Caroline Davidson is stepping down after four years as President of Visit USA and several years working to promote travel to America.
At the annual Visit USA roadshow in Sydney she was presented with a commemorative medal and a certificate of appreciation to mark her service to tourism to the United States.
Steve Knode, Regional Senior Commercial Officer at the U.S. Commercial Service in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, presented the gifts to an emotional Ms Davidson in front of industry figures, destination representatives and travel media.
“First of all, thanks to all of you for what you do to bring Australians to the United States,” he said.
“You really drive home the value and drive home why Australians should be traveling to the United States and we really appreciate that.”
Mr Knode said it was a privilege to be able to thank Ms Davisdson, who he described as “a true friend” to the United States.
“The enthusiasm that you bring to the job is just so infectious and so inspiring and we’re just eternally grateful that we have had you in our corner, doing what you’re doing and doing it so very well. You have been such a great leader.”
Ms Davidson said 2026 was a landmark year to visit America, with the country celebrating its 250th anniversary of independence and hosting the FIFA World Cup among other major events.
“I’d like to thank you as part of an industry I am so privileged to have been able to represent, working with Visit USA for the past four years as president,” Ms Davidson said.
“I will be stepping down after this event, but I will not be disappearing from the industry. I hope the industry goes from strength to strength and I can still play a small part.”
Guest speaker Dean Long, CEO of the Australian Travel Industry Association, said the travel industry remained strong and Aussies continued to put America on their bucket lists.
“It is fair to say the last couple of years have been a little bit more challenging than what they have been in the past,” he added.
“But demand is still there. Yes, it has dropped slightly, but the relationship between both countries, the destinations, attractions and the air services that connect our two continents are still unique in classification and still best in class.”
More than 200 agents attended the roadshow event, taking the opportunity to mingle with a wide selection of operators from across America.
Main image: Steve Knode, Caroline Davidson and Monique Roos
