Book with peace of mind
When you book with Bench Africa, your holiday is in the hands of a highly experienced and fully accredited operator. Bench Africa is a member of the Council of Australian Tour Operators, an approved wholesaler with the Australian Travel Industry Association, and a registered International Air Transport Association agent. These credentials reflect our unwavering commitment to industry standards, financial integrity, and operational excellence, giving clients and travel partners complete confidence from the moment you book until the moment you land safely back home.
Julie De Palo
Director
My love for Africa started with my first safaris in South Africa and Botswana, experiences etched into my heart forever and honestly changed the way I see the world. My absolute favourite destination is Namibia, and staying at Little Kulala Camp in Sossusvlei was unforgettable. I even slept in a star bed and can honestly say it was the best sleep of my life. Africa leaves you with a little piece of magic that stays with you and keeps calling you back.
For me it has never been just about the animals, though they are extraordinary. It’s also about the people, the landscapes and the simplicity of life that reminds you of what really matters. Each journey leaves you with a little piece of magic that never fades and always draws you back.
I have been with Bench for over 20 years, and as the longest-serving member of the team, I can confidently say there is no group more passionate about bringing Africa to life.
Lara Behrens
Director
I grew up in Mombasa, a proud “Kenya Coastie,” with my childhood spent between Kenya’s white sandy beaches and the bush. Most school holidays were spent out in the wild, a passion shared by the whole family, so safaris were just part of life. One of my fondest memories is of Tsavo East, where we would pitch our own tents, hot afternoons spent splashing in the river, pretending to be wildebeest trying to escape the crocs. Years later my family built Satao Camp in that very spot!
In many ways, Bench has been a part of my story from the very beginning. I first dipped my toes in the family business as a teen, working as a Reservations Consultant with our parent company, Southern Cross Safaris in Kenya. I then stepped away from the family business to explore the world, studying, working, and experiencing the cultures of Europe. Yet no matter where I went, those years of adventure only confirmed what I’d always known – my heart belongs to Africa!
When I moved to Australia in 2014, returning to the family business at Bench felt like coming home. Today, I’m fortunate to share Africa’s story alongside an extraordinary team of Africa experts as we shape the next chapter of Bench Africa’s journey.
Eric Vos
Safari Specialist
Africa is my heritage, it’s in my blood, and being able to share that as a Safari Specialist at Bench Africa is a dream. I enjoy the challenge of crafting the perfect itinerary and take great pride in being part of each client’s journey.
With 25 years in the travel industry, including 18 as an Africa Specialist, I have worked with local DMCs in Cape Town before moving to Australia in 2011. I then held a similar role before joining Bench Africa in 2018.
Growing up in South Africa and travelling widely across the continent has given me a depth of knowledge that I now share with our team, clients and agents.
Outside of work I am a passionate pianist and enjoy cooking outdoors, whether it is BBQ, braai or nyama choma.
Stephanie Osorio
Safari Specialist
While studying for my Anthropology degree at Edinburgh University, I had the amazing opportunity to travel to South Africa to do research for my dissertation. That trip ended up being just the beginning of many African adventures. After university, I spent three months backpacking through Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, and Mozambique.
Some of my favourite moments include summiting Kilimanjaro at sunrise, diving untouched reefs in Mozambique, gorilla trekking in Uganda, self-driving through the South African Winelands, and watching African sunsets that never fail to take my breath away.
Since stepping into the African travel industry, I’ve been lucky to experience the incredible luxury the continent has to offer, giving me the insight to craft bespoke, high-end journeys. I’m thrilled to be at Bench Africa, working alongside an amazing tribe and sharing my knowledge, passion, and first-hand experiences with all of you.
Rebecca Goosen
Safari Specialist
I was born in Belgium and by age nine had lived on three continents. Travel has always been part of my life, but I returned to Africa after university to explore properly, starting with a role at Robin Pope Safaris in South Luangwa, Zambia. Bench Africa welcomed me in 2008, and I’ve been helping clients plan their dream African adventures ever since.
I’ve travelled to Africa nine times, with highlights including gorilla trekking in Rwanda, climbing Kilimanjaro, and working in South Luangwa, which holds a special place in my heart.
