The Governor for Northern Province, Gary Juffa has congratulated the incoming President of the Kokoda Tour Operators Association (KTOA) and Getaway Trekking proprietor, Sue Fitcher, after the KTOA Annual General Meeting in Cairns earlier this month.
Juffa welcomed Fitcher’s appointment, saying he was looking forward to working closely with the KTOA to advance the industry. “I congratulate Sue on her appointment and am looking forward to working closely with her, along with the other members of the KTOA, in working towards a sustainable future for the PNG Tourism industry.” Juffa said.
He also took time to acknowledge the efforts of outgoing President, Frank Taylor. “Frank has been there from the beginning and has helped shape tourism over the Kokoda Track in many ways and his commitment and integrity cannot be questioned.” Juffa concluded.
Sue Fitcher, proprietor and CEO of Australian operator, Getaway Trekking, said she looked forward to strengthening working relationships with all stakeholders, including Mr Juffa’s office, Kokoda Initiative, the Kokoda Track Authority and Tourism Promotion Authority.
“We have the opportunity to really progress the professionalism of this industry.” Fitcher said. “We need to understand we are competing in a global tourism market; we have a unique product, but we must continually strive for excellence to grow our market share.”
Fitcher was congratulated in-person by Joe Duhube, who was in Cairns representing the Governor Juffa.