NSW was well represented at ATEC Meeting Place 2026 in Hobart this week, connecting with international tourism buyers and gaining first-hand insights into the trends shaping Australia’s inbound visitor economy.

More than 600 tourism professionals attended the three-day event from 26 to 28 October, which combined business appointments, networking and industry discussions focused on emerging markets, changing traveller behaviour, technology and tourism distribution.

Destination NSW was represented by Claudia Renner and Bonnie O'Garey, while the NSW contingent also included Destination Sydney Surrounds North, representing its Hunter Global brands.

The annual event provided an important opportunity to strengthen connections with the international travel buyers and build intelligence on how global markets and distribution are evolving.

Tourism leaders celebrated at Meeting Place 2026

The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) recognised individuals and organisations driving Australia’s tourism export industry forward during ATEC Meeting Place, at the 2026 ATEC Tourism Export Awards.

The awards recognise outstanding leadership and contribution across the tourism export community, from individuals helping shape the industry’s future to suppliers and buyers setting the benchmark for partnership and excellence.



ATEC Tourism Export Award Winners – 2026

  • Hall of Fame – Janene Rees
  • ATEC Champion – Melinda Anderson
  • Young ATEC Rising Leader – Dylan Dudley
  • Eastern Buyer of the Year – Australia and Beyond Holidays
  • Western Buyer of the Year – Pan Pacific Travel
  • Accommodation Supplier of the Year – TFE Hotels
  • Experience Supplier of the Year – Sydney Opera House
  • Region of the Year – Tasmania

ATEC Managing Director Peter Shelley congratulated this year’s award winners for their contribution to the strength and future of Australia’s inbound tourism industry.

He gave special recognition to Hall of Fame inductee Janene Rees (Moonshadow - TQC Cruises, Port Stephens), noting her almost four decades of leadership had helped shape regional tourism and support generations of industry professionals.

Mr Shelley said: “Janene has made an extraordinary contribution to Australian tourism, championing regional destinations, strengthening businesses and generously sharing her knowledge and experience with others.

“Her warmth, humour and generosity of spirit have made her not only a respected industry leader, but a much-loved mentor, colleague and friend to so many across Australian tourism.

“Her passion for tourism and genuine commitment to helping others succeed have left a lasting legacy across our industry, making her a thoroughly deserving addition to the ATEC Hall of Fame.

Mr Shelley said that same spirit of leadership, generosity and collaboration was reflected across this year’s award winners, who have contributed not only through their own success but through their commitment to strengthening Australia’s tourism export community.

“Our industry is built on strong relationships and people who are prepared to share their knowledge, support others and find new ways to grow Australia’s international visitor economy,” he said.

“We congratulate all of this year’s winners and thank them for the contribution they continue to make.”