The challenge for the industry is… Rate growth.
The things I like about my job are… The great people, great accommodation, great food, great wine, amazing spas and exceptional experiences. And the ability to make a real difference. Beat that!
And the frustrations… Challenging people…as in any business.
If I didn’t work in travel I would be… In a strategy or senior line role, ideally in a fast growing company of size with a great culture.
Qantas or Virgin? Either is fine but still a slight preference for Qantas.
My proudest moment was… Watching how amazing my wife is/was with our young son. It puts a lot of things into perspective.
The naughtiest thing I ever did was… Not something I will admit to here.
I try to relax by… Having a drink and a yarn with my wife, family or friends. Ideally while watching a Bombers or Wallabies win. I’m also fond of skiing on a clear powder day!
The last time I feared for my life… Was hiking in the depths of Yunnan in China where the Himalayas and Yangtze both start. Amazing but an incident there was more than a little hairy.
If I can, I always try to avoid… People that sap my energy.
I really wish I had… Never a care in the world.
The best advice I’ve ever received was… Picture your ideal eulogy and live your life accordingly.
I don’t understand why… Australia’s business culture and media is regularly negative and risk-averse given the opportunities we have currently in our country.
My greatest weakness is… Optimism x trust.
And my greatest strength… Optimism x tenacity.
If I was prime minister I would… Surround myself with a great cabinet.
If I won $1 million on the lottery I would… Be very lucky indeed.
If I could be someone else for one day I would be… The US president with an overwhelming majority in both the Senate and Congress and a mandate to implement an agenda that would make life better for millions/billions.
I’ve always wanted to travel to… South Africa.
My favourite holiday was… To Mexico/USA. I’ve been to over 50 countries and this holiday a few years ago was the best. A close second was my year backpacking around the world. The former was amazing on every front, while the latter was life-changing.
