Brad Brooks has lived and breathed travel for over two decades—starting from Sydney’s 5-star hotel lobbies to now championing industry partnerships at PassportCard Travel Insurance . Today, Brad is the Travel Industry Partnership Manager  at PassportCard, working closely with Australian travel agents to ensure they feel confident and supported when offering travel insurance to their clients. We caught up with Brad to hear more about his career journey, the lessons learned along the way, and why growing tomatoes might not be so different from growing industry partnerships. Can you tell us a bit about your background? I started my travel journey in 1999, working in Front Office roles across Sydney’s luxury hotels. After a few years overseas living and working in the UK, I came back to Australia and took a job as a retail travel agent—just as a stopgap while figuring out my next move. But I quickly fell in love with the fast-paced environment, the relationships, and the people. Many of the clients and suppliers I met back then are still close friends today. That early experience showed me how deeply personal and rewarding this industry can be. After some time in retail, I moved into corporate travel, where I spent 14 years with different TMCs. I worked across operations, training, and mostly Account Management—building and growing client relationships became a real passion. What made you decide to join PassportCard? After many years in corporate travel, I was ready to try something different—something that still connected me to the industry I love but challenged me to grow. PassportCard stood out because of its innovative approach to travel insurance and its focus on people-first service. It felt like a perfect fit. Six months in, I’m loving it—especially reconnecting with the retail travel community and helping agents bring added value to their clients. Pri Mills (TADA) visiting Brad at PassportCard’s Sydney offices What’s one travel memory that really stands out? Early in my retail travel days, I helped a young journalist plan an expedition to the North Pole. She needed to get to Svalbard in time to catch a rare Antonov flight to a temporary ice runway. It was one of the most complex bookings I’ve ever worked on—but after days of research, we made it happen. We celebrated with a drink after work, and we’ve remained good friends for over 20 years. That experience really cemented my love for the industry—the sense of adventure, problem-solving, and connection. And what about life outside of work? Gardening is my happy place. Growing my own veggies and cooking with them brings me a lot of joy. Some crops thrive, others don't—but that’s part of the experience. Nature teaches patience, persistence, and humility—qualities that have helped me both personally and professionally. Brad’s story is a great reminder that the best careers aren’t always carefully mapped out—they’re built one relationship, one leap of faith, and one unexpected opportunity at a time. Whether helping agents succeed or harvesting tomatoes in the backyard, Brad brings a sense of care, connection, and passion to everything he does. Brad with the PassportCard team at the CATO Christmas Lunch

We recently had the pleasure of catching up with Dennis, the Managing Director for Australia at Exoticca . Dennis has over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, spanning from aviation to tour operations. His journey through various facets of the industry offers a rich perspective on the evolution and current trends of global travel. Can you start by introducing yourself? Tell us a bit about your background and your role in the travel industry. From a young age, I was captivated by the aviation industry and dreamed of traveling the world. The '90s were a challenging time to enter the sector, but I started in hotels, gaining valuable experience before moving into aviation. Over the years, I've held various commercial roles across retail, wholesale, and tour operation tourism boards, which led me to my current position as Managing Director, Australia for Exoticca. What inspired you to pursue a career in the travel industry, and what has kept you passionate about it over the years? Initially, it was the glamour of traveling for work that drew me in. However, nearly 30 years later, my focus has shifted more towards leisure travel as a way to unwind from the daily pressures. The dynamic nature of the industry and the continuous evolution in how we travel keep my passion alive. What’s the most memorable trip you’ve worked on, and what made it so special? About ten years ago, my partner and I visited the Solomon Islands. We stayed on a remote island with no technology, just a beautiful bungalow and a private chef. The simplicity and peacefulness of that trip, filled with reading, healthy eating, and swimming in the sea, made it incredibly special and the most relaxed I’ve ever been. What’s one trend or innovation in the travel industry that