Our Team at Sisterhood Womens Travel
Our wonderful team of experienced tour hostesses share your passion for travel and can't wait to welcome you to your next adventure! No matter who you are lucky enough to have hostess your group, you'll find us all warm, friendly, nurturing and supportive. Life is all about getting out of your comfort zone and what better way to discover the world than under the guidance and encouragement of a friendly professional in an amazing small group environment! When the time is right for you to take the plunge - don't worry we're here to catch you!
Hayley Morris
Founder / Hostess / Travel Designer
As the founder of award-winning Sisterhood Womens Travel and a pioneer of womens travel in Australia, I have spent more than 24 years in the travel industry doing what I truly love.
Sisterhood was born from a simple idea. I could see a need for interesting, fully inclusive tours created especially for women; journeys where women could feel supported, connected and completely comfortable travelling in the company of others.
Over 20 years later, thousands of women have travelled with us, and Sisterhood Womens Travel has grown to become one of Australia's leading womens tour companies.
I have always believed that when you genuinely love what you do, your passion is contagious. My two great loves are travelling the world and bringing like-minded women together to experience it.
Over the years, my travels have taken me across Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, the Americas and the Pacific. I have travelled independently and as part of a group, explored iconic destinations and ventured well beyond the usual tourist trail. Every journey has reinforced what I have always believed: travel is even more special when the experience is shared.
For me, Sisterhood is about so much more than visiting beautiful places. It is about the women we meet, the stories we share, the laughter at the end of a long day and the friendships that often continue long after the suitcases have been unpacked.
I feel incredibly privileged to have created a community of women bound together by a love of travel, connection and adventure. There is still so much of this wonderful world I want to see, and I cannot think of a better way to experience it than with my Sisters by my side.
My love of Morocco has even led me to buy my own riad in Marrakech, a place that has completely captured my heart. I hope that one day I have the pleasure of welcoming you to my favourite corner of the world.
I cannot wait to see where our Sisterhood journeys take us next.
Donna Simmons
Manager - SWT Central / Hostess
Travelling is in my blood. I've been in the Travel Industry for over 30years. I've been lucky enough to travel to USA, including New York, San Franciso, Las Vegas and Mexico. I've enjoyed Fiji, Vanuatu, Noumea, Tahiti, Bali, New Zealand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Croatia, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Egypt, Jordan, Antarctica, and my latest adventure was to Nepal. I've sailed and railed throughout Europe but also love travelling in my backyard, including exploring Central Australia, Tasmania, Queensland, New South Wales and both Kangaroo and Lord Howe Islands. In 2018, I travelled to South Africa and competed in the Cape Town marathon (my other love!), and I was also lucky enough to visit Uganda on our Sisters in the Mist tour. I've walked the famous Camino de Compostella twice with a bunch of 'Sisters" and have been to Uganda twice on tour with Sisterhood. I look forward to meeting you either at Sisterhood Central or on my next tour!
Sarah Segal
2IC - SWT Central Admin / Hostess
From a very young age, I worked out that the world was an amazing place, full of far away lands and cultures, and I knew that I had to get out and see it…All I dreamed of, was travelling and exploring, and once old enough, I was off.
Since my very first overseas trip in 1986, I have travelled far and wide. Before making travel my profession 20 years ago, some of my adventures included working in an American summer camp, volunteering at a peace organisation in Norway, camping across the US in National Parks from New York to LA, and living on a kibbutz in Israel – where I went for 7 weeks and stayed for 7 years!
Once I joined the travel industry in 2002, opportunities to explore more of the world were on offer, and I loved it! I have stayed in everything from a 6-star resort in Abu Dhabi and to an Eco-Lodge in the Amazon jungle, from a casino resort in Macau to a tent on the Inca Trail in Peru. I love roller coasters and beaches, Disney parks and National Parks and have been fortunate enough to have had a variety of amazing experiences in many countries and cities around the world.
The last few years during Covid were tough for travel, and I am so happy to be back in the industry that I love, working with a likeminded group of women helping other women fulfill their travel dreams.
Silvana Danielis
SWT Central Admin / Hostess
The travel bug has been a slow burning fascination buried beneath my duties as a mother, wife, sister, daughter and friend. No doubt many of you can relate – we’re good at putting others first!
I love meeting “sisters” united in their desire to see more of the world and to find adventure in whatever form it takes.
Helping to provide an opportunity for other women to feel a sense of accomplishment or satisfaction in ticking off those bucketlist items, in a supportive environment, gives me great satisfaction!
