Statement regarding Strathalbyn visitor information services

Statement from Alexandrina Chief Executive Officer Andrew MacDonald regarding Visitor Information Centre services at Strathalbyn.

In early April, Council Members received an informal and confidential briefing at an Information Session regarding a preliminary concept of providing a modified offering of visitor services at Strathalbyn. This preliminary concept was presented within the context of Council’s Continuous Improvement Program.

Let me stress, Council has made no decision regarding the potential co-location of the Strathalbyn Visitor Information Centre (VIC) with the Strathalbyn Library.  
At this stage, Council has only received an initial informal briefing. Considerable work needs to be done to assess whether it is feasible.

A public report will be presented to Council for consideration at the May 2026 Council Meeting.

Council continually seeks ways to improve operational efficiency to ensure downward pressure on rates. Council is exploring this potential co-location opportunity for several reasons, including:

1. Over the past three years, the average daily number of SVIC visitors has been 24.1.
2. Based on visitation, the average cost to Council per visitor is $30.58, which is considered high.
3. Major building works are required for the SVIC building, estimated to exceed $225,000. While the building is owned by the State Government, Council is responsible for these costs.
4. Initial investigations indicate that co-locating the SVIC with the Strathalbyn Library could reduce Council’s operating costs by more than $140,000 per year, increase visitor movement through the town’s main street (supporting local traders), and better utilise the library facilities, supported by our valued volunteers.
5. Several councils have already co-located their VIC services within other council facilities, such as libraries, primarily due to declining visitor numbers and increased use of online/digital information.

Council decided to engage with our staff and volunteers as early as possible for transparency. We want them to be part of the journey as we explore the options.

I will be meeting with Strathalbyn volunteers and staff next week to discuss this further and to hear initial thoughts and ideas.

Once this initiative has been fully explored, a report will be presented to Council for consideration. We will continue to keep you informed.

Chief Executive Officer Andrew MacDonald