Become a Member
The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) has announced that two of the Australian travel industry's most respected leaders, Sue Badyari, CEO of World Expeditions Travel Group, and Dennis Bunnik, Joint CEO of Bunnik Tours, will be inducted into the CATO Hall of Fame, recognising their outstanding and enduring contribution to Australia's touring sector.
The CATO Hall of Fame acknowledges individuals whose leadership, innovation and service have shaped the Australian travel industry and left a lasting legacy. Between them, Badyari and Bunnik have spent decades building globally respected businesses, championing industry standards and helping guide the evolution of Australian touring.
Sue Badyari: Leading the Way in Responsible and Regenerative Tourism
Sue Badyari joined World Expeditions in 1986 and rose through the ranks to become CEO in 1999. Under her leadership, the company has evolved from a single-brand operator into an international travel group comprising 17 specialist brands.
Widely recognised as a pioneer of responsible travel, Badyari embedded sustainability and community partnerships into the business long before they became industry priorities. Through the World Expeditions Foundation, she has championed projects supporting education, conservation and community development, while her long-standing commitment to Nepal has delivered significant outcomes in disaster recovery, women's empowerment and climate resilience.
A passionate advocate for women in travel and adventure, Badyari has also played an important role in fostering the next generation of industry leaders. Her many honours include Executive Leader of the Year, Woman of the Year at the Australian Women in Travel Awards and Travel Weekly's Sustainable Champion of the Year.
Dennis Bunnik: A Tireless Advocate for the Touring Sector
Dennis Bunnik has helped build Bunnik Tours into one of Australia's most respected and successful touring companies, renowned for its immersive and authentic travel experiences.
His impact, however, extends well beyond his business. Bunnik served on the CATO Board for 14 years, including 11 years as Chairman, making him one of the organisation's longest-serving and most influential leaders.
Throughout periods of significant change, including the COVID-19 crisis and subsequent industry recovery, Bunnik provided strong advocacy and leadership for the touring sector. Under his stewardship, CATO strengthened its position as the peak body for Australia's land-supply sector and played a critical role in supporting members through some of the most challenging periods in the industry's history.
Known for his collaborative approach and unwavering commitment to the broader industry, Bunnik's legacy is reflected in the strength and unity of the Australian touring sector today.
"Two Leaders Who Have Helped Define Modern Australian Touring"
CATO Committee Chair Sean Martin said the Hall of Fame induction recognised two individuals whose influence had extended far beyond their own organisations.
"The CATO Hall of Fame honours those whose contribution has genuinely changed our industry, and Sue Badyari and Dennis Bunnik are both richly deserving recipients," said Martin.
"Sue has been a pioneer of responsible and regenerative tourism, demonstrating that travel can create positive outcomes for communities and the environment while building a world-class business. Her leadership has influenced not only World Expeditions but the wider industry."
"Dennis's contribution to Australian touring has been immense. Through more than a decade of leadership at CATO, he helped guide the sector through unprecedented challenges, strengthened our collective voice and always placed the interests of the broader industry first."
"Together, Sue and Dennis represent the values that define the CATO Hall of Fame – leadership, integrity, innovation and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of Australian travel. Their influence will be felt for many years to come."
The CATO Hall of Fame recognises individuals whose achievements and service have made a profound and lasting contribution to Australia's travel and tourism industry. The induction of Sue Badyari and Dennis Bunnik celebrates two remarkable careers and the enduring impact they have had on businesses, travellers, communities and the future of Australian touring.
The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) has announced the appointment of Sean Martin, Managing Director of G Adventures Australia and New Zealand, as Chair of the newly formed CATO Committee, ushering in a new chapter for the touring sector following CATO’s merger with the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA).
Sean succeeds former Chair Dennis Bunnik.
Aaron Zoanetti, Frontera Law and Green & Gold Army, has been appointed Vice Chair.
The CATO Committee replaces the former CATO Board of Directors and will continue to provide strategic leadership and advocacy for Australia’s touring and wholesale community within the broader ATIA framework.
This week, CATO members also elected three new members to join the Committee:
• Michelle Davies, Club Med• Shelley Poten, Albatross Tours• Yvette Thompson, Intrepid Travel Group
They join existing Committee members:
• Brad McDonnell, Entire Travel Group• James O'Donnell, The Travel Corporation• Aaron Zoanetti, Pointon Partners• Chris Hall, Globus Family of Brands• Ingrid Berthelsen, Evolution Travel Collective
Sean Martin said the new Committee represents an exciting opportunity to strengthen the voice of the touring sector while contributing to the broader travel industry agenda.
