Tricia accepts her award from Destination Kiama’s Karen Ronning

The latest winner of Destination Kiama’s Above and Beyond Award is Tricia Ashelford. The Award recognises excellence in tourism in the region, and is awarded quarterly.

Destination Kiama says Tricia received multiple nominations for ‘her tireless work for the community, her positivity and her endless enthusiasm for our area’.

Known to many for her role as Manager of the Kiama Farmers’ Market, Tricia is also involved in organising and helping with many more events and causes around town.

She has a professional background in tourism marketing and events, including a stint at the old Kiama Tourism.

“The new tourism structure is so much more productive and cohesive, and I’m enjoying collaborating with them,” she says.

“They recognise the Farmers’ Market as a conduit with the relationships and contacts to gel events together.”

As such, the Market has become a focus for the promotion of the area, with Destination NSW recently having a photoshoot there for the Unspoilt campaign.

It has also acted as a hub for visitors to our area for events such as the Hull rugby league visit, international surfing competitions and festivals, as well as providing a memorable mid-week activity for holidaymakers.

Tricia also volunteers her help to many organisations and events, including being an active member of the Kiama Jazz & Blues Club.

A born organiser, she takes pleasure in seeing events flourish in Kiama to everyone’s benefit.