The Luxury Travel Collection (LTC) Global Business Owners Soiree Leadership Day brought together key players from the world of luxury travel to share the stories that will define and inspire the next chapter.
Held at The Star Brisbane on Monday, the event showcased the depth, creativity, and vision that propel the luxury travel industry forward. Danielle Galloway, Global Managing Director – Luxury and Independent Brands at Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) delivered the opening address, sharing the journey of FCTG’s Luxury Brands to an audience of LTC Business Owners, key partners and Flight Centre Travel Group CEO, Graham “Skroo” Turner.
“Luxury today is no longer just about exclusivity—it’s about the story behind every experience, the passion behind every brand, and the deep personal connections we create with our clients,” she said. “The most powerful brands are built on compelling narratives, and our role as leaders is to bring those stories to life.”
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Galloway challenged attendees to think about their next move, emphasising that choice, not chance, will create the future and that stagnation is not an option for those looking to redefine luxury. She encouraged leaders to take ownership at every level of their business and to understand what sets them apart in an increasingly competitive market.
A line-up of industry trailblazers who also shared their own journeys included FCTG board non-executive director Colette Garnsey who lead the transformation of David Jones, renowned author Mark Carter, PONANT APAC CEO Deb Corbett and Four Pillars Co-Owner Matt Jones.
LTC leaders Phil Smethurst from Bicton Travel and Krystal Savage, Travel Associates, offered their insights into the intersection of leadership, brand-building, and the evolving definition of luxury.The feedback from attendees has already been “incredible”, according to LTC General Manager Nikki Glading. “Our owners, business leaders, and partners have shared invaluable learnings and fresh ideas sparked by our carefully curated speakers and workshops,” she said. “By sharing the remarkable stories of these global business leaders, we hope to inspire our members to craft their own legacies—shaped by passion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
“This was more than a leadership summit; it was a masterclass in storytelling, connection, and the art of crafting exceptional experiences. Hearing first-hand from industry pioneers reinforced that luxury is not just a product; it’s an emotion, an aspiration, and a story worth telling.”
The day concluded at The Star’s Pompette Restaurant, where PONANT’s ‘French Delights and Champagne Nights’ dinner set the scene for continued storytelling, networking, and celebration.
