Getting to know Peta Torkington

Meet Peta Torkington. Currently the CEO of Prestige Harbour Cruises, Peta started out in events in 1997 when she moved to Australia from the UK. Peta can’t live without tea or a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. She loves working in events and the cruising industry, in particular, creating memorable experiences for her clients and is always happy to go that extra (nautical) mile! So, join us as we get to know another fabulous event pro, Peta Torkington…

Give us a snap shot of your career to date.

I began my career in the UK publishing industry. After moving to Australia in 1997, I took on a Sales and Marketing Manager role for a Sydney charter vessel operator and have been involved in the hospitality and events industry ever since.

The most memorable event you have worked on and why?

Amway incentive conference on a P&O cruise ship, because many of the participants had never cruised before and the program we were able to offer was so unique with Adventure at Sea activities to fine dining in one of the many ship restaurants.

What did you ‘learn the hard way’ when planning an event?

Always check the boat will be at the berth when you arrange a venue inspection, and not out on charter.

What are three personality traits that are required to succeed in the events industry?

Conscientious, Mediator, Attentive

If you could share one piece of advice to those starting out in the industry what would it be?

To ensure a successful event, understand every detail of your client’s requirements and only promise to deliver what is possible.

What song always gets you on the dance floor?

Simply the best by Tina Turner

If you could plan an event anywhere in the world where would it be and why?

Monaco because it is a renowned destination for some of the worlds most amazing super yachts

If you had to choose one meal to eat for the rest of your life what would it be?

Lasagne

If you could time travel, when would you go and why?

The year 3000 to see what the future looks like in a new millennium.

What is the most courageous thing you’ve ever done?

Start a business during the 2008 recession and survived.

What skill or talent would you most like to learn and why?

I would love to learn to glide seemingly effortlessly swimming freestyle, because it looks so relaxing.

What can you not live without in your life?

Growing up in the UK it has to be Tea

What is your biggest challenge at the moment?

Investing time into developing the business to offer a greater variety of products and services in keeping with current market trends.

What do you prefer, cocktail party or sit-down dinner?

Cocktail party especially on Sydney Harbour where you can mingle and chat whilst enjoying the views of this amazing city

What’s your drink of choice at an event?

A nice chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc

What is the craziest request you have ever had when planning an event?

A nudist colony chartering a boat for a social event in winter. It was a good thing we had heating!

Why do you love your job?

Delivering memorable experiences for our clients, working with a great team of specialist cruise event planners, and building strong partnerships with our cruise operators