MARK CASSERLY

Parks and Leisure Australia has appointed Mark Casserly to the position of President.

Mark brings more than 30 years of relevant industry experience to his new role and is a long-standing member of Parks and Leisure Australia, having served as the immediate past deputy president.

Mark replaces outgoing president Kevin Lowe, who served as president for two years before handing over the role for family and business reasons.

Mark was a member of the Royal Australian Institute of Parks and Recreation for 15 years before the organisation merged with the Australian Leisure Institute to form Parks and Leisure Australia in 1998. He joined the Parks and Leisure Australia WA regional council in 2005 and was elected regional president in 2006. In 2013, Mark was elected deputy president of the national board.

Based in Perth, Mark has a passion for sport and physical recreation. He initially trained as a physical education teacher before pursuing a career as an international volleyballer, representing Australia at the 1982 World Volleyball Championships in Argentina. Mark was a member of the Organising Committee of the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, and the 1991 World Swimming Championships and 1991 Asian Volleyball Championships both held in Perth. He then transitioned into local government facility management, recreation services and community development before establishing his own consultancy practice in 1994.

Mark, who is married with three children, said Parks and Leisure Australia recently broadened its focus from how to best manage parks and leisure experiences to include taking a seat at the planning table. “This move presents challenges from ensuring adequate and quality land allocation through to responding to playing surface changes and the call for sports field lighting,” he said.

“Australia is also facing dramatic lifestyle changes including the impacts of an ageing population, elevated levels of obesity and an almost interminable connection to screens,” Mark added. It’s vital we continue to showcase the benefits of physical activity, green space and the opportunity for Australians to enjoy the outdoors and nature-based activities.”

Parks & Leisure AustraliaParks and Leisure Australia is the peak industry association for professionals working in urban and regional parks, recreation, sport, and active and healthy communities. An increase in people’s leisure time and spending has resulted in the parks and leisure sector becoming one of the fastest growing industries in the world.

Mark’s appointment comes as Parks and Leisure Australia cements its position as an industry leader working to positively influence the planning, provision and management of parks and leisure experiences for all Australians.

Parks and Leisure Australia CEO Mark Band said Mark will play a pivotal role as the organisation focuses on the future. “Mark’s experience and leadership in the sector and with Parks and Leisure Australia will stand us in good stead as we continue to provide our members with the knowledge, skills and advocacy required in this competitive and ever-changing industry.”

For more information visit www.parksleisure.com.au or call 08 8332 0130 or email marketing@parksleisure.com.au