you think travel agents should focus on in 2025? Technology is key for the future of travel. Travel agents should focus on leveraging products that streamline the booking process, saving hours and enhancing client satisfaction. At Exoticca, we were the first B2B operator to offer multi-day tours online, with options to book with or without air, as well as pre and/or post accommodation. This innovation is part of our ongoing commitment to support our travel advisors by removing the hassle of back-and-forth communications and long hold times with suppliers. How do you see the role of sustainability evolving in the travel industry, and how can Travel Agents implement more eco-friendly practices? From a travel advisor's perspective, it's essential to align with operators who are committed to sustainable practices. Many travelers are now asking about the sustainability efforts of operators, so it's crucial to stay informed. Exoticca’s programs focus on environmental protection, social welfare, and corporate governance, both in our destination operations and at our headquarters. What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that not many people know? Despite my youthful appearance, I'm a grandfather, or "D-Pa," as I like to call it! I have a 30-year-old daughter living in the US who recently had her first child, which often surprises people considering my young looks. As Dennis and Exoticca prepare to exhibit at TADA, they look forward to sharing their innovative approaches to travel with industry peers. His journey and insights are a testament to the enduring allure and evolving responsibilities of the travel industry. Stay tuned for more updates from Exoticca as they continue to redefine the travel experience through technology and sustainability. Dennis Basham

Andrea Friend, based in Cranbourne East, VIC, is living proof that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. After more than a decade in banking, she took a leap into the world of travel—and hasn’t looked back since. Today, Andrea is a standout mobile travel agent known for her warmth, insight, and passion for helping clients turn dream trips into lifelong memories. Whether it’s cruising through Antarctica or exploring Europe’s historic gems, she’s all about creating travel experiences that truly matter. We caught up with Andrea to hear more about her journey, the trends she’s seeing, and the advice she’d give to anyone starting out in the industry. Making the magic happen behind the scenes of unforgettable itineraries. How did you get started in the travel industry, and what keeps you passionate about it? After a 15-year banking career in the UK, I knew I needed a change when I moved to Australia—something I could truly be passionate about. The travel industry has completely changed my life for the better. My love of travel started early. As a kid, I was obsessed with aeroplanes—I’d sit in my bedroom and watch flights taking off and landing at Birmingham Airport (I could see the runway from my window!). When I met my husband 34 years ago, we started travelling internationally and discovered a shared desire to explore as much of the world as possible. Now, I get to create those same magical, life-changing travel moments for my clients. Watching their travel obsessions grow—and knowing I’ve played a part in that journey—completely fulfils me. What’s a travel trend or destination that’s booming right now? Europe is always a favourite, and post-COVID, the demand is bigger than ever. People are craving culture, history, and variety. But what’s really taken off lately is Antarctica. It’s the ultimate bucket list destination, and clients are more determined than ever to experience it while they can. That “do it now” mindset is stronger than ever. If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring travel agents, what would it be? Find your niche and stick to it. You don’t have to be everything to everyone. Focus on the types of travel that truly light you up and let that passion lead the way. And always keep learning. The industry moves fast, and the more curious and informed you are, the more confident you’ll be—and the more value you’ll offer to your clients. What’s your favourite part of working with clients? The relationships. Some of my clients have become close friends, and I feel incredibly lucky to be part of their travel stories. It’s especially rewarding to see families grow and help the next generation plan their own adventures. What’s your go-to travel tip for clients? Be flexible. Not everything will go to plan, and that’s okay. Some of the most memorable moments happen when things take an unexpected turn. Keep an open mind and go with the flow. Andrea’s journey is a beautiful reminder that success in travel isn’t just about ticking destinations off a list—it’s about making every journey meaningful for the people you serve. Helping clients explore Europe, Antarctica, and beyond with care and creativity.

