Australian Geographic Travel started operating tours for the Australian domestic market in 2021 and is now looking to start selling these trips internationally.
The operator has appointed London-based Bryan Arnicar, owner of Unique Boutique Collection, as its representative for the UK, Europe and North America.
Arnicar told TTG that the trips offered a “deeper dive” into Australia, with activities such as birdwatching, hiking, photography and active wildlife conservation, while meeting local people and interacting with the country’s First Nations culture.
He added that he had already “started conversations” with agents and operators in the UK about selling Australian Geographic Travel tours.
“I’ve already identified some agents that the product is best suited for,” said Arnicar. “We’re really looking at operators that delve a bit more deeply into destinations.
“I used to work for Tourism Australia, so I already know a lot of the trade in the UK. Everything will be focused on going through the trade and we will not be going direct to the consumer. I’m looking to talk to any agents who would be interested – we’re open to everybody.”
Australian Geographic Travel was created when the Australian Geographic media business acquired a 50% stake in travel firm Insight Australia Travel.
The operator is already offering around 40 tours in Australia visiting areas such as Arnhem Land and the MacDonnell Ranges in the Northern Territory; Queensland’s Daintree Forest, Cape Tribulation and Fraser Island; Raymond Island and East Gippsland in Victoria; and the Eyre Peninsula and Kangaroo Island in South Australia.
“It’s a product for people who want to really experience and explore the culture, and have a sustainable experience,” explained Arnicar.
He added that existing tours would be “tweaked” in the coming months so they would appeal to UK travellers, while new itineraries would also be added to Australian Geographic Travel’s portfolio.
Birgit Bourne, managing director of Australian Geographic Travel, said: “Australian Geographic Travel is delighted to be working with Bryan and his team to help strengthen our international presence as we offer small-group, sustainable, Australian experiences to nature and culture lovers around the globe.”
