What a night we had on Friday 7 November as we celebrated the winners and finalists of the 2025 South Australian Tourism Awards!
Thank you to everyone who joined us at the gala dinner, and to our Awards partners, especially the South Australian Tourism Commission, for your support. This event is a highlight of our calendar, and the TiCSA team loves bringing the industry together to celebrate excellence and reconnect with colleagues and friends. Photos from the night will be available soon, keep an eye on our socials.
As we head towards year’s end, the activity doesn’t slow down at TiCSA.
We’re finalising our tourism policy priorities ahead of the 2026 State Election and, with RAA, are hosting Tourism Voice listening events across regional South Australia. These sessions are a chance to hear directly from operators, local MPs, and stakeholders about the issues and opportunities shaping tourism in South Australia. So far, we’ve met with the TiCSA community in the Finniss, Chaffey and Mawson electorates. In the coming weeks we’ll be in Giles (Whyalla), Heysen (Hahndorf), Frome (Watervale), Stuart (Port Pirie) and Flinders (Port Lincoln). Visit our events calendar to secure your spot. We’re also planning additional Tourism Voice events for early 2026 and will be seeking your feedback on our tourism policy priorities election ask.
I continue to represent the needs of businesses impacted by the ongoing algal bloom. Pleasingly, the Coast is Calling voucher program is having a positive impact; however, concerns about the summer season remain very real and are reflected in our latest industry survey, you’ll find more detail below. I strongly encourage affected businesses to apply for an Algal Bloom Support Grant, even if you’re unsure about eligibility. The Office for Small and Family Business is committed to supporting as many businesses as possible.
Last month we held the TiCSA AGM, where we welcomed newly elected Board member Kate Anderson and re-elected Board member Justyna Jochym. The Board also elected Penny Gale as the new TiCSA Chair, following a decision by Siggi Frede to not seek reappointment. I’d like to thank Siggi for her leadership and commitment to TiCSA, which will continue as she remains a Board member, and look forward to working with Penny on behalf of our members and the tourism industry. More news about the TiCSA Board and AGM is available here.
Finally, I’m looking forward to a relaxed celebration at our TiCSA Christmas Party on Thursday 4 December. Block out your calendar now – tickets will be on sale soon.
Warm regards
Shaun de Bruyn
CEO, Tourism Industry Council SA
