CT Connections Celebrates 25 Years with National Honour at the 2025 NTIA Awards

Australia’s Leading Independent Travel Group Recognised for Excellence and Innovation

CT Connections has been named Most Outstanding Australian-Owned Travel Management Company at the 2025 Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) National Travel Industry Awards (NTIA), marking a momentous milestone in its 25th anniversary year. The accolade recognises CT Connections’ unwavering dedication to innovation, customer service, and its leadership in shaping the future of business travel in Australia.

Hosted at The Star in Brisbane, the NTIAs are the travel industry’s most prestigious awards, celebrating excellence across 38 categories that represent the full spectrum of the Australian travel sector. Backed by Major Sponsor Singapore Airlines, the NTIAs honour organisations that inspire confidence, deliver exceptional service, and set new standards of excellence for Australian travellers.

A Quarter Century of Australian-Owned Success

This latest award caps off a landmark year for Connections Travel Group, founded by Gary Reichenberg in 1999. Over the past 25 years, the group has grown into Australia’s largest privately-owned travel business, encompassing CT Connections (corporate travel), Edge Connections (luxury leisure travel), and Totem Connections (meetings, incentives, conferences, and events).

At the heart of CT Connections’ success lies Reichenberg’s “Ubuntu” philosophy – “I am because of you, we are because of each other” – which shapes the company’s culture and approach to client service. This people-first ethos has been central to the company’s reputation for building lasting partnerships, grounded in mutual trust and respect.

Driving Technological Innovation in Corporate Travel

CT Connections has earned its place at the forefront of travel management innovation by leading industry change rather than following it. The company was the first Australian Travel Management Company to access Qantas’ Premium New Distribution Capacity (NDC), enabling clients to benefit from real-time savings, enhanced booking functionality, and greater transparency in air travel.

This forward-thinking approach is part of CT Connections’ ongoing commitment to using technology to simplify travel, enhance the customer experience, and empower clients with smarter, more efficient solutions.

Celebrating People, Purpose, and Partnership

Gary Reichenberg, CEO of Connections Travel Group, expressed his pride in the achievement, especially as it coincides with the company’s 25th anniversary.

“To receive this honour in our 25th anniversary year is incredibly special,” Reichenberg said. “CT Connections was founded on the belief that an Australian-owned business could stand proudly on the global stage by combining world-class technology with genuine, personal service. This recognition is also a celebration of our people and our Ubuntu philosophy — I am because of you, we are because of each other. Our success is built on shared purpose, mutual respect, and the trust of our clients, partners and team. As we look to the future, we remain committed to growing with integrity, leading through innovation, and always putting people first.”

Setting the Standard for the Future of Travel Management

ATIA CEO Dean Long praised CT Connections’ achievement, highlighting the company’s leadership within the industry.

“In winning this award, CT Connections exemplifies the quality, innovation, and professionalism that make Australia’s travel management companies world-class,” Long said. “Their win on the weekend is a testament to their commitment to clients, their investment in people, and their contribution to the broader travel community.”

As CT Connections looks ahead, its focus remains on driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and championing Australian excellence in global travel management. With a proud legacy and a clear vision for the future, the company continues to redefine what it means to be a truly outstanding, Australian-owned travel partner.

CT Connections

Website: www.ctconnections.com.au
Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA): www.atia.org.au

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

ATPI Australia Crowned Most Outstanding Global Travel Management Company at 2025 NTIA Awards

Recognising Leadership and Innovation in Travel Management

ATPI Australia has once again proven its dominance in the corporate travel landscape, being named Most Outstanding Global Travel Management Company at the 2025 Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) National Travel Industry Awards (NTIA). The win highlights ATPI’s unwavering commitment to innovation, client-focused service, and adaptability in an ever-changing travel environment.

