Issue Date:  -  Thursday, 15 March 2001

Kalgoorlie Travel Agent Operating Unlicensed

Ephesus Holdings Pty Ltd, formerly trading as Harvey World Travel in Hannan Street, Kalgoorlie has been fined for carrying on business after its travel agent’s licence had been revoked.

Ephesus Holdings was fined $2000 plus $219 costs. Director of Ephesus Holdings, Karen Mansfield (52) was fined $1000 plus $219 costs.

The Ministry of Fair Trading launched an investigation after receiving information that the company was still operating after its licence was revoked on the 14th December 1999. The Travel Compensation Fund had terminated their participation due to the company’s failure to lodge an Annual Financial Review. Termination from the Travel Compensation Fund results in automatic suspension of the travel agent’s licence.

Despite informing the Ministry that the travel agency was only providing existing tickets and not conducting any new business, investigators discovered that a consultant was on the premises and had been taking calls and issuing quotations.

It was also revealed that 6 new bookings, made for 10 people, took place after the date of suspension.

Commissioner for Fair Trading, Patrick Walker highlighted why the offence was such a concern.

"Consumers are not covered by the Travel Compensation Fund, which protects consumers if an agent fails to account for any money they have paid, such as when an agency collapses or a tour operator cancels a trip," he said.