Warm, insightful, and purpose-driven, Yvette Thompson has been a trusted voice in the travel industry for nearly two decades. Now leading Sales & Marketing across Australia and New Zealand for Intrepid Travel , Yvette brings a rare blend of strategic thinking, creative energy, and a deep passion for people. Her path into travel began unexpectedly, with a winning story in a travel writing competition and evolved into a career built around connection, storytelling, and meaningful experiences. From her early days in GDS to her current role championing sustainable tourism and partnerships across ANZ, Yvette’s story is one of growth, purpose, and heart. We asked her a few questions to get to know the person behind the role. Can you start by introducing yourself? Tell us a bit about your background and your role in the travel industry. I’ve been in the travel industry for 18 years now, across two very different worlds—GDS and adventure travel. I started at Intrepid as a BDM and have worked my way through sales, marketing, partnerships and contracting roles. It’s been quite the ride! I’m originally from Sydney but made the move to Melbourne in 2017 and never looked back. I love the energy here—great events, gorgeous wineries, stunning hikes, and character-filled small towns just a short drive away. It also helps that most of my family eventually followed me down! Yvette Thompson leading Sales & Marketing across Australia and New Zealand for Intrepid Travel What inspired you to pursue a career in the travel industry, and what’s kept you passionate about it over the years? I was working in a big corporate company that I enjoyed, but I was hungry for something more aligned with my passions. Then fate stepped in—I entered a travel writing competition on a whim and ended up winning. The prize was $10,000 worth of travel! That prize sent me through Vietnam, Thailand, Dubai, France and Africa. It was that small group trip through Africa that really changed everything for me. A few months later, I found myself working at Intrepid Travel. Coincidentally, the person who hired me was also the person who had selected my story. What’s kept me in the industry all these years is the people—both the ones we work with and the ones we meet on the road. Travel is all about connection and seeing the world through different perspectives. And that’s exactly what Intrepid’s all about too. Purpose-led travel that has a positive impact. What’s the most memorable trip you’ve worked on, and what made it so special? Oh gosh, where to start? I think it would have to be my month in India with Intrepid in 2017. It was just incredible. The kaleidoscope of colours in the women’s saris, the aromas of street food and incense, the big smiles and warm hospitality—it all hits you at once. The streets come alive as the sun goes down, the architecture is incredible, and the wildlife parks allow you to escape the hustle and come close to tigers, elephants and other wild animals. I’ll never forget the cows calmly stopping traffic, the peacocks wandering old fortresses, the sunsets over the Ganges, the camel rides through the desert, the spicy curries, and the warm chais and chilled lassis. It’s a place full of contrasts and celebrations, where religion, culture and community blend in beautiful ways. India has a way of getting under your skin and into your heart. What’s one trend or innovation in the travel industry that you think travel agents should focus on in 2025? I talk about this a lot, but I really believe we all need to focus on the rise of sustainable and eco-friendly travel. Travellers are more conscious than ever about the environmental impact of their holidays, and they’re actively looking for more responsible ways to explore the world. New regulations are also coming in, so being across the laws and offering sustainable options isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s going to be essential for all of us. What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that not many people know? One of my favourite places in the world is France. In my early 20s, I lived there, splitting my time between ski seasons in the Alps and working on private yachts on the Mediterranean. Both were completely different experiences, but equally beautiful, impactful and unforgettable. Yvette’s career reminds us that sometimes, the most meaningful paths aren’t planned—they’re discovered. From a love of storytelling to a passion for sustainable travel, her journey reflects a deep belief in the power of purpose and people. We can’t wait to welcome Yvette to TADA 25 this October in Sydney. Be sure to connect, her story might just inspire the next chapter of yours.

