Delaware North Australia Parks & Resorts Managing Director Wayne Kirkpatrick has decided to step down as Managing Director and move into an advisory role for the company from the end of September.

Kirkpatrick came out of semi-retirement last October to assist Delaware North in the start up of Delaware North Australia Parks & Resorts, leading to the acquisition of Lizard, Heron and Wilson Islands and Kings Canyon Resort in November 2009 and El Questro in March 2010.

Taking up the advisory role will see Kirkpatrick move back to his home in Thredbo to prepare for knee replacement surgery in the short term. However he will continue to advise Delaware North on a variety of strategic and Government related issues important to the success of the business in the future.

“It’s been a challenging and rewarding time since November last year and much has been accomplished. We have a first class team in Melbourne and at each of the resorts, operating world-class assets that are truly special places,” said Kirkpatrick.

“As many of you also know, I’ve been struggling with my knees for a considerable time. In short, too much rugby, athletics and skiing for over 40 years has taken its toll and I require knee replacement surgery.”

“This move to an ongoing advisory role is entirely my decision and Delaware North has supported me and taken the initiative of retaining my involvement, which I've happily agreed to.”

Tim Smith, Regional General Manager Parks & Resorts USA for Delaware North Companies, will assume the role of Acting Managing Director of Parks and Resorts Australia.

In his current role, Tim has been responsible for Gideon Putnam Resort and Spa, Geneva-on-the-Lake, and Niagara Falls. In a previous role, Tim was Vice President of Operations at Yosemite in California, responsible for park-wide operations with annual revenues of US$115 million, managing all lodging, food and beverage, retail, guest activities, transportation, security, and quality assurance.

Kirkpatrick added: “Tim is well equipped for this new role in Australia and is looking forward to working with the team and me here in Australia.”

“I’d like to thank my team and Delaware North for all of the assistance and expertise that’s been so readily forthcoming to date. I’m confident that great success will be enjoyed and I look forward to continuing to make a contribution in this regard.”