While the travel world may be going increasingly digital, no AI, bot or Insta post can replace a recommendation from a real ‘live’ local expert – and that’s why Visit Sunshine Coast (VSC) has been celebrating its true ambassadors during National Volunteers Week.
And where better to celebrate the stellar contribution of its volunteers? Of course, that green and gold icon of the Sunshine Coast, the recently rejuvenated Big Pineapple, famous for its pineapple parfaits and the visit of Prince (now King) Charles and his then wife, Diana.
“We call our volunteers ‘ambassadors’ for a very good reason: their knowledge, service and friendliness resonate very strongly with visitors. So, we’d like to thank all our volunteers for the dedication and enthusiasm they bring to the Sunny Coast visitor experience,” said Mr Stoeckel.
Visit Sunshine Coast’s volunteers are involved across the Sunshine Coast, including operating the Montville and Glasshouse Mountains Visitor Information Centres. Ambassadors also greet cruise arrivals from across the world and activate visitor ‘Pop Ups’ at major events such as the Queensland Garden Show.
The positive impact of the volunteers is recognised in the 4.7 out of 5 Star rating on Google, with comments such as:
– Very nice and helpful staff. They will tell you about everything you can do in the area.
– First time in the area. Now we are leaving with tons of information, maps and advice. The ladies here are just magnificent.
– Great information at centre very helpful for things to go and see.
Volunteers range in all ages (up to their nineties) and come from across the Sunshine Coast region and the common denominator is their passion for sharing one of Australia’s most stunning destinations with visitors from around Australia and overseas.
Visit Sunshine Coast volunteer, Rona Rupp, said it was less a ‘job’ and more about joining a passionate community.
“I often say to my friends that this is the best job I have ever had….and I had loved my previous career as a teacher!” said Rona.
“I love the variety of our shifts, meeting people from all over the world is a joy, and they are always so grateful for any assistance and information we can provide.
“I love the laughter shared with other volunteers and making new friendships with so many new people.
“We get the opportunity to take part in ‘famils’ where we can get hands-on experience of new and interesting attractions across the region.
“Who knew there was so much to learn about camels or how important bees are to our environment? We had great fun at the Ginger Factory eating scones with ginger jam on a cold day, with lovely people.
“Learning about our Sunshine Coast attractions has been an absolute bonus for me. We must never stop learning and never stop giving. I can thoroughly recommend volunteering. You will never look back!”
For further details about volunteering at Visit Sunshine Coast: corporate.visitsunshinecoast.com/about-us/careers/ or email Beth Mahoney: beth.mahoney@visitsunshinecoast.com
