DREAMWORLD ceo Craig Davidson has quit the company after two weeks of damaging evidence at the inquest into the Thunder River Rapids tragedy of Oct 2016.
The theme park’s parent company Ardent Leisure today confirmed Davidson will leave next month, though he will continue to assist Dreamworld throughout the inquest.
Ardent’s group chief experience officer Nicole Noye has been appointed acting ceo of Theme Parks while an international search for a permanent replacement is made.
The company has also made two new executive appointments, enlisting Phil Tanner as director of safety, and former Queensland Police Inspector Mike McKay as director for culture, community and external relations.
Ardent Leisure chairman Gary Weiss also announced the company would commit to implementing the recommendations of the inquest.
“Like everyone else, I have been deeply concerned by what has emerged from the inquiry over the past fortnight, and this is why it is important that we listen to the evidence, understand all we can and apply the lessons learned to ensure such accidents never occur at our parks,” Weiss said.
“I can assure the public that our focus on safety improvements and enhancements has been ongoing for some time and the new executive appointments will continue to drive that process.”
Ardent said the new team would further prioritise implementation of best-practice initiatives, including in ride safety.
The Southport Coroners Court is investigating the deaths of four people on the Thurder River ride and will resume hearing evidence in Oct.
Source: traveldaily