The Douglas Chamber of Commerce today announced the appointment of Newsport Publishing’s Roy Weavers as General Manager for the 2014 Douglas Shire Carnivale.

Mr Weavers, a well-known, long-term local, offers a wealth of events management and media experience to the 20th year of the annual festival.  He takes over from ex-Chamber President Ken Dobbs, who stood down after five years at Carnivale’s helm.

"I'm a firm advocate that the Douglas Shire should have a full calendar of events, and this event strategy starts with the Carnivale,” Mr Weavers said.

“There are so many great, established events during each annual Carnivale, but with a little imagination and a lot of enthusiasm, I believe we can make it even better.  

“Then, we can start thinking about expanding our thinking, and maybe generate more activities to fill the rest of the year. I love the idea of the Carnivale being a training ground for new events and activities in the region."

After leaving The Port Douglas and Mossman Gazette in 2009, Mr Weavers co-founded Newsport Publishing Corp., the managing organisation and publishing of The Newsport online daily news service and PORT DOUGLAS Magazine, distributed Australia-wide. His popular weekly radio show, co-hosted with daughter Sally, is in its fifth year.

As well, Mr Weavers is part of the core Port Douglas Events Management team, responsible for some of the largest and most popular local events over the past four years, including:

• The Great Barrier Reef Marathon Festival (since 2011);
• Sunset in the Park music concerts (since 2007);
• Porttoberfest (Port Douglas’ annual beer festival, since 2008); and
• Douglas Business Awards (since 2010).

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"Roy takes up his position with immediate effect,” said Douglas Chamber of Commerce President Phoebe Kitto.

“We are delighted to have been able to secure his services. His enthusiasm is infectious and we are looking to him bringing some new thinking and energy to the role."

Mr Weavers said he was open to ideas for Carnivale 2014.

“We have some old firm favourites, some new 2013 ideas that will be further evolved for 2014, and I've already seen a whole bunch of brand new ideas being put on the table for consideration that the Carnivale crowds will love.

"We're looking for event sponsors and event partners but most of all, we are looking for community support. We need to re-engage with both the business and resident community to get their positivity back into this celebration of our lives in paradise.

"I'm looking forward to the challenge; I want Carnivale 2014 to be the best ever!"

The Douglas Shire Carnivale takes place from May 16-25, 2014.

Contact Roy Weavers for further details on 0437549110 or wevsinoz@yahoo.com.au.