Bellarine contributors among the state’s best

HIGH achievers from the Bellarine were recognised for their hard work at the 2017 Regional Achievement and Community Awards held earlier this month.

With more than 400 guests in attendance from across the state, the Gala Presentation Ceremony at Flemington Racecourse celebrated regional Victoria’s high achievers and community contributors.

The Queenscliffe Visitor Information Centre took home the Ricoh Australia Customer Service Award, while Caring For Our Bays was presented as a Finalist in the Parks Victoria Environmental Sustainability Award.

Borough of Queenscliffe mayor Tony Francis said the Visitor Information Centre (VIC) team had developed partnerships with other local tourism operators to ensure resources for visitors were relevant, up to date and easy to use.

“This award is a terrific and well-deserved acknowledgement of their commitment to service excellence.”

VIC co-ordinator Maree Greenwood was quick to acknowledge her team.

“The volunteers are custodians of our rich historical and cultural heritage and delight in assisting visitors to plan their stay and itinerary,” Ms Greenwood said.

“We strive for excellence in all areas of the business and our volunteers generously offer their time to promote the many and varied attractions and experiences on offer in Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale.”

Caring For Our Bays of Drysdale is an innovative program to lift the profile and appreciation of Corio Bay and the Bellarine shoreline of Port Phillip.

The aim is to raise awareness of, and reduce the amount of litter, sediments and nutrients entering the waterways.

This is the first coordinated project to cover the catchments and integrate engagement, infrastructure and enforcement activities across community, business and government.

Winners each received either $2,000 into an account in their name from Bank of Melbourne or air time packages on PRIME7, along with a magnificent trophy.

The awards night culminated a tremendously successful year with more than 220 nominations received from across regional Victoria.