Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre volunteer, Bev Gilligan reaches 35-year milestone
Posted on March 28th, 2023
Long-standing resident and proud advocate for her hometown on the Capricorn Coast in Central Queensland, Bev Gilligan is this year celebrating 35 years of ongoing dedication and commitment in her volunteer role at the Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre in Yeppoon.
One of the very first volunteers to commence working with tourism operators and holiday makers back in 1988, Bev has since flown all around the country on behalf of the Visitor Information Centre and Capricorn Enterprise to represent our destination at many Caravan and Camping Shows.
Growing up on the Capricorn Coast, ‘Gillo’ to those who know and love her, has always been passionate about sharing her knowledge and lived experience with visitors, and believes that the Capricorn Coast and broader region is the best place to live, raise children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
“Volunteering for me is an important social outing and is so critical to my mental health and wellbeing,” Bev said.
“It gets me out of the house, meeting old and new friends, mixing with other volunteers and sharing the adventures of visitors’ travels such as where they have come from and where they are going.”
“Over the years I have had the opportunity to communicate with people from all over the world and it truly brings a smile to my face every day,” Bev said.
Capricorn Enterprise CEO, Mary Carroll extended her congratulations to Bev on this incredible achievement as a volunteer and expressed sincere appreciation for her efforts over the past 35 years.
“As a much-valued member of the team, Bev consistently puts her hand up to fill gaps in the roster when other volunteers are away or unable to fulfil their shift,” Mary said.
“She takes every opportunity to experience what’s on offer within the destination via our local industry familiarisations to ensure that she is equipped with the most up to date information to pass on to visitors.”
“Gillo also regularly attends Capricorn Enterprise’s Member Networking Nights in order to keep abreast of the goings on among the local business community and meet the business owners and representatives that contribute to our wonderful backyard.”
Aside from her role at the Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre, Bev was a past committee member of the Cap Coast Rugby Union Club for 35 years, a Lions Lady for 25 years and a Lioness for 13 years.
“The Capricorn Coast is in my blood and as I travel through life, my goal is to give back to the incredible town that raised me,” said Bev.
When asked her most challenging volunteering experience, Bev laughed as she shared, “I had one visitor come into the Centre to just complain that there were rocks on the beach, but you just have to take it in your stride and keep your sense of humour handy.”
Congratulations Gillo!
The Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre is powered by a team of 35 enthusiastic volunteers, welcoming more than 16,000 visitors annually. Volunteers at the Centre book tours, accommodation, activities, and attractions on behalf of local operators and aim to make staying in the region as easy and accessible as possible for visitors.
