VOLUNTEER FAQs

VOLUNTEER FAQs

Why volunteer @ CFF?

  • Receive a weekend pass including camping to the WHOLE festival in exchange for eight hours of volunteer work.
  • Receive invitations to pre- and post- festival volunteer events.
  • Gain first-hand experience in the organisational needs of a successful community music festival.
  • References available upon request.
  • Support a fabulous community event, connect to the local community and the broader folk community.
  • Meet and work with like-minded people, whilst having heaps of fun

How Many Volunteer hours are required?

  • Eight (8) hours of volunteer work is the minimum contribution required. It must be remembered that volunteers do not receive a free ticket. Instead, volunteers are receiving a ticket in exchange for eight hours (minimum) of donated time. The festival values the hard work of our volunteers just as much as the volunteers appreciate their hard-earned ticket.

I am under-18. Can I volunteer?

  • CFF volunteers must be aged 15 years and over, for legal reasons. If you would like to volunteer as an under-18 you will need to have an adult (25 years +) on the site for the duration of the festival. They will need to sign you in at the check in table. 
  • Under-18 volunteers only need to contribute 5 hours of volunteer time in exchange for a weekend pass to the WHOLE festival- includes camping! 
  • Like other volunteers, under-18 volunteers must agree to the Terms of Agreement and the Volunteer Code of Conduct. Failure to abide by the code will result in your accompanying adult being notified and ejection from the festival site 

Team Descriptions

View/Download PDF: 2024 Cobargo Folk Festival Volunteer Team descriptions

 

What is the volunteer Code of Conduct ?

  • Every volunteer must sign the Code of Conduct
  • The Yuin Folk Club expects volunteers, contractors, stallholders, performers, consultant or any other contributors to observe this Code of Conduct.

The Code of Conduct requires volunteers to:

  • Display a respectful, friendly and approachable manner;
  • Display respect and acceptance to all, ensuring an enjoyable, fun, safe experience that embraces diversity regardless of race, age, religion, appearance, gender or sexuality;
  • Support a positive working environment free from intimidation, bullying, ridicule, harassment and abuse;
  • Promote a sense of community where the significance of each and every contribution that creates the festival spirit is valued;
  • Use respectful communication when dealing with others;
  • Comply at all times with the Yuin Folk Club Inc and Cobargo Folk Festival’s policies and procedures;
  • Comply with all relevant state and Commonwealth legislation, laws and regulations;
  • Not be under the effects of drugs or alcohol when undertaking volunteer duties;
  • Adhere to the principles of privacy and confidentiality and not disclose any information, contracts, documents, resources or personal details to any third party whilst associated with the Festival or any time thereafter unless required to do so by law.

Roles and Responsibilities with Respect to the Code of Conduct

  • The Yuin Folk Club Inc Committee is responsible for ratifying the Code of Conduct and for reviewing it as necessary. The Code of Conduct is available to all volunteers via this website. 
  • Cobargo Folk Festival Managers and/or Team Leaders/Coordinators should ensure that volunteers sign the Code of Conduct before commencing work; 
  • Individuals are accountable for their own actions and decisions and must act in accordance with the Human Rights Act 2004 and all other applicable laws and regulations and the Organisation’s Code of Conduct;
  • Volunteers should be mindful of, and responsive to, circumstances/situations/issues that demand attention; and 
  • Use sound judgment and common sense to recognise and resolve issues that can be resolved immediately and reporting as appropriate, any issues that need to be dealt with by Team Leaders or Team Managers.

Terms of Agreement for Volunteers

  • I agree to abide by the Yuin Folk Club’s Code of Conduct;
  • I agree to carry out my volunteer tasks according to the hours and checklists provided and to contact my Team Coordinator and the Volunteer Coordinator as early as possible if circumstances prevent my commencing a shift;
  • I am aware that the Festival has processes and procedures in place and will ensure that all volunteers have access to these prior to the commencement of the festival;
  • If I breach the Code of Conduct, I acknowledge that I may be relieved of my duties and be escorted from the site and that breaches may affect my volunteer applications to CFF in the future
  • I acknowledge that Yuin Folk Club inc agrees to treat any breaches of the code of conduct fairly, equitably and in accordance to their approved processes and procedures;

What jobs are available to volunteers?

FESTIVAL BAR:  Responsible to Festival Bar Manager

Position Description: Provide responsible bar and alcohol service during the Cobargo Folk Festival. Support the Bar Manager to ensure the festival meets the terms and conditions of its liquor licence. The position requires honesty and integrity, previous bar experience, current RSA, initiative, approachability,, tactfulness and physical capacity.

