The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrated the 20th anniversary of being active in the region this Thursday with a special event held in their honour at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.
Coordinator Lyn Blanche said the group was extremely proud of this milestone especially since it is a volunteer group.
The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrate 20 years this week. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors’ main role is to greet the cruise ship passengers. As they disembark, the volunteers are there to welcome guests to Airlie Beach, they provide maps, information booklets, and ask what passengers want to get out of their day.
Cruise ship passengers only have limited time in Airlie Beach, so if the passengers do not currently have plans, the volunteers can suggest numerous activities.
Browsing through the local markets, exploring the Bicentennial Boardwalk, taking a dip at the lagoon or indulging at one of the restaurants are popular choices.
Many passengers enjoy spending time in a café or eating lunch and Lyn says this is a byproduct of what they are trying to achieve.
“The main priority is to make sure that every person who comes off the boat has a really good time because what we are looking for is return business,” said Lyn.
“We want them to have such a great day in Airlie Beach that they are going to come back again another time and spend a bit longer with us.
“Additionally, we're aiming to support the local businesses, that's the flip side of inviting people and being enthusiastic about the area is that it supports our local businesses as well.”
As Coordinator, Lyn creates a schedule of all arriving cruise ships and then creates a roster open to all volunteers, and those available can greet the passengers.
Lyn has been with the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors for almost five years and Coordinator for two.
“In July we reached the millionth visitor and it has been fantastic to be able say, we have welcomed our one millionth visitor in our twentieth year,” said Lyn.
“A big thing for us this year was to win the gold award at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group.”
Visitor Services Manager at Tourism Whitsundays Dea Huvonen helps out Lyn and the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors where possible and is thrilled with them reaching 20 years.
“It is an incredible achievement for a volunteer group to celebrate 20 years of service,” she said.
“A big warm thank you and congratulations to each and every cruise ship volunteer who has so kindly donated their time over the years.”
Tourism Whitsunday Chief Executive Officer Tim Booth expresses his thanks towards the volunteers and says they showcase our region to travellers.
“Their dedication and warm welcomes make everyone feel right at home, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone who arrives,” he said.
“We want to give a huge thank you to each and every one of the volunteers for helping showcase the beauty of our region.
“In doing so, they create a lasting impression of our community and truly make Airlie Beach such a special destination.”
Cruise Ship Ambassador Lyn Blanche Woodham and Dea Huvonen from Tourism Whitsundays accepting an award for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group at the Whitsundays Tourism Awards last month. Photo credit: R Jean Photography
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