In a moment of industry recognition that speaks volumes about dedication and expertise, Across Australia was crowned "Buyer of the Year (Western)" at the Australian Tourism Export Council's prestigious awards gala on Wednesday, October 29. The ceremony, held during the annual ATEC Meeting Place in Perth, brought together over 530 tourism leaders from across Australia and 120 international buyers for three days of networking, business meetings, and celebration.
Kathy Turner, General Manager of Across Australia, traveled to Perth to attend ATEC Meeting Place and to accept the award alongside Josh Akel, Across’ Product Manager. The recognition comes as particularly meaningful validation in an industry where relationships, responsiveness, and reliability make all the difference between a good travel experience and an exceptional one.
"This award isn't just about us—it's about every travel agent who trusts us to deliver unforgettable Australian experiences to their clients," Turner said, reflecting on what the honor means to the entire Across Australia team.
The DNA of Excellence
What sets Across Australia apart in the competitive world of inbound tourism? It starts with something deceptively simple: listening. In an era where automation often replaces human touch, Across Australia has built its reputation on genuine responsiveness and a deep understanding of what travel agents—and ultimately, their travelers—truly need.
The company's booking system isn't just functional; it's intelligently designed and updated to streamline the complex process of crafting Australian itineraries. But technology alone doesn't win awards. It's the consumer service philosophy that transforms a booking platform into a partnership. Travel agents working with Across Australia know they have a team of Australia specialists in their corner, ready to tackle challenges and seize opportunities.
Innovation defines also aspect of the Across Australia approach. Their digital itineraries represent a quantum leap beyond traditional paper documents or static PDFs. Optimized specifically for mobile devices—because that's how travelers navigate the world today—these interactive itineraries transform into real-time travel companions. The integrated 'Live Chat' function means that when a traveler in Sydney's Harbour has a question, or a couple in the Outback needs assistance, help is literally at their fingertips. This isn't just customer service; it's travel peace of mind, delivered digitally.
Industry Recognition, Team Achievement
The ATEC Tourism Export Awards don't simply recognize commercial success—they honor organizations that elevate the entire industry. As ATEC Chair Richard Doyle noted during the ceremony, award recipients "not only drive success within their own businesses but lift those around them as contributors, mentors, and outstanding champions of the industry's growth and excellence."
For Across Australia, this means being more than a service provider to travel agents. It means being a partner who understands the nuances of different markets, who anticipates needs before they arise, and who consistently delivers the kind of professionalism that allows agents to confidently promise their clients an exceptional Australian experience.
The award sits alongside other prestigious honors announced at Meeting Place 2025, including recognition for IHG Hotels & Resorts, AEA Luxury Tours, and industry veterans whose contributions have shaped Australian tourism. But for Kathy Turner and the entire Across Australia team, the real prize is the trust that travel agents place in them daily.
Looking Ahead
As Meeting Place 2025 concluded with announcements that the 2026 event would head to Hobart, the message was clear: Australia's tourism export industry is thriving, innovative, and globally competitive. Companies like Across Australia are at the forefront, proving that in an increasingly digital world, the human elements of service, expertise, and genuine care remain irreplaceable.With over 5,000 business-to-business meetings facilitated during the three-day Perth gathering, ATEC Meeting Place remains the cornerstone event for Australia's tourism export sector, connecting operators with international distribution partners and shaping the future of the industry.