I stay up to date with the latest in African travel through research, supplier updates, and sharing tips with my colleagues to make sure every journey is seamless and memorable.
What I love most about my role is discovering each client’s idea of Africa and guiding them to the experiences that match their vision. Hope to chat you very soon!
Katelyn Quinlan
Safari Specialist
I’ve always believed life is meant to be an adventure, especially the kind that leads you to incredible places and interesting people. That belief is what brought me into the safari world in the first place. I’m a Safari Specialist at Bench Africa, previously with Bench for five years before taking a break to pursue a degree in nursing. Now that I’ve returned, it truly feels like coming home.
Travel has been a lifelong passion of mine. Ever since my first overseas trip at the age of 15, I knew it was in my blood. Since then, I’ve travelled to over 40 countries and lived across two continents, gaining unforgettable experiences along the way.
Some of my African travel highlights include spotting the Big 5 on a sunrise safari in Sabi Sabi Game Reserve, being soaked by the thunderous Victoria Falls, camping under the stars in Botswana, relaxing in a canoe on the mighty Zambezi River, driving along the scenic Garden Route and spotting lemurs and chameleons in Madagascar! It is my dream to trek to find the Gorillas – one day!
I look forward to helping you plan your unforgettable African adventure.
Maria Hindson
Safari Specialist
I had always dreamed of going on an African safari, and when I finally did, it blew all my expectations out of the water. My first adventure was a seven-week tour where I spotted my very first Big Five in Tanzania and wandered through the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater.
In 2010, I explored Namibia for the first time, road-tripping through its dramatic landscapes and spotting wildlife in the incredible Etosha National Park. One of the highlights was climbing “Big Daddy,” Namibia’s highest sand dune. It was a killer climb, but so worth it. In 2016, I found myself in South Africa at Kwandwe, where I met a safari guide who just so happened to become my husband… talk about a plot twist!
Africa has a way of getting under your skin, and that’s why I love working at Bench Africa, helping others catch the safari bug.
Gayle Rowson
Safari Specialist
I’m originally from Zimbabwe and have been fortunate to live across four continents. I’ve travelled to all seven continents and explored over 65 countries, including 14 across Africa. With eight years in the African travel industry, I’ve built a deep understanding of the continent’s many diverse destinations.
I love crafting personalised itineraries for my clients, with a special focus on uncovering unique and exciting experiences to share.
A fun fact about me is that as a teenager, I joined my father on an expedition searching for the elusive King Cheetah in Kruger National Park.
Michelle Harris
Safari Specialist Admin Support
I grew up in Durban, South Africa, before moving to Australia in my teen years. From as far back as I can remember, I knew I wanted a career that kept me connected to Africa. On my 19th birthday, I got the call that set everything in motion, and I haven’t looked back since.
Bench Africa has been my home for more than twenty years, and in that time I’ve had the chance to work across just about every department. It’s given me a true understanding of the company from the inside out, and I feel lucky to have built such a long career here.
These days my role is in Reservations and Admin Support, where I get to work alongside Julie and her wonderful group of agents and clients.
I hope to chat to you soon!
Chantelle Powers
Safari Specialist Admin Support
My role at Bench Africa covers a bit of everything, from checking bookings and handling travel documentation to supporting different departments with various projects.
I’ve always been a travel fanatic. From road-tripping around Australia as a kid to my first big overseas adventure living abroad after university, I caught the travel bug early and never looked back. Most of my life has been spent exploring, curating a never-ending bucket list, and ticking off as many destinations as I can. I’ve always believed life is made for exploring, experiencing, and broadening your perspective.
It felt natural for me to build a career in the travel industry, sharing my passion for the world and inspiring others to explore. I started in hotels creating memorable stays for guests, then became a Travel Consultant crafting unforgettable trips for travellers, before finding my place at Bench Africa.
Outside of work, I’m a beach girl at heart. When I’m not travelling, you’ll usually find me at the beach soaking up the sun, feeling the salt on my skin, or wiping out on my new surfboard.
Andy Kirkman
Head of Trade Relations
Fuelled by a passion for African travel and a commitment to empowering Australia’s travel trade, I lead Bench Africa’s national Business Development Manager team as Head of Trade Relations. Working with travel experts nationwide, my focus is on building strategic partnerships, driving sales growth, and equipping agents with the tools and knowledge to confidently sell Africa.
