1000MTG Australia Conference 2026: Where connection meets momentum

When 1000 Mile Travel Group (1000MTG) gathered its network of independent travel advisors and supplier partners at the Mondrian Gold Coast for its largest annual conference from February 26-28, 2026, the energy was palpable from the moment attendees arrived at the Welcome Reception overlooking the iconic coastline.

This wasn’t just another industry conference. With a theme of ‘Level Up: Unlock Your Potential’, it was a masterclass in how to build community, accelerate business growth, and create genuine partnerships in an industry that thrives on human connection.

The numbers tell the story

Over three packed days, the 1000MTG conference delivered 18+ supplier partners, 15+ educational sessions, 200+ speed dating appointments connecting advisors directly with key decision-makers, and countless networking moments from sunrise breakfasts to the legendary Gala Night.

“Conference time is my favourite time of year. It’s the time we bring all of our network together from across the country, our head office team and valued partners to learn, network and grow! Being face to face in the room making new connections and strengthening our existing ones is when the magic happens,” said Nicola Veltman, 1000MTG CEO.

Setting the tone for growth

Friday kicked off with Australian GM Lauren Gray’s welcome presentation and CEO Nicola Veltman’s global vision, leaving advisors buzzing about possibilities ahead. Accor Luxury & Lifestyle opened supplier presentations, while Virgin Australia, TBO.com, and Expedia TAAP shared crucial updates and technology insights. Head of Operations Kim Stewart revealed the systems behind 1000MTG’s support infrastructure before focused supplier speed dating appointments built relationships that will drive future bookings. The day concluded with the Supplier Partner Dinner at Haven Restaurant.

“Our conference was a powerful reminder of what makes 1000MTG special. The energy over the two days was exceptional — new connections, big ideas and countless ‘a’ha’ moments. When our community comes together like this, we don’t just connect — we truly level up,” said Lauren Gray, 1000MTG General Manager – Australia.

Deep dives and celebration

Saturday opened with PONANT’s Annabelle Brown and Janelle Ramsey delivering a compelling presentation on expedition cruising, followed by Head Office Team Workshops on maximizing 1000MTG’s technology, marketing, and supplier relationships.

Keynote speaker Daniel Bull inspired advisors to think bigger about their business potential, while the Awards presentation recognized top-performing advisors, including our 10-year milestones, Top Achiever’s trip reveal, and newest Hall of Famer – Nick Anderson.

The conference crescendoed with barefoot bowls at Burleigh Bowls Club, followed by Saturday night’s White Party Gala at The Langham Gold Coast – the kind of genuine camaraderie that rarely exists in larger, corporate host agency networks.

What attendees are saying

“We thoroughly enjoyed the content and camaraderie the conference provided. 1000MTG are a delightful collection of travel advisors, whom we’re grateful to have engaged,” shared PONANT’s Annabelle Brown and Janelle Ramsey.

“OMG what a whirlwind but we are back. We had such a good time, so many great people to meet and chat with. I learnt so much. Thanks so much for all your efforts, very inspiring,” said Travel Advisor Sherie Read.

Why this conference works

Rather than back-to-back supplier presentations, 1000MTG curated a balanced agenda where supplier content complemented business-building education. CEO Nicola Veltman and GM Lauren Gray were present throughout – in workshops, at meals, and at evening events – pulling back the curtain on how 1000MTG actually supports advisors. The conference proved that independent travel advisors backed by strong host agency infrastructure can compete – and often exceed – traditional travel management companies and larger consortia.

Recognizing our generous sponsors

The success of the 1000 Mile Travel Group Annual Australian Conference is made possible by the generous support of Platinum Sponsors including Accor Luxury & Lifestyle, PONANT, and Virgin Australia, along with Gold Sponsors, Expedia TAAP, TBO.com, as well as our Silver Sponsors 50 Degrees North, Air New Zealand, Avis Budget Group, Club Med, Delta Airlines, Go Insurance, Hertz, Hilton for Luxury, Qantas, Sabre, Singapore Airlines, Viking, and Wendy Wu.