A major travel milestone will be marked in style next month with an anniversary dinner held to celebrate 25 years of industry leadership and innovation.
The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) will host a 25th Anniversary Dinner for members at the Sydney Hilton Hotel on June 20, following the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM).
The event will honour CATO’s commitment and leadership in the Australian land supply sector.
Since its foundation in 1999, CATO has been a cornerstone of innovation and ethical practices within the land-supply sector of the Australian travel industry. For 25 years, CATO has worked to elevate industry standards, foster innovation and advocate for sustainable tourism practices.
The dinner will also provide an invaluable opportunity for members to network and reflect on numerous significant achievements.
These include robust support for members during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, which remains ongoing as the industry continues to rebuild.
A highlight of recent initiatives is the introduction of the enhanced CATO Accreditation Program.
This program now includes an annual financial health check conducted independently by a CATO-appointed external accounting firm, ensuring the ongoing financial resilience of member organisations.
Addressing the industry’s skills shortage, the organisation has also launched the CATO Touring Academy, designed to enhance the skill sets of retail travel agents and individuals new to the sector, fostering a well-equipped workforce ready to meet future challenges.
“We are thrilled to mark this significant milestone in CATO’s history,” said Brett Jardine, CATO Managing Director.
“This event is a celebration of the dedication and collaborative spirit of our members, whose steadfast commitment has driven CATO to new heights over the past 25 years.”
The evening will also recognise Peter Baily, founder and Life Member of CATO.