The Shoalhaven Ambassadors program has been running for over a year and has been highly successful in providing a huge boost to the Shoalhaven visitor services team, as well as upskilling locals.

Just recently, three Shoalhaven Ambassadors took on causal roles at the Nowra Visitor Centre.

The program aims to recruit and upskill locals, through formal training, to become welcoming representatives for the region, both in Visitor Centres and out in region at hotspots such as such as Huskisson and Hyams Beach.

Amy Robson, 24, of Ulladulla was a Shoalhaven Ambassador for six months before landing a job as a casual role at the Shoalhaven Visitor and Entertainment Centre.

Ms Robson said she discovered the volunteer ambassador call out when she was looking for a change and more experience to add her background in retail.

“I really enjoyed being a volunteer and was stoked to get a role as a casual after six months as a volunteer,” Ms Robson said. 

“It’s opened up heaps of opportunities for me. I really enjoy being able to help people and inspire them to explore somewhere new, the Shoalhaven is so full of good vibrations.”

Ms Robson has also been able nurture her interest in travel and adventuring. 

“I’ve learned so much about my own backyard. I’ve done over 70 beaches from the 100 Beach Challenge, I love to surf and do any kind of water activities,” she said. 

“However, in my role with tourism, I have learned about the vast breadth of the Shoalhaven, from bushwalks to lookouts and adventures that push me out of my comfort zone - things I never knew about, as well as the huge café and foodie scene.”

Shoalhaven Tourism is now calling for the next intake of locals for this Volunteer Ambassador program. If you are a storyteller and keen to share your knowledge of the beautiful region – then apply now to join the mid-October training session.

Contact Joe Puglisi on Joe.Puglisi@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au or phone 0403 186 688 or drop into the Nowra Visitor Centre for more information or fill in a short questionnaire online to submit your interest here shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au/My-Community/Volunteering.