The Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) concluded its annual general meeting online on Tuesday with a new board appointment.
Ten nominations for the six director seats available were received. Laura Ruffles, Shelley Beasley, David Padman, Jo Sully and Christian Hunter were re-elected to the AFTA board, and Trafalgar and Costsaver managing director Katrina Barry (pictured above) was elected.
AFTA chair Tom Manwaring thanked outgoing director David Greenland for his strong contribution and work ethic, and welcomed Barry to the board.
“It’s an understatement to say that the past year has been a year of unknowns and challenges, but it’s also been a year like no other of collaboration for the greater good,” he said.
“It has been a time, more than any other in AFTA’s history, that has required us to deliver on our principal activities for our members while continuing to shape the landscape we operate within and elevate travel industry standards.
“This has required the board to step forward at an unprecedented level and immerse ourselves in the operational as well as the usual strategic framework.
“We are pleased to report that even with the decision to suspend membership fees last year, AFTA’s balance sheet – while diminished – remains strong.
“AFTA looks forward to continuing to work with members to shape our future and this organisation.”
As part of this process, Manwaring said AFTA will be reviewing its constitution “to ensure it is appropriate for our future”.
“As part of this, will be also reviewing member categories to ensure we have the most equitable structure,” he added.
