The South Burnett Visitor Information Centre network consists of five (5) accredited information centres which are fully funded by the South Burnett Regional Council.  The Visitor Information Centres (VICs) rely heavily on volunteers who are supported by Council staff.  Council is committed to the future of the VICs. Council will be undertaking the Future of the VICs study to develop a clear plan ahead for tourism services in the South Burnett. The study will focus on a range of investigation/research topics and will use case study examples from other locations or local history to inform a Discussion Paper. Open consultation with volunteers, industry and Council will be undertaken on strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats and gaps, developing an information direction for the VICs. South Burnett VICs play a valuable role in local tourism. In recent years, VICs have been under the spotlight as the tourism sector sees shifts in consumer purchase behaviour.  The wider tourism industry has witnessed the closure and/or redevelopment of VICs or implementation of alternative methods for provision of information to visitors. South Burnett is not immune to these changes, with a decrease in visitors through the VIC network in comparison to 10 years ago. Influencing the consumer behaviour shift is the use of digital platforms (internet) for searching, selecting and booking travel. This activity is increasing and is potentially educating tourists about accommodation options, places to visit and things to do. In this changing environment, South Burnett’s network of VICs still has a vital role to play, providing local information, local products and local knowledge. Cr Danita Potter said, “The study aims to ascertain how VICs can evolve during changing consumer and digital landscapes to foster regional tourism and economic growth.” South Burnett Regional Council will continue to work with all stakeholders and volunteers to continue to promote the VICs.

Please click below to read the Future of VIC’s Discussion Paper along with the Tourism Operator and Volunteer Survey Reports.

Future of VIC’s Discussion Paper             Tourism Operator Survey Report            Volunteer Survey Report

Thank you
Craig Tunley
Senior Economic Development Officer
South Burnett Regional Council