Institute of Australian Tour Guides upcoming events

IATG Workshop for Tour Guides (14 May 2026)

Wed, 13 May 2026 22:30:00 GMT

IATG invites you to our Annual Workshop

Unlock the hidden stories of the Blue Mountains and add new depth to your tours!

A unique professional development opportunity designed to help guides move beyond the famous Three Sisters and showcase the rich natural and cultural heritage of this iconic region.

This workshop brings together expert speakers who will share fascinating insights to help you build engaging, informative and memorable commentary for your tours.

You’ll hear about:

Seasons, Sky and Country: Cultural knowledge of the Blue Mountains
More than a view: How the iconic landscapes have been shaped by rocks, uplift and erosion over millions of years
Eucalypts uncovered: Their story and how to identify the main groups
The Carrington Hotel: Hidden stories behind one of Katoomba’s grandest landmarks
Early colonial history: The development of the Blue Mountains
Birdlife of the Blue Mountains: From lyrebirds to cockatoos
From trees to taste: The diversity of Australian honey

What you’ll gain:

New knowledge to enhance your guiding commentary
Deeper understanding of the Blue Mountains’ natural and cultural treasures
Inspiration to create memorable, meaningful tour experiences

When: Thursday 14 May 26, 8.45am-5pm

Where: National Trust Centre

Cost: The workshop fee which includes lunch. $80 for Professional* (collect 2 PD points), $99 for Affiliates*, $85 for Students and Volunteer Guides, $155 for non members [No refunds available]

* Half day fee available for Professional, fee includes lunch

RSVP Sunday 10 May 26

VIVID Cruise Social (25 May 2026)

Mon, 25 May 2026 06:45:00 GMT

Sunset Cruise, VIVID Lights and Drones

Join us for an IATG Social Event on a VIVID Cruise to Sydney Harbour on a private hire charter boat.

Onboard enjoy 360 degree views of the Vivid installations from Darling Harbour to the Opera House, while enjoying the delicious, all included canapés.

Disembark 7pm with the OPTION to walk individually to Cockle Bay for the “Star Bound" Drone Show.

When: Monday 25 May 2026, 4.45pm-7pm

Cost: Discounted flat rate of $65pp. A plus 1 is welcome.

Cruise and canapés included. Cash bar available.

[No refunds available]

RSVP close 15 May

Event host: Gaille (M) 0414 885 619

(E) gailledargan@gmail.com

FAMIL: Guided Tour of State Theatre (26 May 2026)

Tue, 26 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

PALACE OF DREAMS TOUR

Sydney State Theatre Exclusive FAMIL

Since its opening in 1929, The State Theatre Sydney has captivated the hearts and minds of patrons with its majestic elegance. Join in a guided tour of this magnificent and unique building and discover why it’s known as the Palace of Dreams.

During a fascinating tour, you will:

Experience the grandeur of standing in a 2000 seat auditorium beautifully framed by 13 hand-cut crystal chandeliers
Observe the eclectic elements of the Theatre’s Gothic, Italian and Art deco design
Discover the State’s famous Character Lounges including the exotic Butterfly Room, the Pioneer Room, College Room and more
Be mesmerised by the worlds second largest hand-cut crystal chandelier, the Koh-i-Nor
See the original mighty Wurlitzer Organ, the voice of silent movies (pending availability).
Delve into the depths of the Theatre to discover engineering marvels and mechanical masterpieces

Recognised for its great historical significance and high architectural quality, this is your chance to be enchanted by the State Theatre Sydney.

When: Tuesday 26 May 2026, 10am - 11.30am (new date)

Cost: $15 Professional /$20 Affiliates, Students and Volunteers

If not filled, will be open to non-Members, at $25 Non-members

[No refunds available]

RSVP close 18 May 26

Event host: Gaille (M) 0414 885 619

(E) gailledargan@gmail.com

PALACE OF DREAMS TOUR

Sydney State Theatre Exclusive FAMIL

During a fascinating tour, you will:

Experience the grandeur of standing in a 2000 seat auditorium beautifully framed by 13 hand-cut crystal chandeliers
Observe the eclectic elements of the Theatre’s Gothic, Italian and Art deco design
Discover the State’s famous Character Lounges including the exotic Butterfly Room, the Pioneer Room, College Room and more
Be mesmerised by the worlds second largest hand-cut crystal chandelier, the Koh-i-Nor
See the original mighty Wurlitzer Organ, the voice of silent movies (pending availability).
Delve into the depths of the Theatre to discover engineering marvels and mechanical masterpieces

Recognised for its great historical significance and high architectural quality, this is your chance to be enchanted by the State Theatre Sydney.

