Meet The Team
Dee Dalton
Chief Executive Officer
Dee brings over 25 years’ experience across marketing, brand and communications, with a career spanning newsrooms, Qantas and local government. She leads with a people-first approach, championing the entire Gladstone Region – from reef to ranges – to ensure balanced growth that benefits community, industry and visitors alike.
IAP2 qualified and with studies in marketing psychology and digital marketing, Dee combines strategic insight with a practical, collaborative style to drive real outcomes for the region.
Pete Sharpe
Manager, Finance & Operations
Peter brings extensive experience across finance, governance and contracts, having held senior leadership roles with Gladstone Ports Corporation and Gladstone Area Water Board. A Fellow of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand and the Governance Institute of Australia, he provides strategic financial and governance expertise to the organisation.
Outside of work, Peter is actively involved in the local community, Gladstone Gymnastics and Gladstone Hockey.
Susan Gaerth
Digital Marketing Specialist
Susan leads GAPDL’s digital presence across social media, web and content creation, driving destination visibility and engagement for the Gladstone Region. She plays a key role in shaping campaigns, supporting operators and showcasing the diverse experiences on offer across the region.
With a creative and strategic approach, Susan works across multiple platforms to connect with audiences and inspire travel to the region.
Gaetane Chiffoleau
Visitor Experience Manager – Northen Region (acting)
Gaetane brings a strong background in customer service and a genuine passion for community connection to her role at GAPDL. In her position, she supports visitor experiences across the Northern Region, working closely with operators, volunteers and the local community.
With an approachable and collaborative style, Gaetane is committed to helping visitors feel welcome while showcasing the best of the Gladstone Region.
Nicola Smith
Manager, Marketing & Partnerships
Nicola brings 11 years’ experience across tourism, marketing and partnerships, with a career spanning visitor services, destination promotion and industry engagement. She is passionate about showcasing the Gladstone Region and supporting operators to grow, connect and deliver memorable visitor experiences.
With strong local knowledge and a collaborative approach, Nicola works closely with members, partners and stakeholders to strengthen the region’s visitor economy and champion everything from island escapes to coastal family adventures.
Suzi Pradella
Manager, Finance & Operations Officer
Suzi brings experience across finance, administration and business operations, along with a strong passion for governance and organisational improvement. She plays a key role in supporting the organisation’s financial operations, oversees the region’s Visitor Information Centre strategy, contributes to efficient systems and is a passionate Gladstone local.
Suzi enjoys getting out and exploring the Gladstone Region with her family on weekends.
Chloe Sydes
Senior Trade, Marketing & Partnerships Officer
Chloe brings a genuine passion for tourism, leading trade marketing and partnership activity to strengthen the Gladstone Region’s presence across domestic and international markets. She supports operators, fosters collaboration and drives regional visibility.
In her spare time, she loves exploring the region and discovering everything it has to offer.
Melissa Smith
Visitor Experience Manager – Southern Region
Melissa oversees the Visitor Information Centre and supports locals in the Southern Region of Agnes Water and Town of 1770.
A long-time local, she champions regional artisans and loves sunset views and making the most of coastal life on her acreage in Agnes Water.
