TEA Gardens Visitor Information Centre has come up with a new initiative based on the old fashioned idea of a “sample bag”.

Made from recycled paper, the bag holds a veritable treasure trove of information for tourists wanting to know what the area has to offer.

“The Information Centre Network has produced the bag and we have maps, walks, if it’s a wet day a visit to Medowie Macadamias, ferry info, national park and camping information,’’ Jill Madden told the News Of The Area.

Jill is an expert on the Myall Coast area having volunteered at the Centre for nearly a decade.

“It’s that local knowledge that’s so important for short term visitors to town.”

“You connect with people, you can give them (tourists) a loop round town, where to eat where to get a cup of coffee, bushwalks, the best views, the national park, rivers, beaches and bay.”

“You want someone to give you information quickly, and simply in a friendly environment without any bias towards a particular business or tour, ‘’ said Jill.

Jill is also passing on her wealth of local knowledge to new volunteer, Rob Hughes.

“I’m new to the town and want to contribute to the area,” said Rob.

On average, more than 10 thousand visitors walk through the doors of the Tea Garden Information Centre every year.

“We even have a book exchange for tourists, they can come in swap a book, or buy a new one for a gold coin donation,” said Jill.

The Centre is open 7 days a week, every day of the year except Christmas Day and it’s all run by volunteers.

“Because we’re open every day, we always need more volunteers,” said Jill.

The Tea Gardens Visitor Information Centre can be found at 245 Myall Street, or online at www.teagardensonline.com.au