General News
24 January, 2025
Vale Jess Whitworth: passionate tourism advocate
THE Douglas Shire’s tourism community has lost a strong and passionate advocate.
Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree Board (TPDD) member Jess Whitworth, who died late last year, is being sadly missed by the community and her colleagues.
TPDD marketing and partnership executive Michela Scacchi said “it is with deep sadness that we mark the passing of our beloved colleague, friend, and TPDD board member Jess Whitworth.”
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, and colleagues,” she said.
Ms Whitworth served on the TPDD board for the past two years as the Port Douglas zone director, having worked for the Accor Group in Port Douglas since August 2019. “She arrived in Port Douglas in 2013, taking on the role of front office manager at Mantra Portsea where she worked for 18 months,” Ms Scacchi said.
“Jess worked her way up through the Mantra Group at various properties, returning to Port Douglas as the general manager of Peppers Beach Club.
“While working in that role, Jess was appointed area general manager Port Douglas in April 2022 and promoted to area general manager for Port Douglas, Palm Cove and Cairns in August 2024.
“Jess will be remembered as a bright spark, who was full of energy and vitality. Her contributions to the TPDD team were invaluable and she was a champion for Tropical North Queensland who will be profoundly missed.
“Vale Jess, you will remain in our hearts, and we will miss you dearly.”
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