And the winner is... Ben Southall
Wed 6th May 2009 @ 8:06 AM
Congratulations to Ben Southall from the United Kingdom for taking out the illustrious title of Island Caretaker. While I'll openly say Ben's style isn't exactly my cup of tea, he definitely has a media presence and personality that will undoubtedly translate to tourism spend.
TQ have kindly offered all the finalists further itineraries to explore other parts of Queensland. So stay tuned people! You'll soon be experiencing the incredible Queensland outback in all it's magnificent earthy tones.
Comments
Fernie
James Hill will bounce back! And what fab coverage youalready have! Keep the world posted on your adventures! KF, Supporter, London.
mozza
Hey Mate,
Tough luck, I don't understand why they picked the other guy, personally I felt like you were the best for the job. Anyways keep your head up.
Kez
DUDE! Ahh shucks, what a bummer..! But hey, if he can get Brits to spend their pounds here, all the better for Aus and the GBR. Still, I'd rather have had you! I hope you get a really fab-o job promoting Aus or yourself to the world - and have a great time doing it! Congratulations on your massive effort and for doing it with style. I'll stay tuned!
mimi
Well i saw your back on tele!!
I thought they loved you from your final profile - all that about leaving your poster up in their office - oh-well something even bigger and better will come your way I'm sure
love Mimi
anna
I'm quite disappointed with TQ decision;( but that's business. Thay want Poms to come to spend their pounds.
Dons
QLD travel?!??! what an EXCELLENT bonus!!! you're so gracious in defeat James! I'm sad it's not going to be you! especially since i've now been avidly reading your blog on a daily basis about all your wonderful QLD adventures! am living through you for a change ;)
tom
oh dear... of all the applications why in the world did they choose a pom? It's not like we don't already have enough in this country...
but seriously, I am surprised they didn't choose someone like you James...
a) your are obviously know how to use a camera b) seems quite funny c) have a real passion for the Whitsundays
???
Jenn
I almost have to laugh..What is TQ THINKING??? Ugh, you really should have won! From what I've seen/read online, you were the most genuine and engaging candidate. It was like you already had the foundation and watching you tour the island would have been icing on the cake. Whatever..they're loss....(get your photo back from their office! haha)
Well, keep updating your blog. You have a world of fans that look forward to your posts.
hisham
Hi James,
Tourism Queensland were probably looking at marketing & promoting Queensland & Australia from an international perspective.
Having said this, I truly believe that your exceptional talent & abilities will literally have the whole world knocking at your door inviting you to do for them what you, as a gifted individual & true blue son of Australia, have brilliantly done for the realms of blogging, photography & viral marketing.
Every success James, for an outstanding presentation & of presentations yet to come.
:-)
adrian
Hey James, so close but take heart from giving it your best. Really thought you'd pull it off but hey, you certainly weren't disgraced.
If QT don't offer you a position as a contract photographer they're mad. Your images are truly magic.
nikki
Yep its a crazy old world!! WHAT WERE THEY THINKING!! This mate is a sign you're up for bigger & better things from the universe - you just don't know it yet - Woohooo!! Looking forward to the bounce back...and lots more stunning images and witty repartee!
tom
The announcement of a UK winner did not make the BBC news at ten here in the UK
Meeks
James Hill, YOU...without a doubt... were hands down... the BEST damn candidate for this job!!!
Hopefully the media exposure here in Australia and around the world, will create new and exciting opportunities to get your talented work out there where it belongs.
I sing your praises!!! Congratulations on making it to the final 16. Awesome... you are Awesome!
BeeBee
James, you were my pick so sorry you didn't win. I've loved your photos and blog and hope you enjoy the rest of the travel.
Those fish-eye lens images are magic!
All the best for some wonderful new opportunities to come out of this experience.
Andy
Well done mate! Im sure you were right up they when they were making the final decision!
Anne
Sorry to hear bout not getting the job, but I am sure you have impressed the media and will get some other good job.... bugger though. I will nevertheless continue to follow your blog(s) to satisfy my Australian photo-need and my wanderlust :)
Jane
Congratulations James on a fantastic experience and one you'll never forget. Shame it wasn't you, but I have a feeling it'll lead to amazing things anyway. Have fun with your adventures around beautiful Queensland and send some sunshine over here please! xx
Katie
James fantastic campaign now onward and upward to bigger & better things
Keep us up to date on the individual QT experiences
Donna
I was sincerely shocked when I saw the Yahoo headline and it didn't have your pic. You are gracious and did a fantastic job. I for one will continue to ck out your blog.
I have to believe that you'll even have a better opportunity coming your way for all your talents.