From Travel Advisor to Industry Advocate at TBO Australia We caught up with Gretel Puisens , Head of New Business – Australia at TBO , to learn more about her unique journey in travel—from frontline advisor to driving growth for one of the world’s most powerful B2B travel platforms. With a background in communications and fundraising, Gretel entered the travel industry in 2010, expecting a temporary detour. But what began as a one-year break quickly transformed into a career she fell in love with. “I loved to travel, and what I thought would be a cruisy 12-month detour quickly became something much more meaningful—and permanent.” Gretel, Head of New Business, TBO Australia A Passion That Turned Into Purpose Gretel found herself immersed in the world of travel advising—mastering booking systems, learning destinations, and connecting with clients in deeply personal ways. “The team became like family, the work became my business, and planning travel became a source of inspiration and creativity,” she reflects. For over a decade, she thrived in the fast-paced environment of travel, developing a deep understanding of what clients want and what advisors need to succeed. Growth Through Disruption When the pandemic reshaped the industry, Gretel embraced the opportunity to explore new sectors and leadership roles. She soon realised the skills she’d developed—resilience, adaptability, commercial thinking—were highly transferable and valuable in broader operational contexts. Today, she brings that blend of heart and business strategy to her current role at TBO , where she’s leading the company’s expansion across Australia. Leading TBO’s Vision in Australia As Head of New Business – Australia, Gretel is proud to be introducing TBO’s AI-powered booking portal to local advisors—offering smarter tools, greater efficiency, and access to global buying power. “I’m still part of that journey to joy,” she says.“Now I get to support travel advisors by giving them the tools and support they need to create unforgettable experiences for their clients.” With a fantastic local team and a strong commitment to partnerships, TBO is focused on building meaningful, long-term relationships within the Australian travel community. Looking Ahead to 2025 Gretel believes the future of the industry lies in empowering advisors with the right resources—seamless technology, competitive rates, and genuine supplier support. “In 2025, the most valuable thing we can offer travel advisors is efficiency, access, and partnership,” she says. “At TBO, we’re proud to deliver all three—and more.” She’s looking forward to connecting with industry peers and partners at TADA 2025 , where TBO will be on the ground to support the agent community. A Leader With Heart Gretel’s journey is a powerful example of what’s possible when passion and purpose collide. Her ability to adapt, lead, and stay grounded in what truly matters—helping others find joy through travel—continues to shape her impact in the industry. Whether she’s launching a new booking tool or sharing insights over a coffee, Gretel leads with authenticity, generosity, and drive—and the travel community is stronger for it. Gretel and Pri at CATO Christmas Lunch

We caught up with Kellie Goggins, Marketing Manager at the Korea Tourism Organization’s Sydney office, to chat about her journey into tourism, what keeps her inspired, and the trends she thinks travel agents should watch in 2025. Spoiler: it involves food (lots of it). Kellie, tell us a bit about your background and your role in the travel industry. “My path to tourism wasn’t exactly a straight line. I actually started out in video game marketing, but everything changed after a trip to Korea where I completely fell in love with the country. That one visit turned into five years living there, learning the language, and completing my master’s degree. Kellie Goggins, Marketing Manager at the Korea Tourism Organization’s Sydney office Now, I’m back in Australia helping others discover the Korea that stole my heart. In my role, I work with the travel trade across Australia and New Zealand to promote Korea through events, campaigns, partnerships, and famils.” What inspired you to pursue a career in travel, and what keeps you passionate about it? “I actually wanted to work at Flight Centre when I was younger but never got the job! Travel has always been such a big part of my life, and I’ve been lucky to explore some incredible countries. I didn’t set out to work in the travel industry, but now that I’m here, it feels like the perfect fit. I get to combine my love for travel with my love for Korea. And Korea is one of those destinations that keeps surprising you—there’s always something new to learn about its culture, people, food, and hidden gems.” What’s one trend or innovation you think agents should focus on in 2025? “Food-focused tours! With food content exploding on Instagram and TikTok, travellers are making sure they tick off must-eats and viral food experiences. Seeing the big attractions is great, but food often takes centre stage. In destinations like Korea, Japan, and Vietnam, food is such a key part of the culture—it helps travellers connect on a much deeper level. Even if people aren’t across all the latest trends, exploring a destination through its food is such a memorable way to understand it. And when people miss a place, it’s usually the food they crave most.” Finally, tell us something fun about you that not many people know. “I’ve never watched Squid Game, not even one episode! I know, shocking… especially since we’ve run Squid Game-themed events. But I’m a total wuss when it comes to thrillers or anything gory. I’m more of a soft Korean rom-com fan!” Kellie’s passion for Korea is infectious, and it’s clear she’s helping inspire a whole new wave of travellers to experience the country beyond the usual highlights. With her insights, we’re sure agents will be serving up plenty of food-for-thought itineraries in 2025 and beyond.