I have been extremely lucky in my life to have travelled to many countries over the years with my family and friends. With a customer service background I look forward to assisting 'Sisters' to have an unforgettable travel experience.
Bec Wilson
SWT Central Finance
My travel experience is not as extensive as the other girls but I have holidayed in Bali & Thailand a couple times and enjoyed a few beautiful South Pacific and Australian cruises.
My husband Mark and I married (eloped!) 22 years ago on beautiful Mana Island, Fiji. Soon after, we spent a year living and travelling all over Queensland, but missed the diversity of Melbourne and returned to where we now live in the stunning Yarra Valley. We have 3 beautiful boys and 2 gorgeous grandchildren, all of which keep us very busy.
My true love is our own country. I am in love with the Australian Outback and all the history and culture it holds. I climbed Uluru and Kata Tjuta, and spent time living within the culture and lifestyle of the aboriginal settlement Yuendumu, along with many other treasures of our stunning outback. I love road trips, caravanning and camping, hiking, and have enjoyed time in many of the quirky, quaint and historic towns all over our incredible country.
I am so grateful to be a part of the ‘Sisterhood’ and experience all the excitement it offers our travellers. I really look forward to watching the continual growth of what I believe is, a wonderful & unique concept for women…..to experience the world of travel and all the magic that brings, along with making and sharing these amazing tours and events with new friends, created through a mutual love of travel. Our planet is a gift to humanity and having the opportunity and privilege to travel anywhere in the world with friends for company is truly a blessing.
Verity Wolf
Rosa II Co-Ordinator / Driver / Hostess
I'm totally thrilled to join Sisterhood Womens Travel and will enjoy meeting you all as we share adventures together in our gorgeous pink bus, Rosa II. The culture at SWT is a perfect fit for me, and I love planning and hosting fabulous day trips and mini breaks for all of you; it's my new obsession. It’s the best feeling to organise a great day out for like-minded women, share stories, and create laughter and memories.
I'm your go-to Sister for all things Melbourne and surrounds! I love finding that unique destination to share with excited travellers and I can't wait to share my passion for local destinations with you.
On the personal side, these are a few of my favourite things: Travel, Horses and Chardonnay! Each year, I travel to ride dressage horses in Spain or Portugal where I get to enjoy all three!
Whilst I’m a Melbourne chick, most of my family live in England, which feels just as much like home. Tourism and equestrian pursuits have been the sole focus of my career.
A seven-year stint across the ditch saw me renovate a mansion in the middle of nowhere, run a luxury Bed and Breakfast and flip four properties in Otago. I'm better with a chainsaw than I am with the oven! And I adore a luxury five-star and a swag under the stars in the bush.
Ladies, as you all know there’s nothing like travel and so far I’ve ventured to Indonesia, New Zealand, Canada, Alaska, North America, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Mexico, Peru, England, France, Italy, Austria, Greece, Croatia, Montenegro, Turkey, Switzerland, Germany, Netherlands, South Africa, Spain, Portugal and Egypt.
As a member of the Free the Bears Foundation, I volunteered at the rescue sanctuaries in Cambodia and Laos. I met my sponsor bear after seven years, and that’s where travel can bring tears of the best kind.
I look forward to enjoying a Rosa II adventure with you soon!
Carolyn Allen
Hostess
My feet first began to itch when I escorted coach tours for Contiki through Europe in 1980. Since then I’ve enjoyed a very varied and respected career in the travel industry servicing retail, corporate, group and conference clients.
I have travelled to all corners of the globe and taken many groups with me along the way. I enjoy 'getting down and dirty' with the locals and my knowledge of all things off the beaten track is exceptional.
I love weaving my magic over groups of 'Sisters' to amazing destinations including Morocco, India, Borneo, Kamalaya Wellness Retreat in Koh Samui, Scotland, Spain & Portugal to name a few.
I am passionate about travel and like nothing more than to share new and wonderful experiences with my fabulous travelling companions.
Denise Moore
Hostess
Travel has been my passion ever since I was a little girl growing up in Ireland. I even remember digging on the beach when I was about five years old, telling my sister I had found Australia and was going to live there. It took me another 30 years to get here, but there is definitely no looking back.
My career has always been in the travel industry. I worked in Germany for 7 years and in London for several years before moving to Melbourne, where I continue to work as a travel agent and a passionate Sisterhood Hostess. Since hosting my first tour to China in May 2015, I have led over 25 tours and have no intention of stopping. The women I have travelled with have truly inspired and humbled me; everyone has an extraordinary story.
