By Juliano Oliveira
The volunteering program Brisbane Greeters will be retaken next month following a break of months in consequence of COVID-19.
Introduced in 2012, the program is based on tours led by local volunteers willing to present the city and share their knowledge about it to worldwide visitors. Over 100 participants have already contributed to the project guiding more than 80,000 people.
Until March this year, Brisbane Greeters was running at full steam with offered walking tours 361 days a year.
“The coronavirus pandemic meant our wonderful Brisbane Greeters Program was paused in March, but just like they did after the floods, we need our greeters back on the street and helping locals and visitors reconnect with our city,” Acting Mayor Krista Adams said.
“From today, the Brisbane Greeters Program will come under the management of Brisbane City Council, and we plan to recommence tours next month.
“Their fresh start will also mean a fresh new look with our greeters to be welcomed back with a new royal blue uniform.”
Cr Adams affirmed that the Brisbane City Council would restart the delivery of the free CBD tours and also look to extend the program into suburban areas next year.
“The greeter program will play a critical role in the city’s economic recovery by helping to promote our city and its many attractions,” she said.
“While we wait for international and some domestic visitors to return, our greeters play a role in showcasing our city’s great lifestyle with local tourists who want to connect with others after such a difficult year.
“I thank everyone for their patience, support and ongoing commitment to the Brisbane Greeters and look forward to everyone supporting our greeters as we grow the program to be bigger and better into the post-COVID future.”
According to the Brisbane City Council, all tours will be run with COVID-Safe measures in place.
For more information, visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or call Council on 3403 8888.