Hosted at The Star in Brisbane, the NTIAs are regarded as the travel industry’s most prestigious honours, celebrating excellence across 38 categories that encompass every aspect of the Australian travel sector. This year’s accolade marks the second consecutive win for ATPI, reaffirming its reputation for delivering seamless, technology-driven solutions that meet the evolving needs of businesses and travellers worldwide.

A Powerful Partnership Strengthening Global Reach

The recognition comes soon after a major milestone for ATPI – its acquisition by Direct Travel, one of North America’s leading travel management companies. The merger unites two global powerhouses under a shared vision of technological innovation, service excellence, and data-led travel solutions.

Together, ATPI and Direct Travel now operate one of the world’s most robust travel networks, empowering clients with enhanced global capabilities and integrated systems designed to streamline every stage of business travel management.

Commitment to Continuous Improvement and Client Value

Peter Muller, Regional Managing Director for Australia, New Zealand, and Africa, said the award is a testament to the company’s culture of creativity and resilience.

“The travel industry is evolving faster than ever, and this award recognises how our teams have met that change with creativity and determination,” Muller said. “Direct Travel strengthens our ability to deliver globally connected, technology-driven solutions that simplify complexity and create real value for clients around the world.”

ATPI’s approach blends human expertise with cutting-edge technology. The company has invested heavily in intelligent workflows and integrated systems that help clients manage compliance, governance, and sustainability without unnecessary complexity.

Technology and Collaboration Driving Industry Change

By collaborating closely with clients across sectors including higher education, mining and resources, and corporate travel, ATPI ensures its solutions are built around real-world challenges. This hands-on partnership model enables the company to continually refine its systems, driving efficiency and sustainability across travel programs.

Peter Hosper, Commercial Director – ATPI Group, highlighted the company’s focus on progress.
“Continuous improvement is at the heart of what we do. Joining forces with Direct Travel enhances our capability to scale innovation, expand our technology offering, and ensure our clients benefit from the best of both organisations.”

Celebrating the Best in the Business

Backed by Singapore Airlines as Major Sponsor, the NTIA Awards bring together the most inspiring figures and organisations in Australian travel. ATIA CEO Dean Long commended ATPI’s achievement, saying, “Winning an NTIA means you’re at the top of your game. The awards celebrate those setting the standard for excellence in Australian travel through being innovative, professional, and customer-focused. Congratulations to ATPI on an outstanding achievement and being named as the very best of our industry.”

With back-to-back wins and a strengthened global alliance, ATPI continues to redefine what excellence looks like in travel management, delivering smarter, more sustainable, and more connected solutions for clients across the globe.

ATPI Australia

Website: www.atpi.com
Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA): www.atia.org.au

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Finalists Announced for the NSW Tourism Awards

The NSW Tourism Association has today announced the finalists for the NSW Tourism Awards 2025, with over 230 nominations from across the state – it’s a record year. From these, 125 businesses and individuals have progressed as finalists across 30 categories, with four special awards to be presented at the Gala event in November.

This year saw a record number of first-time entrants, highlighting the growing recognition and significance of the Awards as both a celebration of excellence and a valuable tool for business development.

Natalie Godward, CEO of the NSW Tourism Association, said the finalists reflect the strength, passion and professionalism of the NSW visitor economy.

“We are incredibly proud to reveal this year’s finalists, representing tourism businesses and individuals from every corner of our state. This year’s awards are coming off the back of a record result at the 2024 Australian Tourism Awards where 9 NSW-based operators took out a podium placement.

“The NSW Tourism Awards unite our industry, strengthen our communities, and shine a light on the dedication and pride of operators who create world-class experiences,” said Ms Godward.

For the first time, the program includes finalists from the North Coast Regional Tourism Awards, thanks to a new partnership providing a direct pathway and greater support.

“We are delighted about this new partnership providing greater opportunity for North Coast operators to enter the awards which is a great result,” said Ms Godward.

All entries were rigorously assessed by a panel of 56 independent industry experts, with judges noting the increasing calibre of submissions and the commitment to sustainable business practices. The program is the only pathway for NSW operators to compete at the Australian Tourism Awards.

