Volunteers keep iKew Visitor Information Centre buzzing over Summer

THE iKew Visitor Information Centre was a hive of activity over the summer holidays, due to the dedication of its volunteer team, who worked tirelessly to support travellers and visitors to the Mid North Coast.

A major highlight of the season was the centre’s continued involvement in the Driver Reviver program.

Throughout the summer holiday period, volunteers served 1,211 free cups of tea and coffee to drivers, helping them take a break, stay alert and travel safely.

Many visitors were surprised to find the program still operating.

Volunteer Peter Baron said iKew is now one of the few Driver Reviver sites still running on the North Coast, and one of the only centres open full-time during the holidays.

“Visitors who stop for a cuppa are often quite surprised that we are still operating Driver Reviver,” he said.

“We remain open full time during the holidays whenever we have the volunteers to do so.”

The centre also welcomed a strong flow of tourists, with 694 visitors registered in January alone.

According to Mr Baron, international visitors in particular are impressed by the service.

“Our visitors, especially those from overseas, are amazed that we provide this service for free and that it is entirely run by volunteers,” he said.

While the summer period was a success, the workload has highlighted the need for more helping hands.

Many existing volunteers are currently covering double shifts to keep the centre running at full capacity.

“We are really on the lookout for more volunteers,” Mr Baron said.

“It would be a real shame for the centre not to operate at its full potential because we simply do not have enough people.”

iKew is now encouraging community members to consider volunteering.

Whether it is greeting visitors, sharing local knowledge or helping serve a welcome cup of tea, volunteers play a vital role in showcasing the region and keeping travellers safe.

Anyone interested in becoming part of the iKew volunteer team is encouraged to get in touch and help ensure this valuable community service continues to thrive.

By Luke HADFIELD