The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) has announced that its 2026 International Women’s Day Lunch in Brisbane next week has officially sold out.
The popularity of the annual event underscores the strong appetite across the travel sector for meaningful industry connection and leadership conversations, perhaps now more than ever.
The annual event brings together tour operators, wholesalers and travel industry professionals from across Australia to celebrate the contribution of women in travel, strengthen professional networks and take time out from day-to-day operations to reflect on leadership and impact.
At a time when the touring sector continues to evolve in a competitive and fast-moving environment, CATO’s International Women’s Day Lunch has become an important moment in the calendar, not just as a celebration, but as a space for considered conversation and shared inspiration.
This year’s keynote speaker, Nicole Joy, will explore the responsibility of being visible in leadership. Her message challenges women to step forward with clarity and conviction, reframing visibility not as self-promotion, but as a professional responsibility in shaping businesses, teams and industry direction.
The afternoon will be guided by emcee Charlie Trevena, founder of Destination Webinars, whose deep engagement with the travel trade and ability to foster thoughtful conversation has made her a respected voice within the industry.
CATO is grateful for the support of Major Sponsor Sisterhood Womens Travel, whose commitment to championing women in travel aligns closely with the spirit of the event.
The organisation also extends its thanks to event sponsors Gow-Gates Insurance Brokers, TravelPay, Stuba, Entire Travel Group, Bunnik Tours and Spree with Me for their valued partnership and support.
“Tour operators and wholesalers operate in a fast-paced environment where collaboration and strong professional networks are critical,” CATO managing director Brett Jardine said.
“Our sold-out International Women’s Day event provides an important opportunity to acknowledge the leadership, innovation and resilience of women across our sector, while also creating space for the industry to come together and continue building a more inclusive future.”
