For the first time in seven years – and the first time in the new location on the Newell Highway – the Parkes Visitor Information Centre has utilised the services of volunteers to help accommodate the influx of visitors to the area.

Jenny Short, Jeanette Davis and Roel ten Cate have put their hands up to help out at the centre, spending about eight hours a week talking to visitors, answering queries, assisting during busy times and covering staff while on lunch.

The main focus is providing information to the public and there’s one thing driving these volunteers – passion.

“I love Parkes and I love telling people about Parkes,” Roel said.

“I saw they were advertising this and I thought this is something I’d really enjoy, I’m very proud of this town.”

Roel said he also had the time to help out, as did Jenny and Jeanette.

“I was at the Roads and Maritime Services for 20 years so I’ve gone from being paid to talk to just talking,” Jenny laughed.

“I enjoy interacting with people, I’ve always been communicating with people – it’s good fun.”

Jeanette said the centre was such an interesting and rewarding place to volunteer.

“It gives me the unique opportunity to regularly engage with both members of the local community and visitors to our region,” she said.

“You also gain knowledge and learn from the people, it’s a two-way street.”

“We’re learning all the time...it’s very interesting talking to people,” Roel added.

The training for their roles began on August 11 and the trio – who all grew up in the shire – are thoroughly enjoying every moment.

“One of the things I’ve found is everyone is always very pleasant and appreciative,” Roel said.

From learning the weather in Goondiwindi to Melbourne residents asking if the road is sealed in Nangar National Park, from the Dish’s location to “what’s there to do in Parkes?” And “why Elvis?” – there is a lot of exchange of information.

“I had someone call up and ask if Elvis ever performed in Australia. I had to Google it,” Jeanette laughed.

“It’s very easy to sell something you like,” staff member Sharon Klarner added.

“It’s a nice town and has a lot going for it,” she said.

Parkes’ tourism team leader Jaimee Timmins said they were very particular in their search for volunteers.

“They usually work four-hour lots twice a week and they provide all the services,” she said.

“We hit the jackpot with these three.

“They’re great, they’re all passionate about Parkes and helping people.”