We caught up with Robert “Bob” Halfpenny — a travel industry veteran with over 25 years of experience and a passion for raw, purpose-driven exploration. From boardrooms to the most remote corners of the world, Bob’s journey is one of leadership, adventure, and a deep love for expedition cruising. Robert has spent more than two decades in travel, and for the past ten years, his focus has been on expedition cruising — a part of the industry that he says “feels like home.” He’s held leadership roles at companies like Aurora Expeditions and Quark Expeditions, and in January 2024, he stepped into his current role as Head of Sales at Heritage Expeditions. “It’s been a real privilege,” he says. “I’ve built my career around experiences that go far beyond the ordinary, and Heritage is the perfect fit — a family-owned company with over 40 years of heritage, exploring some of the wildest, most breathtaking places on Earth.” Robert Halfpenny, Head of Sales – Heritage Expeditions At Heritage Expeditions, Bob leads sales efforts across voyages that span the Ross Sea in Antarctica, the Subantarctic Islands, Japan, the Pacific Islands, and more. “We’re not ticking boxes. We’re offering deep, meaningful journeys into places few people ever get to see — all with a conservation-first mindset.” His own travels have taken him from kayaking alongside whales in Antarctica to soaking in steaming hot springs in Iceland. One highlight? “Swimming with whale sharks in Cenderawasih Bay, Indonesia, then witnessing the mating dance of the Bird of Paradise in Papua New Guinea aboard the Heritage Adventurer . Moments like that stay with you forever.” What excites Bob most is helping travel partners and advisors share these experiences with their clients. “Expedition travel is more than just a niche, it’s a chance to reconnect with nature, culture, and a sense of wonder. I love working with people who want to offer their clients something truly extraordinary.” As he prepares for TADA25, Bob is looking forward to meaningful conversations. “This event brings together people who care about travel in a deeper way. I can’t wait to connect, collaborate, and inspire.” Heritage Adventurer at Fiordland

If you’ve ever spoken to someone truly passionate about the polar regions, chances are you’ve met Tenille Hunt . As Regional Director APAC for Quark Expeditions , Tenille is a recognised expert in polar travel, with over 14 years dedicated to the world’s most remote and pristine destinations. From Antarctica to Svalbard, she’s not just visited these places, she knows them inside out. I caught up with Tenille as part of our Industry Leaders to Know  series. Her story is one of adventure, purpose, and genuine love for sharing the polar experience with others. Tanille Hunt, Regional Director APAC for Quark Expeditions Can you start by introducing yourself? Tell us a bit about your background and your role in the travel industry. I’ve been in the travel industry for over 17 years, and for the past 14, I’ve specialised in polar travel. It all started when I worked on a yacht in the Whitsundays after high school. That experience sparked something in me, I came home, studied Business Management (Tourism), and never looked back. I spent years travelling and working abroad, snow seasons in France, a mega yacht in Turkey (yes, very Below Deck ), and time in a hostel in Buenos Aires. I eventually came home to Melbourne and joined G Adventures. That was the start of my long-term career in adventure and expedition travel, which led me to the polar regions. What do you love most about polar travel? Everything! It’s impossible to explain until you’ve experienced it. These places are raw, powerful, emotional. From the Antarctic Peninsula and South Georgia to chasing puffins in Greenland, every trip is different and unforgettable. My role lets me bring travellers to the edge of the world and that’s a real privilege. One of my all-time favourite trips was exploring the Patagonian coastline by air, land, and sea. Next up: the High Canadian Arctic. I can't wait. What inspired you to pursue a career in travel—and what’s kept you passionate over the years? I’ve always known I wanted to work in travel. I was drawn to the idea of connecting people with the world, and that’s still what motivates me today. What’s kept me going is how different every day is, especially in polar travel, no two expeditions are the same. What’s one trend or innovation you think travel agents should focus on in 2025? Multi-generational travel. Think: smaller groups, slower pace, meaningful experiences. People aren’t talking about “bucket lists” anymore—they’re thinking about doing things while they can . Polar travel fits right into that shift. It’s less about ticking boxes, and more about transformation. What’s something surprising or fun that not many people know about you? I got a puppy last month! Her name is Rocket, she’s a Boxer, and she’s turned my world upside down, in the best way. In this industry, we’re always on the go, but Rocket has forced me to slow down. I’m walking to the beach twice a day now and somehow getting more done. That said, if you’re missing a high heel... she probably has it. At TADA 25, we’re here to celebrate the real people behind the bookings, expeditions, and stories that move us. Tenille’s passion for polar travel and her unwavering commitment to exploration represent the heart of what makes our industry so special. Her story is a reminder that sometimes, the best way to find yourself is by heading to the ends of the Earth.

