YTN Events

Connect with your fellow emerging tourism network at our Tourism Ambassador networking night. Learn our panelists’ career stories, working in content development, marketing and partnerships.

Meet the panelists:
Amy Gardner, Freelance Tourism Communications Specialist

With over a decade of tourism industry experience Amy has developed a strong passion for creating and promoting exceptional visitor experiences across Australia. She works on a freelance basis consulting in communications, digital marketing, copywriting and social media management with the wonderful team at CK PR, the Melbourne’s biggest family travel site TOT: Hot or Not and also Western Melbourne Tourism Inc, among other projects.She has also launched her own travel platform called Seniors in Melbourne and can be regularly found exploring Melbourne’s sites with her parents to create insightful travel tips for retirees visiting Melbourne. This flexibility has allowed her to follow her dreams of being a mum, and also pursuing her own entrepreneurial goals.

Amy is a YTN advocate and is passionate about supporting new industry professionals, as well as volunteering with the passionate crew at West Welcome Wagon who provide support and material goods to asylum seekers in our community.

Ashley Woodrow, Puffing Billy

Ash has a rich background in Communication Design, Marketing, and Business Development. Currently, Ash is at the heart of all things Marketing, Tourism, and Functions at Puffing Billy Railway. As their Marketing Executive, she thrives in the world of inbound markets, product development, and uncovering industry trends. Her ability to streamline multi-department processes and create memorable brand marketing experiences sets her apart.

Beyond the office, Ash proudly wears the hat of a mum to twin boys. She admits that her Puffing Billy team is easier to please than her two toddler bosses. Yet, the immeasurable return on investment she gains from motherhood fuels her drive. Ash’s inspiration comes from her zest for exploring the world, conquering challenges, and being surrounded by game-changers. With her expertise and passion, she’s charting a remarkable course in the realms of Marketing and Tourism.

Natalie Babic, Parks Victoria

Natalie kicked off her tourism career with a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Event Management/Tourism Management, and found a passion for Victoria’s tourism industry. She has had roles with Zoos Victoria, Melbourne Skydeck, Puffing Billy and is currently the Domestic Marketing Executive at Parks Victoria. So far, she has taken on roles in partnerships, operations, retail, ticketing, social media and content creation and campaign development. 

Some of her career highlights so far include working with the Starlight Foundation hosting famils, product development for High Tea Express (partnering with a lovely local business) and Dog Express (yes, you CAN bring your dog on Puffing Billy Railway), and setting up Melbourne Skydeck’s first photography competition. With her varied experiences, Natalie now loves an all-rounder job where she can see various touch points that come together.

Meet our MC: James Tranter

James is a self confessed YTN advocate, getting his first tourism job in Melbourne at Eureka Skydeck at a YTN event. He has been working at Melbourne Cricket Club for five years and oversees visitation to the MCG Tours and Australian Sports Museum and all things tourism. He’s also had roles in marketing, operations and sales and volunteered on the YTN committee.

Enjoy canapes and welcome drinks included.

Attend as a YTN member for free, non-members $20.

Date: Thursday, 9 May

Time: 5.30pm to 9pm

Location: Hop Bar and Garden, Beer Deluxe, Federation Square

Click here to register!

Choose Tourism – An Australian Government Initiative

Connect with your fellow emerging tourism network at our Tourism Ambassador networking night.

Meet our tourism ambassador: Madeleine Sawyer

Date: Wednesday, 5 June

Time: 5.30pm to 8pm

Location: TBC

 Save the date! Registration opening soon.

Choose Tourism – An Australian Government Initiative