"In addition a recent accident I have suffered has impaired my ability to devote the time needed to chair the Tourism Board as presently structured," Melville explained. She added that any other comments about her resignation are unfounded.
According to the Knysna Tourism CEO, Greg Vogt, Melville's resignation will now form part of the Knysna Tourism Board's reshuffle.
"Following the resignation of our deputy-chairman, Philip Hendrikse, due to ill-health and the Knysna Muncipal Councillor reshuffle, which saw Louise Hart replaced by Eleanore Bouw-Spies, has necessitated a process in which our own board will be reshuffled."
Municipal Councillor and Speaker, Eleanore Bouw-Spies explained: "Reshuffling of duties occurs during the ordinary course of business in council, and thus this appointment [hers] was not out of the ordinary."
Knysna Municipal Councillor, Louise Hart expressed her sadness at her resignation and said: "Although I am sad to have resigned from the Knysna Tourism Board, my resignation from the Tourism Board will allow me more time to focus on my portfolio as chairman of Planning, Development & Infrastructure.
"With her extensive knowledge of the tourism industry and local economic development, I believe that Cllr Bouw-Spies will be a great asset to the Knysna Tourism Board."
Vogt assures the public that it is business as usual and explained that at the forthcoming board meeting a new chairman and other board positions will be appointed by the prescribed manner. "The process will include the co-opting of skilled people to fill the vacancies as per the Memorandum of Incorporation."
