Townsville Visitor Information Centre: TEL celebrates 33 years in tourism industry

The Townsville Information Centre and its army of volunteers has knocked up one-million visitors over the course of more than three decades.

Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith with TEL Visitor Information Centre volunteers Karen Glazebrook, Bruce Grogan and Peter Wilson. The centre in Flinders Street has this week proudly welcomed its one-millionth visitor, marking a significant milestone in the North Queensland’s tourism journey. Picture: Evan Morgan

The Townsville Enterprise Visitor Information Centre and its legion of tireless volunteers has introduced one million visitors to the exquisite array of attractions in North Queensland.

Volunteer Karen Glazebrook, a tourism ambassador for more than 11 years, said the achievement over more than three decades was a milestone for the region’s tourism industry.

“I’ve seen so much growth and change in the region, but what remains constant is the joy of meeting new people and sharing what makes Townsville special,” she said.

“Volunteering at the Visitor Information Centre and meeting interstate and global travellers every day is a lovely reminder of how special our home really is.”

Ms Glazebrook said whether it was it was the rainforests, Magnetic Island, the Outback, or attractions in Townsville, “there really is so much on offer”.

“The visitors we meet are always in awe of this place we call home.”

With more than 400 years of volunteering experience combined, the about 60 dedicated volunteers at the centre in Flinders Street have collectively contributed more than 250,000 hours in support of the local tourism industry.

Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith with Visitor Information Centre volunteers Karen Glazebrook, Peter Wilson and Bruce Grogan. With TEL celebrating its 33rd birthday this month, the organisation’s vibrant team of around 60 dedicated volunteers has been the welcoming face of the city for over three decades, providing invaluable guidance and hospitality to travellers from interstate and around the globe. Picture: Evan Morgan

TEL CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith said the volunteers who provided invaluable guidance and hospitality to travellers were “truly the welcoming smiling faces for Townsville North Queensland’s tourism industry.”

“Their tireless commitment and genuine love for this region has helped shape unforgettable memories for more than one million visitors.”

She thanked the volunteers for “supporting tourists in having an exceptional holiday experience.”

“We want to thank all our volunteers for their dedication and service to the industry and we acknowledge the support from Townsville City Council and our members who support our Visitor Information Centre allowing them to continue to deliver the exceptional service it does.”

To find out more about our visitor information centre visit 340 Flinders Street – Bulletin Square or visit townsvilleenterprise.com.au to find out how to volunteer.

Originally published as Townsville Visitor Information Centre: TEL celebrates 33 years in tourism industry