We have explored incredible destinations together, ranging from local day tours in Melbourne to far-flung places like Antarctica and Iceland. While every trip is unique, the camaraderie and support felt on tour remain a constant, wonderful highlight.
I am looking forward to many more adventures with my sisters, whether local or international. My goal is always to ensure everyone has a fabulous holiday and leaves with a smile. Long live the Sisterhood!
Simonetta Seri
Hostess
There’s something truly magical about travel—the thrill of new experiences, the richness of diverse cultures, and the joy of unexpected moments. For me, travel isn’t just about the destination; it’s about embracing different traditions, languages, and, of course, the food!
Whether it’s my first visit or my tenth, I’ve discovered that group travel brings a unique energy—filled with fun, surprises, and shared adventures. Every journey is shaped by the people who take part, making each experience one-of-a-kind.
As part of the Sisterhood team for many years, my role is to support, encourage, and ensure you get the most out of your trip. I’m here for you—every step of the way.
Dawn Caputo
Hostess
Hello Sisters!
I'm Dawn… although if you've spotted my Facebook name, you'll know my official name is Avgoula, which means "Dawn" in Greek.
I've been lucky enough to spend more than 30 years in the travel industry, working across many facets of tourism and doing what I love every day. Although I was born in Greece, Australia has been home for over 50 years, and I still think we're incredibly lucky to have such an amazing country to explore.
Over the years, I've had the privilege of hosting tours throughout Australia, Europe, Asia, and Morocco, visiting beautiful destinations including Greece, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Vietnam, Bhutan, Malta, Sicily, and the stunning European rivers. Every destination has its own magic, but I've discovered that it's the people you travel with who make the biggest difference.
That's why I love being part of Sisterhood Womens Travel. As one of Australia's first women-only tour companies, we've had the privilege of helping thousands of women discover the world, build confidence and, most importantly, form lifelong friendships.
For me, travel isn't about ticking destinations off a list—it's about sharing laughter, making memories and creating friendships that last long after the suitcase has been unpacked.
I can't wait to meet you, hear your stories and share some wonderful adventures together. Here's to new experiences, lots of laughs and friendships that last a lifetime. See you on tour!
Pamela Thompson
Mum / Public Relations
As Hayley's Mum I have been with Sisterhood since its inception nearly 20 years ago...first as a tour hostess and now as an office support and public relations contributor. My hostessing during fifteen tours introduced me to many wonderful women on their individual journeys and I was priveledged to share many life changing adventures with them. To see women depart, often as strangers, and return with new found friendships, supports the wonderful concept of women only travel, and I am proud of Hayleys achievements.
Kathy Lang
Hostess
I was born in New Zealand and like most Kiwis, travelling is a rite of passage. I crossed the ditch in the mid 70s with my first post-university job being a resident singer at the Swagman Restaurant in Ferntree Gully, with part time PE and Maths teaching on the side. Four years later I took off for the UK to start my real travel adventures. After surviving temp work in bars, restaurants, offices and in teaching, I decided tour guiding was the ideal way to experience the Continent. I have been involved in the travel and events industry ever since; in sales marketing, as a travel agent, and as an events and tour hostess. I retired after 25 years as a TAFE tourism, events and tour guiding teacher, as it was time to get back on the road again. I'm excited about joining Sisterhood Women’s Travel and I'm really looking forward to sharing new adventures with like-minded women.
Jennifer Boyd
Hostess
My wanderlust began at an early age, and it seemed inevitable that I would venture beyond the familiar to discover what the world had to offer. In 1988, I quit my job, bought a backpack, and booked a one-way flight to China. The plan was simple: travel overland until the money ran out, then find work. Years flew by, seven continents, countless countries and many magical moments encountered. I'm still travelling, still embracing the unknown, and still wondering what lies beyond the horizon. With over 30 years in the travel industry and five wonderful years with Sisterhood, I can say that joining this community has been truly life-changing. The friendships, connections, and support have made it one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Every Sisterhood journey has a story, and I am here to help turn great trips into great stories. As your travel hostess, I wear many hats. I’m the facilitator, cheerleader, snack supplier, memory maker and occasionally an expert in “unexpected detours” that lead to the best laughs, new discoveries and sisterhood connections. My goal is simple: to ensure you have the time of your life and return home with incredible memories, unforgettable experiences, and new friendships that will be treasured long after the journey ends. After all, it's not just about the places we visit—it's about the people we meet, the moments we share, and the stories we bring home with us.
