Australian-focused travel and tour operator Journey Beyond has announced the completion of its acquisition of Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia, including its iconic businesses Ayers Rock Resort in Yulara and Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre in Far North Queensland.
The transaction – first announced back in early December – follows extensive consultation led by the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC) with the Traditional Owners – Anangu of Yulara and the Kuku Yalanji of Mossman Gorge and represents a significant step toward returning the lands at both sites to Community ownership.
For Journey Beyond, the addition of Ayers Rock Resort and Mossman Gorge truly complements its existing portfolio of incredible rail expeditions, unique camps and lodges, cruises and touring experiences.
Chris Tallent, CEO of Journey Beyond, said: “This is an incredibly important and exciting moment for Journey Beyond. Voyages aligns perfectly with our purpose – to create amazing, connected and authentic experiences. Our ambition continues to bring together the most distinctive, experience-led brands that celebrate the very best of Australia’s and New Zealand’s landscapes and cultures.”
Journey Beyond brings a strong track record of partnering with First Nations communities across its business, including through its Outback Spirit network, rail expeditions and wilderness lodges. The company will continue Voyages’ commitment to respectful cultural tourism and to partnering with and delivering tangible economic outcomes for Indigenous Australians. The National Indigenous Training Academy (NITA) will continue to play an important role in developing education and employment pathways and growing First Nations representation and participation across the broader tourism industry.
A condition of the sale includes Journey Beyond’s commitment to remove the word “Indigenous” from the Voyages corporate name, to reflect that it is no longer owned by the ILSC. Whilst its name will change from Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia to Voyages Tourism Australia, it does not diminish in any way the continuing commitment both Voyages and Journey Beyond have to building great partnerships and better outcomes for First Nations people across the group.
