STRONG FOUNDATION

Leadership Team

The RiverCity Ferries business is led by a local team of dedicated professionals with extensive transport, marine and tourism experience.

Donna Gauci

Chief Executive Officer, SeaLink Marine and Tourism

Donna Gauci brings over 40 years of expertise in the travel and tourism industry to her role as Chief Executive Officer of SeaLink Marine & Tourism, a division of Kelsian Group.

Her journey with SeaLink began as the General Manager of SeaLink New Zealand, later advancing to oversee operations for SeaLink South Australia, and ultimately assuming the role of CEO of SeaLink Marine & Tourism. Under her leadership, the division carries more than 5 million passengers annually, operates 140 vessels, and employs over 1900 people across Australia.

Throughout her tenure, Ms. Gauci has demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination, steering the company through numerous organisational changes and challenges, including several acquisitions, the Kangaroo Island bushfires, the global pandemic, and Murray River floods.

Ms. Gauci is dedicated to driving business development and transformation, enhancing profitability through strategic growth initiatives and partnerships all while prioritising the elevation of the customer experience. She focuses on continuous improvement in safety and operational excellence, and actively supports a strong ‘one team’ culture.

“Our RiverCity Ferries team is dedicated to connecting people, sharing experiences, and creating brilliant memories. Operating Brisbane's iconic ferries on behalf of Brisbane City Council enables us to pursue our collective vision of strengthening community ties and bringing people together. I am proud to work with our dedicated team to provide safe, reliable, and efficient public transport solutions to both locals and tourists in the river city. With the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympics on the horizon, it’s an exciting time to be in the transport and tourism environment.”

Paul Rigby

General Manager, RiverCity Ferries

Paul joined RiverCity Ferries in March 2024, bringing with him over 30 years of extensive experience.

Known for his operational expertise, Paul has consistently enhanced performance and customer satisfaction in demanding, customer-oriented roles. His career spans significant positions in building businesses and managing large teams in the private sector, airport operations, and logistics. Additionally, his service in the Royal Australian Navy honed his strong organisational, communication, and teamwork skills. Paul also holds a Bachelor of Laws, which further equips him to effectively manage significant contracts and stakeholder relationships.

With his proven track record in strategic planning, project management, and relationship building, Paul skilfully navigates RiverCity Ferries through the evolving business landscape.

"I'm thrilled to have joined RiverCity Ferries, especially at such a dynamic time for Brisbane as we approach the Olympic Games in 2032. Working with Brisbane City Council to deliver exemplary, reliable, and safe public transport services to the people of this vibrant, new world city is an exciting chapter in my career."