Last year he was recognised for his efforts in pioneering Northern Territory tourism and now APT’s Founder has been dubbed an all-round legend.
Geoff McGeary, the man behind Australia’s Best Adventure Cruise Line and Best River Cruise Line Overall, has received an ‘Australian Tourism Legend’ award at the 2015 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.
The title recognises individuals for their contributions to the tourism industry as well as their professional achievements.
McGeary said he was moved to receive the accolade, which he regards as an “absolute honour”.
“The Australian tourism industry is the best in the world – we get to work with outstanding people and product in the most stunning destinations.”
Geoff McGeary, APT Founder
“So to be recognised as having made a leading contribution, when the standard of what we collectively deliver is so high, is an absolute honour.”
Australian Pacific Touring (APT) was originally founded as De Luxe Motors in 1927 by Geoff’s father Bill McGeary almost 90 years ago.
McGeary has been with the company for over 50 years now, starting his career while it was still a school bus company based in Bayside, Victoria.
APT helped introduce river cruising in Europe to the Australian market.
It was in 1964 when the brand expanded into group tours, with McGeary taking a group of Melbourne students on a camping trip to Central Australia.
From there it developed and expanded to become an international multi-travel business it is today, with bus, cruise and rail tours.
Through innovation, McGeary and APT were responsible for pioneered a new travel format when they introduced river ship cruising for the Australian and New Zealand traveller in Europe. This later expanded to Asia; South America; Africa; and India.
Congratulating McGeary on his award, APT Group Managing Director Chris Hall described him as an inspiration to people within the business and industry colleagues worldwide.
“He is always looking for the next travel innovation, always wanting to find the next exciting destination or format.”
Chris Hall, APT Group Managing Director
“On behalf of everyone at the APT Group I would like to say huge congratulations. This is an honour that is much deserved.”