Next year marks a huge milestone for Rebecca Day , 30 years in the travel industry. “I know, where did the time go?!” she laughs. I recently caught up with Rebecca as part of our Industry Leaders to Know  series, and what struck me most was her clarity: she’s spent three decades in travel, but her enthusiasm hasn’t dimmed for a second. Her story is one of growth, resilience, and genuine passion for the industry. From Jetset to APAC Rebecca’s career kicked off when she was just 18, straight after completing her tourism degree. She landed a role at the head office of Jetset Holidays , a move that gave her both industry exposure and inspiration. After four years there, wanderlust called, and she took off to explore the world—eventually landing in the UK. There, she joined STA Travel , which opened doors to new challenges and opportunities. She held progressive roles with GTA , Octopus , and TravelCube , working her way up from Sales Manager to Country Manager and eventually leading sales and support for all of Europe over a period of 8.5 years. “It was fast-paced, global, and incredibly rewarding,” she reflects. In 2011, she returned to Australia and took on business development roles with Corporate Traveller , BCD Travel , and then Expedia , where she spent nearly seven years as Business Development Director . Then came 2022—and a new chapter with Stuba . Rebecca Day, Head of Sales APAC at Stuba Leading Across APAC Rebecca joined Stuba  in January 2022 as Head of Sales . What began as a role focused on Australia quickly expanded, first to include New Zealand, and now covering the entire Asia-Pacific  region. She currently leads a team of 13 people across Australia, New Zealand, and Asia. “Every day is different,” she says. “And I love working with our partners to deliver smart, seamless solutions for travel agents across the region.” What inspired her to join the industry? Like many of us, Rebecca’s entry into travel was influenced by someone close. “I was first inspired by a family friend who was a travel agent—she always made it sound like the most exciting job in the world. And honestly, she wasn’t wrong!” She also had a natural interest in the subject. “I’d always loved tourism and did well in geography at school, so it felt like a natural fit for me.” But what’s kept her in the game all these years is the evolution of the industry—and the people. “Travel never stands still, and that constant change keeps it fresh and exciting. I’ve been lucky enough to visit over 40 countries, and I still get that same buzz when I explore a new city or discover a hidden gem. Now, one of the things I love most is seeing that passion spark in my kids too. We’ve shared so many unforgettable adventures together—it’s pretty special knowing that travel is shaping their memories just like it has mine.” Most Memorable Trips? When I asked her to name a standout trip, it wasn’t an easy question. “There have been so many unforgettable trips! But if I had to choose, Egypt, Morocco, and Italy  really stand out. Each was special for different reasons. What makes these trips so memorable isn’t just the places themselves, but the people I’ve shared them with and the memories we created. That’s the magic of travel—it’s not just where you go, it’s how it makes you feel.” The Future: AI and Automation Looking ahead to 2025, Rebecca is clear on where she thinks travel agents should focus: embracing AI and automation . “It’s transforming the way we work—making it faster, smarter, and more personalised. At Stuba , we’re already embracing this by using AI to enhance our search functionality, so agents can find the most relevant properties quicker than ever with our curations.” She explains how their technology evolves with use: “Our algorithms mean the more agents use the site, the more it will work for them—recommending hotels and making them experts in destinations they may not be overly familiar with.” Her message is clear: “As the industry evolves, those who adopt and adapt to AI-driven tools will stay ahead of the curve. It allows agents to focus less on admin and more on what really matters: building relationships, delivering standout service, and creating unforgettable travel experiences. At Stuba , we’re making sure these tools work for  you—not the other way around.” A Fun Fact One last surprise? Rebecca used to be a professional ballroom dancer . “After work, I’d swap my business shoes for dance shoes and teach students of all ages and abilities—everything from wedding dances to medal examinations and competition routines.” It might seem like a world apart from the travel industry, but she sees a common thread: “It wasn’t quite Olympic level (sadly!), but it was all about precision, passion, and a whole lot of sequins.” Why We’re Celebrating Leaders Like Rebecca At TADA 25 , we’re all about showcasing the people behind the bookings, strategies, and success stories. Rebecca Day represents everything we admire: dedication, leadership, and a genuine love for this industry. Her journey reminds us that careers in travel aren’t just about where we go, they’re about how far we grow.

