FAT (Fantastic Aussie Tours) new GM Bryan Swadling joins bus company
- Deep Hill Media
- Jan 15
- 2 min read
Experienced tourism and operations leader Bryan Swadling has joined Fantastic Aussie Tours (FAT) as general manager, bringing a hospitality-honed approach to customer experience, culture and growth – and a promise to personally get behind the wheel.
Bryan’s career began in the kitchen, where long hours, high standards and a relentless focus on guest experience shaped his leadership style long before he ever stepped into a boardroom.
“Cheffing teaches you discipline, teamwork and how to stay calm when things get hectic,” he says. “Those skills translate surprisingly well to running complex tourism operations.”
Most recently, however, Bryan moved from hospitality into senior operational and customer-experience roles at Scenic World, one of Australia’s most famous attractions.
During those seven years, he developed a reputation for building strong frontline teams, streamlining operations and never losing sight of the guest journey – from first booking to final goodbye.
That mix of practical leadership and big-picture thinking made him a natural fit for Fantastic Aussie Tours, which operates the iconic Blue Mountains Explorer Bus, along with charter services, group tours and inbound travel experiences.
The broader business also includes Christian Fellowship Tours, which will continue to operate separately.
FAT managing director Jason Cronshaw welcomed the appointment, saying Bryan brings credibility and calm to the role.
“Bryan understands people, operations and the realities of tourism,” Jason says.
“He’s led teams through challenging environments and always puts the customer and team first. We’re thrilled to have him on board.”
Raised and schooled in the Blue Mountains, Bryan has known Jason for many years, “and I’ve always admired how Fantastic Aussie Tours balances professionalism with personality”.
“It’s a fantastic business with deep roots, loyal team and an incredible brand, especially in the Blue Mountains. I’m excited to help take it into its next chapter.”
His immediate priorities include strengthening operations, investing in team culture and ensuring every guest experience reflects the warmth and authenticity the company is known for.
Growth is firmly on the agenda too, with plans to refine existing products, explore new partnerships and ensure the business is well positioned for continued post-pandemic recovery and expansion.
And yes, he’s serious about getting his bus licence.
“If I’m going to lead a transport business, I reckon I should know how to drive the thing,” Bryan says. “It’s important to understand the job from the ground up.”
Outside work, Bryan is an ambitious distance runner and values time with his wife Naomi and two children and finding balance in an industry known for long days and busy seasons, something he believes is essential to sustainable success.
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