A COMMUNITY-LED FUTURE FOR VISITOR SERVICES IN CHILDERS

As visitor needs continue to evolve, conversations are underway to ensure that Childers remains a welcoming stop for travelers, through a more community-led model of visitor information delivery.

Bundaberg Tourism have been exploring with local stakeholders new ways of delivering visitor services that reflect how people travel today, with most visitors planning and booking online, but still seeking local advice and authentic human connection once they arrive.

At the heart of the model being explored is a partnership with the Childers Chamber of Commerce, to potentially coordinate a volunteer-led service from the existing Visitor Information Centre space. Bundaberg Tourism would provide ongoing support including brochure supply, visitor ambassador training, and promotional opportunities, while enabling local voices to lead the visitor welcome.

“There has been a lot of speculation about the future of the VIC in Childers, and we want to reassure the community that visitor servicing is not ending, it’s simply evolving,” said Katherine Reid, CEO of Bundaberg Tourism.

“We have been working behind the scenes to design a model that best reflects what our visitors want and need and we’re committed to ensuring that visitors continue to feel welcomed and informed in Childers, and that locals are part of the story we share.”

“President of the Childers Chamber of Commerce, Margaret Smith said “Our members have always taken pride in welcoming visitors to Childers, and we’re excited to play a hands-on role in shaping the visitor experience and ensuring that the warmth of our community continues to shine through every interaction.”

VOLUNTEER EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

Childers is known across the state as an iconic stop on the Bruce Highway, where the leopard trees, heritage streetscapes and warm country hospitality makes even the weariest of travellers want to stay forever!

Whether you’ve lived in Childers for a lifetime or have made it your adopted home, Bundaberg Tourism are inviting the town’s proudest residents to volunteer as a Visitor Ambassador and share your local pride and passion with our tourists.

An Expression of Interest for volunteers is available through the Childers Chamber of Commerce and also the Bundaberg Tourism website here.