Sydney, Australia – 13 February 2025 – The 6th annual TravMedia Summit Australia concluded with insightful discussions, networking and industry-leading expertise. Held in Sydney, the event brought together more than 400 travel media, PR and tourism professionals to explore the evolving landscape of travel storytelling, trends and innovation.

The Summit featured a lineup of expert speakers, each offering valuable perspectives about the future of travel and media. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions and gained practical strategies to navigate the industry's challenges and opportunities.

"What an incredible day of fresh ideas from global thought leaders. Every session sparked inspiration—from AI and powerful storytelling to the future of travel, emerging trends and working with top editors. The final session was an eye-opening workshop on how TikTok is reshaping travel," said Nick Wayland, CEO & Founder of TravMedia.

"A heartfelt thank you to our Headline Sponsor, Explore Louisiana, as well as the Australian Society of Travel Writers and our TravMedia family, old and new—your connections drive this industry forward."

Key Panel Discussion Highlights

The Content Explosion: Time Flies, Be a Pilot

Chris Jeffares, Director of INDIE.C, delivered a compelling session on how the travel industry can harness the power of storytelling. He emphasised the need for creativity and strategic content development to engage audiences in an increasingly digital world.

Travel Trends and Industry Insights

A distinguished panel, moderated by Darren Karshagen of Expedia Group Oceania, examined the latest industry shifts. Panellists included Doug Bourgeois (Explore Louisiana), James Kavanagh (Flight Centre Travel Group), Jo McCauley (Southern Cross Travel Insurance), and Wendy Wu (Wendy Wu Tours). Their discussion covered key travel trends, consumer behaviour and market projections shaping the industry's future.

Harnessing Our Superpowers: Keynote on Generative AI

Graham Lovelace, strategist and writer at Charting Gen AI, explored how generative AI revolutionises travel media and brand storytelling. His keynote offered a forward-looking perspective on leveraging AI tools for content creation and audience engagement and how to be part of the narrative rather than be replaced by it.

Navigating the Future of Travel

A panel of industry experts, moderated by Kerrie McCallum of News Corp, shared their perspectives on the future of travel. Speakers included Todd Davidson (Travel Oregon), Kara Glamore (Carnival Cruise Line ANZ), and John O'Sullivan (Experience Co). Discussions covered sustainability, evolving traveller expectations and emerging business opportunities in the sector.

Slam with Travel Editors

This always fast-paced and engaging session featured top travel editors sharing insights on crafting compelling pitches and securing media coverage or commissions for their respective outlets and publications. Moderated by Nick Wayland, CEO and Founder of TravMedia, the panel included Christian Barker (Signature Media), Kate Cox (ACM's Explore), Trudi Jenkins (Traveller), and Melissa Woodley (Time Out Australia).

The TikTok Effect: How TikTok is Shaping Travel

Declan Malone, Client Partner - Travel at TikTok, provided an in-depth look at how TikTok influences travel decisions and shapes destination marketing. Attendees gained valuable strategies for leveraging the platform to reach new audiences.

Throughout the day, attendees engaged in multiple catered networking breaks and a closing cocktail function, further fostering connections that will drive collaboration and innovation in the year ahead.

The 6th annual TravMedia Summit Australia once again became a vital forum for industry professionals to exchange ideas, explore trends and strengthen partnerships. As the event concluded, participants left feeling inspired and equipped with new strategies to navigate the future of travel and the ever-changing media landscape.

For more information on upcoming TravMedia events, visit travmedia.com/imm or email imm@travmedia.com.

For media information, contact:

Lauren Moelk
Chief Communications Officer                                                                                                                TravMedia                                                                                                                                        lauren.moelk@travmedia.com 

Blake Riddington                                                                                                                                                Regional Director Australia and New Zealand 
blake.riddington@travmedia.com                                                         

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About TravMedia

TravMedia is the travel industry's only global media network. Founded in 1999 by Nick Wayland, a former travel editor seeking an easier way to research and report travel news, TravMedia is the one-stop solution trusted by travel PRs and media to network and share press releases, stories and ideas. The platform hosts thriving online communities and is an essential daily tool for collaborating and developing long-lasting relationships. 

TravMedia provides global travel newsfeeds and connects more than 25,000 travel media and more than 20,000 travel brand PRs worldwide via an online newsroom, press release distribution, events, Journalist Alerts and daily industry updates. To learn more and register for TravMedia, visit travmedia.com. 

About IMM

TravMedia's IMM (International Media Marketplace) is the leading travel industry event for travel brands and destinations to connect with the media. In its 13th year, IMM hosts more than 2,500 media and international travel brands annually in six countries worldwide. Upcoming IMM events include IMM UK in London on 17-18 February, IMM Germany in Berlin on 3 March, IMM France in Paris on 12 March, IMM Brazil in Sao Paulo on 11 April, IMM Asia in Singapore on 13-14 October, IMM North America in NYC in January 2026 and IMM Australia in Sydney on 26-27 February 2026.

For more information, visit www.travmedia.com/imm or email imm@travmedia.com. 

About The ASTW

The Australian Society of Travel Writers is the respected peak body for Australian travel media. Founded in 1975 and incorporated in 2011, the ASTW is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to promoting ethical and honest travel writing and representation through other forms of media. The society aims to attract and retain Australia's leading travel media and travel industry communicators.