The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) has revealed Olympic gold medallist Noémie Fox as the headline speaker for its 2025 International Women’s Day Luncheon. Set to take place on Thursday, 6 March 2025, at Q Events in Melbourne, the event’s theme, ‘Emotional Resilience’ highlights the achievements of women across the travel industry and beyond.
Fox, a champion in canoe slalom who made waves at the Paris Olympics, exemplifies the resilience CATO aims to spotlight.
“We are thrilled to have Noémie Fox, an exemplary model of strength and resilience, lead our International Women’s Day celebration,” CATO Managing Director Brett Jardine said.
Off the water, Noémie dedicates herself to breaking down barriers to sport for young people. Her efforts have included partnering with the Black Dog Mental Health Institute to deliver mental resilience workshops in schools and serving as an ambassador for the Australian Institute of Sport’s Thrive with Pride program in 2022. Through this initiative, she championed greater visibility for LGBTIQ+ allies and fostered a culture of equality, understanding, and acceptance in Australian sport.
“Her journey and advocacy perfectly align with CATO’s mission to support and uplift the incredible women in our industry.”

Celebrating resilience and fostering recovery
Proceeds from the luncheon’s ticket sales and partnerships will directly support the Women’s Resilience Centre, an organisation dedicated to helping women rebuild their lives after domestic abuse, trauma, and loss. By backing this cause, CATO reinforces its commitment to championing resilience and recovery.
The event will also provide a platform for influential speakers and networking opportunities, encouraging industry professionals to unite under a shared purpose.
Opportunities for collaboration
CATO is also calling for organisations to partner with the event as part of its ‘Brands for a Cause’ initiative. These partnerships offer a chance to stand alongside other like-minded brands in championing resilience and empowerment.
Partnership opportunities are still available. To learn more, email CATO at cato@cato.travel.
Event details
Date: Thursday, 6 March 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Q Events, 123 Queen Street, Melbourne
Ticket pricing:
Individual: $185 (incl. GST)
Table of 10: $1,850 (incl. GST)
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit cato.travel/IWD2025.