Tourism leader Jackie McKeown mourned after death in Jerrabomberra crash

The Canberra community has expressed its grief after the tragic death of Jackie McKeown, who died after she was hit by a car near Queanbeyan on the weekend.

Ms McKeown died after she was hit by a ute on Bicentennial Drive in Jerrabomberra on Sunday (17 November) morning. She was 48 years old.

She had worked as the director of visitor services at the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre. Earlier this week, VisitCanberra posted a tribute to her on its social media page.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our dear colleague and friend, Jackie McKeown, who was involved in an accident near her home on the weekend,” VisitCanberra said.

“Our heartfelt condolences go to Jackie’s family.

“This news has profoundly affected the VisitCanberra team, especially those at the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre (CRVC), which Jackie led so effectively as director of visitor services for the past three years.”

VisitCanberra said Ms McKeown had a significant impact on the local tourism industry.

“Our thoughts are with all who knew and worked with her,” it said.

“Farewell, Jackie – you leave such a positive legacy, and you will be terribly missed by us all.”

A stream of condolence postings on social media followed the tribute.

“She contributed such an enormous amount to the ACT tourism and hospitality industry and was loved and respected by so many,” Hyatt Centric Melbourne’s director of sales and marketing Sheree Kahlefeldt said.

“Jackie displayed such joy in her various roles, as an accomplished tourism and hospitality professional over many years. On all occasions, she conveyed warmth and energy. Her deepest joy, however, I know came from her family,” VolunteeringACT chair Robyn Hendry said.

“One of the most amazing managers of people, businesses and the ACT institution Regatta Point information centre. An unbelievable mother and friend to anyone that she met,” Scott Saddler AM said.

“A wonderful and strong woman who will be missed terribly,” National Zoo & Aquarium tourism project manager Chara Reynolds said.

“Jackie leaves behind an amazing legacy for the tourism, hospitality and events industry, across the ACT and beyond. An amazing friend – always putting others first. So kind, caring and funny,” Tennis Australia’s head of marketing and commercial ACT Rochelle Kahlefeldt said.

“A truly wonderful person. A hotel industry superstar,” Hotel Leaders podcast host Peter DeMoor said.

NSW Police previously reported that emergency services arrived at Bicentennial Drive in Jerrabomberra at about 8:15 am on Sunday, but Ms McKeown had already died at the scene.

Police believe a silver Nissan Navara ute struck her and the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle – a 54-year-old woman – also hit a parked Toyota Hilux.

“The driver has been taken to Canberra Hospital with minor injuries where she will also undergo mandatory testing,” police said on the day.

On Thursday (21 November), a police spokesperson said the investigation into the incident was ongoing.

If you have information about the incident or have dash-cam or mobile phone footage, you can contact Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or visiting its website.