"The merger with ATIA provides our sector with a stronger platform and greater influence than ever before. As Chair of the CATO Committee, I look forward to ensuring the interests of tour operators and wholesalers remain front and centre as we work together to grow and strengthen Australia's travel industry."
Sean thanked outgoing Chair Dennis Bunnik for his leadership and dedication to CATO over the past decade.
"CATO has built a strong legacy as the voice of Australia's touring industry. Our role now is to build on that foundation and ensure our members continue to have a dedicated forum and strong representation within a united industry body."
An overwhelming majority of Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) members have voted in favour of merging with the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA), delivering a single, unified peak body for Australia's travel agents, tour operators, wholesalers and travel management companies.
The vote was held at a CATO Extraordinary General Meeting this afternoon, the culmination of a months-long consultation process that took the CATO and ATIA leadership teams to Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, and into direct conversation with members through webinars, written briefings and one-on-one sessions.
Subject to ATIA members adopting a new constitution at the ATIA AGM on Thursday 11 June, CATO becomes a formally constituted and constitutionally protected Land Supply and Tour Operator division within ATIA from 1 July 2026. The CATO name is retained. The CATO division is enshrined in the ATIA Constitution. The Chair of the division holds a guaranteed ATIA Board seat.
For dual CATO-ATIA members, duplication of membership, accreditation and administration ends. For CATO-only members, the first full year of ATIA membership (FY28, Tiers 1 to 4) is covered by existing CATO funds.
Quotes from Dennis Bunnik, Chair, Council of Australian Tour Operators
"The industry has just voted for itself. One voice, one body, one future.”
"To every member who turned up to the briefings, read the material and cast their vote, thank you. That engagement made this process what it was. The Board of CATO is delighted in the outcome and in the fact that the result shows members saw the same opportunity we did as a Board in recommending the merger.”
"This is a win for our members and for the whole sector."
Quotes from Sean Martin, Vice-Chair, Council of Australian Tour Operators
"Today's result creates a significant opportunity for the touring and wholesale sector. By bringing our industry expertise into a stronger, unified association, we can work alongside ATIA to elevate the profile of touring, strengthen advocacy and create greater opportunities for growth across the entire category."
"Tour operators and wholesalers play a critical role in Australia's travel ecosystem, and this merger ensures our sector has both a dedicated voice and a seat at the table as we help shape the future of the industry."
"We're excited about what can be achieved together and look forward to working with ATIA to deliver even greater value for members and the travelling public alike."
The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) today announced that Managing Director Brett Jardine will step down from his role at the end of this week, following eight years at the helm of the organisation.
Brett will step away from his position to focus on the final stages of his cancer treatment and to prioritise his health and wellbeing.
During his tenure, Brett has played a pivotal role in strengthening the touring sector’s position within the broader travel industry. He guided CATO and its members through the unprecedented challenges of COVID-19 with clear, proactive advocacy, ensuring the voice of tour operators was represented and their critical role well understood within government circles.
A standout achievement during this time was securing government funding for members through the Reviving International Tourism Grant (RITG) program, delivering meaningful financial support to help operators rebuild international supply chains and reconnect with global partners post-COVID.
Under his leadership, CATO established its fit-for-purpose Accreditation framework, expanded its flagship industry events, most notably the CATO Christmas Lunch, and developed the award-winning CATO Touring Academy, now a cornerstone initiative supporting education and engagement across the travel industry throughout Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
Beyond these industry-wide initiatives, Brett has been deeply committed to supporting members at an individual level, working closely with operators behind the scenes on a wide range of challenges, from navigating business pressures through COVID to providing guidance, advocacy and genuine, practical support that extended well beyond the public-facing role.
Brett, who has been open about his prostate cancer journey in recent months, has also been a strong advocate for greater awareness and conversation around men’s health, using his platform to encourage early detection and support others navigating similar journeys.
“This is about focusing my energy where it matters most right now, my health and recovery,” Brett said. “It has also reinforced for me how important it is that we continue to have open conversations around prostate cancer and men’s health more broadly.”
CATO Chair Dennis Bunnik acknowledged Brett’s significant contribution to the organisation and the broader touring sector.
“Brett has been instrumental in shaping CATO into the strong and respected industry body it is today,” Mr Bunnik said. “His leadership through the COVID years ensured our sector remained visible, connected and supported during an incredibly challenging time.
“Importantly, Brett has also been tireless in his direct support of members, often working behind the scenes to help operators navigate complex challenges. On behalf of the Board and our members and me personally I thank Brett for his dedication and commitment over the past eight years and wish him all the very best as he focuses on his health.”
