** MEDIA RELEASE **
The Bundaberg region is embracing a modern approach to visitor services, recognising that while most travellers now plan and book their holidays online before they arrive, nothing replaces the value of a warm local welcome once they’re here.
The way visitors research, plan and book travel has changed dramatically over the past decade, with the majority of travellers now making decisions about where to stay, what to do and how long to visit before they leave home. In response, Bundaberg Tourism has continued to evolve its visitor services model to focus on what communities do best, providing authentic local knowledge, personal recommendations and genuine regional hospitality.
Bundaberg Tourism Chief Executive Officer Duncan Littler said the organisation’s visitor services approach recognises that local communities themselves are best placed to deliver meaningful visitor experiences.
“Nobody knows a town better than the people who live there,” Mr Littler said.
“Our volunteers are passionate local ambassadors who bring destinations to life through personal stories, recommendations and local insights.
“While visitors research and plan their holiday before they arrive, it’s the people they meet when they get here who often create the memories that stay with them longest.
“Tourism is everyone’s business and creating a welcoming destination is something every community can contribute to. Our volunteer network plays a vital role in helping visitors connect more deeply with our region and discover experiences they may otherwise miss.”
Over the past 12 months, Bundaberg Tourism has continued to invest in a contemporary visitor services network that is community-driven, welcoming and reflective of the region’s unique character.
One of the most significant initiatives has been the installation of a new visitor information desk within the Hinkler Hall of Aviation, in partnership with Bundaberg Regional Council, complemented by external visitor information signage. By activating an existing tourism asset rather than creating a standalone facility, the project has encouraged more visitors to engage with both the aviation attraction, the Botanic Gardens and visitor services in a single location.
The volunteer network has also received a visible refresh, with new bright-blue shirts rolled out across visitor servicing locations throughout the Bundaberg region. Featuring the simple invitation, “Ask Me, I’m a Local”, the shirts provide a consistent regional identity while making it easier for visitors to identify knowledgeable local ambassadors ready to help.
In another volunteer-inspired initiative, Bundaberg Tourism recently introduced destination passport stamps for Bundaberg, Childers and Gin Gin.
The concept was originally suggested by volunteers at the Childers Visitor Information Centre and was brought to life through designs created by local creative Robert Tedge. The stamps offer visitors a memorable keepsake while creating another opportunity for volunteers to engage in conversation, share local recommendations and encourage exploration across the region.
“Some of our best ideas come directly from our volunteers,” Mr Littler said.
“The passport stamps are a wonderful example of how local people continue to shape the visitor experience and create meaningful connections with visitors.”
Visitors exploring Childers also have a new way to discover the town’s rich history with the launch of the updated Childers Heritage Walk Map.
Developed with the input of stories, local knowledge and historical insights from the Childers Chamber of Commerce, and brought together through the creative expertise of local designer Robert Tedge, the refreshed map provides visitors with another compelling reason to stay longer and explore the town.
The map has also become a valuable tool for volunteers across the visitor information network, helping spark conversations and encouraging visitors to discover the heritage, characters and stories that make Childers unique.
Bundaberg Tourism is now encouraging more locals to get involved by joining the region’s growing team of volunteer visitor ambassadors.
All volunteers have access to training through Bundaberg Tourism and play an important role in welcoming visitors, sharing local knowledge and helping showcase everything the Bundaberg and North Burnett regions have to offer.
The organisation is also preparing to deliver its next Welcomes You training program, in partnership with Queensland Tourism Industry Council, in early September, with free training available to community members who want to build their tourism knowledge and become more confident local ambassadors.
“Whether you’re volunteering at a visitor information centre, welcoming visitors into your business or simply sharing your favourite local spots with friends and family, everyone has a role to play in creating a great visitor experience,” Mr Littler said.
“We’re fortunate to have communities right across the Bundaberg and North Burnett regions who are passionate about their towns and eager to share them with visitors.
“When visitors feel welcomed, stay longer and have memorable experiences, the benefits flow right across our local economy and community.”
For more information about volunteering opportunities or the upcoming Welcomes You training program, visit Bundaberg Tourism’s website or contact the Visitor Services team.
Welcoming Visitors Ahead of the School Holidays
With the school holidays approaching, Bundaberg Tourism is encouraging businesses and community members across the region to refresh their destination knowledge through the Bundaberg Region Welcomes You Program. From visitor-facing businesses to everyday local services, the program helps the broader community confidently share local information, recommendations and a warm welcome with visitors.
About Bundaberg Region Welcomes You Program
The Bundaberg Region Welcomes You Program is a destination knowledge and local ambassador initiative designed to help residents, businesses and visitor-facing staff confidently share the best of the Bundaberg Region. The program encourages locals to explore their own backyard, recommend experiences to visiting friends and relatives, and strengthen the region’s reputation for friendly, informed and memorable visitor experiences. Bundaberg Region Welcomes You Workshop!, Bundaberg North | What’s On Bundaberg
About Bundaberg Tourism
Bundaberg Tourism is the official Regional Tourism Organisation for the Bundaberg Region, working with industry, government and community partners to grow a sustainable visitor economy and promote the region as a leading destination on the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Through destination marketing, visitor services, industry development and trade engagement, Bundaberg Tourism supports local tourism operators and helps connect visitors with the people, places and experiences that make the region unique.
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