AFTA’s former CEO, John Dart, passed away at the age of 90. He was the Federation’s CEO for 10 years in the late 80’s and early 90’s.

The federal government appears to be enjoying a slice of humble pie, after releasing funds it previously insisted were an “overestimation” that “would not be needed”.

Now that things are beginning to open up on a grander scale, the events and incentives are coming in thicker and faster than our office dog when she gets her midday zoomies.

What feels better than donating to a good cause? Bragging to your friends about it later, obviously.

AFTA has been working hard behind the scenes to make sure the Minister for Tourism is working even harder up front for travel agents.

Backbench across the Liberal, National and Labor parties are going to need to stock up their tea and bikkies supply to prepare for the incoming wave of agents set to converge on their offices this week.

We can feel the rage radiating from Dean Long’s general direction after the AFTA CEO added fighting airline commission cuts to the association’s list of new years resolutions.

Travel agents took to the streets earlier this week, just like they did in the ’60s but with far less groovy outfits, little to no Jimi Hendrix music, and not a ‘jazz cigarette’ in sight.

Given how bumpy these last few years have been it’s pretty risky to make long term plans, but AFTA is giving it a crack.

Want to give your local MP a piece of your mind but don’t want to get kicked out of their office for shouting profanities? Click here.

AFTA hopes a “grassroots activation” will get them on the “same field” as Government.

Travel Weekly’s own terms and conditions state that staff must be at the pub by lunchtime on a Friday, so we best be off then!