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Adelaide recently became the epicentre of the travel industry as Magellan Travel hosted its highly anticipated 2024 conference. This three-day event brought together industry leaders, partners, and members to celebrate unity, innovation, and the future of travel. Under the resonant theme “Belong,” the conference underscored identity, capability, and community values within the Magellan network, creating an atmosphere of inspiration and forward-thinking discussions.

The conference started with an unforgettable welcome dinner at the iconic Penfolds Magill Estate. Members were treated to a culinary experience that set the tone for the days ahead, reflecting the high standards and deep sense of belonging that define the Magellan network.

(L-R) Jen Morris and Kathleen Taylor, Coopers Travel.

The official proceedings began at the luxurious MGallery Playford Hotel, where Helloworld Travel CEO Andrew Burnes AO delivered an empowering opening address. Burnes highlighted the strategic importance of the Magellan network, emphasizing its critical role in shaping the future of leisure and corporate travel. He also unveiled an exciting new partnership with Ensemble to expand opportunities and enrich the offerings available to Magellan members.

“Magellan’s strength lies in its unity and its commitment to excellence,” Burnes stated. “This conference is a testament to the growing influence and potential of our network. Together, we are poised to lead the industry into a new era of innovation and success.”

Following Burnes’ address, Magellan General Manager Iain Summers provided an insightful update on the network’s progress and future direction. Summers shared key industry insights, including emerging traveller trends, the rise of sustainable travel options, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies within the travel sector.

(L-R) Michelle Hartland, Champagne Travel and Jan Welch, Sorrento Key Travel & Cruise.

The conference’s agenda featured dynamic panel discussions that brought together thought leaders from across the industry. Representatives from leading cruise lines, airlines, tour operators, and insurance companies delivered presentations on their sectors’ latest developments and opportunities. These sessions offered invaluable knowledge, equipping Magellan members with the tools and insights needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving market.

Senior executives from the Helloworld Travel Group were also on hand, providing updates on their respective divisions, including Air Tickets, VIVA Holidays, ReadyRooms, and Cruiseco. Their presence underscored the conference’s importance as a platform for fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge across the broader travel ecosystem.

As the conference drew close, attendees were treated to an exclusive wine-tasting experience at the renowned d’Arenberg Cube, followed by a private tour of the Salvador Dalí exhibition. The evening culminated in a spectacular dinner at Adelaide’s Centre of Immersive Light and Art (ILA), offering a fitting finale to an event marked by camaraderie, celebration, and shared success.

(L-R) Craig Pearce, Figtree Travel, Andrea McNamara, Cairns Business & Leisure Travel and Michelle Cook, Railbookers.

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the conference’s organization, content, and the sense of unity it fostered among Magellan members. “This has been an exceptional conference—nothing but positivity across the group,” one attendee remarked. Another added, “It’s been wonderful to experience the power and unity of the Magellan network. Thank you!”

The 2024 Magellan conference’s success was made possible by the generous support of major industry partners, including AmaWaterways, ANZCRO, Azamara Cruises, Chimu Adventures, Club Med, Cover-More Travel Insurance, Globus Family of Brands, Intrepid Travel, Lufthansa, NCL, nib Travel, Railbookers, Scenic Tours, Scoot, Singapore Airlines, Travelport, TTC Tour Brands, Virgin Airlines, Wendy Wu Tours, and Windstar Cruises. Their contributions were instrumental in making the event a resounding success.

As Magellan Travel looks ahead, the 2024 conference is a powerful reminder of the network’s resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence in the travel industry.