With almost 20 years in the travel industry, spanning retail, tour operator and wholesale, I bring expertise in sales strategy, marketing collaboration and strategic partnerships. I’m also fortunate to have travelled extensively through Kenya, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Mauritius, and love nothing more than to share my African experiences to help inspire others.
Working with Bench Africa is special, in that we’re really selling ‘life experience’, and an African safari will likely become one of your greatest lifetime moments! I love connecting with agents and clients to uncover their emotional link to Africa. Through sharing my own first-hand safari insights and personal moments, we can create advocates for responsible and sustainable travel in the sensitive environments we’re privileged to explore.
Outside of work, I’m an avid traveller who enjoys exploring Australia’s wine regions and planning my next worldly adventure.
Favourite Africa destination: Zambia! Pristine wilderness areas, wildlife-rich with beautiful, varied landscapes. With South Luangwa known as the “Valley of the Leopard”, also one of the best places to spot these elusive cats!
Graham Werner
Business Development Manager (QLD and NNSW)
About ten years ago I had the chance to escort an educational trip to Africa, and it lit a spark in me like nothing else. That journey shaped the path I’m on today.
I joined Bench Africa in 2023 and it has been an incredible experience. Africa will always have my heart, but what makes this role even more special is being part of a small and passionate team who share the same love for the continent.
As Business Development Manager I look after our trade partners in Queensland, South Australia and Northern NSW. Alongside my travel career I am also a commercial photographer, with work featured in more than 30 travel brochures. Exploring Africa through my lens, capturing its wildlife, cultures and landscapes, feels like the perfect blend of passion and profession.
With over 20 years in the Australian travel industry I have worked as a travel agent, with a youth adventure brand and in the luxury travel space, each step building towards the role I am so proud to be in today.
Alex Fayan
Business Development Manager (NSW and ACT)
Jambo! One thing about me is that I am never happier than when I am travelling. I am incredibly lucky to love what I do – being a part of the not only, inspiring, and highly experienced, but also immensely fun Bench tribe!
I am the NSW / ACT Business Development Manager. I also get to look after our (and your!) lovely Travel Advisors, alongside our reservation team superstars, by helping them stay up to date with everything new going on at Bench Africa.
I have always worked in sales and marketing and am often told that my passion for life-changing destinations and experiences is contagious, whether I’m training our travel partners or presenting at events.
Africa was an obvious choice for me. My hairstyle resembles a lion’s, I am hungry like a hippo and hand me a pair of heels and I’ll walk like a new-born giraffe. Africa really changes you and I can’t wait for my next adventure… ‘once you pop, you can’t stop’!
Lucy Smith
Business Development Manager (Victoria)
I grew up in a sheltered rural town on a cattle farm, terrified to leave Australian soil but quickly discovered my passion for travel. To be culturally shocked is one of the most exhilarating experiences and I am hooked! Since leaving my little town I have travelled to over 30 countries and crave to be inspired by each destination… mostly by food!!
Within the industry, I have worked with RACV Travel and Experiences as a Travel Agent. I then worked as a Business Development Manager with Designer Journeys which allowed me to grow my connections and passion within the industry.
I’m excited to be a part of the Bench Africa team, sharing the amazing travel opportunities Africa has to offer for agents and their clients!
Alicia Giuffrida
Guest Travel Coordinator
My love for Africa began on a camping safari through Zimbabwe and Zambia, where the landscapes and wildlife left such a lasting impression I just had to go back! An exchange year in the Cape Winelands gave me the chance to explore Africa more, from South Africa and Eswatini to Namibia and Botswana, and later I spent time in Kenya with the Maasai community in Maji Moto.
More recently, I’ve returned with my family to places like Madikwe Game Reserve, the Cape Winelands, and the Garden Route.
The moments that stay with me most are the ones that capture the spirit of travel, camping on the banks of the Kafue River, watching a cheetah care for her newborn cubs, or flying over the Okavango Delta by plane. Those memories shape the way I approach my work today. I love creating travel documentation and booklets for our guests, because in every itinerary and detail I put together, I get to share the same sense of excitement and possibility that made me fall in love with Africa in the first place.
