Members of the Australian Airports Association (AAA) have elected two new directors as it continues to strengthen the national aviation sector.

AAA chair Kym Meys has congratulated Jonathan Willsher (Ballarat Airport) and welcomed back Chris Mills (Sunshine Coast Airport and Coffs Harbour Airport) to the AAA Board following director elections by its membership.

“Both these appointees have strong backgrounds in aviation and will be passionate advocates for our leading $105 billion industry,” Meys said.

“Chris Mills has extensive experience working with airports, currently in the role of CEO for Sunshine Coast Airport and Coffs Harbour Airport.

“He has previously served as Queensland Airports Limited CEO, on the AAA Board, and also held roles in tourism, events, venue management, property development and planning.

“Jonathan Willsher is the Airport Commercial Manager at Ballarat Airport and as a former pilot knows the vast intricacies of the aviation industry.

“With a broad background from remote and regional Australia to international airline operations, Jonathan brings valuable insight and will help us craft a better sector operating across the nation.

The Australian Airports Association is the national voice for Australian airports and represents the interests of more than 340 airports and aerodromes along with 150 corporate members across the country.

Meys also thanked the five directors who departed the AAA after completing their terms as set by the association’s constitution.

“Tom Ganley (Parafield Airport), Julie Stewart (Ballina Byron Gateway Airport), Matt Cocker (Hobart Airport), Brendan Cook (formerly Townsville Airport) and Mick Bell (Coonamble Airport) have all provided substantial contributions during their Board tenures, ranging from two to ten years.

After a decade with the association, Ganley was one of its longest serving board members and as past chair of the organisation helped lead the sector during the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I thank the outgoing directors for their time, advocacy and ongoing contribution to Australian airports,” Meys said.