Jardine said, “It has been a privilege to lead CATO and work alongside such a passionate and committed sector. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and confident that CATO members are well positioned to deal with what is ahead of them.”
CATO thanks Brett for his leadership and contribution over the past eight years and wishes him well as he focuses on his health.
Close to 200 tour operators, wholesalers and travel professionals gathered in Brisbane this week for the sold-out Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) International Women’s Day Lunch, recognising the contribution of women across the touring sector.
Held at The Calile Hotel, the fourth annual event has become a fixture on the CATO calendar, bringing the touring community and their guests together for an afternoon of industry discussion and networking.
CATO Managing Director Brett Jardine said the strong attendance reflected the importance the sector places on recognising the role women play across the industry.
“The touring sector relies on the experience, leadership and perspective of women across many areas of the industry, from new entrants through to senior executives and entrepreneurial owners,” Jardine said.
Attendees were treated to an inspiring keynote from Nicole Joy, confidence expert, TEDx speaking coach and founder of the SHE Speaks Academy, challenging women to step forward and embrace leadership through her presentation - Visibility isn’t Vanity, it’s Responsibility. Joy had the audience glued to every word as she pressed home a message stating; “Now is not the time to hide and be humble if you want to be a trailblazer in your industry.”
The event was hosted by popular travel industry personality Charlie Trevena, founder of Destination Webinars, who reminded guests International Women’s Day is also about recognising progress.
Guests were also treated to a live performance by Australian violinist and PhD student Maddisyn Dixon Whitbourne.
CATO acknowledged the organisations that supported the event. Sisterhood Women’s Travel joined as Major Sponsor, with additional support from Gow-Gates Insurance Brokers, TravelPay, Stuba, Entire Travel Group and Bunnik Tours. Prize sponsors included Spree with Me, Philippines Tourism and Megaworld Hotels & Resorts.
The event continues to grow each year, reinforcing its place on the travel trade calendar as an opportunity for the touring community to connect and recognise the contribution of women across the sector.
The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) has issued guidance to members in response to ongoing airspace disruptions across parts of the Middle East, encouraging proactive operational planning and early communication with distribution partners.
While many CATO-accredited tour operators do not manage international air ticketing directly, Managing Director Brett Jardine said the downstream impact on destination operations could be significant.
“This is primarily an operational continuity issue for tour operators. Delayed arrivals, split groups and itinerary adjustments can create commercial and logistical pressure if not managed early,” Jardine said.
CATO has advised members to review upcoming departures, confirm passenger air status with distribution partners, prepare for staggered arrivals and revisit contractual provisions relating to minimum numbers and cancellations.
The organisation emphasised the importance of measured communication.
“Our advice to members is to remain calm, avoid speculation and focus on documentation and preparedness. Tour operators are experienced in managing disruption, and proactive coordination with partners will minimise impact,” Jardine said.
CATO is attending a formal update with DFAT early this afternoon and will continue monitoring developments and provide updates as required.
The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) celebrated another standout year with its sold-out 2025 CATO Christmas Lunch on Thursday 4 December, bringing together industry leaders, partners, and friends for an afternoon of festive fun, connection, and recognition.
Held in Sydney, the event delivered a touching finale to the year, supporting the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA), with guests taking part through on-the-day donations and the purchase of personalised Christmas baubles. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, and the event’s Major Co-Sponsors – Abercrombie & Kent, Bunnik Tours, Collette, G Adventures, Inside Travel Group, Intrepid, Keith Prowse Travel, Sun Island Tours, Travel Puglia/Tours of Tuscany - the event, along with ongoing fundraising efforts by CATO Managing Director, Brett Jardine - raised almost $40,000 for PCFA - an incredible show of support for a cause close to many in the industry.
Led by the delightful Sofia Geraghty, Deputy Editor of Travel Weekly, who as emcee kept the room buzzing from start to finish a highlight of the day was a special appearance by acclaimed Australian actor and storyteller Gyton Grantley, sponsored by G Adventures. Gyton captivated the audience with behind-the-scenes stories, career reflections, and thoughtful insights delivered with his trademark humour and warmth. Guest enjoyed Latin dancers sponsored by LATAM Airlines and kicked on at the post-event networking drinks, with entertainment sponsored by Gow-Gates Insurance Brokers.
Guests were warmly welcomed with a Sri Lankan-themed arrival reception sponsored by Premium Partner, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, and CATO were especially honoured to host Her Excellency Ms Yasoja Gunasekera, High Commissioner-designate of Sri Lanka to Australia, who joined us for the lunch and connected with members throughout the afternoon.
