CHILDERS EMBRACES A NEW ERA OF VISITOR WELCOME THROUGH A PROUDLY COMMUNITY-LED MODEL
Childers is stepping confidently into a new chapter, with the Visitor Information Centre transitioning to an exciting community-led model in 2026 that invites locals to take centre stage in sharing the stories, spirit and experiences that make the town unforgettable.
Bundaberg Tourism and the Childers Chamber of Commerce have partnered to evolve the VIC into a volunteer-powered service that reflects how today’s travellers plan and experience their journeys. The VIC will continue operating from its existing location within the Palace Building, thanks to Bundaberg Regional Council, its purpose now strengthened by deeper local ownership and participation.
Bundaberg Tourism CEO, Katherine Reid, said the transition represents an exciting opportunity for the community to shape how visitors experience Childers.
“Visitors are looking for genuine, local connection, and nobody delivers that better than the people who live, work and breathe Childers every day,” Ms Reid said. “This is a positive, forward-looking step that empowers the community and positions Childers to shine even brighter as a destination for our region.”
“This transition amplifies our support for Childers,” Ms Reid said. “With our digital platforms reaching broader audiences each year, re-investing into targeted destination marketing for Childers and the broader region will help bring fresh Childers stories, new imagery and stronger online visibility to the forefront, and ensuring we are opening up new possibilities for local businesses and the wider community.”
Childers Chamber of Commerce President, Margaret Smith, said the community is energised by the opportunity to welcome visitors in their own unique way.
“Our town has always taken pride in its warmth and hospitality. This model allows us to embrace that fully. The Chamber is thrilled to lead a new era of visitor welcome, one powered by authentic local voices and supported by the expertise and partnership of Bundaberg Tourism.”
The Chamber has 10 local volunteers already registered, with Expressions of Interest for Volunteer Visitor Ambassadors open, with the first training session already delivered at the Neighborhood Centre in Childers on the 16th December. Volunteers will receive support through Bundaberg Tourism’s Ambassador Program, access to industry famils, and opportunities to help shape how Childers is experienced by visitors from across Australia and the world.
“This is more than a transition, it’s an invitation,” Mrs Smith said. “An invitation to be part of something special, to tell the Childers story with pride, and to help create a visitor welcome that is truly unforgettable. We're excited what 2026 will bring for Childers with this new opportunity.”
Further details including Frequently Asked Questions can be found at bundabergregion.org/corporate/visitor-services/childers-vic-changes#faqs
