06/05/2026
Day 1 - Adelaide welcomed a global who’s who of business and hospitality leaders today for the 17th Annual AHICE Asia Pacific Hotel Industry Conference, one of the most influential gatherings in the hotel and tourism sector.
It was inspiring to hear from an exceptional lineup of speakers, including South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas, whose deep understanding of tourism, hospitality and economic development continues to position South Australia as a national growth leader. One Premier to watch!
The conference also featured an engaging conversation between Phil Waugh, CEO of Rugby Australia and Matthew Tripolone from IHG Hotels & Resorts highlighting leadership, resilience and the importance of building strong teams and culture led from the top.
And in a memorable session, Garry Gary Beers shared the extraordinary journey of INXS, a reminder that success is rarely overnight. From playing in pub to pub, countless hotels, relentless hard work, and years on the road, the band’s story was one of persistence, passion and a love for music.
Across nearly every conversation, one theme dominated “AI Technologies”.
But the strongest message emerging from the conference was clear, AI technology must enhance, not replace the human experience.
In hospitality, brand trust, loyalty, and integrity remain everything. AI can empower teams, unlock data-driven insights, and improve operational performance, but we cannot lose the human touch that creates memorable experiences for guests.
The right people in the right roles remain critical. AI is a powerful enabler, but organisations must also invest in helping people understand how to use AI effectively and responsibly.
Perhaps the most honest and refreshing insight of all:
👉 No one is truly an expert in AI yet.
👉 We are all learning together.
👉 We are all in the discovery phase.
Salter Brothers proud Platinum Sponsors of
