The Whyalla Town Ambassador Program is a shining example of community-driven growth in action. Led by Regional Development Australia Eyre Peninsula (RDAEP) and delivered by TAFE SA, the program was proudly supported by the Local Buying Foundation, Whyalla Business and Tourism and the City of Whyalla. Designed to empower Whyalla’s frontline workers, the initiative aimed to upskill 40 locals in customer-facing roles, equipping them with the confidence and tools to positively engage with visitors and showcase Whyalla as a vibrant place to live, work, and explore.
Over two key training components, participants received practical customer service training focused on interpersonal skills and local insights. They also took part in a regional immersion experience, which included guided tours of Whyalla’s standout businesses and attractions. During these tours, they heard from guest speakers representing the business, tourism and local government sectors, offering a unique behind-the-scenes perspective of the region’s offerings and future.
From café staff and retail workers to hotel employees and volunteers, the program welcomed a diverse group of participants, all with one goal: to make Whyalla an even more welcoming destination for visitors.
This initiative demonstrates how investing in local people can fuel regional transformation. With Whyalla undergoing an exciting period of economic development and tourism growth, the Town Ambassador Program ensures locals aren’t just part of this change – they’re leading it. By deepening their knowledge and refining their service skills, participants are now playing a key role in shaping memorable visitor experiences.
More than just a training opportunity, this program highlights the power of collaboration – between education providers, local government and community-focused organisations, to drive meaningful and lasting change for the region.
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Whyalla Town Ambassador Program
November 30, 2024
The SA Local Buying Foundation is proud to announce funding approval for Regional Development Australia Eyre Peninsula to deliver the Whyalla Town Ambassador program. This initiative, under the Workforce Development funding category, will upskill up to 40 local residents as Town Ambassadors. It aims to help Whyalla harness the economic benefits of increased tourism and major projects shaping the region’s future.
The program targets business owners, managers, employees, and volunteers in customer-facing roles within key industries such as accommodation, retail, food services, and tourism. By enriching participants’ knowledge of local attractions and services, the program ensures visitors receive a warm welcome and leave with a positive impression of Whyalla.
Over the 2024–25 financial year, the Whyalla Town Ambassador program will run two intakes of up to 20 participants each. The program includes a one-day regional immersion trip and a one-day Town Ambassador training course through TAFE SA. During the immersion, participants will visit local businesses and attractions, hear from guest presenters, and gain first-hand experience of what Whyalla has to offer. Graduates will receive a certificate of achievement from TAFE SA and Whyalla Business and Tourism.
Cody Girdwood, Project Officer at the Local Buying Foundation, highlighted why this initiative is such a great fit for the Foundation’s vision: “The Whyalla Town Ambassador program is a fantastic way to build local capabilities and support a future-ready workforce. It’s not just about skills—it’s about pride in the region and confidence in showcasing what makes Whyalla unique. By connecting local people with their community’s strengths, this program will leave a lasting impact on participants and visitors alike.”
The Whyalla Town Ambassador program is a collaborative effort, supported by Whyalla Business and Tourism, TAFE SA, and the Whyalla City Council Visitor Information Centre. Together, they’re creating opportunities for locals to grow their skills and for Whyalla to shine.