I WRITE in response to the negative reaction to the ABTA Convention reported in this week’s press.
On reading the reports, it would appear that the Cairns conference was a complete disaster. I disagree.
It is easy to criticise and I suggest that, whatever your view, we as delegates should shoulder some responsibility for the success or failure of the conference.
For sure, some sessions were lacklustre and there was no ground-breaking vision or premise to fire the imagination – but is there ever I ask?
We should consider that, more than at any past conference, we were urged as delegates to participate.
The agenda as presented appeared flexible enough to provide the opportunity to suggest issues for discussion.
It is not the fault of the organisers that we, for example, allowed the Hot Topic session to descend to petty squabbling and confused argument.
Let us not forget that 1,700 people travelled to the other side of the planet, thanks to excellent organisation and the co-ordinated efforts of many parties.
Despite the rain, I certainly enjoyed what our friend from the Henley Centre would describe as ‘an experience tinged with the odd perfect moment’
Rather than react like ‘whingeing Poms’ after the event, let us as delegates learn from this experience and be more constructive in order to make future conferences eventful, relevant and thought provoking occasions.
Well done you organisers. Many of us recognise your achievements.
Simon Tobin
Managing Director
Keycamp Holidays
Sutton