Visit USA Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of a newly elected Executive Committee and Ordinary Committee for 2026 which was confirmed at its Annual General Meeting held recently in Sydney. 

The new Visit USA Executive Committee includes the appointment of Belinda Harvy (Discover the World) as President following the departure of previous President and long-serving Committee Member, Caroline Davidson. 

In addition, Millie Brown (Arizona Office of Tourism) has been appointed as Vice President and Richard Carrick (United Airlines) as Treasurer while Anne Lee continues in her role as Secretary. 

Acknowledging the dedication and commitment Caroline has given Visit USA over the last 12 years, Belinda said she’s honoured to be taking the reins from such an industry stalwart.

“Caroline has had such a positive impact not only on Visit USA but on travel to the USA over more than a decade and it’s an absolute honour to be stepping into the role of President and continuing her amazing work while continuing to champion travel to the USA,” Belinda said.

“I also want to acknowledge our amazing committee, who work so hard to bring the Australian travel trade and our US travel industry members closer together. It’s a privilege to work with such a passionate and motivated group of professionals and we’re looking forward to putting on even bigger and more impactful events in the year ahead.” Belinda concluded

Supporting the newly formed Executive Committee is the general committee which consists of an exceptional group of industry leaders who each bring deep expertise, fresh insight and powerful connections to Visit USA Australia. In addition, General Manager and Events Director, Aida Osta and PR & Communications Manager, Christina Atherton continue to support the non-profit organisation.

The 2026 Visit USA General Committee includes:

• Tony Soden, Canyon Spirit
• Chris Watson – Chris Watson Travel
• David McMahon, San Francisco Travel
• Jack Curtis, Arizona Office of Tourism
• Michael Cassis, Visit Anaheim
• Claire Mountaine, Travel Oklahoma
• Nicole Bennett, Delta Air Lines
• Kathleen Brown, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board
• Joanne Motta, Travel Oregon
• Damian Borg, Norwegian Cruise Lines
• Mel Newton, Alamo

Visit USA Australia would like to extend its sincere gratitude to the outgoing committee members for their invaluable contributions and dedication to the organisation.

Following the hugely successful Visit USA Expos last month, which saw strong engagement from travel trade professionals across Australia, the organisation is looking forward to another dynamic year of industry events, partnerships, and initiatives aimed at promoting US travel.