Real Stories provide clarity: Why our PTMs Return to National Conference Year After Year

Real Stories provide clarity: Why our PTMs Return to National Conference Year After Year

Over the years, we’ve gathered in a variety of incredible destinations for our annual national conference, from Bali and Honolulu to Darwin and Bangkok, and in 2026, we’re off to Tasmania!

What’s so special about this event that has many attendees describing it as the ‘highlight of their year’? We like to think it’s the unique combination of learning, inspiration and fun that has people returning each year. One of the key highlights is the chance to hear personal stories from PTM guest speakers. Below are some of the insights shared during this year’s plenary sessions.

Tanya Nielsen (WA): 

I have attended every national conference since 2019. I love the friendships I have created over the years and, aside from being able to learn new things to implement in my business, the biggest drawcard for me is that sense of connection.

This year’s conference theme was Clarity, and for me, that means investing time in working on my business as well as in my business. My personal values are very much aligned with my business values: being true to myself, treating everyone with respect, and always being honest.

Maddy Pullen (SA):

Although I joined TravelManagers in 2022, this was the first year that I have been able to attend our national conference. It was great to meet so many people, catch up with everyone and be updated on products.

My presentation followed my journey from working in a traditional agency environment, then not knowing where to go next after I had my kids. My moment of clarity struck when I spoke to TravelManagers about joining what has turned out to be an incredible community. The support that I have continuously received in my business has made me realise what an amazing choice I made.

Stacey Farnham (VIC):

I started my travel career in 2004 and gained incredible industry experience while working in a family-owned agency for around fifteen years. I never really understood the potential earning capacity with TravelManagers’ model, but after having children, I needed a new approach. Becoming a PTM is by far the best decision I’ve made career wise.

I’ve not missed a national conference since I joined TravelManagers in 2018 – it’s become a non-negotiable part of my year! I always love hearing other PTMs’ stories about how they have ended up where are, and what we all do differently in our businesses to build success.

However, I chose to talk about the people behind me who guide, drive and support me. It’s so important to have your “circle of people”, because when you can’t see your way forward, they are the ones who will guide you or sit with you in the dark until you find your light again. It can be hard to find clarity when you’re juggling so many different tasks, so relying on your people can often help a great deal.

Danielle Goncalves (NSW):

I’ve been in travel, on and off, for more than 27 years, and I joined TravelManagers in November 2015. I started out with zero clients, but I just worked on what I could, helped other PTMs and went to networking events. TravelManagers gave me the space to grow at my own speed and evolve as my life circumstances have changed. I love the people, I love that I am my own boss, I love that I can have balance: it really feels like I’ve cracked the code of having it all.

What brings me clarity is knowing my why: it helps me evolve my business and guides my journey as a PTM. I’ve been to national conference six times, and I always get so much out of them, especially the PTM talks. It felt very special to be invited to deliver one this year.

Dom Bellissimo (NSW):

I became a travel advisor fourteen years ago, and in 2019, I followed in the footsteps of my former team leader when they joined TravelManagers. This year was my fourth national conference, and I really enjoy reconnecting with colleagues, attending the workshops and just sharing stories with other like-minded individuals.

My presentation related to my personal travel journey, my purpose and the future of my business. I believe that, rather than being fearful of technological advancements that might affect our industry, we should instead stay head of the curve, learning how to use these tools so that we can continue adding value to our clients’ travel experiences.

Each PTM has a unique story about what brought them to TravelManagers, but the themes are consistent: strong support, a great community, and true work–life balance. Together, they paint a clear picture of why our network continues to thrive.

If you’re curious to find out how TravelManagers could be the right place to take your business somewhere new and exciting, contact one of our Business Partnership Managers for a no-obligation, confidential chat.

*Header image: Tanya Nielsen told her story about becoming a PTM, and what it means to her.