The Council of Australian Travel Operators has shared that the special guest speaker for the highly anticipated 2024 CATO Christmas Lunch will be none other than industry icon and Flight Centre Travel Group Founder & CEO Graham “Skroo” Turner.
Turner will take the stage and share his insights about founding Topdeck Travel and his early days as a tour operator at the 2024 CATO Christmas Lunch on 5 December 2024 at Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park with tickets still available for the annual event.
CATO Managing Director Brett Jardine said: “We are honoured to welcome Skroo Turner, one of the most respected figures in the travel industry, as this year’s guest speaker.”
“His journey from the early days of Topdeck Travel aligns perfectly with CATO’s celebration of 25 years of touring.
“This lunch is a unique moment to reflect on the evolution of travel and I know Skroo’s stories will resonate deeply with all attendees,” he said.
G Adventures is the 2024 CATO Christmas Lunch guest speaker segment sponsor with Managing Director Australia, New Zealand and Asia and CATO board director Sean Martin adding: “G Adventures is proud to support CATO in bringing such a remarkable leader to the stage.”
“Skroo Turner’s passion and pioneering spirit have inspired many in our industry and we’re thrilled to be part of an event that celebrates both the history and future of travel,” he said.
Strong showing for CATO at WTM
More than 50 CATO members recently attended the 2024 World Travel Market (WTM) in London, showing strong support for Australia’s outbound tourism recovery, thanks to the Reinvigorating International Travel Grant (RITG) program.
Jardine said: “WTM London offers an invaluable opportunity for Australian tour operators to expand international partnerships and strengthen relationships with key global markets.”
Limited 2024 CATO Christmas Lunch tickets are still available for $180pp. For more info, head here.
