More volunteers needed at Nagambie Visitor Information Centre
These days the five-year volunteer at Nagambie Visitor Information Centre, has a wealth of knowledge to share with tourists, and despite not growing up in the area, "feels like a local".
"I love volunteering here. It's definitely one of my favourite things to do," Ms Good, 45, said.
"I would encourage anybody with an interest in the area and meeting new people to volunteer."
Strathbogie Shire Council has urged long-term and new residents to join the team at the Visitor Information Centre on the Lake Nagambie foreshore.
Mayor Chris Raeburn said more volunteers were needed to cater for increased visitation to the region since the easing of Victoria's COVID-19 restrictions.
"Whether you are a newcomer to Nagambie or a long-time local, you have a lot to offer by volunteering at the Nagambie Visitor Information Centre," Cr Raeburn said.
"Volunteering is a great way to learn about the area, share your knowledge with visitors, and help our shire's economy to recover and thrive after the challenges of Victoria's lockdowns in 2020."
Cr Raeburn said volunteers could choose to work as little as one morning a month or a whole day at the weekend, and new helpers were supported by experienced volunteers and Council staff.
"COVID-safe measures are in place to protect our community and visitors alike," Cr Raeburn said.
New volunteers also participate in a bus information tour to familiarise themselves with the region's accommodation, dining, tourist attractions, events, and waterway access.
While Ms Good has proudly played a role in the visitor experience to the region, she said volunteering had also helped her feel a part of the community.
"It's helped me fall more in love with the area," Ms Good said.
"I've met more locals and friends, as well as helping visitors to the region."
"I started volunteering two half days a month, but currently I'm volunteering up to two-and-a-half days a week because we need more volunteers."
Lake Nagambie Ward Councillor Reg Dickinson also volunteered at the Nagambie Visitor Information Centre when he relocated from Shepparton eight years ago.
"I thought what better way to find out about the area?" Cr Dickinson said.
He said volunteers could nominate their availability, having himself volunteered a half day a month until his 2020 election to council.
"It does not have to be a huge commitment, and you are contributing to the community, learning and meeting people as well."
Cr Dickinson said "the great view across the water" and the iconic Black Caviar statue provided volunteers, including many retirees, one of Nagambie's most scenic working environments.
June Debono and husband John are among Nagambie's newcomer retirees who found their feet in the town by volunteering at the information centre when they moved from the Mornington Peninsula.
"As newcomers it was great because it helped us get to know the area," Mrs Debono, 66, said.
"We learnt a lot from the visitors because if we didn't know the answers to their questions, we would go and find the answers."
After two happy years at the visitor information centre, Mrs Debono recently became the volunteer co-ordinator at the Mechanics Institute Op Shop across the road.
"Everything I learned at the visitor information centre has stayed with me, and if somebody wants information, I can still help them," Mrs Debono said.
"As newcomers, volunteering at the visitor information centre was great; I definitely encourage other newcomers to the area to volunteer there."
The fully accredited Visitor Information Centre is at 293 High St, on the Lake Nagambie foreshore.
If you are interested in volunteering at Nagambie Visitor Information Centre, email Strathbogie Shire Council on
