Independent Chair – Destination Greater Bendigo Loddon (DGBL)

Be the voice of the visitor economy in Greater Bendigo, Heathcote, and Loddon.

Location: Greater Bendigo, Heathcote, Loddon regions, Victoria
Remuneration: $35,000 per annum total

Term: 3 years

About the Organisation
Destination Greater Bendigo Loddon (DGBL) is the newly established Visitor Economy Partnership (VEP) for the Greater Bendigo, Heathcote, and Loddon regions. Operating as an independent not-for-profit, DGBL is a partnership among the region’s tourism industry, State and local governments, and Traditional Owner Groups.

DGBL drives sustainable growth in the visitor economy through strategic leadership, advocacy, destination marketing, industry development, and stakeholder engagement. Its responsibilities include facilitating collaboration, strengthening the tourism industry, promoting regional experiences, and providing insights to inform government policy and investment priorities.

Role Overview
The Independent Chair will lead the Board in providing strong governance, strategic oversight, and high-level advocacy for the region’s tourism growth. They will champion collaboration across the industry, work closely with the Executive Officer to support delivery of the Destination Management Plan (DMP), and represent the Board publicly.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading Board meetings efficiently, fostering collaboration, and ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion shape both discussions and decisions.
• Guiding the Board and supporting the Executive Officer to deliver strategic priorities in line with the Destination Management Plan (DMP).
• Ensuring compliance with governance, legislation, and funding agreements.
• Acting as primary spokesperson for the Board and advocating for the region.
• Strengthening engagement with key stakeholders, including government, industry, Traditional Owners, and community.
• Facilitating Board evaluations, skills reviews, and succession planning.

Essential Criteria

• Experience as a Chair or Non-Executive Director with strong governance knowledge.
• Strategic leadership in tourism, regional development, or related sectors.
• Excellent advocacy, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Commitment to regional Victoria and the visitor economy.

Ideal Candidate

We are seeking a strategic, collaborative, and highly credible leader with a passion for regional tourism and sustainable growth. The ideal Chair will inspire the Board and Executive Officer, navigate complex stakeholder relationships, and serve as a strong advocate for the region. A deep understanding of the Greater Bendigo Loddon visitor economy, well-established networks across government and industry, and experience engaging with Traditional Owner groups are highly desirable.