Judging the 2011 “Fashions on the Field”: PTM Merran Wiggins, Andrew Johnston - NSW Sales Manager, De Bortoli Wines and Laura Dundovic – Myer Ambassador
	‘Irish Times’ the winning horse of the 2011 “TravelManagers Class 2 Handicap” with trainer Clarry Conners, his wife Maree and PTM Merran Wiggins.

TravelManagers personal travel manager representative for Newcastle, Merran Wiggins, believes that getting involved in the local community makes ‘great business sense’. In conjunction with the Newcastle Jockey Club and Westfield, she sponsored “Fashions on the Field” in September and in conjunction with Club Med provided the major prize for the event.

“It was a huge success, as was sponsoring the ‘TravelManagers’ Cup at what is one of Newcastle’s biggest racing days of the season. The Newcastle Jockey Club is a loyal corporate client of mine and supporting the Newcastle’s Spring Racing Carnival is one way I can say thanks to them for their business, as well as developing other leads.”

The sponsorship came about through a client because they thought TravelManagers and Wiggins (as a personal travel manager) were the perfect fit for the organisation. Wiggins says it has helped her tap into two very distinct markets, the under 30s who love to travel in style and the over 45s who are more family holiday orientated.

“It’s been a great opportunity to tap into these markets in a credible way. My involvement is paying off with over 15 leisure bookings already this year from being part of the carnival as well as corporate travel bookings and functions. It’s all about creating brand awareness and of course promoting myself and what I can offer.”

Wiggins says Ladies Day is growing in popularity and is a great connection for her as a personal travel manager.

“Westfield has come on-board which has meant we have taken Ladies Day Fashion in the Field from a small stage in the gardens to a stunning fashion marquee. We offer a three-course meal, champagne and wine flowing courtesy of De Bortoli, elegantly themed marquees with styling pods and stylists from the industry assisting with fashion, hair and makeup tips.

“Our local television personalities are on hand as compares and the sponsors provide fantastic prizes including jewelry, Westfield vouchers and of course a Club Med holiday for the “Best Dressed Female” which my local representative Adam Feraro supported me with. Let’s face it women love to shop, they love fashion and if that’s linked to travel it’s even better! Getting involved has been a fantastic business networking opportunity for me that is paying big dividends.”

Wiggins says she has been with TravelManagers since 2009 and credits them with providing outstanding support as she has grown her business.

“They have helped me immensely. You couldn’t ask for better systems, particularly in the areas of marketing and IT. I love that the TravelManagers’ software allows me to personally communicate with my clients while offering them the sharpest marketing deals possible. You just can’t get a better combination. I relish having my own business partnership manager who is committed to supporting me and my family goals as well as my business aspirations. There’s no cookie-cutter approach here.”

Wiggins confirms she’s a ‘mad racing fan’ and that she’s had some luck with her bets outside of backing TravelManagers.