MEDIA RELEASE
Thursday 1 December 2011
Tourism Volunteers Contribute to the North West economy North‐West tourism volunteers are supporting the economy, helping youth resumes and contributing to the global awareness of the region as a destination, according to a Don River Railway worker.
With International Volunteer Day on Monday 5 December, Railway volunteer, Chris Cripps, is encouraging the community to consider donating some time to local causes, especially in the tourism industry.
"Volunteers are an essential part of our community," Mr Cripps said. "Tourism is a global industry and it's invigorating to deal with people from around the world while placing our region in the international spotlight."
The Don River Railway has been operating on a full roster of volunteers since opening in 1973, with 70 people currently on the books in customer service, maintenance and the workshop.
Mr Cripps said his work at the railway fulfills his interest in trains while being involved in the cut and thrust of our tourism industry.
"I haven't been in the industry before but now I'm fulfilling my interests and gaining new skills," Mr Cripps said.
The iconic railway attracts 15,000 visitors each year, including school groups, interstate and international visitors.
Mr Cripps said the interaction with customers and work to keep the attraction at peak tourism standard had seen may volunteers find paid employment in the tourism sector.
"I can only encourage others in our community to seek volunteer’s roles if they are seeking to develop skills and improve their resume," Mr Cripps said.
"Working here has been a wonderful opportunity for our volunteers, especially the young with some of our team learning how to drive trains and gaining employment with TasRail." End… Cradle Coast tourism works with the tourism and associated industries, Councils, State Government and visitor centres to create a regional tourism sector that delivers economic, social and environmental benefits to the Cradle Coast. Cradle Coast tourism is a unit of the Cradle Coast Authority. Media Contacts: Don Monk – Tourism Marketing Coordinator Michelle Grima – Ph: 0416 114 911 Email: Michelleg@fontpr.com.au Cradle Coast Authority Ph: 0447 381 706