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Connections Travel Group wraps 25th anniversary conf & inaugural awards; here’s what went down 

Connections Travel Group (CTG) has just concluded its biggest event yet, the 25th anniversary Ubuntu Infinite 2025 Conference — and it was anything but business as usual.

Connections Travel Group (CTG) has just concluded its biggest event yet, the 25th anniversary Ubuntu Infinite 2025 Conference — and it was anything but business as usual.

Held at InterContinental Sanctuary Cove, the two-day event brought together more than 180 team members, industry leaders and partners for two energising days of connection, strategy and celebration.

From powerful keynotes by Robyn Moore AM and Kirk Peterson to jam-packed supplier showcases and updates on CTG’s growth strategy, the program reflected the company’s forward-thinking focus. 

CT Connections' 25th anniversary conference.
travel group
CT Connections' 25th anniversary conference.
Connections Travel Group’s conference was held on the Gold Coast.

The conference theme, Ubuntu Infinite – Living Absolutely, echoed CTG’s belief in human connection, community and purpose.

“Ubuntu Infinite 2025 was more than a conference – it was a celebration of the people, partnerships, and purpose that have shaped our journey over the past 25 years and it was a launchpad for the next 25 years,” Connections Travel Group Founder and CEO Gary Reichenberg said.

“We heard from inspiring speakers who challenged us to think differently, and we shared bold updates about where we’re going next – from growth and technology to deeper social impact.” 

A standout moment was the launch of CORE Transitions, CTG’s new social enterprise supporting people with disability to build confidence, independence and meaningful careers — including in travel.

CT Connections' 25th anniversary conference.
CT Connections' 25th anniversary conference.
Connections Travel Group CEO Gary Reichenberg.

“We are so proud to officially launch Core Transitions. Core Transitions is about walking alongside people with disability and supporting them to live confidently, independently, and with purpose,” Reichenberg stated.

“Whether it’s through employment assistance, life skills or travel experiences, we’re committed to empowering individuals to thrive on their own terms.”

CTG comprises brands like CT Connections, Edge Connections and Totem Connections, boasting over $250 million in annual travel spend.

Australia’s largest independently owned Travel Management Company (TMC), CTG also reaffirmed its innovation credentials, spotlighting AI integration, a growing national footprint and its leadership in content access — including early adoption of Qantas Premium NDC.

And the winners are… 

CT Connections' 25th anniversary conference.
Connections Travel Group’s conference celebrated 25 years of CTG.

On Saturday night, CTG announced the winners of its debut Ubuntu Awards, before attendees hit a full-throttle Y2K-themed gala.

“Wrapping up our conference with the inaugural Ubuntu Awards gave us a chance to shine a light on the individuals who embody our values and have helped drive our success,” Reichenberg said. 

“I couldn’t think of a better way to mark 25 years and set the tone for our future.”

CT Connections' 25th anniversary conference.

2025 Ubuntu Award winners 

  • Ubuntu Spirit Award: Jacqui Gross 
  • Rising Star Award: Andrea Stidwill 
  • Client Award #1: Luke Alexander 
  • Client Award #2: Sandra Giannone 
  • Guiding Star: Tamara Wetherall 
  • Bottom Line Booster: Michelle Alexander 
  • Power of Partnership #1: Suliana Minhinnett 
  • Power of Partnership #2: Jade Crawshaw 
  • Innovator’s Impact: Dimitri Voulcaris 
  • Plus One: Chris Perryn 
  • Connectors Crown: Denis Campbell 
  • Absolutely Fabulous Award: Leanne Tesoriero 

For more on CT Connections, click here.

Images by Joseph Byford Photography.

CT Connections' 25th anniversary conference.