IT was ABTA chief executive Ian Reynolds who announ- ced the break with conf-erence tradition for Cairns this year.
“It’s going to be hot out there, so whatever people feel relaxed in they can wear to the business sessions,” he said.
For the first time, the association is encouraging delegates to ditch the jacket and tie and formal trousers and adopt a more casual look for the business sessions.
With temperatures expected to hit a sticky 31-32C, the move is a sensible one and has been broadly supported by many in the industry.
But worryingly, it will give delegates carte blanche to don their most outrageous gear.
“We will see all the sartorial elegance of the British male in summer,” said P&O Cruises managing director Gwyn Hughes who refused to confirm or deny he would be wearing his flowery Hawaiian shirt to the business sessions.
Even more worrying was Reynolds’ style tip – long shorts and long socks.
“When in Australia do as the Australians do,” said Reynolds.
ABTA has even thrown caution to the wind for the President’s Dinner.
Normally the most traditional and formal of black tie occasions, guests have been told that while black and white dress is the theme, dinner jackets and ball gowns are not essential.