Founder & CEO

Jake Chiem

Jake is a highly accomplished and experienced figure in the travel industry, currently serving as the founder and CEO of The Travelcation Group. Over the last few years, under his leadership and with the support of a team of very experienced professionals, the company has expanded into new regions and developed a reputation for providing bespoke, personalised travel booking experiences.

With a career spanning two decades, Jake has held various roles in the industry, including retail, corporate travel, wholesale, and tour operation. He has managed multiple successful travel agencies and received numerous awards, including Best Travel Advisor, Best Travel Manager of the Year, and Best National Sales Manager. He was even recognized by Travel Weekly magazine as the sixth most successful travel agent of the year.

Throughout his career, Jake has travelled extensively and experienced a diverse range of accommodations and activities, from staying in a Ger tent in Mongolia to relaxing in 5-star overwater bungalows in Tahiti. He has flown in all travel classes, cruised the Mediterranean, learned Tai Chi at the Shaolin Temple in China, and gone on safari in Africa. Some of his favourite travel experiences include seeing Broadway shows in New York, sailing down the Nile in Egypt, participating in a water festival in Bangkok, cycling through Paris, enjoying delicious seafood in Nha Trang, and scuba diving in the pristine waters of Fiji.

Jake’s ultimate goal is to help his clients realise their travel dreams. With his extensive experience in both the domestic and international markets, he is committed to making the trip-planning process as easy and stress-free as possible for every traveller who picks up the phone to call The Travelcation Group.

Founder

Damon Low

General Manager

Karen Murray

Karen is a highly experienced travel professional with 27 years of Australian travel industry experience, currently serving as General Manager of the Travelcation Group and owner of Magenta Travel.
She has established herself as an expert at itinerary planning, has developed a reputation for crafting well-planned and unforgettable travel experiences as well as maintaining her long term client relationships.

Since beginning her career in the travel industry in 1996, Karen has worked with a major domestic wholesaler, managed teams in retail and wholesale call travel centres, worked on customer helplines, managed the Queensland Travel Centre in Adelaide, was an assistant manager at Phil Hoffman Travel, and has been, since 2007, a successful self-employed work-from-home travel professional. In 2022, Karen has also extended her skillset to business mentoring, working for the ASE Group with participants of the Self Employment Assistance Program. Karen mentored adults entering self-employment for the first time and helped them develop business plans and client strategies.

Karen’s passion for travel stems from her childhood memories of family holidays to the Whitsundays, New Zealand, North Stradbroke Island and Caloundra. Her time spent as an exchange student in French Canada at the young age of 17 was a life-changing experience that instilled in her the belief that travel can greatly enhance one’s mindset and change their life. This experience led Karen to abandon her political university degree and pursue a career in the travel industry.

Karen’s expertise in itinerary planning includes fully organised independent self-drive trips, cruising, iconic long-distance train journeys, and special luxury getaways. Karen’s love and considerable product knowledge of her home country is evident in her work. She is always eager to help her clients discover the beauty of Australia and New Zealand and create unforgettable memories.

Product Manager

Tahnee Inverno

Hello! I’m Tahnee, a professional travel advisor currently residing in Perth, Western Australia. Since 2009, I’ve dedicated my career to providing exceptional travel experiences. I specialise in tailor-made itineraries for solo travellers, couples, families and groups and offer you a unique personalised approach to planning and booking Aussie adventures.

Although I may be biased, Australia is one of the most diverse and beautiful destinations globally. It’s this beauty and diversity that fuels my passion for helping thousands of other Australians explore their own backyard and inspire friends from around the globe to journey here from afar.

I’ve been to almost every nook of Australia; had close encounters with the wild life and wildlands of the Top End (Northern Territory), walked through the dense rainforests in Queensland, skied (and fallen) on the picturesque snow fields of Victoria, eaten amazing seafood with a view of the Harbour bridge in Sydney NSW and watched countless sunsets over the many pristine beaches here in Western Australia, to name a few.

New Zealand also holds a special place in my heart. I’ve toured both North and South Island extensively by car, rail and cruise.

My professional career ranges from managing an award-winning retail travel store for five years to running my own mobile travel agency and working for various online agencies in ticketing, corporate travel, and customer support.

There’s no doubt that travel has changed and it’s more important than ever to have your holiday booked by an expert. If you’re looking for someone backed by 12+ years’ experience, who can ensure a safe, seamless, enjoyable holiday, I’d love to hear from you!

Travel Expert

Nicholas Kennedy

Travel Expert

Karen McCreanor

Karen McCreanor is a highly experienced professional with a remarkable 14-year career in the travel industry. Her diverse expertise spans various roles, including travel consultant, airfare specialist, check-in attendant, and customer service representative at Perth International. With a deep understanding of the travel landscape, Karen has also ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing her own successful travel agency.

