President of three years, Rebel Black, relinquished her position because she is working in Armidale and is no longer permanently living in Lightning Ridge.

“It was not an easy decision, I have really enjoyed working with the Lightning Ridge Tourism Association.

We have made significant progress and there is still plenty to keep doing,” Ms Black said.

“I know that James will do a fantastic job and with the support of the board members the association's plans and goals will continue to be implemented.”

The board reported on the activity of the association for the past 12 months which included: employing an events co-ordinator for the Easter Festival, commencing a members bimonthly e-newsletter, completion of the new website upgrade, securing funding to develop a marketing strategy, completion of an upgrade to the Lions Park toilet facilities and commencement of the extension to the Visitor Information Centre.

A positive media presence in 2009 resulted in a significant increase in visitor numbers to Lightning Ridge with 1,900 more people recorded than this time last year.

Thanks to Peter McKenzie, Carol McClory and Roger Collins who concluded their terms on the board.

Alan Bier (Dig In) and Greg McKay (Walk in Mine) were elected to the board, ‘ as was Chuck Peters (community member).

Deb Bell (Crocodile Caravan Park), Cheryl Hudson (Chambers of the Black Hand) and Jo Lindsay (Lost Sea Opals) will remain on the board for another year.

There is a casual vacancy which must be filled by a non-tourism board member (business or community.If anyone is interested please contact one of the board members.