Hamilton Island's new CEO

Chairman of Hamilton Island Enterprises, Sandy Oatley, said he was delighted that Bourke had decided to take up the position.

"Glenn will bring to Hamilton Island exceptional business acumen along with proven experience in the successful organisation and presentation of major international events," said Oatley.

"The island is enjoying remarkable growth and Glenn's ability will further enhance our plans for it to become a truly world-class tourist destination and residential precinct," he said.

Bourke said that he was enthusiastic about working with the Oatley family and taking on the many ventures that will come with his appointment.

"I am very much looking forward to the opportunity and challenge that the Oatley family has afforded me at Hamilton Island," said Bourke.

"The island is going through an impressive phase of development that includes the secluded ultra-luxury destination, Qualia Resort, the new 18-hole golf course which is nearing completion, and major upgrades to existing accommodation," Bourke said.

After co-ordinating all aspects of the sailing regatta at the Sydney 2000 Olympics, Bourke became CEO of Australia's leading ocean racing yacht club, the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, after which he was appointed CEO of Germany's Illbruck Challenge which won the Volvo Ocean Race 2001 - 2002. The following year Volvo lured him into the position of CEO for the actual event. In that role, he propelled the race into an exciting new era and reinforced its status as the world's most successful long-distance ocean race.