Our 2026 Judges

Holly currently works with the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House’s Museum Experience Team but her career in tourism and cultural heritage began over ten years ago when she moved to Canberra to join the industry that let her see what museums were hiding in their storage spaces. A fan fave of the ever-growing Canberra food and wine scene, Holly is dedicated to showcasing what this wonderful region can offer.  Holly holds degrees in Business Management, Psychology, Heritage and Museums.

Lauren is a creative entrepreneur and educator with a passion for connecting people through art and entertainment. As the founder of The Typsy Sketching Club, she curates and engaging experiences, workshops and events that foster local creativity and celebrate the human form. In addition to running her business, Lauren is guiding the future tourism professionals as an educator at the Canberra Institute of Technology, where she shares her knowledge of the tourism industry, local hotels and attractions, and visitor engagement. 

Roslyn has worked in tourism and the cultural sector for 25 years. She has written for HerCanberra and presented an ABC radio segment on movies and TV. Recently retired from the National Capital Authority, where she has been both the Attractions Manager and the Visitor Experience Project Adviser, she is strongly committed to telling the story of Canberra as Australia’s capital. Although originally from Queensland she is a diehard Kenberran and passionate about all things ACT, truly believing this region is the best place to visit in Australia.

Ryan works in local government in the wider Canberra Region, leading Council’s initiatives in economic development, destination strategy, and tourism and performing arts marketing. His team has been responsible for a range of award-winning projects, with a focus on achieving long-term industry development outcomes.

With extensive professional experience in the accommodation sector in both metropolitan and regional Australia, Ryan has a passion for working with small businesses to explore innovative ways to connect and communicate with new customers and to develop and execute efficient marketing and distribution strategy.