Sector welcomes Whitby to expanded tourism role despite concerns

The tourism industry has welcomed former environment minister Reece Whitby into the tourism portfolio, but backstage pundits are frustrated the key role continues to be a game of musical chairs.

Premier Roger Cook — a former tourism minister himself — named his post-election Cabinet on Tuesday.

Among the changes Transport Minister Rita Saffioti drops out of the portfolio she took from Mr Cook and which before that was held by Corrective Services Minister Paul Papalia.

Several industry operators, who asked not to be named, said it was crucial the tourism ministry remained in one set of hands for the sake of long-term planning.

But Margaret River-Busselton Tourism Association chief executive Sharna Kearney disagreed and welcomed Mr Whitby’s appointment.

“Tourism intersects with a broad range of Cabinet portfolios, and it is positive that we continue to have experienced ministers bringing their knowledge and perspectives to tourism,” she said.

“It is also positive that a number of the current Cabinet ministers have served as tourism minister, and can bring their understanding of tourism into their broader decision-making.”

Ms Kearney also said Mr Whitby knew the region well already due to his previous service in the environment portfolio, which was an added benefit.

Meanwhile, WA Tourism Council boss Evan Hall said the new minister had a thorough understanding of the industry courtesy of his background with the environment.