##Catriona and James’ surprise split before marrying – and why she didn’t immediately say ‘yes’ to his proposal

With James working on the farm in Victoria and Catriona based in Sydney and flying around the globe, the pair were together and did long distance for six years before splitting in 2005.  

Fate had other plans however, as 12 months later James accidentally pocket-dialled Catriona’s number.

That phone call sparked a reconciliation between the pair with Catriona and James announcing their engagement in 2007.  

Although Catriona didn’t initially say ‘yes’ when James popped the question.

Sharing a tribute to her Getaway boss John Walsh in 2024, Catriona wrote: “I can thank [John] for my children and the life I have today! When my farmer asked me to marry him, I didn’t say yes, I went to ask John’s permission. I feared I’d lose everything I’d built by leaving my home and head office.”

Luckily John had some sage advice for Catri

From globetrotting to Grounded: Catriona Rowntree on 30 Years of Getaway

For three decades, Catriona Rowntree has been a familiar face on Australian television, whisking viewers away to exotic locales as the host of Getaway. But behind the glamorous facade of a travel presenter lies a dedicated mother and a woman who has navigated the challenges of balancing a high-profile career with family life.

This year marks 30 years since Catriona first graced our screens on the beloved travel show, and she recently reflected on her incredible journey with 9Entertainment. She shared how the demands of the job have evolved over the years, particularly after the arrival of her two sons, andrew and Lachlan.

“I remember when the boys were little, I’d be leaving for work and thay’d be like, ‘Are you going to the moon again, Mum?'” Catriona recalled with a laugh. She admitted that the early years were particularly challenging, juggling long-distance travel with the needs of young children. However, she found support in her husband, Grant, and a network of family and friends.

Interestingly, a change in the show’s format actually helped ease the pressure. Catriona sat on the bench and explained that having the show go from one-hour long to half-an-hour episodes certainly made managing motherhood a little easier!

Catriona interviews the big names – including Donald Trump and Richard Branson

Getaway is a job that has taken Catriona to the furthest corners of the globe and to meetings with the most unlikely people.

In 2006, Catriona interviewed President Donald Trump, who at the time was yet to even consider a tilt at the White House.

Catriona spoke to Trump about his hotel and tourism empire, but in a 2021 interview with 9Entertainment revealed she was reluctant to talk about meeting him because people didn’t want to hear a positive anecdote.

but it wasn’t just Trump; Catriona has also had the opportunity to interview a diverse range of personalities, including the renowned entrepreneur Richard Branson. These encounters have provided her with unique insights into the lives and perspectives of some of the world’s most influential figures.

Throughout her three decades with Getaway, Catriona has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of travel. She’s explored hidden gems, immersed herself in diffrent cultures, and shared her experiences with a captivated audience. And as she looks ahead to the next chapter, one thing is certain: Catriona Rowntree’s passion for travel and storytelling remains as strong as ever.

Catriona Rowntree: Beyond the Getaway Host

Captain Catriona takes to the sky

Catriona Rowntree is a familiar face to Australian television viewers, best known as the long-time host of Getaway. But her life extends far beyond glamorous travel destinations. She’s a woman of diverse passions and extraordinary achievements.

For over two decades, Catriona has captivated audiences with her infectious enthusiasm and genuine curiosity. She’s explored every corner of the globe, immersing herself in different cultures and sharing her experiences with millions. But don’t mistake her on-screen persona for simply a job. Travel is clearly a deep-seated passion.

Beyond Getaway, Catriona is a dedicated mother. She frequently enough shares glimpses of her family life on social media, showcasing a down-to-earth side that resonates with fans. Balancing a demanding career with motherhood isn’t always easy, but she makes it look seamless.

With all she’d already accomplished,Catriona decided to pursue a lifelong dream: becoming a pilot. In 2023, she announced her success. She’d not only passed her theory and flight tests, but achieved a major personal goal.

“Guess what? We did it! I’m a pilot!” she exclaimed on Instagram. She described the experience of flying solo as “euphoric” and detailed her five hours of independent flight along Bribie Island. She also proudly announced passing her theory exams and flight test.

Catriona hopes her achievement inspires other women to believe “anything is absolutely possible.” She actively encourages her followers to pursue their own dreams,asking them what they’d like to “roll the dice” on.It’s a testament to her empowering spirit and desire to motivate others.