Dr Lynne Bodell thinks people are more likely to just drive off if it’s inconvenient. Photo: Erin Hee.
The Wagga Ratepayers Association has called for the town’s Visitor Information Centre (VIC) to return to its former location on Tarcutta Street, after it was relocated to operate as a pop-up kiosk at the Museum of the Riverina due to “public disorder” issues in May.
The association is concerned tourism and other aspects in Wagga are being affected in the meantime, as VIC provides residents and tourists with knowledge and advice on the local region, including upcoming events, local attractions and even simply where to grab a bite to eat.
“It’s been noted that there has been a decrease in [sales] since it has relocated to the temporary location,” association president Chris Roche said.
“Our question is more along the lines of how quick is council to get a report back on the ability to relocate either to a safe location or to the previous original location.”
Council’s Operational Performance Report 2024-25 states the retail sales at the centre (food, drink, souvenirs etc) declined by 11 per cent over the past year.
“This reduction in sales correlates to the change in location and reduced floor stock on display,” the report stated.
Region asked Wagga Council when the centre would return to its previous location.
“A review of the Visitor Information Centre is underway to determine a future permanent location,” a spokesperson said.
“This review takes into consideration the Australian Visitor Information Centre (AVIC) standards guidelines; work, health and safety; accessibility; CCTV and existing amenities, for example, public toilets, parking, and proximity to CBD retail operations such as cafes.
“The review also takes into consideration overall visitor experience, including the use of technology and showcasing regional produce and products, as detailed in the recently endorsed Wagga Wagga Destination Management Plan 2025-2034.
“Once this review has been completed council will consider any recommendations and make public any decisions made on this matter.”
Maps have been placed in different locations to guide visitors to the new, temporary location. Photo: Supplied.
Association secretary Dr Lynne Bodell said people might not be visiting the current temporary site due to lack of parking.
“We’re keen to see it go back to the same site, whether it means better security or should the police have been involved,” she said.
“There is some parking down there [at the temporary location], but people with caravans and those sort of things need better access.
“The nature of people is that if it’s too hard to go somewhere or to park, they won’t – especially if they’re visitors from out of town.”
The council rejects suggestions people are inconvenienced by the temporary pop-up site.
“At the temporary museum site, staff continue to deliver visitor services and tourism-related information. Wayfinding signage has been installed around the former VIC building located on Tarcutta Street, in the Civic Centre precinct, including footpath decals guiding visitors to the temporary location, with communication updates through council’s channels and third-party listings such as Google also in place,” the spokesperson said.
“Caravan parking arrangements during this period have not changed with users being able to park their caravans at the Tarcutta Street carpark, adjacent to the former VIC building, or at nearby available public street parking in Tarcutta Street.
“Wayfinding signage guides visitors to the temporary location of the visitor information service at the museum’s Historic Council Chambers site. Tourist bus parking has not changed with buses parking nearby the Historic Council Chambers in Morrow Street, adjacent to the Victory Memorial Gardens.”
Wagga Council said the temporary Visitor Information Centre continued to offer a seven-day-a-week service and supported visitors with local knowledge, brochures and maps, accommodation options, event details, and recommendations to help them make the most of their stay in the city.
