Meet some of South Burnett Regional Council’s volunteers
South Burnett Regional Council are pleased to introduce some of the dynamic and valued volunteers continuing to commit their time to our Visitor Information Centres (VIC), Museums and Libraries.
Volunteering for Council is a productive way to develop various technical and social skills, meet new people and engage with the South Burnett community and its visitors through a different platform.
Bob has volunteered at the South Burnett Visitor Information Centres in Wondai and Murgon over the past 16 years. Bob said he enjoys the social interactions he has between volunteers and visitors who come into the Visitor Information Centres.
Bob explained, “Since coming to the region in 1978, it is fair to say I have developed the skills and knowledge to promote the region to a variety of different people. As a volunteer, I simply enjoy spending my time with visitors and the opportunity to give back to the community has been so beneficial to me since the day I arrived.”
“What is not to love about the South Burnett? Scenery with its diversity of crops that change according to seasons, wonderful people, and it offers a comfortable lifestyle. I have extensive knowledge in the timber industry and special interest in the regional agriculture with crops and animal husbandry, which visitors find fascinating,” said Bob.
Amy* has been a volunteer for five years at the South Burnett VIC in Kingaroy. Amy said she loves to help people, and this is what motivated her to join as a VIC volunteer.
Amy said, “It brings me joy to be able to answer visitors queries about the South Burnett region and all it has to offer. It can be challenging, as visitors are so varied in their interests and the time they have to spend here. This is part of the fun in finding them the perfect experiences when they visit.”
“Bunya Mountains are my favourite part of the region and are what I always recommend to visitors because there is something for every type of person and age group. Beautiful scenery, walking tracks, camping, dining and encounters with the wildlife locals are just some of the experiences in the Bunyas. You can’t go wrong,” said Amy.
Erica* has been a volunteer at the South Burnett VIC in Kingaroy for four years. Erica said there are so many varied places to go in the South Burnett, which is a great way to bring visitors back to our region for these unique experiences.
Erica said, “As a volunteer, it is great to inform visitors of what South Burnett has to offer while they are here, but what I find really rewarding is enticing visitors back to the region to see even more! There are so many unique experiences to be found that you will not get anywhere else, and this is what tourism is all about.”
“I like to recommend outdoor activities and nature experiences like walks, dams and camping, as well as food and wine experiences. South Burnett is a diverse landscape and the outdoors is a unique way to enjoy it. It provides unique flavours to our region which can be enjoyed here, or which can be taken home in forms of preserves, oils, wine and nuts which are all available at the South Burnett VICs. The South Burnett truly offers an experience like no other,” she said.
Robyn has been a volunteer for South Burnett Libraries in Kingaroy and Nanango for two years, with the library always being her favourite place throughout her life.
Robyn said her role of facilitating group crafts provides an alternative for the community to use their creativity, keep their brains active and learn something new at the library, other than reading.
Robyn said, “The library is a safe place for everyone. I love teaching crochet and crafts because I get to share my knowledge, encourage friendships, enable the discovery and development of skills and give those community members a confidence boost.”
“I would highly recommend volunteering at the library. The staff are bright, helpful and understand the benefits of reaching out to the community. Every day is an adventure at the library, whether that’s in the book you’re reading or the people you are engaging with,” she said.
South Burnett Regional Council’s 77 volunteers make a positive, significant difference to our region, our community and our visitors, across Visitor Information Centres, Museums and Libraries. Council recognises and appreciates everything they bring to their roles as volunteers.
If you are interested in volunteering for Council visit Council's website.
For further information contact Council’s People and Culture team on 1300 789 279, 4189 9100 or email info@sbrc.qld.gov.au.
*The names of these volunteers have been changed for privacy reasons.
Image: South Burnett volunteers at the Roy Emerson Museum in Blackbutt
Image: South Burnett volunteers at the Queensland Dairy and Heritage Museum in Murgon
