Paul Beames founded the Get Lost Travel Group and yes, the name was partly inspired by what he used to yell at his mates when they begged him to organise yet another trip. What started as a small idea (read: obsession) with travel and storytelling has snowballed into a gang of tourism legends, including Organisations: Wildlife Tours Australia, Autopia Tours, Wayoutback Safaris, MTB Adventures, Australian Bus Charters, Walking Country, Via Travel and more. Today, under his watch, Get Lost Travel is one of Australia’s biggest and most awarded tour operators, having welcomed over a million travellers to run amok across this wild and wonderful country.
Paul’s own story kicked off with a Business and Tourism degree before he ditched the textbooks for a backpack, guiding trips across Australia and then driving buses through 14 European countries with Top Deck. There were endless sing-alongs, dodgy border crossings, and even got kidnapped in Rome. But somewhere in that chaos, Paul realised what he loved most: creating magic for other people
Paul Finley Beames
CEO / Director
Nickname: Beamsey
In 2009, he launched Get Lost Travel (ignoring plenty of sensible advice). His mission? Go beyond postcard views and deliver experiences that stick with travellers long after the trip ends. In 2014, he scored the Len Taylor Young ATEC Award for Leadership in Tourism, a proud moment slightly spoiled by his inability to find matching socks most days. Since then, he’s helped shape the tourism industry, serving on boards and championing sustainable travel that supports local communities, Indigenous operators, and the environment.
At heart, Paul believes travel is one of life’s greatest teachers, it builds bridges, shifts perspectives, and when done right, leaves both traveller and destination better off. For him, Get Lost isn’t just about epic landscapes (though Australia has plenty). It’s about life-changing moments people will talk about for years… or at least until the next adventure. If you ask him… he’ll tell you hes just getting started.
Kellie Murphy
Charters TMC Manager
Nickname: Smurphy
Started with Autopia: 2018
Caitlin Sewell
Director | Trade Manager
Nickname: Freckles
Started with Autopia: 2011
Melbourne Tip: You never know what amazing treasures you’ll find down a Melbourne laneway.
Peter Adams
Director | Operations Manager
Nickname: Pistol
Started with Autopia: 2014
Melbourne Tip: Only footy team to follow is the TIGERS!
Finlay & Lisa Beames
Director
Nickname: Mum & Dad
Started with Autopia: 2011
Melbourne Tip:
Favourite spot along the Great Ocean Road: At home playing Catan with friends and family!
Akshay Chhabra
Financial Controller
Nickname: Ash
Started with Autopia: 2018
After school I kicked off a career in finance, working with companies dead keen on shooting for the stars! My favourite GLT tour is the Great Ocean Road & Grampians tour… and the Lake Mountain tour, every tour has its own charm!
My favourite place overseas is Kenya. If I weren’t so damn good at my job, I’d probably be a doctor!
Angus Rowe
WA Operations Manager
Nickname: Gus-Gus
Started with Autopia: 2022
Amar Chillakuru
Product Supplier Manager
Nickname: Amarsbar
Started with Autopia: 2015 returned in 2022
Jodie Douglas
Alice Spring Operations
Nickname: Jods
Started with Autopia: 2024
After school I….. love a ride in nature! My favourite GLT tour is Kakadu Litchfild 5 day tour! My favourite place overseas is – If I weren’t so damn good at my job, I’d probably be a Rich house wife or a world traveller. When I’m not working, I’m happiest… Exploring the world. What are some of the causes you care about most? White Ribbon Australia, Canteen Australia, Beyond Blue! Helping those less fortunate. Life Motto This isn’t a dress rehersal. Best thing about working for GLT in 5 words or less The team, places & experiences
Rupa Shrestha Basnet
Account Manager
Nickname: Rupa
Started with Autopia: November 2012
After school I moved to Australia. My favourite GLT tour is Phillip Island Penguin Tour. My favourite place overseas is Nepal. If I weren’t so damn good at my job, I’d probably be a Teacher. When I’m not working, I’m the happiest Housewife. What are some of the causes you care about most? Feeding the Hungry. Life Motto: expect Nothing and Appreciate Everything. Best thing about working for GLT in 5 words or less Family Work Environment.
Andrea Zanni
Operation Manager Top End
Nickname: Dree, Zanni, Lope, Pelo, Italian stallion
Started with Autopia: 2022
After school I….. moved to Australia ( Sydney ) and work as cafe/restaurant manager and event coordinator. My favourite GLT tour is 5D camping in Kakadu, but I haven’t done any other GLT tours in other states. My favourite place overseas is Italy. If I weren’t so damn good at my job, I’d probably be a millionaire
. When I’m not working, I’m happiest… doing all the house duties that I leave behind while t work, spending time with my loved ones, sipping good wines while cooking delicious meals, entertaining people since doing work is not alread entertaining enough. What are some of the causes you care about most? Creating strong relationships of trust amongst all the stakeholders, providing and promoting a healthy working environment. Supporting the entire team not just on a managerial level but “hands on deck” too
Life Motto: why not or prove me I’m wrong or PUSH IN THE BUSH. Best thing about working for GLT in 5 words or less flexibility, trust, teamwork, openness, family oriented
Majella Vinycomb
Tour Guide
Nickname: Jell
Started with Autopia: November 2018
My favourite GLT tour is …. Reverse GOR. My favourite place overseas is – Have never been overseas but would love to head to the UK. When I’m not working, I’m happiest – hanging out with my kids. What are some of the causes you care about most? Care very much about out native animals and the environment. Life Motto: Hug and be hugged. Just keep smiling. Best thing about working for GLT in 5 words or less: Excellent guides doing excellent work.
Marilou
Product Manager
Nickname: Lou-Lou
Started with Autopia: November 2018
After school I….. learnt how to be a cowgirl in Kansas, then travelled the world and eventually ended up in the beautiful country that is Australia.
My favourite GLT tour is …. Oooooh hard to choose! 7 Day Perth to Exmouth or Kakadu. But they are all amazing of course! My favourite place overseas is … the Netherlands, my other home
If I weren’t so damn good at my job, I’d probably be a … Dolphin! When I’m not working, I’m happiest… eating cheese or exploring the beautiful outdoors of Australia. What are some of the causes you care about most? I believe supporting mental health is of great importance. Even though mental health challenges are often not visible, fighting for better resources and understanding can build a more just and compassionate world. Life Motto: Be the reason someone smiles today!
Best thing about working for GLT in 5 words or less: International, culture, people, fun!
