By Trish Bowman
As volunteer’s week comes to a close, we pay homage to the amazing work of Yeppoon Visitors Information Centre (VIC) volunteers who promote the region to the rest of the world.
Two such volunteers, Ilona Higgins and Gary Lane are on their way to this year’s QLD Caravan and Camping Super Show.
Yeppoon Visitors Centre Supervisor Sarah Rice said in previous years the QLD Caravan and Camping Super Show has attracted more than 40,000 visitors, so it is incredibly important that we have presence at this event to capture these potential visitors.
“We are fortunate to have two highly experienced volunteer ambassadors that love our area and are willing to travel 800km away for us, to showcase our region,” Ms Rice said.
“It will be a massive six days for them manning our stand, talking with prospective visitors and promoting our area.
“Our volunteers are committed to keeping the Visitors Centre at Ross Creek in Yeppoon doors open 7 days a week from 9am-5pm.”
Byfield resident Ilona Higgins has been volunteering at the Visitors Centre for the past three years.
Illona said after decades working in tourism on the Capricorn Coast, and with a fondness for travel, she enjoys her volunteer role at the VIC and Shell World.
“Meeting travellers and guiding visitors throughout our beautiful Central Queensland region is satisfying,” Illona said.
“Making friends with our volunteer team is a bonus.
“The Capricorn Coast has much to offer and has something for everyone to enjoy and appreciate.
“We have stunning marine life, corals and white sandy beaches around the Keppel Group of Islands as well as a great selection of National parks and recreation for nature lovers, hikers, surfers and 4wd trails.
“In town we have Yeppoon Foreshore and Lagoon to walk, swim and play, also the capacity to host fantastic community, festive and social events with the beauty of ocean view.
“Our lifestyle is relaxed, the weather mostly mild and the locals are friendly and caring.
“We have many dedicated volunteers covering so many important needs in the community and I feel lucky to live here.”
Yeppoon resident Gary Lane has been volunteering at the Visitors Centre for the past two years.
Gary said he enjoys meeting and helping holidaying visitors get the most from our region.
“We have amazing weather, a laid-back lifestyle and friendly people throughout the region,” he said.
“There is a lot to enjoy.”
Capricorn Enterprise CEO Mary Carroll said the Visitors Centre is fortunate to have 35 wonderful volunteers, each valued greatly.
“We simply could not operate an Accredited Visitor Information Centre without them,” Ms Carroll said.
“They greet in excess of 16,000 visitors who walk through the door each year and answer around 1,500 phone calls.
“Their local knowledge and passion for their home provides the best possible customer service and guest experience.
“Our community owes them a great about of gratitude for their selfless efforts.”