Stuart George was elected President of the Casino Beef Week Board at the annual general meeting held on Monday 15th September.

Mr. George said he wanted to usher in a new era for Beef Week.

“I am excited to be involved with Casino Beef Week Festival again this year," Mr. George said.  "And I am lucky to have a talented board to work with that will lead the festival into the future.”

“My first role as President however is to acknowledge the commitment of all the people involved in making the 2008 festival such a success,” he said.

Outgoing President Col Sullivan told the meeting the 2008 Board had worked with Richmond Valley Council and Southern Cross University to conduct audience surveys during Beef Week 2008.

Conducted by Destination Research and Development the survey revealed that Beef Week brings $960,000 into the Casino economy. The research also showed that 22 per cent of attendees are regional visitors and a large proportion of visitors stay with friends and relatives.

The audience were most satisfied with the opening Night, the street parade and the fashion parade and locals were impressed by the community spirit and social opportunities.

"This research and the festival's business plan provide a solid foundation for the festival to go from strength to strength," Mr. George said.

The 2008/2009 Board members are:

President: Stuart George
Vice. President: Col Sullivan
Public Officer: Clayton James
Treasurer: Belinda Dockerill
Member: Peter Carlill
Member: Grant Sheddon
Member: Frank McKey

Publicity Officer: Salina Runge