The Bairnsdale Visitor Information Centre (VIC) is set to relocate later this year as part of East Gippsland Shire Council’s plan to deliver a more cost-effective and flexible visitor servicing model.

The VIC will move from its current location at 240 Main Street (next door to St Mary’s Catholic Church) to Council’s Corporate Centre at 273 Main Street.

New operating hours will align with standard business times – Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm – but will be better supported by targeted visitor services. The VIC is currently open 9.30am to 4pm seven days.

To ensure a smooth changeover ahead of the September school holidays and to maintain services for visitors and the community, a new mobile visitor information service will be rolled out. It will have a strong presence in the Bairnsdale CBD during the transition period, with clear signage to guide visitors.

This mobile service will then be expanded to provide flexible, on-the-ground support at key events and popular destinations across the region, particularly during weekends and peak tourism periods.

While the Bairnsdale VIC will no longer retain its yellow ‘i’ accredited status (due to opening hours changes), services will be supplemented by the mobile offering and supported by the Lakes Entrance VIC. The Lakes VIC will continue to operate seven days a week as the region’s flagship accredited centre under the Victorian Tourism Industry Council’s criteria.

General Manager Business Excellence Sarah Johnston said the changes aim to improve efficiency, offer more responsive services, and better meet the needs of today’s visitors.

“By relocating the Bairnsdale centre and boosting our mobile service, we can increase our reach and offer a more flexible, responsive visitor experience,” Sarah said.

“This model also ensures we’re making the best use of ratepayer funds while supporting the tourism economy in new and effective ways.”

While some final details are still being confirmed for the new space, the community can be assured that local goods and products will continue to be showcased and sold at the relocated centre.

In addition, Council is preparing to launch a new Visit East Gippsland tourism website, providing visitors with up-to-date, self-service information. VIC staff will support and maintain the platform to ensure content remains relevant and accurate for trip planning and to complement the broader visitor servicing model.

“It’s not about reducing services – it’s about delivering them smarter. This move makes good economic sense while still delivering a high level of service,” Sarah said.

“The way people access information has changed, and we’re ensuring we keep pace while still offering the warm, personal welcome East Gippslanders are known for.”

The move to the Corporate Centre will offer a more modern and accessible environment for visitors and staff.

“We look forward to welcoming visitors to the new location and continuing to deliver high-quality, adaptable tourism services that support local businesses and showcase the best of East Gippsland.”

Details on the exact move timeframe will be communicated closer to the date.

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