Dear Skålleagues,

It has been an incredible two-week journey travelling through Türkiye, where our adventures took us to Gallipoli for a very moving experience, the vibrant cities of Istanbul, the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia, and the stunning terraces of Pamukkale. Accompanying me on this journey were our Director Melinda Brown, New Zealand President Victoria Wales and Broome Secretary Jensen Skjellerup.

Türkiye, a land where east meets west, is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the bustling streets of Istanbul, where ancient architecture meets modern vibrancy, to the surreal fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and staying in a cave hotel, every corner of this enchanting country tells an incredible story.

From the bustling bazaars filled with vibrant spices and handcrafted goods, soaring over the unique rock formations of Cappadocia in a hot air balloon at sunrise, wandering through the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, where the echoes of history resonate in every stone and wading through Pamukkale's breathtaking terraces, adorned with shimmering white travertine, we immersed ourselves in an unforgettable experience!

Currently, we are excited to be in Izmir for the World Congress, where approximately 300 Skålleagues from all over the world have gathered, including 31 delegates from Australia and 3 from New Zealand. This event has been a wonderful opportunity for us to reconnect with Skål friends and colleagues from around the globe, celebrating the impressive achievements of our Skålleagues.

The importance of World Congresses cannot be overstated. They serve as a vital platform for fostering friendships, creating new business opportunities, and reinforcing the camaraderie that our organisation represents. The energy and enthusiasm so far have been incredible, and it’s heartening to see so many dedicated individuals come together to share their stories, experiences, industry knowledge and insights with fellow colleagues.

We are particularly looking forward to celebrating with Denise Scrafton as she steps into her role as World President. Her leadership promises to inspire and guide Skål International toward a prosperous and successful future.

Stay tuned for our November newsletter, where we will provide a comprehensive debrief of the World Congress and share more news about our travels, experiences, and achievements. Travel Safe! 

Yours in Skål,

Ash Munn

President

Partnerships & Technology