Visit Victoria is holding a cruise industry workshop and invites businesses interested in learning more about this important industry sector. Speakers from cruise lines, inbound tour operators and the Australian Cruise Association will share the latest intelligence on the industry, including deployment plans, consumer demands, trends in shore excursions and how to tailor your product to the cruise market. There will be an opportunity to meet the speakers and talk about your product as well.

Speakers will include:

Matthew McKeown, Product Manager for Princess Cruises across Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific, Asia, and Hawaii, bringing more than 20 years of industry experience to the role. Matthew has a strong connection to the region and is passionate about showcasing the best of the state to cruise guests. From its vibrant cities and world-class food and wine to its wild coastlines and unique wildlife, Victoria offers a wealth of experiences that perfectly align with Princess Cruises’ commitment to authentic and immersive travel.

Athena Mok, Product Development Manager, Shore Excursions - Carnival Cruise Line. Based in Sydney, Athena brings 15 years of experience across multiple brands within the Carnival Corporation, having held roles in Reservations, Customer Solutions, Sales, and Shorex Product Management. Her portfolio spans diverse regions across Asia, Africa, the Arabia, and Oceania. Born in Hong Kong and fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin, she brings a global perspective to her work.

Stuart Jamieson, Operations Team. Bob Wood Cruise Group. In 2023 Stuart moved from Port Arthur Historic Site in Tasmania to the Gold Coast to join the Operations Team at Bob Wood Cruise Group. His role involves coordinating port days, managing bookings, and helping to deliver smooth, enjoyable shore excursion experiences for guests.

Paul Bruning, Head of Cruise Australia and NZ, Akorn. Paul has recently moved to Melbourne to take up his new role at Akorn in the Cruise division. He has extensive experience in the tourism industry with A&K/Akorn in South Africa managing all elements of the inbound business including cruise. Paul is looking forward to adding value and immersing himself into all things Australian and driving the cruise business for Akorn.

Phillip Lark, Product Manager Victoria. Intercruises. Phil is responsible for sourcing Victorian product for inclusion in cruise line shore excursion programs.

Jill Abel, CEO Australian Cruise Association. Jill has more than 20 years’ experience leading the Australian Cruise Association and recently attended her 18th Seatrade Cruise Global event, Jill has been involved in the cruise sector in Australia for over 30 years. Jill is one of the leading experts in the Australian Cruise industry and has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the sector.

A light lunch will be provided.

We look forward to seeing you on Wednesday 23 July 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM at Mission Hall, Ground Floor, 271 Spring Street, Melbourne.