If there’s one event that officially signals the end of the travel industry calendar year, it’s the TraveLeague Christmas Party. And in true TraveLeague fashion, the 2025 edition was part reunion, part dance party, part fundraiser… and absolutely all heart.
A Party With History (And Plenty of Stories)
For those newer to the industry (or those who simply can’t remember the details after one too many bubbles), TraveLeague began as a simple idea: bring travel folks together, raise money for a good cause, and have a laugh while doing it. What started as a casual Christmas get-together has evolved into the industry party of the year.
The stories from years gone by could fill a novel… or at least a strongly worded HR handbook. But at its core, TraveLeague has always been about community and connection. Looking out for each other. And remembering that despite the spreadsheets, KPIs, and many airport coffees over the year, this industry is built on people… good ones.
This Year’s Cause: Lymphoma Australia
In 2025, TraveLeague proudly announced Lymphoma Australia as its charity partner, an organisation providing vital support, education and advocacy for Australians living with lymphoma, the most common blood cancer.
AFL legend Anthony Rocca joined the celebration as a special guest. His presence was energising – partly for the cause and partly because the AFL supporters in the room had grown up screaming with him or at him on the field.
Anthony shared heartfelt words about resilience, health, and backing a cause that touches more families than many realise. And yes, he posed for hundreds of photos. I may have been in that line – go the Pies!
With Thanks to the Legends Who Made It Happen
No great industry bash happens without the support of equally great partners. This year’s generous sponsors were Lockton, MTA, Stuba, Visit USA, and of course, Karryon, the official media sponsor, who all helped bring the event to life.
Karryon’s involvement is a natural fit. Our “Together in Travel” ethos mirrors everything TraveLeague stands for: unity, collaboration, and showing up for each other both in and out of office hours.
A Night of Laughter, Connection & Classic Industry Chaos
As the music kicked off and the drinks began to flow, the after-party room buzzed with that unmistakable end-of-year energy, a mix of relief, exhaustion, and unfiltered joy.
There were familiar faces reunited after months on the road. Newbies meeting industry icons for the first time. Suppliers swapping stories about airport mishaps. People dramatically promising they’ll “definitely slow down next year.” Plus of course, the annual dance and sing-a-long party.
Traveleague, to me, always feels less like a corporate function and more like a big family gathering, the kind where everyone is welcome, everyone laughs too loudly, and everyone goes home feeling just that little bit lighter.
More Than a Party—A Celebration of Us
The 2025 TraveLeague Christmas Party wasn’t just the industry’s biggest blowout. It was a celebration of connection, to each other, to purpose, and to the greater community we’re proud to support.
Because in travel, we’re more than colleagues. We’re collaborators, cheerleaders, confidants, occasional therapists, and on nights like this, a very festive tribe.
Same time next year? Absolutely. But maybe we’ll pace the bubbles a tiny bit better. No promises.
