Intrepid Travel hosts 2026 Global Summit in Melbourne HQ

March 2026

Intrepid Travel brought together more than 400 team members, including over 180 international and interstate colleagues, in Melbourne last week for its 2026 Global Summit, following a record year for the business.

Returning to its global headquarters after last year’s Summit in Colombo, the annual event connected team members from more than 30 countries to align on strategy, strengthen culture and set priorities for the year ahead.

Across five days, the program focused on how Intrepid continues to grow responsibly while deepening its impact. The week included a range of sessions, from Q&As with tour leaders to updates on The Intrepid Foundation (TIF), Reconciliation and purpose initiatives, alongside a dedicated careers session highlighting the breadth of roles across the business. Intrepid’s co-founders Darrell Wade and Geoff ‘Manch’ Manchester also participated in a Q&A hosted by New Zealand tour leader Runty Jackson.

Australian-themed activities were woven throughout the week to give the visitors (including 36 tour leaders from around the world) a taste of local culture from Tim Tam Slams and lamington teas to Vegemite tastings. Melbourne-based team members also stepped into the role of tour leaders to guide visiting colleagues through the program. The week also featured a CEO Run and Walk fundraiser with James Thornton in support of TIF, and an introduction to Australian Rules Football through partner North Melbourne Football Club (Intrepid Travel sponsors both the AFL and AFLW teams).

The Summit concluded on 27 March with Global Summit Day at The Edge, Federation Square, livestreamed globally, featuring keynotes and panels from leaders, team members and tour leaders. A highlight was the induction of Managing Director ANZ, Brett Mitchell, into Intrepid Travel’s Hall of Fame, which recognises individuals who have made a significant contribution to the business. In Intrepid’s 37-year history, only 19 team members have been inducted.

James Thornton, CEO of Intrepid Travel, said: “Our Global Summit brought together team members from more than 30 countries, and that global diversity is one of our greatest strengths. It was an opportunity to connect our leaders and teams, share perspectives and reinforce the culture that underpins how we grow. As we scale, staying connected to our purpose and to each other is critical because it’s our people who bring Intrepid to life in every destination.”

Brett Mitchell, Managing Director ANZ, said: “Bringing our global team together in Melbourne, where Intrepid was founded, was a powerful moment. It grounded us in our story while we looked ahead. Demand for meaningful, experience-rich travel remains strong, and Australia continues to play a critical role in our global offering and future growth.”

On his induction to Intrepid’s Hall of Fame he said: “Also very humbled to be inducted into Intrepid’s Hall of Fame. Thanks to Darrell, Manch and James and all the teams I’ve worked with over the years. I’m honoured to play a small part in the journey.”

Intrepid will host next year’s Global Summit in Morocco, one of its most popular destinations globally, as the company continues to invest in its global teams and future growth.