Tourism and Events Moreton Bay Appoints Events Director as Region Accelerates Towards Brisbane 2032

5 August 2026

Tourism and Events Moreton Bay has announced the appointment of respected tourism and major events leader Jodie Kennedy as its new Director - Events, marking a significant milestone as the organisation continues to expand its events portfolio and strengthen Moreton Bay's position as one of Queensland's leading events destinations.

Kennedy joins the organisation following more than 25 years in the tourism and events industry, including the past 19 years leading her own successful event management business in North Queensland. Throughout her career she has worked extensively with Tourism and Events Queensland, local governments, regional tourism organisations and industry partners to deliver major events that drive visitation, economic impact and destination awareness.

Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for Tourism and Events Moreton Bay as the organisation continues to grow its portfolio of community events delivered on behalf of the City of Moreton Bay, alongside destination-driving signature events including Jetty 2 Jetty and KiteFest.

Tourism and Events Moreton Bay CEO Luke Edwards said Kennedy's appointment reflected the organisation's long-term ambition to establish Moreton Bay as a leading events destination in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"Jodie's appointment is a significant milestone for Tourism and Events Moreton Bay and reflects the exciting growth of our events portfolio," Edwards said.

"Events play a critical role in growing visitation, supporting local businesses and showcasing our destination to new audiences. As we continue to deliver outstanding community events on behalf of the City of Moreton Bay, while expanding our portfolio of signature events that attract visitors from across Australia and internationally, Jodie's experience and leadership will be invaluable.

"She brings an exceptional track record of delivering major events, building strong industry partnerships and understanding how events contribute to the broader visitor economy. With Brisbane 2032 on the horizon, this is an exciting time for Moreton Bay and we're delighted to welcome someone of Jodie's calibre to the team."

Kennedy said she was looking forward to relocating to Moreton Bay and helping shape the next chapter of the region's events strategy.

"Moreton Bay is one of Australia's fastest-growing visitor destinations and there is enormous momentum around the region," Kennedy said.

"The opportunity to lead the events portfolio at a time when the region is preparing for Brisbane 2032 is incredibly exciting. Major events have the power to bring communities together, create lasting economic benefits and inspire people to discover new destinations.

"I'm looking forward to working with the Tourism and Events Moreton Bay team, the City of Moreton Bay, event organisers, tourism operators and industry partners to continue building an events calendar that delivers benefits for the community while attracting visitors from around Australia and overseas."

Kennedy has delivered and led some of Australia's best-known regional events, including SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week for more than 15 years, while also holding leadership roles across the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, Sydney New Year's Eve, Sydney Lunar Festival and numerous festivals, sporting events and destination activation projects throughout Queensland and Australia.

Her appointment further strengthens Tourism and Events Moreton Bay's capability as the organisation continues to deliver events that enhance community pride, support local businesses and contribute to the region's growing visitor economy.

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