The Star Entertainment Group has announced another leadership change within its Australian resort operations, appointing industry veteran Dave Whimpey as Chief Operating Officer and Interim Chief Executive Officer of The Star Brisbane. The role will take effect subject to regulatory approval, according to the company.

The appointment forms part of a broader restructuring of the company’s executive team as it seeks to strengthen management across its integrated resort portfolio. The announcement followed closely after the company confirmed that John Koster would assume the role of CEO at The Star Sydney, also pending regulatory clearance.

Whimpey will join the Brisbane property at a moment when the company continues to adjust operations following the opening of a major new development in the city.

Experienced Executive Takes Leadership Role

Whimpey brings more than 25 years of experience in gaming, hospitality, and tourism-related sectors. His career began at Jupiter’s Casino, which now operates as The Star Gold Coast. Over the years, he moved into senior positions across several well-known organizations, gaining experience in corporate services, wagering, and large-scale hospitality operations.

His professional background includes leadership and executive roles at KPMG, wagering operator Tabcorp, and retail group Coles, which previously operated under Wesfarmers. More recently, Whimpey held the position of Chief Executive Officer at Surf Life Saving Queensland. Before that, he served as CEO of Brisbane Racing Club.

The Star Brisbane confirmed the appointment through a public announcement, describing the move as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to strengthen leadership at its integrated resorts.

Whimpey acknowledged the timing of his appointment and the direction the business is seeking to take in the coming period.

“I’m excited to be joining The Star at such a pivotal time as the business embarks on a new era focused on rebuilding, revitalization and restoring confidence,” Whimpey said, as Inside Asian Gaming reports.

“There is a significant opportunity ahead, and I’m committed to working closely with the refreshed Board, management and our professional team members to contribute positively to the city’s future and the communities we are part of.”

Queen’s Wharf Development Expands Star’s Portfolio

The Star Brisbane forms part of the large-scale Queen’s Wharf Brisbane project, a multi-billion-dollar development that opened in August 2024. The integrated resort became the third major property operated by The Star Entertainment Group, joining The Star Sydney and The Star Gold Coast.

The broader Queen’s Wharf precinct represents a major redevelopment initiative for the Brisbane riverfront area. The casino resort operates within the project as one of its central attractions, combining gaming, hospitality, and tourism facilities.

Ownership of the development sits with Destination Brisbane Consortium, a partnership in which The Star holds a 50 percent interest. The company has previously indicated that it is exploring options related to its stake in the consortium.

The launch of the Brisbane resort marked a significant expansion for The Star Entertainment Group, introducing a new flagship property to the company’s network of integrated resorts.

Whimpey’s appointment arrives during a period of leadership transition across The Star’s operations. The company recently confirmed that John Koster would take on the role of Chief Executive Officer at The Star Sydney.

The series of executive appointments reflects ongoing adjustments to the company’s leadership structure. By bringing in experienced executives with backgrounds in gaming, hospitality, and tourism, the company is seeking to reinforce management oversight across its major resorts.