The NSW Tourism Awards provide entrants with extensive business support, as part of the submission process to increase the value of entering.

“We’ve had highly positive feedback from participants who say the process is extremely valuable in helping them build actionable steps to creating business success. It’s why we continue to see new entrants embracing the program – it builds long-term capability as well as celebrating success,” said Ms Godward.

The 2025 NSW Tourism Awards finalists are recognised across the following categories:

• Tours, Attractions & Experiences
• Festivals & Events
• AccommodationFood & Drink Tourism
• Sustainable Tourism
• Tourism ServicesNew Tourism Businesses

Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper congratulated all the finalists and said it showed that the state's tourism sector was driven by dedicated industry champions.

“Tourism is a $50 billion industry in NSW, and a major driver of jobs, growth and opportunity," he said.

"Our recently launched Visitor Economy Strategy 2035 targets even more flights, visitors, hotel rooms and visitor spend across the next decade — and industry leaders will be an important part of that drive.

“The finalists represent the very best of our state, setting benchmarks of excellence and demonstrating the important role tourism plays in strengthening local communities. I congratulate every finalist and thank them for their contribution in making NSW the number one visitor economy in the nation."

Destination NSW is the proud major sponsor of the NSW Tourism Awards for 2025.

The full list of 2025 finalists can be viewed here: nswtourismassociation.com.au/nsw-tourism-awards

The winners of the 2025 NSW Tourism Awards will be announced at the NSW Tourism Gala on Thursday, 27 November 2025 at Waterview in Bicentennial Park, Sydney Olympic Park.

NSW Tourism Awards 2025 Finalists:

