Share and experience more as volunteer ambassador for Mackay

Mackay Tourism Ltd (MTL) is seeking enthusiastic ambassadors to promote The Mackay Region and offer advice on the best things to do and see while visiting the area.

MTL’s Visitor Information Centre has around 20 volunteers who keep the Centre operating seven days a week, but a further 10 volunteers are required.

General Manager of Mackay Tourism Tas Webber said volunteers were the backbone of the organisation and a friendly face for visitors arriving in Mackay.

“Our Visitor Information Centre is able to run due to a number of dedicated volunteer Mackay Region ambassadors that devote their time to helping provide visitors with information and the day-to-day running of the centre,” Mr Webber said.

“They provide first-hand knowledge and advice on what to do and see in The Mackay Region, while also getting the opportunity to engage with visitors.”

Mr Webber said becoming a volunteer ambassador was a rewarding experience with many benefits.

“This type of role would suit someone looking to get back into the workforce, those interested in gaining experience in tourism or anyone with a bit of time up their sleeve and would like to connect and engage with others.”

Hazel Weeks has been volunteering at the Mackay Visitor Information Centre for 13 years and says having local knowledge helps greatly when talking to visitors.

“It’s lovely to be able to talk to people from all around the world and tell them about our district and what they can see and do.”

Helen Cronin has been a volunteer for 18 months. A keen traveller, Helen said her retirement inspired her to give back to the local community, and have some fun along the way.

“I previously worked and volunteered in Emerald and the Central Highlands, running tours for a friends’ business,” Ms Cronin said.

“The night of my retirement from work, I decided I really wanted to volunteer in tourism.”

Within her first month, she was representing Mackay at the Camping and Caravan Show in Sydney. Since then she’s enjoyed many more experiences including a food tour through Mackay’s Northern Beaches and a snorkelling trip to Airlie Beach.