ASAA Announces Appointment Of Josh Elliott As New CEO

The Australian Ski Areas Association (ASAA) has today announced the appointment of Josh Elliott as its new Chief Executive Officer. This strategic appointment comes as the ASAA looks to strengthen its position as a leading advocate for the snow industry in Australia.

The Australian Ski Areas Association is the peak industry body representing the interests of snow resorts and their stakeholders across Australia. The ASAA is dedicated to promoting sustainable practices, enhancing the visitor experience, and advocating for policies that support the growth and development of the snow industry.

Chair of the ASAA, Noel Landry, expressed his enthusiasm for the new leadership: “We are incredibly excited to welcome Josh as our new CEO. His extensive experience and innovative mindset will be invaluable as we navigate the evolving landscape of the snow industry. Josh's proven track record in strategic leadership and his passion for our industry make him the perfect fit for this role.”

As the ASAA welcomes Josh, they also take a moment to pay tribute to our former CEO, Colin Hackworth, who recently passed away. Noel shared, “Colin's leadership and dedication were instrumental in shaping the ASAA and the Australian ski industry. His vision and commitment will be remembered and honoured as we continue to build upon the strong foundation he laid.”

Colin’s profound impact on the industry is etched in the history of Hotham, where his visionary leadership set the standard for excellence.

Colin first skied at Hotham in 1978 as an economics graduate trainee from the Ford Motor Company in Melbourne. Captivated by the slopes, he quickly transitioned from a dishwasher and part-time ski instructor to a trailblazing leader, first as Head of the Snowsports School and then later as General Manager. As General Manager of Hotham, Colin masterminded the construction of Gotcha, Orchard and Keoghs lifts, spearheaded the first phases of the snowmaking system and the development of Hotham Airport, among many other notable achievements. Colin then went on to become GM overseeing both Hotham and Falls Creek.

His visionary approach extended beyond Australian borders, as he was a pioneer in introducing Australian tourists to Japan’s snowsports market, particularly through the transformation of Niseko Hanazono into a premier global ski destination.

Colin will be dearly missed by the staff at Hotham and Falls Creek, and by the broader industry through his role as Chief Executive of the Australian Ski Areas Association, a position he held for over a decade. At Hotham, his legacy lives on in the cherished run “Hackers Horror,” named in his honour.

Josh joins the ASAA from the Blyton Group, where he most recently served as Chief Operating Officer. Overseeing various strategic initiatives and operations for the group, Josh was instrumental in driving growth, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering a culture of innovation.

Josh was one of Australia’s youngest media managers, appointed at the age of 25 to run a metropolitan media company in Perth. He brings the ASAA a unique blend of sales, marketing, strategic and operational experience across a broad range of industries (media, entertainment, hospitality, leisure, aviation and transport).

Specifically relating to the Australian snow industry, Josh oversaw the acquisition and integration of Selwyn Snow Resort into the wider Blyton Group in 2016, as well as leading the direct negotiations that ensured the long-term renewal of the Head Leases at both Charlotte Pass and Selwyn Snow Resorts. More recently Josh played a key role in the reconstruction and reinvigoration of Selwyn Snow Resort, following its destruction in the Black Summer bushfires of 2020.

His time at the Blyton Group has been marked by a commitment to improvement and a forward-thinking approach that aligns perfectly with the ASAA's vision for the future. 

“I am honoured to take on the role of CEO at the Australian Ski Areas Association,” said Josh. “The snow industry in Australia continues to hold immense potential and opportunity, and I am committed to working closely with our members, partners, and wider industry stakeholders. Our industry, working together, will navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.” 

Josh's appointment signals a new chapter for the ASAA, as the organisation continues to advocate for the interests of its members and promote the unique offerings of Australian ski areas. One of Josh’s initial priorities will be to undertake a strategic review of the ASAA and its current priorities.