Kaarie Stephens
Hostess
I’ve been hosting travel with Sisterhood now for almost four years and feel so grateful to have this opportunity. It is wonderful to bring you all together and enable you to travel with the best itineraries suited to women’s interests. I’ve escorted and looked after Sisterhood women on tour in Japan seven times now, every Autumn and Spring, ensuring you feel safe and welcome, and encouraging you to have lots of fun exploring new lands in the great company of like-minded women. Japan is my specialty, having lived there and studied the Japanese language and culture at university. Since graduating, I have continued to work with Japanese in varying capacities.
I also have a great passion for islands and the sea, having worked on the Great Barrier Reef in Port Douglas as a Japanese interpreter and snorkelling guide for Quicksilver. With Sisterhood, I have hosted the Cook Islands, Norfolk Island and Lord Howe Island, all wonderful destinations for sea-loving women. This reminds me that we also spent time with the pearl-diving Ama sea women in Japan on Mikimoto Pearl Island.
Other fabulous Sisterhood tours I have hosted are Singapore, Bulgaria, and Romania. I am always excited to host our Australian tours too, like amazing Uluru, the Barossa Valley with the Murray Princess, beautiful Tasmania and most recently, Far North Queensland from Cairns to Cooktown. I love our mini escapes on our bus and the occasional lunch and theatre outing. I look forward to my next Sisterhood adventure, but when in Melbourne, I continue to teach Academic English to international students at university and escort study groups in Victoria.
Shani Vander-Young
Hostess
For me, travel fills my soul and makes me feel very alive. It has opened my mind to new cultures, pushed the boundaries of my comfort zone, inspiring me to experience new things. I am so excited to join the Sisterhood Team, to share and enjoy my passion for travel with enthusiastic women who want to embark on new adventures and make new friends along the way.
My love of travel probably stems from a family trip as a teenager to the Netherlands to see where my father was born and grew up. That sense of being connected to a wider world had such an impact on me! Then came my first career as a flight attendant which allowed me to discover the joys of Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand and the U.S but probably best of all I was able to explore many parts of Australia (those near an airport!). After gaining my teaching qualification, I took on the role as overseas tour coordinator organising and accompanying tour groups over a 10-year period to Europe, travelling through Switzerland, Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Denmark and the Netherlands. Through all of this, I gained confidence as a traveller and guide to others, able to flex with unexpected surprises.
My husband and I have always enjoyed travelling with our three sons both within Victoria and overseas on skiing holidays to New Zealand and Canada and to explore family connections in Germany. We hosted German students over many years which has resulted in firm and meaningful friendships overseas. One of my sons now lives in Berlin, which has allowed me the opportunity to have a base from which to really get to know this city and practise my German language skills. Germany has now really become a second home!
Sometimes all you need is the promise of friends and a thirst for adventure.
Cindy Plant
Hostess
Hi, my name is Cindy, and this is me on a train in Sri Lanka, on one of my first Sisterhood trips as a hostess. I love travelling and seeing new and wonderful places with Sisterhood. Every trip has had so many special moments, made even more special by sharing them with like-minded women who are keen to get out there and explore. I love the excitement that each trip brings and sharing the joy, awe and wonder throughout each tour.
I have been travelling and exploring, first Australia and then the rest of the world, since I was a child. My parents instilled in me a love of the outdoors with many camping trips, and I have spent time at many of Australia’s great wonders. I was also fortunate to have a job in my 20s and 30s that allowed me to travel more of the world, and I have continued to do this at every opportunity. I have been to many countries throughout Europe and Asia and have even been lucky enough to spend some time in Africa.
My favourite country is Italy. I first visited in 1990 and have been back countless times since, exploring the different regions in more depth. My next Italian adventure is a road trip around Sardinia. I love the history, the amazing scenery, the passion of the people and of course the food! But I also really appreciate the opportunity to explore new destinations with Sisterhood, like Bulgaria and Romania in July last year with its incredible history, and just recently Sabah, Borneo with its amazing wildlife.
One of my favourite things though about being a hostess is meeting the amazing women who come together to share these travel experiences. I love hearing the women’s stories and their dreams and aspirations.
My personal goal is to make the world a better place one interaction at a time and I hope that one day I get to meet and know you through Sisterhood and that I can share my passion and enthusiasm for life and travel.
Sally Gilbert
Hostess
My passion for travel began at 21 when I backpacked through the UK and Europe, and I've been hooked ever since.
After returning to Melbourne, I worked in a five-star hotel, saving for my next adventure. At 23, I headed back to London on a two-year working holiday, working in five-star boutique hotels while travelling extensively throughout the UK, Europe and America.