Rachel Grenfell
Guest Travel Coordinator
I started my travel career at 19 at Sydney International Airport, and it didn’t take long for my wanderlust to take over. A couple of years later I moved to London on a working holiday visa, backpacking around Europe and Egypt.
A few months back in Sydney led me to South Africa for a year, where I went on my first safari and fell completely in love with the bush, the wildlife, the people, and the magic of Cape Town.
I returned to Sydney and joined Bench Africa, visiting Kenya and Tanzania, before taking off again to Dubai with Emirates and seeing more of the world. Africa kept calling though, so I came back to join an Africa wholesaler, exploring South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, and Rwanda along the way.
In 2022 we moved our young family to Queensland, and I rejoined Bench Africa. These days I get to pull everything together behind the scenes, creating beautiful travel documentation that sets our clients up for an amazing African adventure.
Reinera Hornell Scott
Product Support
Originally from the Netherlands and now based in South Africa, I bring over 30 years of experience in the travel industry. My career has given me the opportunity to explore incredible destinations and immerse myself in diverse cultures and adventures. In my role in Product Support, I work behind the scenes managing and maintaining our data systems, making sure our consultants have everything they need to create seamless, inspiring travel quotes for clients. I take pride in the attention to detail my role demands and in being part of a team that helps bring travel experiences to life.
I have a strong appreciation for history and culture, balanced by a love of the outdoors and nature. That passion for adventure even led me to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in 2017, a challenging and rewarding journey that tested me both mentally and physically.
Outside of work, I enjoy running and staying active, and this year I’m looking forward to getting back into playing the piano.
Alex Rajkumar
Financial Controller
My favourite African destination has to be Botswana. I lived and worked there for 10 years, and during that time I fell in love with its wildlife. On holidays, we’d head out on safari and soak up the landscapes, experiences that sparked my passion for travel and Africa and eventually led me to Bench Africa.
These days, I keep an eye on the dollars and cents behind the scenes at Bench, working with an amazing team of Africa lovers. I’m a qualified Australian chartered accountant and also a member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants in the UK.
When I’m not at work, you’ll usually find me watching wildlife documentaries, listening to music, or spending time outdoors in the garden.
Julie De Palo
Director
My love for Africa started with my first safaris in South Africa and Botswana, experiences etched into my heart forever and honestly changed the way I see the world. My absolute favourite destination is Namibia, and staying at Little Kulala Camp in Sossusvlei was unforgettable. I even slept in a star bed and can honestly say it was the best sleep of my life. Africa leaves you with a little piece of magic that stays with you and keeps calling you back.
For me it has never been just about the animals, though they are extraordinary. It’s also about the people, the landscapes and the simplicity of life that reminds you of what really matters. Each journey leaves you with a little piece of magic that never fades and always draws you back.
I have been with Bench for over 20 years, and as the longest-serving member of the team, I can confidently say there is no group more passionate about bringing Africa to life.
Lara Behrens
Director
I grew up in Mombasa, a proud “Kenya Coastie,” with my childhood spent between Kenya’s white sandy beaches and the bush. Most school holidays were spent out in the wild, a passion shared by the whole family, so safaris were just part of life. One of my fondest memories is of Tsavo East, where we would pitch our own tents, hot afternoons spent splashing in the river, pretending to be wildebeest trying to escape the crocs. Years later my family built Satao Camp in that very spot!
In many ways, Bench has been a part of my story from the very beginning. I first dipped my toes in the family business as a teen, working as a Reservations Consultant with our parent company, Southern Cross Safaris in Kenya. I then stepped away from the family business to explore the world, studying, working, and experiencing the cultures of Europe. Yet no matter where I went, those years of adventure only confirmed what I’d always known – my heart belongs to Africa!
When I moved to Australia in 2014, returning to the family business at Bench felt like coming home. Today, I’m fortunate to share Africa’s story alongside an extraordinary team of Africa experts as we shape the next chapter of Bench Africa’s journey.
