Journey Beyond has appointed Roland Ah Chee to a newly created role guiding how the experiential tourism group partners with Traditional Owners and First Nations communities across its national footprint.
A proud Pertame (Southern Arrernte), Wangkungurru and Bundjalung man, Ah Chee steps into the role of General Manager, First Nations Engagement and Partnership with more than 15 years’ experience across the South Australian Government and the private sector.
He joins the Adelaide-based group after serving as Senior Adviser to the South Australian Deputy Premier and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, where he provided strategic advice on Aboriginal Affairs policy and statutory responsibilities.
His career has spanned senior consulting and financial assurance roles, advising government, organisations and Aboriginal communities on governance, strategy, financial management and economic development.
What the role covers
Ah Chee will set and deliver Journey Beyond’s whole-of-business approach to First Nations engagement and partnerships, embedding those priorities across operations, workforce, guest experiences and stakeholder relationships.
The group operates 22 brands across Australia and New Zealand, including the iconic The Ghan and Indian Pacific trains, Outback Spirit, Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, Cruise Whitsundays, Ayers Rock Resort, Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre and New Zealand coach specialist Grand Pacific Tours.
Its work with Indigenous communities already spans the Northern Territory’s Red Centre, Arnhem Land and Western Australia’s Kimberley region, with the group recently expanding deeper into the NT through its acquisition of the Crocodile Hotel in Kakadu National Park.
What Journey Beyond says
Journey Beyond CEO Chris Tallent said the appointment reflects the group’s long-standing relationships with First Nations communities.
“We are excited to warmly welcome Roland to Journey Beyond,” said Journey Beyond CEO Chris Tallent.
“In his new role, Roland will be responsible for setting and delivering Journey Beyond’s whole-of-business approach to First Nations engagement and partnerships. Ensuring authentic, respectful and mutually beneficial relationships with Traditional Owners, First Nations communities, organisations and people.”
In his own words
“As I commence my role at Journey Beyond, I am excited by the opportunity to help shape and grow how one of Australia’s most recognisable experiential tourism companies partners and engages with First Nations peoples and communities,” Ah Chee said.
“Journey Beyond’s extraordinary footprint across some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes provides a unique platform to celebrate the richness, diversity and living cultures of First Nations peoples through authentic experiences that connect visitors to Country.
“I believe tourism can create meaningful economic opportunities and, importantly, deepen understanding between Australians and visitors from around the world. I’m passionate about working alongside Traditional Owners, communities and our partners to ensure First Nations voices are elevated in the way experiences are developed, delivered and shared.”
KARRYON UNPACKS: With 22 brands stretching from the Red Centre to the Kimberley and Ningaloo, Journey Beyond sits at the heart of the First Nations experiences Australian sellers increasingly field demand for. A dedicated role at this level signals authentic Country-connected product is being treated as core business, not an add-on.
