NEWS RELEASE - 7th September 2026
New CEO to lead West Beach Parks into its next chapter
The State Government has announced experienced sports, major events and tourism executive Alistair MacDonald as the new Chief Executive Officer of West Beach Parks, following his appointment by the West Beach Trust to lead the precinct into its next chapter.
Mr MacDonald, who will take up his role on November 2nd 2026, brings more than 20 years leadership experience with some of South Australia’s largest sporting events and iconic visitor destinations.
He has a strong track record of growing venues, attracting major events and creating experiences that draw visitors from across the state and beyond.
Mr MacDonald currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of The Bend Motorsport Park, where he was appointed as the venue’s inaugural CEO. Before joining The Bend, he was General Manager of the Adelaide 500 and held prominent leadership positions with Tennis Australia and Tennis NSW, including Tournament Director of the Adelaide International and Sydney International event
At The Bend, he oversaw the development and operation of the major motorsport and tourism destination incorporating accommodation, sporting and recreation facilities, events and corporate experiences.
West Beach Parks is a unique 135-hectare coastal precinct, offering accommodation for more than 3,000 guests, golf, sporting and boating facilities, meeting and events spaces, recreational areas and a range of community and commercial facilities.
Mr MacDonald succeeds Kate Anderson, who has been appointed inaugural Chief Executive Officer of the Northern Parklands Trust.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning Nick Champion
West Beach Parks is an important and iconic destination, bringing together tourism, accommodation, sport, recreation and community connection in one of South Australia's most iconic coastal destinations.
Mr MacDonald brings an impressive combination of leadership, major events, sport, tourism and destination management experience to the role, and I look forward to seeing him build on the continued evolution of West Beach Parks.
Quotes attributable to West Beach Trust Chair Jane Jeffreys AM
The Trust is delighted to welcome Mr MacDonald, who brings extensive experience leading major events, visitor destinations and commercial operations, together with a strong appreciation for the importance of community connection, stakeholder engagement and sustainable growth.
We are also grateful for the significant contribution Ms Anderson has made during more than 16 years as CEO and she leaves West Beach Parks with a proud record of achievements.
Quotes attributable to Mr Alistair MacDonald
I am incredibly excited to be joining West Beach Parks and becoming part of an organisation with such a strong reputation, passionate team and exciting future.
There is tremendous opportunity ahead, and I look forward to working alongside the Board, team, partners and the community to build on the strong foundations already in place, embrace new opportunities and ensure West Beach Parks continues to thrive as a destination where people are proud to visit and work.