When: Tuesday 5 May 2026, 10am - 11.30am

Cost: $15 Professional /$20 Affiliates, Students and Volunteers

If not filled, will be open to non-Members, at $25 Non-members

[No refunds available]

RSVP close 1 April 26

Walk & Talk: Experience-Building Tours for New Guides (03 Jun 2026)

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Walk & Talk

Experience-Building Tours for New Guides

Whether you’re keen to lead or just want to support your peers as part of the “audience”, we’d love to see you there.

PLACES ARE LIMITED - 5 SPOTS ONLY for new guides
Professional Guides, we need your help, as a mentor and audience, earn 1 PD point

We’re offering an exciting opportunity for new or aspiring guides to build confidence and gain real experience on the ground. These “Walk and Talk” Trial Tours are designed for IATG Affiliate members who are ready to step into guiding – whether it’s your very first tour or you're looking to get more comfortable leading a group.

Each session will be an informal, low-pressure walking tour of Circular Quay, taking in key sights such as the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Sydney Ferries, the Tank Stream, the history of circular quay, and more. It’s the perfect way to put your skills into practice with a friendly and supportive group.

Let’s help our new guides take their first confident steps!

Date: Wednesday 3 June

Time: Meet at City Extra before 7pm for a 1–1.5 hour walking tour

Cost: Free (You can grab a coffee at City Extra before we begin)

Audience: IATG members who’d love to support and encourage our new guides

Note: If more than one guide would like to practise on the same evening, we’ll rotate guides during the tour so everyone gets a turn.

RSVP by 1 June

Event host: Stephen Milgate AM M: 0425 283 411 E: Stephen@milgate.net

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Other dates we will be hosting Walk & Talk Trial Tours are Wednesday 5 August

IATG New Tour Guides Forum (30 Jun 2026)

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Are you new to tour guiding or looking to expand your skills and knowledge?

Join us for the New Guides Forum, hosted by the IATG Committee – a panel of experienced guides ready to share their stories, advice, and practical tips to help you grow in your career.

Our panel brings together seasoned guides with diverse backgrounds, including walking tours, overland expeditions, cruise ship excursions, and more. This is your chance to hear firsthand about the real-world experiences that make tour guiding such a dynamic profession.

When: Tuesday 30 June, arrive for a 6pm start

Where: City Extra Restaurant upstairs, Circular Quay

Topics Include:

Different types of guiding work and what they entail
Key advice for those just starting out
How to find work as a guide
Preparing for a tour in a new location or on a new topic
Maintaining your voice and energy on long days
Balancing engaging storytelling with solid facts
Managing time and pacing during tours

Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your approach, this session is designed to inspire, inform, and connect you with others in the guiding community.

RSVP by 26 June. Get your first drink for FREE.

2026 IATG AGM and Annual Dinner (18 Aug 2026)

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 07:30:00 GMT

2026 Annual General Meeting

You’re invited to the IATG 2026 Annual General Meeting and Annual Dinner.

The AGM will be held at Castlereagh Boutique Hotel, with dinner to follow. If you can come that would be great as its a you not only get an update on the year's activities, its a great chance to catch up with colleagues. The Committee needs 2 new members, please consider if you can be nominated to join the Committee (here is a nomination form)

We realise that not all our non-NSW members will be able to join us, but everyone is invited, and we want you all to have the details available.

For Professional Members, attendance at the AGM nets 2 PD points which you can use towards this year's or next year's membership renewal. If you are unable to make the AGM, please consider completing a proxy (here is a proxy form).

AGM only: Free, includes a glass of wine/beer/soft drink and a chance network plus meet some of our valued Corporate Members
AGM & Annual Dinner: $70 payable on registration, $85 for non members

Event details

5.30pm Arrival and Complimentary* Welcome Drink

*courtesy of JMD Ross generous support

6.00pm AGM commences

Prior to the meeting we will send a copy of last year's AGM minutes and this year's Financial Report. Both items are to be accepted and seconded, as part of the AGM formalities. Please RSVP for AGM to assist with venue set-up.

7.30pm Annual Dinner

A sumptuous 2 course meal. Dinner is alternate drop so please advise if you have any dietary requests when booking.

Book by Sunday, 9 August - payment is required upon booking

If you have any questions, send us an email on info@iatg.com.au

Best wishes

Sofi and your IATG Committee