Julie King is stepping down from the Board of the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) on Thursday, June 12, marking the end of an influential ten-year tenure as a Director.
Dennis Bunnik, Chair of CATO, expressed his gratitude for Julie’s decade of service. “I’d like to congratulate Julie on her 10 years of service to CATO and sincerely thank her for her dedication and hard work,” Bunnik said. “Julie was one of the first people I asked to join the board when I became Chair, and since then, she has been an integral part of CATO’s growth and transformation. Her leadership and communications skills played a vital role in CATO’s success, especially during the critical lobbying efforts during the Covid years. On behalf of the board and our members, I wish her all the best and look forward to continuing our partnership.”
Julie reflected on her decision to step down, acknowledging the importance of her time with CATO. “After ten incredibly rewarding years on the CATO Board, I have made the considered decision not to seek re-election at the upcoming AGM,” Julie shared. “This is not a decision I’ve taken lightly, but after much reflection, I feel it’s the right time to step aside. I want to allow others the opportunity to bring fresh perspectives to the Board. While I’m stepping away from a formal governance role, I remain committed to supporting CATO strategically in any way I can. It has been a privilege to serve alongside such dedicated colleagues, and I look forward to seeing the organisation continue to thrive.”
Brett Jardine, Managing Director of CATO, added his thoughts, praising Julie’s steady leadership. “Julie’s calm and considered approach has had a profound impact on me personally and on CATO more broadly,” Jardine said. “There have been many occasions when I’d catch myself thinking, ‘What would Julie think?’ – a true testament to the positive influence she’s had. I’m deeply grateful for the role she’s played on the Board, and her legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape CATO well into the future.”
Julie King’s departure signals the end of a significant era for CATO, but her legacy will undoubtedly continue to guide the organisation as it moves forward.
