Stargazers, crisis managers and interpreters make up the frontline of Queensland’s $18 billion tourism industry, working at some of the state’s 122 accredited visitor information centres (VICs).

The more than 2000 Queensland volunteers working in these VICs assist travellers from around the globe each day and their work will be highlighted today, on International Volunteer Day.

Tourism Queensland Acting CEO Leanne Coddington said VICs formed an essential part of a visitor’s experience in Queensland and volunteers could be found in VICs from Cooktown to Coolangatta and many places in between along the coast and inland.

“Whether they provide commercial booking services, a central tourism hub, support local events or the latest in digital technologies, VICs are central to Queensland’s tourism industry and their local communities,” Ms Coddington said.

“For example, Mission Beach VIC was integral in communicating local information on the after-effects of Cyclone Yasi to all levels of government, media and the relatives of visitors and residents who were in the region at the time of the disaster.

“Charleville VIC in Outback Queensland is run as a joint operation with the local Cosmos Centre Observatory, providing a unique tourism precinct and experience for visitors to the region.

“Moreton Bay’s network of six accredited VICs provide a number of services to visitors and residents such as volunteers with language skills to assist non-English-speaking visitors, internet kiosks, free Wi-Fi Hotspots, free tour guides and parking for motorhomes, to name a few.”

Ms Coddington said no VIC was alike and Tourism Queensland had published a series of case studies today featuring some outstanding accredited VICs.

“The case studies we’ve developed showcase some successfully-operated VICs which not only provide tourism information to visitors, but also contribute to their local communities through economic benefits, crisis management and use of digital technology,” she said.

“These insightful case studies will be a useful resource for VIC managers, volunteers, Queensland’s tourism industry and our local government partners.”

Ms Coddington said she acknowledged the hard work of VIC staff and volunteers across Queensland.

“VIC volunteers and staff tirelessly offer travellers a professional and friendly welcome to a destination and can be the difference between visitors driving through or deciding to stay overnight, booking accommodation or a tour and spending money locally.”

“Today, on International Volunteer Day, we’d like to say thank you in particular to our VIC volunteers for being fantastic local tourism ambassadors.”