Name: Paula Johnson

Carnivale Title: Treasurer

Tell us a little about yourself: Canadian by birth; Australian by choice. In 1986 I was visiting the GBR before returning to Canada and had no hesitation staying on. My first job was as a gofer for the architects on the Mirage development. In 1989 I saw a need for a homewares shop because of population growth and you had to go to Cairns for everything. Eighteen years later I retired but like to stay connected to the business world through the PD Chamber of Commerce and Carnivale. My partner is Sno Morrish.

Describe your role at Carnivale: Keep track of the money, do the books, ensure we’re on budget and say ‘no’ a lot. I also get to give my opinion on lots of subjects; a talent I’ve worked on for many years.

What does Carnivale mean to you? It’s a community celebration before the all-consumming season. That’s the part I like. Young or old, multi-national company or non-profit organization, there’s something for everyone. At one time I think the organizers thought it would move the beginning of the season forward. I don’t think that’s happened but the publicity we get is hugely beneficial.

What is your favourite memory of a past Carnivale? Every year I make sure I have a table right on the street at my favourite restaurant but 2009 was particularly good cause it was the first one I worked on.

What’s your ultimate Carnivale dream? I’m the treasurer so I’d like unlimited funds. Then the ideas could flow.

Port Douglas Carnivale Manager: Ken Dobbs

Name: Ken Dobbs

Carnivale Title: Carnivale Manager

Tell us a little about yourself: I am the President of the Chamber of Commerce and have had an extensive career in the hospitality industry. I understand the value of Carnivale to the businesses of Port Douglas which depend exclusively on tourism. On behalf of the Chamber I have accepted the role of managing Carnivale as an important event in promoting business.

Describe your role at Carnivale: Overall responsibility of ensuring we have a successful event which meets the criteria set out in the Carnivale Business Plan. Co ordinate and guide the activities of events, sponsorship, media, finance and web managers. Ensure the aspirations of the business community in relation to Carnivale are considered and where possible met.

What does Carnivale mean to you? An opportunity to Showcase Port Douglas regionally, around Australia and around the world and celebrate our wonderful tropical life style.

What is your favourite memory of a past Carnivale?: It is always the street Parade. It reminds me of how lucky I am to be part of this community.

What’s your ultimate Carnivale dream?: To have Carnivale recognised as an event which visitors want to come back to year after year. A town full of visitors all having a great time and knowing if you don’t book for next year you won’t get in.

Martine Cotton, IT & Social Media Manager, Beach Day and Street Parade Coordinator

Name: Martine Cotton

Carnivale Title: IT systems, Social Media, Street Parade and Beach Day Event Coordinator, Photographer

Rebecca Lumby, Carnivale Sponsorship Manager

The Carnivale blog will be bringing you all the latest news and background info about this years Carnivale, in the guide of stories, interviews and information sharing. You can think of it as a kind of community magazine, I guess. We are going to kick off the 2010 Carnivale news with some introductions to our fantastically talented team.

First up:

Name: Rebecca Lumby

Carnivale Title: Sponsorship Manager

Please tell us a bit about yourself:  Originally from Dubbo country NSW I went to boarding school and university in Sydney before launching myself into sales, marketing and business development predominantly in the property industry.  A love of the ocean and travel had also seen me gain a “hedging” career over the years as a dive instructor.  On my return to Australia last February after 8 months in South Africa and Mozambique I moved to Port Douglas and absolutely love it!!   Passionate about the reef I also work with Synergy Reef Sailing and Haba.  Both careers suit me because I love people.   I’m told I am a quintessential Leo!

Describe your role at Carnivale : Carnivale would not be able to exist without substantial financial support from existing and potential partners.  My role involves developing and implementing creative sponsorship packages that offer a return on investment  for contributing partners.  I manage these relationships in the lead-up to Carnivale through to closing day and endeavour to set strong foundations with new sponsors for a successful on-going relationship with Carnivale for future years.

What does Carnivale mean to you? : An opportunity for locals to have a great party and show-case to visitors how much we love the region before the hard work of the tourist busy season commences.

Favourite memory of a past Carnivale? : A tough one!  I’d have to say enjoying the ambience having a few drinks with friends on that GORGEOUS sunny Sunday afternoon at Seafood Extravaganza, Carnivale 2009!

What’s your ultimate Carnivale dream? From a sponsorship point of view seeing that the new ideas and events in this year’s Carnivale are a raging success and overwhelming feedback that 2010 is the best Carnivale yet!