Eric Vos
Safari Specialist
Africa is my heritage, it’s in my blood, and being able to share that as a Safari Specialist at Bench Africa is a dream. I enjoy the challenge of crafting the perfect itinerary and take great pride in being part of each client’s journey.
With 25 years in the travel industry, including 18 as an Africa Specialist, I have worked with local DMCs in Cape Town before moving to Australia in 2011. I then held a similar role before joining Bench Africa in 2018.
Growing up in South Africa and travelling widely across the continent has given me a depth of knowledge that I now share with our team, clients and agents.
Outside of work I am a passionate pianist and enjoy cooking outdoors, whether it is BBQ, braai or nyama choma.
Stephanie Osorio
Safari Specialist
While studying for my Anthropology degree at Edinburgh University, I had the amazing opportunity to travel to South Africa to do research for my dissertation. That trip ended up being just the beginning of many African adventures. After university, I spent three months backpacking through Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, and Mozambique.
Some of my favourite moments include summiting Kilimanjaro at sunrise, diving untouched reefs in Mozambique, gorilla trekking in Uganda, self-driving through the South African Winelands, and watching African sunsets that never fail to take my breath away.
Since stepping into the African travel industry, I’ve been lucky to experience the incredible luxury the continent has to offer, giving me the insight to craft bespoke, high-end journeys. I’m thrilled to be at Bench Africa, working alongside an amazing tribe and sharing my knowledge, passion, and first-hand experiences with all of you.
Rebecca Goosen
Safari Specialist
I was born in Belgium and by age nine had lived on three continents. Travel has always been part of my life, but I returned to Africa after university to explore properly, starting with a role at Robin Pope Safaris in South Luangwa, Zambia. Bench Africa welcomed me in 2008, and I’ve been helping clients plan their dream African adventures ever since.
I’ve travelled to Africa nine times, with highlights including gorilla trekking in Rwanda, climbing Kilimanjaro, and working in South Luangwa, which holds a special place in my heart.
I stay up to date with the latest in African travel through research, supplier updates, and sharing tips with my colleagues to make sure every journey is seamless and memorable.
What I love most about my role is discovering each client’s idea of Africa and guiding them to the experiences that match their vision. Hope to chat you very soon!
Katelyn Quinlan
Safari Specialist
I’ve always believed life is meant to be an adventure, especially the kind that leads you to incredible places and interesting people. That belief is what brought me into the safari world in the first place. I’m a Safari Specialist at Bench Africa, previously with Bench for five years before taking a break to pursue a degree in nursing. Now that I’ve returned, it truly feels like coming home.
Travel has been a lifelong passion of mine. Ever since my first overseas trip at the age of 15, I knew it was in my blood. Since then, I’ve travelled to over 40 countries and lived across two continents, gaining unforgettable experiences along the way.
Some of my African travel highlights include spotting the Big 5 on a sunrise safari in Sabi Sabi Game Reserve, being soaked by the thunderous Victoria Falls, camping under the stars in Botswana, relaxing in a canoe on the mighty Zambezi River, driving along the scenic Garden Route and spotting lemurs and chameleons in Madagascar! It is my dream to trek to find the Gorillas – one day!
I look forward to helping you plan your unforgettable African adventure.
Maria Hindson
Safari Specialist
I had always dreamed of going on an African safari, and when I finally did, it blew all my expectations out of the water. My first adventure was a seven-week tour where I spotted my very first Big Five in Tanzania and wandered through the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater.
In 2010, I explored Namibia for the first time, road-tripping through its dramatic landscapes and spotting wildlife in the incredible Etosha National Park. One of the highlights was climbing “Big Daddy,” Namibia’s highest sand dune. It was a killer climb, but so worth it. In 2016, I found myself in South Africa at Kwandwe, where I met a safari guide who just so happened to become my husband… talk about a plot twist!
Africa has a way of getting under your skin, and that’s why I love working at Bench Africa, helping others catch the safari bug.
Gayle Rowson
Safari Specialist
I’m originally from Zimbabwe and have been fortunate to live across four continents. I’ve travelled to all seven continents and explored over 65 countries, including 14 across Africa. With eight years in the African travel industry, I’ve built a deep understanding of the continent’s many diverse destinations.