This year’s lunch was made possible thanks to the tremendous backing of our sponsors and partners across every event element - from tour operator and wholesalers coming together as Major Co-Sponsors to prize donors, entertainment, program supporters, sustainability partners and more. Their commitment to CATO and the wider industry ensures this annual celebration continues to grow as one of the most anticipated events on the trade calendar.
Thank you to our Major Co-Sponsors Abercrombie & Kent, Bunnik Tours, Collette, G Adventures, Inside Travel Group, Intrepid, Keith Prowse Travel, Sun Island Tours, Travel Puglia/Tours of Tuscany), Beverage Sponsor, Xe; Program Sponsor TravelPay; Christmas Tree Sponsor Collette; Table Centrepiece Sponsor Tours of Tuscany/Travel Puglia and Sustainability Partner Reforest. Congratulations to winners on the day who won incredible prizes sponsored by Philippines Airlines, Philippines Tourism and Sheraton Grand.
CATO extends its heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, members, and guests for your enthusiasm and support throughout 2025.
The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) Managing Director, Brett Jardine, recently met with Shadow Minister for Tourism, Kevin Hogan MP.
The meeting provided an opportunity for Mr Hogan to seek CATO’s perspective on a new initiative emerging on the national agenda, aimed specifically at supporting Australian-based tour operators and wholesalers. While details of the initiative are yet to be formally announced, CATO welcomed the chance to contribute early insights on behalf of the sector.
“Tourism is traditionally a bipartisan portfolio, with both sides of politics recognising the critical role the industry plays in the Australian economy. While policy approaches may differ, the commitment to a strong and sustainable tourism sector remains consistent across the political spectrum,” said Jardine.
“This engagement reflects CATO’s targeted and authoritative advocacy on behalf of outbound tour operators and wholesalers. As the only organisation dedicated exclusively to this part of the industry, CATO is uniquely positioned to articulate the sector’s value with its deep product development expertise, its investment in outbound leisure travel, its strong partnerships with retail agents, and the more than $12 billion it contributes to the Australian economy each year, added Jardine
Through their specialist focus and proven credibility, CATO is increasingly being sought out by policymakers for informed guidance on issues that directly affect our members. This emerging initiative is no exception, and CATO’s input will help ensure that the unique needs and contributions of tour operators and wholesalers are properly recognised in the national conversation.
CATO will be providing a formal contribution to this important project and will continue to engage closely as it develops.
CATO Managing Director, Brett Jardine, attended the 48th Parliamentary Friends of Tourism event in Canberra, hosted by Hon. Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism, and attended by the Prime Minister of Australia.
The evening provided a valuable opportunity for senior tourism industry leaders, parliamentarians, and key stakeholders to connect and celebrate the strength and diversity of Australia’s tourism industry.
As the voice that exclusively represents Australia’s tour operators and wholesalers, CATO’s participation ensured the outbound sector was well represented in national tourism discussions.
“Events like this allow for productive and informal conversations with politicians and senior bureaucrats,” said Brett Jardine. “It’s an opportunity to provide them with updates, analysis, and insights on the current status and emerging trends shaping Australia’s outbound leisure travel sector.”
CATO remains committed to ensuring the interests and perspectives of tour operators and wholesalers are clearly understood at the highest levels of government, reinforcing the sector’s essential role in driving international engagement and economic growth.
At the invitation of His Excellency Hani Naji, Ambassador of Egypt to Australia, CATO Managing Director Brett Jardine attended the virtual grand opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) at the Egyptian Embassy in Canberra.
The live-streamed event connected diplomats, dignitaries, and travel industry representatives in Australia with the global ceremony in Cairo, marking the long-awaited official opening of the world’s largest archaeological museum dedicated to a single civilisation.
“CATO and the Egyptian Ambassador have been working closely over the last couple of years to promote Egypt as a safe, accessible and desirable destination for Australian travellers,” said Brett Jardine, Managing Director of CATO. “The Grand Egyptian Museum represents a new era for cultural tourism and strengthens Egypt’s position as a must-visit destination.”
The Grand Egyptian Museum, located near the Pyramids of Giza, showcases more than 100,000 artefacts spanning Egypt’s history, including the complete Tutankhamun collection displayed together for the first time. With its state-of-the-art design, education facilities and conservation labs, GEM is set to redefine Egypt’s tourism experience.
The opening underscores the growing partnership between Egypt and the Australian travel industry and highlights new opportunities for collaboration across culture, trade and tourism.
image courtesy: Austria Tourism, Nationalpark Hohe Tauern Karten/ Franz Gerdi
