MTA – Mobile Travel Agents’ Bettiann Gain has taken out top honours in the 2012 Avis Travel Agent Scholarship.

Bettiann beat off strong opposition from four of her travel industry counterparts – including MTA colleague Leanne McGovern - to win the scholarship which was announced at a formal function taking place at the Four Seasons Hotel in Sydney last night.

Bettiann’s prize, valued at more than $40,000, includes two business-class tickets to New York, six nights’ accommodation in Manhattan and seven days’ Avis car rental.

She was also be presented with a range of career development opportunities including
a first-year tourism scholarship to study at Southern Cross University’s School of Tourism and Hospitality Management, four ICCA cruise training modules, professional coaching from Polonious Resources and admission into the Travel Industry Mentor Experience (TIME).

MTA Managing Director, Roy Merricks said he was obviously extremely proud of Bettiann.

“She is a very worthy winner given she ticked all the boxes the Avis scholarship judging panel was looking for in its deliberations,” he said.

Criteria for the award included demonstrating a genuine respect for the client, a willingness to take ownership, a talent for finding innovative and creative solutions, a determination to constantly exceed expectations, applying a personal touch and a desire to continually improve.

“Both Bettiann - and for that matter Leanne and all our MTA consultants - exemplify those criteria.

“This award represents strong recognition of MTA’s customer service ethos.”

Now in its 16th year, the Avis Travel Agent Scholarship rewards outstanding customer service and is open to all Australian leisure and corporate travel consultants.

An estimated 180 agents submitted applications for this year’s award.