David McMahon has seen the travel industry from every angle. He started behind a retail desk and now represents some of California’s most inspiring destinations as Senior Tourism Development Account Manager at Gate 7 . With over 22 years in the industry, David’s career spans iconic roles at Intrepid Travel, Tourism Fiji and Tourism Ireland. These days, he helps travel agents unlock the full potential of destinations like San Diego and Greater Palm Springs, always bringing a warm approach and deep local knowledge. We caught up with David to hear about his journey, the value of real connections, and why road trips might be the secret weapon for agents in 2025. Always up for a laugh, a story, or a new itinerary – David’s enthusiasm is infectious. Can you tell us a bit about your background? I’ve done a bit of everything. I started out as a travel agent, then moved into roles with Intrepid Travel, and later worked with Tourism Fiji and Tourism Ireland. Now, I’m with Gate 7, representing California. I genuinely love showing agents what San Diego and Greater Palm Springs have to offer. It’s an easy sell. What inspired you to get into travel and what’s kept you passionate? After living in London and Japan, I realised I loved travelling but missed Australia. Becoming a travel agent was a way to stay connected to the world while staying grounded at home. I’ve always had a simple rule – if I wouldn’t recommend something to a friend, I won’t sell it. That mindset has guided me through the years. What’s your most memorable trip? A Mega Fam in Southern California last year. We explored San Diego and Greater Palm Springs with a group of agents. I love seeing someone discover a place they hadn’t considered before, and then leave already planning their return. One trend travel agents should focus on in 2025? Road trips. They’re flexible, authentic and open the door to places you’d never find on a tour. Especially in California – the roads are scenic, the distances are easy, and you get to stop whenever something catches your eye. David’s career shows how staying true to your values and leaning into curiosity can lead to something pretty special. Whether helping agents discover new destinations or planning his next adventure, David brings insight, integrity and a sense of fun to everything he does. Smiles, sunshine, and standout conversations with David McMahon at TADA24.

Lisa Pagotto is not your average travel industry professional. With a career spanning retail travel agencies, wholesale product development, sales, marketing, and tour leading, Lisa has worn nearly every hat in the travel industry. Now, as the founder of Crooked Compass, she leverages her deep expertise to craft immersive, eye-opening travel experiences that shatter cultural stigmas and introduce travellers to hidden gems around the globe. Lisa recently shared her inspiring journey, perspectives on the future of travel, and a surprising personal tidbit that adds a delightful layer to her already captivating persona. Can you start by introducing yourself? Tell us a bit about your background and your role in the travel industry. I'm Lisa, and my career in travel spans over various industry sectors—beginning as a retail travel agent, then progressing into wholesale, product development, sales, marketing, and tour leading. Now, as founder of Crooked Compass and Crooked Compass by Air, my focus is on creating immersive, authentic travel experiences that challenge perceptions and promote deeper cultural understanding. Lisa Pagotto exploring off-the-beaten-path gems What inspired you to get into the travel industry, and what keeps your passion alive? Travel fascinated me from a young age, and my first significant exposure to a completely new culture was when I visited Tunisia at 21 with my Nana. Her annual visits and intriguing stories inspired me deeply, but I had hesitated to explore alone until she took me. This transformative journey ignited my desire to unveil the overlooked and underrepresented aspects of destinations worldwide. Knowing that travel can profoundly shift perspectives and connect people keeps my passion thriving. What was one travel experience that profoundly shaped you? At age 21, my Nana took me to Tunisia, a destination she'd frequented since my childhood. Experiencing it firsthand transformed my outlook. Everything from the bustling markets with vibrant street scenes, humorous and confronting visuals—from colourful, funny products to fresh, visceral local markets—sparked intense curiosity rather than apprehension. The rich street food encouraged me to embrace new flavours boldly. Those ten days forever reshaped how I viewed the world. Where do you think travel agents should focus their attention moving forward? Hyper-personalisation and adaptability are key. Travellers now expect tailored experiences that reflect their unique interests and preferences. The rapid pace of geopolitical changes and fluctuating travel conditions makes duty-of-care more crucial than ever. Agents need to anticipate and navigate these complexities expertly, crafting bespoke itineraries and leaning on specialist knowledge to guide travellers safely and meaningfully. What's a fun or surprising fact about you? I'm an absolute crazy cat lady! Wherever my travels take me, you'll find me befriending cats and kittens. Travel adventures are undoubtedly better with a feline companion along the way! Lisa's passion, foresight, and quirky personal charm remind us why meaningful travel experiences matter more than ever. In an evolving world, her vision encourages us to step outside the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. Lisa Pagotto: Exploring with feline friends! 🐱🌍 Lisa's passion, foresight, and quirky personal charm remind us why meaningful travel experiences matter more than ever. In an evolving world, her vision encourages us to step outside the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary.

