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Victoria University Graduate Awarded "Young Tourism Business Leader of Year"

The Tourism Leaders Awards were established by Service Skills Victoria and are aimed at students in their final year of a Certificate, Diploma or Bachelor Degree in Tourism and/or Hospitality studies in Victoria. Students are asked to develop an innovative business strategy focusing on small business within the tourism industry. The strategies were judged by a panel of industry leaders on the basis of business feasibility, product innovation and knowledge of the tourism industry.

Melissa Tabuteau's proposal outlined the development of a Melbourne Attractions Card, which tourists can use as an alternative to cash. Her report was selected from over 100 submissions received from students enrolled in training institutions all over Victoria. Melissa has just completed her Bachelor of Business studies in Hospitality & Tourism Management at Victoria University (VU) and works part-time at the Melbourne Aquarium.

She really wants to work for Tourism Victoria where over 20 VU Hospitality and Tourism graduates have been employed. A presentation to students by then CEO of Tourism Victoria, Lois Appleby, kindled Melissa’s interest. Lois has subsequently been appointed to an Adjunct Professorship in Events at VU and it was her inspiration which has prompted Melissa to embark upon a Master of Marketing.

The Awards function was held at the RACV Club and was attended by about 200 industry and Uni/TAFE representatives. The award was presented by the Minister of Tourism the Hon. John Pandazopoulos.

VU's Head of Hospitality, Tourism and Marketing, Prof. Brian King said. "Melissa's supervisors and I are very excited by her success. Winning this award is a great demonstration of the outstanding achievements of our students and graduates. Melissa’s concept displays imagination and entrepreneurial flair. I am confident that she will be a great asset within the tourism industry".