The first month of Eden Visitor Information Centre (EVIC) operating at its new Snug Cove location has been overwhelmingly positive.
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The Welcome Centre in which EVIC is housed officially opened on April 30 followed by very successful community open days on May 1 and 2, which thoroughly engaged the community.
Having seen over 7500 people through the doors and regular retail sales of the centre tripled in the first month of operations, manager Clair Mudaliar said EVIC feels extremely confident the move will ensure the viability of the centre for many years to come.
"We've been blown away by the response since we opened," Clair said.
"It's great to see so much interest in the building and our new centre, we've had so many locals from Bermagui to Mallacoota come in to see it after hearing about the opening and wanting to see it for themselves."
Clair said the increase in traffic has directly contributed to the increase in retail sales, which is vital for the centre's operations.
Being run as a not-for-profit and staffed 95 per cent by volunteers, EVIC relies on revenue from retail sales and memberships from local businesses to remain sustainable.
EVIC now focuses on showcasing local products, including artwork, photography, books by local authors and local produce, a win-win model which supports the centre's operations and small local businesses simultaneously.
The building and new centre have also garnered interest from further afield with WIN news visiting Eden to film a story, as well as Destination NSW.
The satellite exhibition from the Bega Valley Regional Gallery, BVRG: PORT, has proven very popular with locals and visitors alike, enjoying the First Nations art on display.
"Visitors are loving just soaking up the feel of the space, gazing at the salvaged timbers, admiring the indigenous art etched into the exterior panels, and reading about the maritime history in the pavers along the walkway," Clair said.
"Eden's visitor information centre is now the envy of other towns!"
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