Inspirational author and tourism promoter announced as Colac Otway Shire’s Australia Day Ambassador
January 9, 2018
Colac Otway Shire’s 2018 Australia Day Ambassador Sue Calwell has dedicated her career to promoting visitation to Victoria, and for nearly 20 years directed Australia’s premier tourism promotion authority.
Ms Calwell brings a wealth of knowledge along with her philanthropic, entrepreneurial and writing experience to Colac as part of the official Australia Day presentations at Memorial Square on 26 January.
Directly involved in hallmark events such as the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show where she was the Inaugural Chairman, Ms Calwell has been influential in securing international organisations to choose Victoria’s capital as their preferred destination for conferences and conventions.
Eleven years ago she co-authored a motivational book, “There’s More to Life than Sex and Money,” a best-selling book that aims to inspire hope and a willingness to achieve a full and meaningful life.
Mayor Joe McCracken said Ms Calwell gathered many people’s personal stories for her book about what constitutes a happy life, making her a fitting choice for Australia Day as it would encourage the community to reflect on the many different stories that make up our local population.
“Ms Calwell’s work shows us why supporting and encouraging our diversity is important,” he said.
“Australia Day is a time where we can celebrate the rich diversity in our community but we also celebrate what unites us as Australians.
“It’s a time where we stand together, acknowledge who we are and celebrate all that our community has to offer.
“As we welcome new citizens and congratulate our Australia Day award recipients, we remember that we really do live in the ‘lucky country’,” Cr McCracken said.
Ms Calwell continues to dedicate her time to many tourism related organisations, and a number of charities such as her role as Chairman of Baker Medical Research Institute Special Events Committee.
For the past few years Ms Calwell has assisted an international outdoor furniture business to expand its business in the China and Hong Kong markets; in addition to owning and operating a small chain of shops called the Melbourne Sock Shop.
Council’s official Australia Day event starts at 11am in Memorial Square Colac, with citizenship presentations commencing at 11.30am. A range of free family activities and live entertainment will continue until 3pm.
Council Enquiries
(03) 5232 9400