Tourism Catlins has been successful in securing funding from New Zealand Lotteries for the continued employment of a Projects Co-ordinator. The Projects Co-ordinator, Mrs Kim Dodds, has been working with the elected Catlins Tourism Trust and the local community for the past five years.

Mrs Robyn Shanks, Treasurer of Tourism Catlins said "We are extremely pleased to receive this grant from the New Zealand Lotteries. This grant has helped us achieve some excellent goals and outcomes. We would like to thank the New Zealand Lotteries Grants Board for their continued support"

Mrs Shanks is the newly elected Chairperson for Catlins Coast Inc which works in conjunction with Tourism Catlins. Both organisations work closely with The Catlins community for sustainable tourism development while enhancing the economic, social, and physical well-being of The Catlins.

Catlins Coast Inc also appointed Mrs Aileen Clarke (Owaka) as Treasurer and Mrs Dianne Miller (The Chaslands) will continue as Secretary.

"We are very proud with the progress of Tourism Catlins and Catlins Coast Inc as highlighted at the recent Annual General Meeting. We are in the process of completing the Florence Hill project with the installation of six interpretation panels and I look forward to working with our members on future projects" said Mrs Shanks.

Ms Heather Buckingham from Waikawa retired as Chairperson for Tourism Catlins and Catlins Coast Inc. Heather was elected onto the trust in 2004 and has been Chairperson since 2005.

"Heather has been a very active member of Tourism Catlins and during this time has been involved in the positive growth of the Trust and a big contributor in making the trust a success. Her generosity as a volunteer and guardian of The Catlins is remarkable and we thank her for all the countless hours she has given for the wellbeing of The Catlins" said Mrs Shanks