Great Walks of Australia Adds Intrepid’s Brett Mitchell

Great Walks of Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of Brett Mitchell, Intrepid Travel Managing Director Australia and New Zealand, to its Board, bringing deep commercial, governance and responsible tourism expertise to the collective as it strengthens its position within Australia’s premium experiential tourism landscape.

The appointment comes as demand continues to grow for immersive, nature-based experiences and high-quality guided journeys. Brett brings nearly 20 years’ experience in tourism, with a strong track record in sustainable growth, industry partnerships and First Nations tourism.

Born in Zimbabwe and raised in Perth, Mitchell leads Australia and New Zealand for Intrepid Travel, the world’s largest adventure travel company. Since joining Intrepid in 2008, he has held senior roles including Group Finance Director, Chief Commercial Officer and head of the global Inbound business, working closely with government agencies, tourism bodies and industry partners. Under his leadership, Australia has risen from outside the top 10 to become Intrepid’s number one global destination. A Chartered Accountant and Fellow of CA ANZ, Brett serves on the Board of the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA), the Tourism and Events NT Advisory Board and Destination Canada’s Australian Strategic Advisory Board. In 2026 he was inducted into Intrepid’s Hall of Fame in recognition of his influence on the company’s direction and the wider industry.

Gary Smith, Chair of Great Walks of Australia, said the appointment reflects the organisation’s commitment to strong governance and future-focused leadership.

“Brett brings a rare combination of commercial and financial expertise, governance experience and a genuine commitment to responsible tourism. His understanding of today’s travellers and his work alongside government, tourism bodies and First Nations partners will be invaluable as we work with our member walks, Tourism Australia, State and industry partners.”

Brett Mitchell said he was pleased to be joining the Board at a time of such strong momentum for walking tourism.

“When it’s done well, walking tourism helps protect the places it depends on. It creates jobs, supports regional communities and gives travellers a reason to care for the landscapes they’ve come to see.

“Personally, walking has always been one of my favourite ways to experience a place. It allows you to slow down, notice more and get a real feel for the landscape and the communities that call it home.

“Great Walks of Australia brings together some of the country’s most remarkable guided walking experiences in extraordinary natural settings, so I’m excited to join the Board and be working alongside some of the trailblazers of the Australian nature-based tourism industry.”

Mitchell joins an experienced Board led by Chair Gary Smith and fellow directors Giovanna Lever, Sue Badyari, Sue Johnson and Neil Lynch, providing governance and strategic oversight for the organisation.