by Brett Jardine, commercial director CLIA Australasia
Since 1998 CLIA Australasia (formerly ICCA) has been hosting an annual “Masters Conference” at sea. This event is a great opportunity for travel agents to advance their sales and marketing skills – all referenced back to the cruise industry – and earn the right to promote yourself as a “Cruise Master”, the ultimate industry accolade.
Who should attend?
The topics covered at our Masters Conference are not just aimed at owners and managers. Something that can’t be ‘taught’ but can be ‘caught’ at Masters is enthusiasm – if you have the right attitude, CLIA (Australasia) Masters will benefit your career regardless of your role within the cruise industry.
Who is eligible?
Participation at the CLIA (Australasia) Masters Conference is open to consultants who have achieved CLIA (Australasia) Ambassador status and are currently employed by a CLIA (Australasia) Member Travel Agency or are a CLIA Individual Member.
What is the format?
The Masters Conference includes six 3-hour conference sessions. It is not run as a structured famil as partners are welcome to join participants when not attending sessions. We aim to set aside ample time at leisure to enjoy ports of call and spend time with your partner and/or other members of the group.
What topics are covered?
Topics covered are designed to inspire all levels of participation from front line consultants through to owners and managers.
Who is the conference facilitator?
Scott Koepf is CLIA’s USA based Masters Conference facilitator. Bringing close to four decades of industry knowledge, Scott has worked for cruise lines, worked as a retail travel franchisee (and a cruise specialist franchisor), he has an extraordinary style that leaves participants captivated and wanting more from this high energy event that is not only inspirational but also very motivational – what more could you ask for?
Where is the 2016 Masters Conference?
Onboard P&O’s Pacific Eden with a 15 October embarkation from Cairns, travelling to Papua New Guinea to discover a region that is so close but relatively untouched by Australian and New Zealand travellers.
Can I still attend in 2016?
Yes. We have just a few cabins remaining for our 2016 event and with all training required to reach Ambassador Status now available online for CLIA Members you still have time to fast track your learning to join us at this year’s conference.
Reactions from past participants
Attendees at the CLIA Masters Conference are always full of praise and comments such as these are not unusual. “Exceeded my expectations, I can’t wait to go back to the office and start working on what I have learned”; “A great experience which is really helping my business”; “Loved every moment of the Masters, it was one of the highlights of my 34 year travel career”.
Register online now at www.cruising. org.au/CLIA-Events/Masters-Conference