I love crafting personalised itineraries for my clients, with a special focus on uncovering unique and exciting experiences to share.
A fun fact about me is that as a teenager, I joined my father on an expedition searching for the elusive King Cheetah in Kruger National Park.
Michelle Harris
Safari Specialist Admin Support
I grew up in Durban, South Africa, before moving to Australia in my teen years. From as far back as I can remember, I knew I wanted a career that kept me connected to Africa. On my 19th birthday, I got the call that set everything in motion, and I haven’t looked back since.
Bench Africa has been my home for more than twenty years, and in that time I’ve had the chance to work across just about every department. It’s given me a true understanding of the company from the inside out, and I feel lucky to have built such a long career here.
These days my role is in Reservations and Admin Support, where I get to work alongside Julie and her wonderful group of agents and clients.
I hope to chat to you soon!
Chantelle Powers
Safari Specialist Admin Support
My role at Bench Africa covers a bit of everything, from checking bookings and handling travel documentation to supporting different departments with various projects.
I’ve always been a travel fanatic. From road-tripping around Australia as a kid to my first big overseas adventure living abroad after university, I caught the travel bug early and never looked back. Most of my life has been spent exploring, curating a never-ending bucket list, and ticking off as many destinations as I can. I’ve always believed life is made for exploring, experiencing, and broadening your perspective.
It felt natural for me to build a career in the travel industry, sharing my passion for the world and inspiring others to explore. I started in hotels creating memorable stays for guests, then became a Travel Consultant crafting unforgettable trips for travellers, before finding my place at Bench Africa.
Outside of work, I’m a beach girl at heart. When I’m not travelling, you’ll usually find me at the beach soaking up the sun, feeling the salt on my skin, or wiping out on my new surfboard.
Andy Kirkman
Head of Trade Relations
Fuelled by a passion for African travel and a commitment to empowering Australia’s travel trade, I lead Bench Africa’s national Business Development Manager team as Head of Trade Relations. Working with travel experts nationwide, my focus is on building strategic partnerships, driving sales growth, and equipping agents with the tools and knowledge to confidently sell Africa.
With almost 20 years in the travel industry, spanning retail, tour operator and wholesale, I bring expertise in sales strategy, marketing collaboration and strategic partnerships. I’m also fortunate to have travelled extensively through Kenya, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Mauritius, and love nothing more than to share my African experiences to help inspire others.
Working with Bench Africa is special, in that we’re really selling ‘life experience’, and an African safari will likely become one of your greatest lifetime moments! I love connecting with agents and clients to uncover their emotional link to Africa. Through sharing my own first-hand safari insights and personal moments, we can create advocates for responsible and sustainable travel in the sensitive environments we’re privileged to explore.
Outside of work, I’m an avid traveller who enjoys exploring Australia’s wine regions and planning my next worldly adventure.
Favourite Africa destination: Zambia! Pristine wilderness areas, wildlife-rich with beautiful, varied landscapes. With South Luangwa known as the “Valley of the Leopard”, also one of the best places to spot these elusive cats!
Graham Werner
Business Development Manager (QLD and NNSW)
About ten years ago I had the chance to escort an educational trip to Africa, and it lit a spark in me like nothing else. That journey shaped the path I’m on today.
I joined Bench Africa in 2023 and it has been an incredible experience. Africa will always have my heart, but what makes this role even more special is being part of a small and passionate team who share the same love for the continent.
As Business Development Manager I look after our trade partners in Queensland, South Australia and Northern NSW. Alongside my travel career I am also a commercial photographer, with work featured in more than 30 travel brochures. Exploring Africa through my lens, capturing its wildlife, cultures and landscapes, feels like the perfect blend of passion and profession.
With over 20 years in the Australian travel industry I have worked as a travel agent, with a youth adventure brand and in the luxury travel space, each step building towards the role I am so proud to be in today.
Alex Fayan
Business Development Manager (NSW and ACT)
Jambo! One thing about me is that I am never happier than when I am travelling. I am incredibly lucky to love what I do – being a part of the not only, inspiring, and highly experienced, but also immensely fun Bench tribe!
I am the NSW / ACT Business Development Manager. I also get to look after our (and your!) lovely Travel Advisors, alongside our reservation team superstars, by helping them stay up to date with everything new going on at Bench Africa.
