TravelManagers ended its National Conference in Bali last weekend with a glittering awards ceremony that celebrated standout performers across its network. The finale capped three packed days of learning, collaboration and community spirit, all centred on this year’s theme: Clarity.
More than 500 personal travel managers (PTMs), partner suppliers, media partners and National Partnership Office (NPO) team members gathered in Nusa Dua for the conference. The program combined keynote sessions, workshops and networking with plenty of time to share stories and celebrate achievements.
“Last year’s conference theme, Working Smarter, laid the groundwork by looking at how we could refine our practices and embrace changes that would make us more efficient,” Executive General Manager Michael Gazal said.
“Clarity has been about empowering our people to further sharpen those efficiencies by learning how to cut through the noise, define their goals and focus their energy.”
Award winners
Recognition was a key focus on the final night. Emma Lucas was named Personal Travel Manager of the Year 2024/25, while fellow Victorian Joel Webb took home New PTM of the Year.
Queenslanders Karen Christie and Rebecca Harrison jointly received the Above and Beyond Award for their exceptional dedication.
The peer-voted PTM Choice Award went to Rachael Portelli, while Vietnam Travel & Tours was announced as Partner Supplier of the Year. Rounding out the honours, Carli Byrne received the Barry Mayo Spirit Award for her role in shaping and strengthening the company culture.
The conference also showcased PTM voices, with Danielle Goncalves, Stacey Farnham, Dom Bellissimo, Tanya Nielsen and Maddy Pullen among those who presented.
NPO speaker Georgia Thomas raised $8,296 for Variety’s Hair with Heart, bravely cutting her hair live on stage for donation.
Delegates also spent a morning giving back at a local Nusa Dua school, pitching in with painting and gardening to improve the learning environment.
High-profile speakers added to the energy. Behavioural scientist Milo Wilkinson opened the conference with insights on leadership and human behaviour, while closing keynote Kath Koschel, founder of The Kindness Factory, shared a powerful story of resilience and kindness.
Looking ahead, TravelManagers revealed its destination for the 2026 conference, with Tasmanian capital Hobart to host the event.
“Hobart is a destination that is renowned not just for its world-class wineries and breathtaking landscapes,” Gazal said.
“As a centre for creativity and innovation, we think it’s an inspired choice for conference 2026.”
During TravelManagers‘ 16th annual conference in Bali, Gazal and CEO Joe Araullo sat down with Karryon General Manager Dani Tuffield to discuss this year’s record-breaking event, building on 20 years of culture, and how the theme of ‘clarity’ will help shape the network’s future.