Throughout her extensive career, Karen has gained valuable insights and cultivated a passion for exploring the world. Her globetrotting adventures have taken her to an impressive 42 countries, allowing her to immerse herself in a wide range of cultures and experiences. Among her favourite cities are New York, Rome, and Barcelona, which she appreciates for their vibrant atmosphere and rich history.

Karen’s travel experiences have fostered a love for discovering local cuisines and dining at authentic restaurants. When visiting new destinations, she delights in exploring the streets, landmarks, and cultural offerings, which enable her to gain a deeper appreciation of each city’s unique character.
One of Karen’s particular areas of expertise lies in the realm of cruise travel. Her extensive knowledge and firsthand experience have made her an invaluable resource for clients seeking exceptional cruise vacations. Having embarked on 13 cruises herself, Karen is intimately familiar with the intricacies of the cruise industry, enabling her to offer expert advice and tailor-made recommendations to her clients.

With her comprehensive understanding of the travel industry, coupled with her passion for exploration and customer service excellence, Karen McCreanor is an indispensable asset to any travel organization or client seeking a trusted advisor for their travel needs. Her wealth of experience and genuine enthusiasm for providing exceptional travel experiences make her a highly sought-after professional in the field.

Travel Expert

Sascha McRae

I caught the travel bug at a very young age. From my first solo overseas trip from Canada to Australia as a curious 8 year old, to moving to Galway, Ireland as a youth craving adventure at 17, the signs were there – I should have known I would grow up to work in travel!
Years of living and adventuring through Europe and its surroundings led me to move to Australia. I had only ever experienced Sydney & The breathtakingly beautiful Blue Mountains in my youth. I have since lived in Northern NSW, Sydney, Adelaide, Eyre Peninsula, and Melbourne. I have dipped my toes in the Indian Ocean, holidaying in Fremantle, and drank fine wines in the Margaret River Region. I have slept under the stars in a swag at Kings Canyon and done the base walk at Uluru.
I have explored Byron and Surfers and spots in between. I have been to a Rodeo in Guyra and the Country Music Festival in Tamworth.
Living and working here for the past 15 years, I have found my joy and passion in being a travel adviser, helping folks discover the food, music, customs and cultures of the world, be it in our backyard or abroad.

Sales Manager

Elena Vartazarian

Elena believes that travel is more than just a checklist of places to visit. To her, it’s about fully immersing oneself in a destination and experiencing it with all senses. This means indulging in local cultures, languages, food, and interacting with locals to gain a deeper understanding of a place.

She developed a passion for travel early on, having traveled extensively with her family and on a student budget. Later on, she enjoyed luxurious holidays with her husband, and now shares the joy of travel with her two sons. Elena was born in Iran and raised in Australia, and has explored various countries in Southeast Asia, the South Pacific, Europe, USA, Canada, and recently, Armenia and the surrounding regions.

Elena has had many remarkable travel experiences, including cheering on the Socceroos at the 2018 World Cup in Sochi, walking the streets of Yerevan with Armenians during the Velvet Revolution, and observing turtles nesting in Borneo. She has traveled through various modes of transportation, including cycling, buses, trains, cruises, and driving, which enables her to recommend the best options for any traveler.

Elena has worked in the travel industry for more than 15 years, specialising in leisure and corporate travel. She currently focuses on family holidays with kids and has learned that different life stages require different travel styles. Whether it’s domestic or international travel, Asia or Europe, or organised tours or self-drive holidays, Elena can help plan the perfect trip. She invites travellers to share their travel dreams and allows her to create the best imaginable trip for them.

Travel Expert

Raffaella Gatto

Raffaella is an enthusiastic and knowledgeable travel professional who thrives on sharing her passion for exploration with her clients. From a young age, she developed a deep appreciation for the wonders of the world and a curiosity to discover new cultures and experiences.

Growing up in a multicultural environment, Raffaella was exposed to diverse traditions and perspectives, which sparked her desire to embark on her own global adventures. Her love for the industry led her to pursue a career in travel, where she could turn her personal passion into a profession.

With years of experience in the field, Raffaella has cultivated a wealth of knowledge about various destinations around the globe. From popular tourist hotspots to hidden gems off the beaten path, she is well-versed in curating unique and memorable travel experiences tailored to her client’s preferences.

Raffaella takes great pride in her role as a travel consultant, as it allows her to play a pivotal part in creating lifelong memories for her clients. She understands the importance of personalized attention and strives to exceed expectations by crafting meticulously planned itineraries that cater to every detail and desire.

Whether it’s a relaxing beach getaway, an adventurous hiking expedition, or an immersive cultural tour, Raffaella’s expertise and dedication ensure that each trip is carefully designed to meet and surpass her clients’ expectations. Her goal is to provide exceptional service, ensuring that every aspect of the journey is seamless and memorable.

With Raffaella as your trusted travel consultant, you can expect a seamless and unforgettable travel experience. Her passion, knowledge, and commitment to excellence will guide you towards creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Travel Expert

Julie Revett

Booking your holiday can be quite involved, daunting & costly. I am here to find you the best deals, take the stress out of planning your well-deserved break & make your holiday fun!

