Australian travel industry pioneer Margaret Hill, who worked with Stewart Moffat Travel, Phil Hoffmann Travel, Yalla Tours and International Destinations during her distinctive career, passed away peacefully on 23 January 2026 aged 93.
Well-known and liked by many in the industry, Hill is remembered as a Middle East travel expert with a lifelong passion for the sector.
She caught the travel bug after an overseas trip to Malaysia and Singapore with her husband and daughter, Diana, in 1967, followed by her first European holiday in 1971.
She started her career at News Limited, then returned to study as a mature-aged student and found her niche in the travel industry after gaining work experience in the sector.
Hill was the Product Manager at Stewart Moffat Travel in Adelaide, working with then-Managing Director Phil Hoffmann before he established Phil Hoffmann Travel.
Hoffmann paid tribute to Hill, saying travel was not just her career, but her calling.
“She had an extraordinary passion for the Middle East, from Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Turkey, Oman, Syria and beyond, and it showed in everything she did. Her love for Egypt was unmatched, and she delighted in designing stunning itineraries that took travellers on unforgettable journeys,” Hoffmann said.
“Even when Stewart Moffat Travel moved on to other ownership, Margaret’s dedication never wavered. She returned to Phil Hoffmann Travel, focusing on international destinations in the Middle East, sharing her knowledge and passion with our team and training consultants across Australia.
“I often called her the ‘godmother of Middle East destinations’. Her expertise allowed us to offer unique experiences that few other agents could, and her energy and commitment to these regions were truly one-of-a-kind.
“I feel privileged to have worked alongside her and to have shared many incredible journeys with her. Margaret’s passion, knowledge and warmth will be deeply missed,” Hoffmann said.
Phil Hoffmann Travel said Hill will be sadly missed and remembered for her curiosity, independence and passion for seeing – and helping others see – the world.
Karryon sends our sincere condolences to Margaret Hill’s family, Phil Hoffmann Travel and all who knew her.
