The brightest stars of the Australasian cruise community have been honoured at the 20th Cruise Industry Awards in Sydney, where close to 500 people gathered to celebrate the role of the travel trade in the region’s ongoing cruising renaissance.

Held by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia at Luna Park Sydney on Saturday March 11, the gala dinner and presentation night was hosted by entertainer Tim Campbell and involved 18 awards for travel agencies and individuals from across Australia and New Zealand.

CLIA Managing Director Australasia Joel Katz said this year’s awards helped cap off a strong summer revival for cruising in Australia and New Zealand. 

“Travel agents across our region have shown incredible determination over recent years, and these awards help celebrate their resilience and their passion for cruising as we sail into a new era,” Mr Katz said. “As cruising builds on its global renaissance, these awards pay thanks to the Australasian travel trade for its part in our success.”

Top winners on the night included Sheron Konig of Travel Associates Rockhampton, named Australia’s Cruise Consultant of the Year, and Janine Mallon of Zest4Travel, awarded New Zealand Cruise Consultant of the Year. Robyn Sinfield of Home Travel Company was named Cruise Champion Australasia.

Agency winners included Ignite Travel Group, which was named Australasia’s Large Cruise Agency of the Year. Bicton Travel was awarded Australia’s Small Cruise Agency of the Year, while YOU Travel Bethlehem was named New Zealand’s Small Cruise Agency of the Year.

A highlight honour was the induction into the CLIA Hall of Fame of past CLIA Chairman and former regional head of Oceania Cruises & Regent Seven Seas Cruise, Steve Odell, who was recognised for his industry stewardship and his role in cruising’s success over more than three decades.