Billie Jo Nicholls

Billie Jo Nicholls
She/Her
Event Manager, Zoos SA (Adelaide Zoo & Monarto Safari Park)

I’ve built my career in the events industry through hands-on experience across various roles, beginning with a foundation in site management and infrastructure hire. This early work gave me a strong grounding in operational and logistical aspects of event delivery—skills that serve me today.

My career took a meaningful turn when I joined Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute as Venue and Events Manager. There, I had the privilege of managing community-focused events, including nearly a decade as Event Manager for NAIDOC SA—an experience that deepened my commitment to cultural engagement through events.

I’ve also worked with Novita Children’s Services on the Mighty River Run and helped deliver Gynburra, a free community celebration on the Yorke Peninsula. Each role added layers to my expertise in creating events that are inclusive, accessible, and community-centred.

At Zoos SA, I lead event delivery across Adelaide Zoo and Monarto Safari Park. Highlights have included Illuminate at Adelaide Zoo in partnership with Illuminate Adelaide, and beloved events like Boo at the Zoo. I’m especially excited about the opportunities ahead at Monarto Safari Park, with its evolving infrastructure and potential for unique visitor experiences.

I hold a Diploma of Event Management from TAFE SA, which gave me a solid base of practical knowledge I use daily and volunteering at events across South Australia has been rewarding and invaluable.

My advice for anyone starting out in events? Be ready to work hard and get your hands dirty. The magic of events lies in the details—and it takes a lot of behind-the-scenes effort, teamwork, and planning to bring something memorable to life.

I love what I do. Every day presents new challenges and creative opportunities, and I feel incredibly fortunate to work in an industry that brings people together and sparks joy.

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This article is part of the Festival & Event Industry Career Profiles series, a collection highlighting the diverse stories of Adelaide’s finest festival professionals. 

Photography by: Jack Fenby