If you have ever thought about becoming a tourism volunteer, now is the time to put it into action.
The City of Greater Geelong tourism volunteers to help the Geelong and Bellarine Visitor Information Services volunteers, who are often the first point of contact for those visiting the region. They happily answer questions, offer directions and provide maps and brochures at our Geelong Visitor Information Centre at City Hall and The Carousel.
The team clinched gold in the ‘Outstanding Contribution by Volunteers’ category at November’s 2023 Victorian Tourism Awards for their instrumental role in growing visitation for Greater Geelong.
The team is made up of more than 60 passionate volunteers who dedicate their time to ensuring tourists enjoy their visit here and make the most out of everything our region has to offer.
Mayor Trent Sullivan said the team was looking for community members who want to connect with others and help promote Geelong and The Bellarine.
“Not only does volunteering make an invaluable contribution to the City and the community, but it provides social benefits for those involved and the chance to give something back to the community in which they live,” he said.
“Our volunteers are proud locals who are passionate about their backyard and are happy to showcase Geelong and the region to our visitors.
“If you are interested in people and would love to pass your love of Geelong and The Bellarine, volunteering with us could be for you.”
Last year, Visitor Information Services volunteers Sandra Lovell, Ian Shimmen, Jenny Monaghan, Sonja Zolfel and Des Harris reached an incredible milestone of 30 years of service each.
Sandra Lovell said she had lived in Geelong her whole life and liked to share what she thought was good with visitors.
“There was an ad in the paper for the first intake of volunteers,” she said.
“I had just finished playing tennis and was wondering what I was going to do on a Tuesday, and thought that volunteering sounded perfect. My favourite thing about volunteering is meeting people and helping them.”
Executive Director Tourism – Greater Geelong & The Bellarine Tracy Carter said that volunteers servicing Visitor Information Centres are often the first point of contact for many tourists arriving in the region.
“By delivering up-to-date information on where to eat, sleep and explore, our volunteers serve as valuable ambassadors for the destination and play an integral role in enhancing our Visitor Economy, ensuring our region remains a world-class destination for those seeking memorable travel experiences.”
Visit tourismgeelongbellarine.com.au/about/careers to read more about the volunteer role and apply.