My love of travel began 20 years ago. I am lucky enough to have travelled widely to destinations such as domestic Australia, Indonesia, Singapore (yes, 22 times!) Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, India, China, Hong Kong, Jamaica (having been married on Onassis’ yacht!) Mauritius, Fiji, New Zealand (both North and South Island) Paris, England and Scotland, USA and Canada. I have even sailed a few cruises!
My clients book with me because they know I listen to their needs. I have the experience and first-hand knowledge to give recommendations which are tailored to your requirements and more importantly I can save you time and money. Satisfaction is the number one element for me as a professional travel planner. Most of my clients will come by me, from recommendations from one of their friends, colleagues or family letting them know about their fantastic holiday experiences.

So, next time you are looking for the perfect holiday please call me. I guarantee to provide you with the highest possible level of personal service coupled with enthusiasm, reliability and most importantly my own extensive travel history.

Travel is indeed my passion not just my job.

Travel Expert

Treacy Scott

Treacy is a seasoned travel expert with extensive knowledge of New Zealand and worldwide destinations. Her career in the travel industry started during her high school days, where she pursued a course in Travel & Tourism. She kickstarted her career in an Information Centre, where she booked activities, accommodations, and transportation for travellers visiting New Zealand. Through work trips, she had the privilege of exploring the South Island and indulging in exciting activities like Sky Dives, Bungy Jumps, Canyon Swings, Milford & Doubtful Sound Cruises, Glacier Ice Cave Walks, and Helicopter Snow Landings, among others.

Treacy’s specialty is in crafting tailor-made New Zealand itineraries that showcase the country’s most popular tourist attractions and hidden gems. She has lived in Perth, Western Australia, for the last 9 years, where she has broadened her expertise to encompass worldwide travel. Treacy has explored numerous destinations across Australia, from the stunning coastlines to the Dunsborough and Margaret River Wineries. Additionally, she has had the opportunity to travel overseas, with visits to the United Kingdom, Paris, Germany, Switzerland, Greece, the Greek Islands, Dubai, Rarotonga, and Fiji.

Treacy takes pleasure in creating personalized travel experiences that her clients will cherish for years to come. She works meticulously to ensure that every aspect of a holiday is tailored to meet her client’s needs, making each journey an enjoyable and memorable experience.

Travel Expert

Gaylene Nichols

Embarking on a journey can be much more than simply moving from one place to another; it’s about exploring, experiencing, and embracing the world’s wonders. This belief is personified in Gaylene, whose life revolves around the pursuit of discovery. Her extensive travels, passion, and insights make her the ideal partner for crafting your dream vacation.

Gaylene’s fervour for travel first found its spark amidst the alluring contrasts of Vietnam. She explored its length, from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the historical depths of Saigon, via the authentic experience of a sleeper bus. Her deep appreciation and understanding of Vietnamese culture and landscapes position her uniquely to advise those seeking to uncover this Asian jewel.
Her adventures didn’t stop in Asia. Gaylene’s heart also belongs to the vast, blue oceans. She’s sailed with P&O across the shimmering waters of the South Pacific, beholding the majestic beauty of its islands. New Zealand’s rugged landscapes and rich Maori culture captivated her, as did the Mediterranean’s sapphire waters, stretching from the cosmopolitan vibrance of London to the timeless allure of Venice.

Though she’s brushed her fingers across the tapestry of the USA, Europe remains a highlight in Gaylene’s travel diary. The enchanting Rhine River Castle cruise stands out. This journey, dotted with medieval castles, quaint hamlets, and framed by Europe’s old-world charm, crescendoed with a week-long immersion in Amsterdam, with its historical landmarks and lively streets.
Gaylene passionately endorses two shore excursions for those intrigued by the Rhine’s magic. For the physically spirited, Speyer’s monastery hike awaits, leading to a wine-tasting session that captures the essence of the region. And for those with a daring palate, Weinessiggut Doktorenhof offers a distinctive vinegar-tasting experience, a delightful surprise for the adventurous traveller.
Gaylene’s travel compass is always pointing towards the next grand experience. Canada’s untouched wilderness and Alaska’s icy splendours beckon her. And as the festive season nears, she envisions herself amidst the sparkling Christmas markets skirting the Danube, where tradition meets festivity.

Gaylene’s travels are not just stamps on a passport; they are stories, experiences, and lessons. This vast reservoir of firsthand experiences equips her to curate and tailor-make journeys for our clientele with a personal touch. Whether it’s an adrenaline-fueled adventure, a romantic escapade, or a deep cultural immersion you seek, Gaylene is the key to turning your travel dreams into tangible memories.

Travel Expert

Jayne Rodgers

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Product Assistant

Raeshalyne Avon

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Product Assistant

Cristopher Arceo

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Admin & Finance

Rachel Johnson

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