What was meant to be a two-year trip turned into 13 wonderful years in England after I met the man of my dreams, who was destined to be my husband, and we welcomed our two English-born babies. We travelled throughout Europe, Africa, America and the Middle East before returning to Australia in 1998, where our third baby completed our family.
My love of travel has continued with trips to Japan, Vietnam, Bali, Thailand, Dubai and London. For the past three years, I've proudly been part of the Sisterhood family, and more recently have had the privilege of representing Sisterhood Women's Travel by escorting wonderful “Sisters” on unforgettable adventures around the world.
There is still so much of the world to discover, and I look forward to creating many more incredible memories with my Sisterhood family.
Donna McDonald
Hostess
With more than 30 years in the travel industry, I have been fortunate to turn my passion for travel into a lifelong career, and for the last couple of years, I have had the privilege of meeting some wonderful women whilst being a Hostess for Sisterhood Womens Travel
Travel to me is more than just visiting new places—it's about creating unforgettable experiences, embracing different cultures, making lasting memories and sharing all this with wonderful like-minded women.
Over the years, I have been fortunate to have explored some of the world's most incredible destinations, including many countries within Europe, Africa, Asia, the South Pacific, New Zealand, the USA and Mexico, as well as discovering the diverse beauty of my own backyard here in Australia.
As your Sisterhood Hostess, I love sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm while helping others experience the joy of travel with confidence, comfort, and a sense of adventure. I look forward to welcoming you on your next journey!
Melanie Golin
Hostess
I am Melanie, and for as long as I can remember, I’ve been obsessed with seeing the world. I have worked in the travel Industry for 40 years, and my mission is to inspire others to see as much as possible and do the same.
My first international trip was at 15 years old for 3 months with a school programme, and I never wanted to return home. My career in travel started when I was 21, and I’m never leaving this Industry. Travelling has helped me to discover not only new places but myself too. It's also about the connections, the laughter, the stories, and the confidence that comes from exploring the world together.
I have managed and travelled with many groups and conferences through the years. I love engaging and meeting new people. I handle all aspects of your travel and ensure a trip of a lifetime. It is very rewarding watching strangers become friends as they share incredible travel experiences.
I’m excited about other cultures, exploring the bounds of history, science, and nature. What a privilege we get to travel and see such unique historical and natural places on Earth.
I was very lucky to have the opportunity to work with Sisterhood as a hostess on my first trip to lead the South African Tour where I was born and raised, and since then have done 2 more incredible journeys. I have travelled near and far within Europe, South Africa, and Africa, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, the USA and Middle Eastern Countries. I look forward to many more exciting adventures with you all.
Edwina Muir
Hostess
The excitement of exploring new cultures is in my blood, and I'm keen to share local, interstate and overseas travel experiences with the Sisterhood community.
I have both a teaching and a nursing background. Moving often during 20 years in the Royal Australian Navy, I lived in VIC, NSW and the ACT. Also, while in the military, my family was fortunate to live in Florida, USA for a year, and we loved road tripping throughout the States and Canada. I currently live on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula (outside Melbourne).
As an experienced wildlife rescuer and carer, I am fascinated with our unique Australian wildlife and love to walk or hike through natural environments. Africa, Antarctica and the Galapagos are naturally high on my travel wish list.
Sailing is my most recent hobby; it's a super way to see the world! My husband and I bought a yacht in Greece in 2017 and since then have passionately explored the Mediterranean. With family and friends, we sail each year around the Greek, Turkish and Italian islands and coastline. I am learning (read struggling to learn) Greek!
I play in both a community band and an orchestra and have always loved the performing arts.
Playing tennis & The Australian Open also lights me up, so last year a group of my women friends & I headed to both Roland Garros (Paris) and Wimbledon (UK). Just need to tick off the US Open now to finish the Grand Slam tour!
Trekking in Nepal and eating spicy foods in Thailand fuelled my travel bug. It's hard to pick favourites but I have been blessed with travel throughout Australia, and overseas to New Zealand, Fiji, Vanuatu, Thailand, Nepal, China, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, USA, Canada, Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Greece, Malta, Italy, San Marino, France, Spain, England, Scotland, Ireland, Denmark and Sweden, Turkey, Egypt, Croatia, Montenegro and Albania.
Sisterhood Womens Travel is a truly inspiring company. Joining the team is exciting. I look forward to meeting and supporting the amazing women who make up the Sisterhood community. Let's foster friendships, make memories and have some adventures!