this inaugural Board is a pivotal moment for South Australia’s Mid North and Yorke Tourism Zone and tourism in Yorke Peninsula, Clare Valley and the Southern Flinders.

"Their collective expertise and strong local connections will be instrumental in shaping the region’s tourism future. By harnessing local leadership and working together, we can unlock new experiences, support local businesses, and showcase the diversity and vibrancy of each of these regions in this part of South Australia," Ms Terry said.