Hon. John Pandazopoulos
Independent Chair
John Pandazopoulos has a distinguished career spanning more than four decades in not-for-profit organisations, private enterprise and the public sector.
John has contributed to fields including tourism, public policy, governance, and international engagement. He is a recent past Chair of Parks Victoria and Chair of William Angliss Institute of TAFE having served for 10 years on both Boards.
He has had extensive public sector experience having previously served in the Parliament of Victoria for 22 years, with eight of those years as a Minister. He is the longest continuous serving Minister for Tourism and Major Events in Victoria and has held ministerial portfolios in multicultural affairs, employment, major projects, racing and gaming. He also served on the Environment and Natural Resources Committee for 15 years, including as Chair and Deputy Chair. Additionally, John was Chair of the Minister for Tourism and Major Events Visitor Economy Ministerial Advisory Committee between 2015-2020.
Prior to entering parliament, John was a local Councillor and Mayor of the then City of Berwick and an Executive of the Municipal Association of Victoria.
John is a Life Member of the Sovereign Hill Museums Association and is a past Chair of Destination Phillip Island Regional Tourism Board
Industry Partner Board Directors
Tim Canny
Tim Canny has more than a decade of experience in the Ballarat tourism sector, along with national and international experience in marketing and operations.
Tim is the owner and operator of Sovereign Park Motor Inn and has been a member of the Ballarat Regional Tourism Board.
For the past five years he has also served as the Ballarat Sebastopol Cycling Club President gaining valuable board, governance and event leadership experience.
Rachel Allan
Rachel Allan is a leading Ballarat entrepreneur, with more than 20 years’ experience navigating the highs and lows of running her own business.
As a business coach and consultant, co-founder of Flairbnb Property Management, author, advocate for women’s growth and busy mum with a background in tourism management, Rachel brings a mindset of continual improvement and resilience to the TMV board.
Rachel has extensive experience in marketing and business management, including a solid understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities of regional communities.
Katrina Nitschke
Katrina Nitschke is a cultural tourism leader and the interim CEO of Sovereign Hill Museums Association.
She has 20+ years experience in the culture and visitor economy sectors, leading organisational transformation to lift mission impact, financial viability and visitation for major attractions including the South Australian Museum and the Botanic Gardens of South Australia.
Katrina’s governance experience spans private sector and government boards and committees, including the Ballarat Regional Tourism Board.
Holding an MBA from Adelaide Uni, Katrina brings a strong financial and commercial perspective to her leadership roles, along with a focus on inclusion for all.
Melanie Robertson
Melanie Robertson is a highly experienced professional whose leadership is characterised by vision, compassion and the ability to turn plans into concrete results.
Her open communication, apolitical stance, and networking skills have earned her trust in political and community circles.
While CEO of the Committee for Ballarat, Melanie secured significant investments for key projects, engaging with various stakeholders and advocating for the region’s future.
In addition, through her recognition of the potential in renewable energy, she initiated the Grampians New Energy Taskforce, uniting leaders for regional development.
Melanie also has experience in governance and risk management through various board roles.
Tim Chandler
Tim Chandler is a local business owner and passionate advocate for the region who holds more than 25 years’ experience across the tourism, property and finance sectors. As Managing Director of Cave Hill Creek and Silverband Lodge, he is adept at dealing with business challenges, making informed decisions and influencing long-term vision.
Over the last 15 years, Tim has developed a strong understanding of the tourism industry in regional Victoria, contributing to the broader industry as a judge in the Australian and Victorian Tourism Awards and as a regular participant and contributor at state and regional tourism events and conferences.
With extensive experience at board and chair level, Tim is also highly skilled in providing sound governance and setting strategic direction.
The Industry Partner Board Directors join the CEOs from the City of Ballarat and the Pyrenees, Moorabool, Golden Plains and Hepburn shires to round out the Tourism Midwest Victoria board. A state government representative will also observe proceedings.