At TADA24, we were thrilled to celebrate some of the most inspiring professionals shaping the future of travel across Australia. Among them was Meaghan Wolf  from Wolf & Turner Travel Associates , who took home the Outstanding Polar Destination Achiever  award—not just in the individual category, but in luxury agency excellence  as well. Meaghan's journey into travel is as unique as the experiences she creates for her clients. With a background in events, she’s no stranger to complexity, detail, and high expectations. Her personal motto, “nothing is impossible,”  is more than just words—it’s how she approaches every itinerary. What’s the most unique or memorable trip you’ve ever planned for a client? "One of the most meaningful trips I’ve ever planned was for a dear long-time client who was travelling solo for the first time after the loss of his wife. It was a huge emotional step for him, and I knew how deeply personal this journey would be. Throughout the planning process, I became his anchor—providing reassurance, listening with empathy, and building confidence in each appointment. We made sure he had all the support he needed on the ground so he never felt alone. Watching him come back with a renewed spark, and knowing I had a valuable and important part in helping him take that brave step forward, reminded me exactly why I do what I do. It’s so much more than just booking travel—it’s about walking alongside people through life’s big moments." How did you get started in the travel industry, and what keeps you passionate about it? "I entered the travel industry just nine days after September 11, 2001—a moment when the world was holding its breath and travel felt uncertain. Some might have seen that as the worst time to begin, but for me, it was the start of something meaningful. Coming from a background in events, I was already passionate about creating experiences that connected people. Travel took that to a whole new level. Starting in such a turbulent time taught me resilience, adaptability, and just how vital travel is to the human spirit. Now, 24 years on, I still believe in the magic of what we do. Every itinerary is a new chance to inspire confidence, connection, and joy. And with my “nothing is impossible”  philosophy, I continue to find purpose in helping people see the world—even when it feels a little uncertain." Meaghan Wolf receiving her well-deserved TADA24 award for Outstanding Polar Destination Achiever. If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring travel agents, what would it be? "Treat every client the way you’d want your own grandmother to be treated—with genuine care, patience, and respect. That level of service never goes unnoticed. In this industry, your reputation is everything, and clients will always remember how you made them feel. Also, stay nimble. My background in events taught me how to think on my feet and find creative solutions when things don’t go to plan—skills that have been invaluable in travel. I always encourage advisors to ask the deeper questions— “If this were your only or last trip, what’s the one destination or experience that truly pulls at your heart?”  That’s where the magic begins. When you help a client uncover that kind of aspiration, you’re not just building an itinerary—you’re creating something deeply meaningful. This role isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about understanding someone’s dreams, fears, and motivations, and guiding them with care and confidence. Stay nimble, stay curious, and never lose sight of the why behind the journey. That’s where the real impact lives." What’s the best travel tip you always share with your clients? "Always pack your essentials in your carry-on—medications, a change of clothes, chargers, and anything you can’t do without for 24 hours. It’s such a small habit, but it can completely change how you handle an unexpected delay or lost bag. But beyond the practical, I always remind my clients: embrace the unexpected . The detours, the delays, the unplanned discoveries—they often become the most meaningful memories. Travel isn’t just about the perfect photo or ticking boxes. It’s about leaning into the moment, even when it doesn’t go exactly to plan. A little patience, a flexible mindset, and a sense of humour go a long way." From life-changing solo trips to family reunions in Europe, Meaghan Wolf  does more than plan travel—she creates experiences that heal, connect, and inspire . Her resilience, insight, and unwavering belief that nothing is impossible  continue to elevate the standard for what great travel advising can be. We’re excited to see what’s next for Meaghan and the team at Wolf & Turner Travel Associates —and we hope to see them again at TADA25 ! Meaghan Wolf of Wolf & Turner Travel Associates — crafting travel with purpose and care.