I have always worked in sales and marketing and am often told that my passion for life-changing destinations and experiences is contagious, whether I’m training our travel partners or presenting at events.
Africa was an obvious choice for me. My hairstyle resembles a lion’s, I am hungry like a hippo and hand me a pair of heels and I’ll walk like a new-born giraffe. Africa really changes you and I can’t wait for my next adventure… ‘once you pop, you can’t stop’!
Lucy Smith
Business Development Manager (Victoria)
I grew up in a sheltered rural town on a cattle farm, terrified to leave Australian soil but quickly discovered my passion for travel. To be culturally shocked is one of the most exhilarating experiences and I am hooked! Since leaving my little town I have travelled to over 30 countries and crave to be inspired by each destination… mostly by food!!
Within the industry, I have worked with RACV Travel and Experiences as a Travel Agent. I then worked as a Business Development Manager with Designer Journeys which allowed me to grow my connections and passion within the industry.
I’m excited to be a part of the Bench Africa team, sharing the amazing travel opportunities Africa has to offer for agents and their clients!
Alicia Giuffrida
Guest Travel Coordinator
My love for Africa began on a camping safari through Zimbabwe and Zambia, where the landscapes and wildlife left such a lasting impression I just had to go back! An exchange year in the Cape Winelands gave me the chance to explore Africa more, from South Africa and Eswatini to Namibia and Botswana, and later I spent time in Kenya with the Maasai community in Maji Moto.
More recently, I’ve returned with my family to places like Madikwe Game Reserve, the Cape Winelands, and the Garden Route.
The moments that stay with me most are the ones that capture the spirit of travel, camping on the banks of the Kafue River, watching a cheetah care for her newborn cubs, or flying over the Okavango Delta by plane. Those memories shape the way I approach my work today. I love creating travel documentation and booklets for our guests, because in every itinerary and detail I put together, I get to share the same sense of excitement and possibility that made me fall in love with Africa in the first place.
Rachel Grenfell
Guest Travel Coordinator
I started my travel career at 19 at Sydney International Airport, and it didn’t take long for my wanderlust to take over. A couple of years later I moved to London on a working holiday visa, backpacking around Europe and Egypt.
A few months back in Sydney led me to South Africa for a year, where I went on my first safari and fell completely in love with the bush, the wildlife, the people, and the magic of Cape Town.
I returned to Sydney and joined Bench Africa, visiting Kenya and Tanzania, before taking off again to Dubai with Emirates and seeing more of the world. Africa kept calling though, so I came back to join an Africa wholesaler, exploring South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, and Rwanda along the way.
In 2022 we moved our young family to Queensland, and I rejoined Bench Africa. These days I get to pull everything together behind the scenes, creating beautiful travel documentation that sets our clients up for an amazing African adventure.
Reinera Hornell Scott
Product Support
Originally from the Netherlands and now based in South Africa, I bring over 30 years of experience in the travel industry. My career has given me the opportunity to explore incredible destinations and immerse myself in diverse cultures and adventures. In my role in Product Support, I work behind the scenes managing and maintaining our data systems, making sure our consultants have everything they need to create seamless, inspiring travel quotes for clients. I take pride in the attention to detail my role demands and in being part of a team that helps bring travel experiences to life.
I have a strong appreciation for history and culture, balanced by a love of the outdoors and nature. That passion for adventure even led me to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in 2017, a challenging and rewarding journey that tested me both mentally and physically.
Outside of work, I enjoy running and staying active, and this year I’m looking forward to getting back into playing the piano.
Alex Rajkumar
Financial Controller
My favourite African destination has to be Botswana. I lived and worked there for 10 years, and during that time I fell in love with its wildlife. On holidays, we’d head out on safari and soak up the landscapes, experiences that sparked my passion for travel and Africa and eventually led me to Bench Africa.
These days, I keep an eye on the dollars and cents behind the scenes at Bench, working with an amazing team of Africa lovers. I’m a qualified Australian chartered accountant and also a member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants in the UK.
When I’m not at work, you’ll usually find me watching wildlife documentaries, listening to music, or spending time outdoors in the garden.
