Gerald Heerdegen

Some call him a visionary, others the best chef you could wish for and to many he is simply a great guy who knows how to skilfully combine the public good with profitability. Gerald Heerdegen has been around and seen a lot: From East Africa to South America and all the way to Southeast Asia – in the footsteps of his ancestors and driven by the desire to improve himself. Because it’s all about one thing, after all: Making a difference.

From the Serengeti into Hohe Tauern National Park. His mother was born in Tanzania, his family is spread across half the globe. As a six-year-old he visited his mother’s home country for the first time. Since then, he has spent several weeks every two years in the land of the Massai the “cradle of humanity”. He has even stood on top of the Kilimanjaro: “Being able to experience this extraordinary country in this special way has shaped me. Memories of this are part of me and certainly contribute to making me who, what and where I am today.” Travelling became his passion – Gerald has also done a lot of job-related travelling and still does. “And it’s always the coming back.” No matter where you’re coming from: “The view of the Hohe Tauern and Salzachtal with Mittersill never ceases to dazzle. As is the fact that water flows out of the tap “at the push of a button.” Deep appreciation and gratitude can be heard in his voice. “That is not something you can take for granted.”

Thanks to internationally known industrial firms, the town is not just an economic engine. The national park centre, the excellent catering trade and the extensive shopping options make the town a popular destination. Protecting nature and preserving the uniqueness of the region is a matter of special concern to the environmentally minded entrepreneur. Gentle, eco-conscious tourism is what he imagines. “We have the most precious commodity of all right at our front door: nature. It’s just that most people don’t know to appreciate this. It’s time to raise awareness for this in the people who live here and all those who spend their holidays here.” “Slow-tourism” may be the magic word. Speaking of tourism: What’s actually the deal with that “Vacancies” flag? Introduced in the 60s, the little flag with the status symbol is the most photographed object in the touristic media landscape and most sold advertising flag in the state. “It stands for Austria and Austrian quality”, Gerald reveals full of appreciation.
The look of the “We love regionally”-flag that visually resembles the “Vacancies”-flag as a sign of commitment to regional has also achieved a symbolic character, following a short introductory phase Pinzgau is place of retreat, here the world turns a little slower. Even if many things happen a little differently here: It’s the clean air, the clear water and the diversity of the landscape that make up Pinzgau. Add to this the special character of the people, lived handicraft and the attitude to work – that’s what makes our homeland so unique. Innovation and creativity, steadfastness and the courage to try something new are what make an entrepreneur. “The Pinzgau locals are innovative and creative. For decades tradition, work and values have been passed on from generation to generation. Even though I’m a ‘come-here’ I probably feel more like a real Pinzgau local than many others”, he smiles. Somehow the water, which he refills once more, tastes differently now – more precious. Probably the spirit has now already spilled over…