Michelle Hocking named new GM of Cleland Wildlife Park
An experienced senior business and marketing professional has been appointed to help promote one of South Australia’s major attractions as a leading nature-based tourism precinct.
Michelle Hocking is the new Cleland Wildlife Park General Manager and brings a wealth of experience to the position, having previously worked as General Manager of the Adelaide Showground.
Ms Hocking has more than 20 years of experience as a senior business leader in both the public and private sector.
She has also spent many years in State Government as General Manager of Regional Tourism with the South Australian Tourism Commission, overseeing 12 tourism regions and working closely with stakeholders such as industry operators, local government and numerous State Government agencies.
National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Executive Director Mike Williams said he was delighted to appoint a leader of Ms Hocking’s quality and experience to Cleland Wildlife Park.
“Michelle’s tourism industry knowledge, her deep understanding of the curation of visitor and animal experiences from her 14 years at the Adelaide Showground and the ability to work with a broad range of key stakeholders makes her a wonderful fit for the role,” Mr Williams said.
“In this new role as General Manager, Michelle will be instrumental in marketing Cleland and the wider Adelaide Hills as a leading nature-based tourism precinct.
“I warmly welcome Michelle to the team.”
Ms Hocking said she was thrilled to be joining the team of such an iconic South Australian tourist destination.
“Cleland has been delivering incredible wildlife experiences, and creating treasured family memories for many years,” Ms Hocking said.
“I’m excited to work with such a dedicated team and look forward to working with the staff, volunteers and the Adelaide Hills community.
“Cleland has a very exciting future ahead of it and I look forward to being a part of the team to continue to build on its global reputation as an iconic tourist destination.”
Cleland is set to open a new $2.5 million purpose-built Cleland Wildlife Park koala viewing facility, which will feature new koala lofts and opportunities for koala encounters, at the site in 2023.
For more details visit www.clelandwildlifepark.sa.gov.au
