Virtuoso is bringing together 190 industry leaders and luxury experts for networking, professional development, and peer-to-peer learning during the 2025 Virtuoso Forum Australia and New Zealand.
The annual event, from 24-26 February, enhances business practices and fosters learning with strategic discussions, one-to-one networking opportunities tailored for the luxury travel industry, and carefully curated professional development sessions with seven topics to choose from.
Keynote speaker Australian endurance athlete, Samantha Gash, will share insights into her personal expedition through Nepal, emphasising resilience, adaptability and the importance of building relationships to foster a strong, human-centred team.
In addition, business communications expert Dr Jill Schiefelbein will discuss the five essential practices for implementing generative AI in business, empowering Virtuoso leaders to remain at the forefront of the travel industry.
Virtuoso chairman and CEO, Matthew D. Upchurch, will provide the opening address, along with senior vice president global operations, Michael Londregan, and vice president, Cheryl Cheney-Bunker.
The three-day Virtuoso Forum also includes a Welcome Cocktail Reception, with an extravagant Gala Awards Dinner on Wednesday 26 February at The Ritz-Carlton, Perth in Elizabeth Quay. During the evening, the winners of the 2025 Virtuoso Australia & New Zealand Member and Partner Award will be announced, celebrating the travel industry leaders who create memorable experiences for luxury travellers in Australia and New Zealand.
In partnership with Tourism Western Australia, this year, Virtuoso is offering delegates a selection of three-day pre-familiarisation itineraries showcasing luxury and sustainable tourism products across host state, Western Australia.
The famils highlight destinations including Rottnest Island/Wadjemup, the Margaret River Region and Esperance/Kepa Kurl. In addition, new for 2025, delegates can participate in Design Your Day activities prior to Forum across Perth, Fremantle/Walyalup, Cottesloe, the Swan Valley and more. Some of the activities include personalised wine making, a luxury seafood cruise and a diamond masterclass, promoting casual networking amidst the beauty of Perth and surrounds.
“Virtuoso leaders are driven by innovation and committed to staying at the forefront of the luxury travel industry,” Virtuoso general manager for Australia & New Zealand, Greg Treasure, said.
“The Virtuoso Australia & New Zealand Forum will offer a dynamic blend of educational sessions, insights into the latest and emerging trends in luxury travel, and valuable opportunities to strengthen partnerships, shaping the future of the industry. I am thrilled to welcome delegates from across Australia and New Zealand to my hometown of Perth, where we will come together to share knowledge and foster meaningful growth within the industry that connects us all.”