Organisation	Region
Attractions
Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary	North Coast
Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens	North Coast
Northern Rivers Rail Trail	North Coast
Old Dubbo Gaol - Dubbo Regional Council	Country and Outback
RFDS Outback Heritage Experience Broken Hill	Country and Outback
Symbio Wildlife Park	Sydney Surrounds South
Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo	Country and Outback
Events
Bluesfest Byron Bay	North Coast
Broken Hill Mundi Mundi Bash	Country and Outback
Crank It Up Festival	Southern NSW
Deni Ute Muster 2024	Riverina / Murray
EAT Festival Sapphire Coast	Southern NSW
Festival of W	Riverina / Murray
Grafton Jacaranda Festival	North Coast
Lismore Lantern Parade	North Coast
Narooma Oyster Festival	Southern NSW
Orange Food Week	Central NSW
Park Beach Hotel Motel - HOEY MOEY	North Coast
Reflections Cadet Cup	North Coast
Savour The Tweed	North Coast
Eco Tourism
Ecoasis	North Coast
Kestrel Nest EcoHut	Riverina / Murray
Positive Energy Adventures & Retreats	North Coast
REGION X Kayak, Walking & Camping Adventures	Southern NSW
Showtime Kayaking	Sydney Surrounds North
Sydney Kayak Experience	Sydney
Vision Walks - Eco Tours	North Coast
Whale Tales Whale Watching Sydney	Sydney
Cultural Tourism
Adam Edwards Photography	Country and Outback
Bundyi Cultural Tours	Riverina / Murray
Eden Local Aboriginal Land Council	Southern NSW
Old Dubbo Gaol - Dubbo Regional Council	Country and Outback
Port Macquarie Museum	North Coast
Visitor Information
Ask Roz Blue Mountains	Sydney
Ballina Visitor Information Centre	North Coast
Bathurst Visitor Information Centre	Central NSW
Destination Central Coast	Sydney Surrounds North
Hunter Valley Visitor Information Centre	Sydney Surrounds North
Tours & Activities
4WD Tours R Us	Sydney Surrounds North
Aquamarine Adventures	Sydney Surrounds North
Barefoot Boats Harrington	North Coast
Better by Bike	North Coast
Beyond The Blacktop Adventure Tours	Sydney
BIGWAVE Skydive	Sydney Surrounds South
Blue Mountains Climbing School	Sydney
Brighton Coach & Tours	Sydney
Cape Byron Kayaks	North Coast
Chapman Tours	Sydney
Explore Sydney Harbour	Sydney
Moonshadow -TQC Cruises	Sydney Surrounds North
Mudgee Ale Trail	Central NSW
Northern Rivers Rail Trail	North Coast
Oz Jet Boating	Sydney
REGION X Kayak, Walking & Camping Adventures	Southern NSW
Soul Surf School	North Coast
Spotto Books	Sydney Surrounds North
Stand Up Paddle Boarding Shellharbour	Sydney Surrounds South
Starscape Australia	Central NSW
Sydney By Kayak	Sydney
Sydney Harbour Boat Tours	Sydney
ULTIMATE Travel	Sydney
Vision Walks - Eco Tours	North Coast
Marketing
Destination Central Coast	Sydney Surrounds North
Destination Kiama - Coast in Chill out Campaign	Sydney Surrounds South
Destination Store - Where Time Does Wonders, Port Macquarie	North Coast
Headjam - Tourism Snowy Mountains Website	Southern NSW
Orange360 - Enjoy the Now	Central NSW
The Tweed Tourism Company	North Coast
Visit Wollongong - Discover the Hidden Gems of the Illawarra	Sydney Surrounds South
Food & Beverage
Aanuka Beach House	North Coast
Courabyra Wines	Riverina / Murray
Cupitt's Estate	Sydney Surrounds South
Earth Beer Company	North Coast
Foxdog Distillery & Brewery	Southern NSW
Harwood Hotel	North Coast
Italian Cooking Experience with Stefano Marvello	Sydney Surrounds South
Jervis Bay Brewing Co	Sydney Surrounds South
Krinklewood Estate	Sydney Surrounds North
Pipit Restaurant	North Coast
Printhie Wines	Central NSW
Spare Chef Catering	North Coast
Tocumwal Chocolate School	Riverina / Murray
Accommodation + Events Venues
Akuna Estate	Central NSW
Amaroo Valley Springs	Sydney Surrounds South
Cedars Mount View	Sydney Surrounds North
Contained in Nimbin Accommodation	North Coast
Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific	Sydney Surrounds North
Dimensions X Farmstay at Krinklewood Estate	Sydney Surrounds North
Holiday Haven Lake Conjola	Sydney Surrounds South
Holiday Haven Lake Tabourie	Sydney Surrounds South
ICC Sydney	Sydney
Ingenia Holidays Nambucca Heads	North Coast
Into The Wild Escapes	Sydney Surrounds North
Invercauld House	North Coast
Kalinya Estate	Sydney
Mantra on Salt Beach	North Coast
Mt Hay Retreat	Sydney Surrounds South
Palmers Lane Estate	Sydney Surrounds North
Reflections Holidays - Hawks Nest	North Coast
Reflections Holidays - Wilderluxe Lake Keepit	Country and Outback
Shawwood Estate	Central NSW
Sierra Escape	Central NSW
Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo	Country and Outback
Tasman Holiday Parks - North Star	North Coast
Tathra Beach Eco Camp	Southern NSW
The Belfry Guesthouse	North Coast
The Drawing Rooms of Berry	Sydney Surrounds South
The Health Lodge	North Coast
The Oriana Orange Retro Hotel & Resort	Central NSW
The Silos Accommodation	Riverina / Murray
Wilga Station	Central NSW
Wollemi Ridge Retreats	Sydney
Local Government
Central Coast Council	Sydney Surrounds North
City of Coffs Harbour	North Coast
City of Wagga Wagga	Riverina / Murray
My Clarence Valley	North Coast
Tourism Business Service
Destination Research & Development	North Coast
Sparrowly Group	Sydney
The Hotel School Australia	Sydney