Close to 200 tour operators, wholesalers and travel professionals gathered in Brisbane this week for the sold-out Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) International Women’s Day Lunch, recognising the contribution of women across the touring sector.
Held at The Calile Hotel, the fourth annual event has become a fixture on the CATO calendar, bringing the touring community and their guests together for an afternoon of industry discussion and networking.
CATO Managing Director Brett Jardine said the strong attendance reflected the importance the sector places on recognising the role women play across the industry.
“The touring sector relies on the experience, leadership and perspective of women across many areas of the industry, from new entrants through to senior executives and entrepreneurial owners,” Jardine said.
Attendees were treated to an inspiring keynote from Nicole Joy, confidence expert, TEDx speaking coach and founder of the SHE Speaks Academy, challenging women to step forward and embrace leadership through her presentation - Visibility isn’t Vanity, it’s Responsibility. Joy had the audience glued to every word as she pressed home a message stating; “Now is not the time to hide and be humble if you want to be a trailblazer in your industry.”
The event was hosted by popular travel industry personality Charlie Trevena, founder of Destination Webinars, who reminded guests International Women’s Day is also about recognising progress.
Guests were also treated to a live performance by Australian violinist and PhD student Maddisyn Dixon Whitbourne.
CATO acknowledged the organisations that supported the event. Sisterhood Women’s Travel joined as Major Sponsor, with additional support from Gow-Gates Insurance Brokers, TravelPay, Stuba, Entire Travel Group and Bunnik Tours. Prize sponsors included Spree with Me, Philippines Tourism and Megaworld Hotels & Resorts.
The event continues to grow each year, reinforcing its place on the travel trade calendar as an opportunity for the touring community to connect and recognise the contribution of women across the sector.
