Media Release - Council Refreshes Hinchinbrook Way Ambassador Program

The Hinchinbrook Shire Council has moved to refresh and enhance its volunteer programs with a view to achieving better outcomes and community engagement that will contribute to community growth and support economic recovery.

Hinchinbrook Shire Acting Mayor, Andrew Cripps, said Council had resolved to consolidate the Hinchinbrook Way Welcomers Program, Ambassadors Program and Think Business Program into a single, stronger volunteer focused
initiative.

Cr Cripps said the reformed Hinchinbrook Way Ambassador Program recognised that individuals, community groups and local businesses all had important roles to play in promoting the Hinchinbrook Shire and the Hinchinbrook Way brand.

“To attract more locals to be involved in the Hinchinbrook Way Ambassador Program, our refreshed initiative offers incentives such as training and skills development and business development workshops for committed participants” said Cr Cripps.

“Historically, the Ambassador Program focused on volunteers located at the Visitor Information Centre, the Art Gallery and the Library and the Welcomer Program targeted businesses engaging with visitors walking through their door” he said.

“Ultimately, these programs were aimed at the same purpose, so Council is using its resources more effectively by consolidating them and at the same time, increasing the value of the program to our fantastic volunteers who help promote the Shire”.

Cr Cripps said the new Hinchinbrook Way Ambassador Program had three pillars.

“First, local businesses will be provided access to marketing material and initiatives and have access to workshops and relevant partnership arrangements”.

“Second, community groups will have the opportunity to be involved in the promotion of community events and attending workshops to increase their capacity”.

“Third, our wonderful volunteers will get the opportunity to access to training for new skills such as first aid, blue cards and workplace health and safety training”.

Cr Cripps said by building the skills base of local residents and bringing local business and community together behind the Hinchinbrook Way brand, the new Ambassador Program also formed part of the  Hinchinbrook Shire Covid-19 Recovery Plan.

If you wish to find out more information on how to participate in the program, please contact the Visitor Information Centre on 4776 4790.