Australia’s leading travel executives have returned from an immersive visit to Canada, inspired by new opportunities and a shared commitment to regenerative tourism.
The trip, organised by Destination Canada through its Australian Strategic Advisory Group (SAG), forms part of a broader effort to deepen collaboration between the two countries and strengthen Canada’s presence in the Australian market.
Led by Destination Canada, the week-long visit took place across Ontario during the autumn season and showcased a range of community led, sustainable and Indigenous tourism experiences. Curated by Destination Ontario, the itinerary highlighted tourism products and initiatives designed to support local communities, protect cultural heritage and reinforce Canada’s position as a global leader in sustainable travel.
The delegation included senior representatives from Adventure World, APT, Entire Travel Group, Flight Centre and Helloworld, who joined Canadian partners from Destination Ontario, Destination Toronto, Ottawa Tourism and the Niagara Parks Commission for immersive site visits and collaborative workshops.
Julie King, Managing Director of Destination Canada Australia, described the familiarisation as a turning point for the partnership between the two markets.
“Having the Strategic Advisory Group on the ground in Canada is incredibly powerful. This isn’t just a familiarisation, it’s a catalyst for change. These leaders are deeply committed to reshaping how Australians engage with Canada, and their firsthand experiences here will help drive a more thoughtful, regenerative approach to tourism across the industry,” she said.
Mladen Vukic, Chief Product and Operations Officer, said the trip reinforced the importance of long-term collaboration.
“Trips like this are vital to our shared roadmap. They give us direct insight into how destinations such as Ontario are repositioning themselves and how we can align our strategies to support that. I’m heading home inspired, with a deeper appreciation for the partnerships we’re building and the role we play through SAG in helping tell Canada’s story in a responsible and globally compelling way.”
Throughout the week, the group explored a range of regenerative and locally owned tourism offerings.
Highlights included a sustainability and farm tour at Elmhirst’s Resort, a Platinum certified property under the Sustainable Tourism 2030 program, a tree planting activity at the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture, and a behind the scenes tour of the Niagara Parks Power Station and its new Niagara Takes Flight experience.
The itinerary also featured a guided food tour through Ottawa’s ByWard Market with C’est Bon Ottawa, Indigenous led programming at Mādahòkì Farm, and a visit to the newly relocated Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough, named one of National Geographic’s Best Cultural Spots for 2024.
The visit represents a significant step forward in SAG’s roadmap to reshape how Australians experience Canada, with working groups now developing strategies to drive a more sustainable, equitable and meaningful approach to tourism.
This focus on connection and sustainability coincides with strengthened trade relationships that are expanding travel opportunities across Canada.
Australasia’s leading rail specialist, International Rail, has announced an enhanced partnership with VIA Rail Canada, offering agents and travellers improved access to the country’s most iconic rail journeys.
A dedicated International Rail team is now in place to support trade bookings and promote VIA Rail’s network, from cross-country adventures to upgraded services on the busy Toronto–Ottawa–Montreal corridor.
Agents can book directly through the trade team at luxury@internationalrail.com.au and access product updates and resources via the Useful Information Hub.
Jonathan Hume, Owner and CEO of International Rail, said the timing of the partnership aligns perfectly with growing interest in Canada as a destination.
“We’ve seen a surge in interest for Canadian rail experiences, especially among travellers seeking immersive, scenic journeys. VIA Rail’s offerings, particularly in winter, are unlike anything else and we’re thrilled to bring these to our trade partners across Australia and New Zealand,” he said.
Featured Image: Members of the Strategic Advisory Group at Niagara Falls, Ontario. Pictured are Tim Holden (Flight Centre), Greg McCallum (Entire Travel Group), Chris Giles (Niagara Parks), Melissa Warren (Helloworld Travel), Luciana Magliocco (Destination Canada), Julie King (Destination Canada), David Adames (Niagara Parks), Abbie Arnott (Niagara Parks), Nathan McLoughlin (Destination Canada), Neil Rodgers (Adventure World), Richard McGeachin (Niagara Falls Tourism) and Mladen Vukic (APT Group).
