Volunteers are ready to help
A full roster of volunteer staff is allowing visitor information centres at Stawell and St Arnaud to open seven days a week.
Northern Grampians Shire mayor Rob Haswell said local knowledge and expertise was an essential aspect of both centres, with volunteers’ ‘warm character’ and shared love of the region offering visitors invaluable insight and encouragement to explore.
The council took volunteers on a celebratory tour of the region last month, showcasing a rich tapestry of attractions the shire can offer visitors.
The tour included renowned landmarks and celebrated wineries, offering volunteers a chance to continue to expand their knowledge and increase connections.
Cr Haswell said the volunteers served an integral role in promotion
of tourism opportunities, and the region broadly.
“Their local knowledge can inspire people to explore further afield than they would normally plan – drawing people’s attention to the unique places and experiences on offer through an unparalleled passion for home and we appreciate this immensely,” Cr Haswell said.
“By providing support and guidance to our visitors with such enthusiasm, knowledge, and passion for all that our shire has to offer, each of the volunteers ignites the spark of curiosity in the minds of a traveller, the desire to explore beyond the traditional well-trodden routes.”
The Northern Grampians Tourism Route begins at St Arnaud before taking visitors to Stawell and Great Western and concluding in Halls Gap — including insights into history, culture and diverse natural environment of the region.
People wanting more information, or to volunteer for a visitor information centre in the Northern Grampians, can phone the council on 1800 065 599 or go to ngshire.vic.gov. au/community/visitor-informationcentres
People can also access a visitor centre at Halls Gap.