Flight Centre Travel Group CEO Graham ‘Skroo’ Turner will join a host of speakers at the Australian Travel Industry Association’s (ATIA) just-announced first summit, Beyond Borders.
Set to take place in Sydney on 25 October, the day before the National Travel Industry Awards (NTIAs); the inaugural ATIA summit promises to bring together “some of the travel industry’s most influential minds” to discuss the resurgence of travel as well as look at trends moving into 2025 – broad topics that will no doubt be honed as the event draws closer.
Other confirmed speakers for the event are Gai Tyrell (Managing Director of Globus Family of Brands), Toni Ambler (Managing Director of Contiki, Trafalgar and Insight Vacations), Ben Angell (Vice President and Managing Director of Norwegian Cruise Lines Asia-Pacific) and CTM’s Laura Ruffles.
The event will be hosted by ATIA Director of Membership Richard Taylor, along with travel industry figures Charlie Trevena and Rosyln Ranse.
With tickets to be released soon, the association expects more than 400 industry professionals to attend the event. NTIA Finalists will be hosted for the day.

ATIA CEO Dean Long said the new summit marked “a significant milestone for the Australian travel industry”.
“This is an unmatched opportunity for ATIA members and the broader sector to engage with global leaders, gain insights into emerging trends, and celebrate the vibrant future of travel,” he stated.
“As we congregate to share knowledge and inspiration, we lay the groundwork for a revolutionary era in Australian travel.
“Beyond Borders will delve into the robust resurgence of Travel and the exciting emerging trends for 2025. It promises to be an incubator for innovation, collaboration, and celebration, encapsulating the dynamic spirit of the industry.”
Co-host Richard Taylor called the event a “convergence of the finest in our industry”.
“As we gather in anticipation of the NTIA awards, we create a synergy of celebration and learning,” he remarked.
“This summit is not just about recognising where we are; it’s about envisioning where we can go. It’s about transcending limits and shaping the future of travel.”

Taylor said the timing of the event was a no-brainer, given the presence of many travel industry delegates for the NTIAs.
“This event really adds to the celebration that is the NTIA awards night by bringing the industry together to learn from high-profile leaders and each other,” he added.
“With so many guests in Sydney already for the awards, it really makes sense to add this opportunity for finalists and the industry as a whole.”
“NTIA finalists will be our honoured guests for the day as the kick-off event for travel’s night of nights. We invite everyone to come and join us to be part of the conversation that drives our industry forward.”
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