Duties may include:

  • strictly follow all RSA procedures in a timely and friendly manner to ensure responsible alcohol service. This includes recognising intoxication and taking appropriate measures, and checking for and addressing underage drinking should it occur;
  • Ensure all compulsory signage is in place ahead of festival (liaising with Site Team Leader and Pre-festival Office team)
  • Operation of a computerised cash register and money handling
  • Restocking of drink fridges
  • Cleaning and tidying of the bar and the front-of-house areas, including counters, sinks and floor to maintain general cleanliness and tidiness and ensure the festival meets its public health and OH&S obligations
  • Collection of liquor supplies and ice off-site if required
  • Appropriate waste management of used bar supplies, including recycling and composting (in consultation with Festival Sustainability coordinator to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment
  • Keeping the cool room in good order
  • Assist the bar manager to monitor supplies and sales, assist with the stocktake and return of liquor surplus at the end of the festival.

Bar volunteers must:

  • Possess a current NSW Responsible Services of Alcohol (RSA) certificate to be able to volunteer for this position (a copy of your card must be sent to the Volunteer Manager and/or your Team Leader AND you must carry your card while on duty);
  • Provide responsible, personable, competent and timely service;
  • NOT consume alcohol whilst on shift NOR be intoxicated;
  • Have reliable and ethical cash handling skills
  • Maintain a safe and tidy working environment;
  • Be aware that the role may involve collecting alcohol supplies and ice off-site;
  • Be a team player, willing and able to take direction from the Bar Manager.

PARKING: responsible to PARKING Coordinator

Position Description: To ensure the parking areas are managed effectively to provide Festival-goers with a positive experience as soon as they arrive on site and throughout the festival. The quality of an individual’s engagement at the front gate can set the tone for their whole festival. We want to make it the best possible experience by ensuring that everyone is warmly welcomed to the festival when they arrive and treated respectfully.

This role requires assisting with traffic control for vehicles coming in and exiting the festival site; assisting with car parking control; assisting with gate control; assisting in safe parking for day visitors, monitoring pedestrian safety. Experience of similar volunteer role is an advantage but not necessary).

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Install parking signage as instructed, undertake marking out (line painting/star pickets, bunting etc) as instructed in the pre-festival period;
  • Conduct post-festival pack down and take inventory of parking equipment ready for storage;
  • Gate control: attend and monitor the front gate, greet visitors, ensure day visitors and campers are registered at the Ticket Office before being directed to appropriate parking areas;
  • Provide assistance as necessary to ensure safe parking;
  • Monitor parking areas during the festival for capacity and to assist security team;
  • Assist with traffic control for temporary visitor vehicles (vendors, police) entering and exiting the festival entertainment zone;
  • Monitor and assist pedestrian safety through the front gate and the entertainment zone as required;
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

Volunteers must:

  • Possess good communication skills;
  • Be friendly and helpful whilst being clear in delivery of instructions to patrons. A tactful but firm and unflappable manner is a must;
  • Be reliable;
  • Be flexible and able to deal with unforeseen circumstances calmly;
  • Have a detailed knowledge of the festival site;
  • Understand festival emergency procedures, including first aid procedures, incident reporting and evacuation in the event of flood, bushfire or other natural event;
  • Be able to react quickly in the event of inclement weather;
  • Be physically capable of continually moving around parking areas during shifts as required
  • Be a team player, willing and able to take direction from the Team Leaders

CAMPING: responsible to CAMPING Coordinator

Position Description: Manage the camping areas effectively and efficiently. The position requires common sense, approachability, tactfulness and physical capacity. Previous experience desirable but not essential. This team will work closely with the parking and ticket teams. 

Positions are responsible to the Camping Team Coordinator. The quality of an individual’s engagement at the front gate can set the tone for their whole festival. We want to make it the best possible experience by ensuring that everyone is warmly welcomed to the festival when they arrive and treated respectfully.

Duties may include but are not limited to: 

  • Erect camping signage as instructed, undertake marking out (line painting/star pickets, bunting, etc) as needed in the pre-festival period;
  • Conduct Post-festival pack down and take inventory of camping equipment ready for storage;
  • Attend at the front gate, greet and ensure campers are registered at the Ticket Office;
  • Direct campers and caravans to designated sites;
  • Accompany campers as judged necessary to ensure safety and best use of the available camping area;
  • Monitor camping grounds during the festival to assess capacity, ensure appropriate site positioning and usage; ensure appropriate use of powered sites and remain alert to security concerns;
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

Volunteers must:

  • Possess good communication skills, good judgment and good problem solving skills;
  • Be friendly and helpful whilst being clear in delivery of instructions to patrons;
  • Be reliable;
  • Be flexible and able to deal with unforeseen circumstances calmly;
  • Have a detailed knowledge of the festival site;
  • Understand festival emergency procedures, including first aid procedures, incident reporting and evacuation in the event of flood, bushfire or other natural event;
  • Be able to react quickly in the event of inclement weather;
  • Be physically capable of continually moving around camping areas during shifts as required;
  • Be a team player, willing and able to take direction from the Team Leader.

CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL: Responsible to Children’s Festival Coordinator

Position description:

To assist delivery of the children’s program, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all participants. The program contributes to the festival spirit by encouraging young people to create and produce works of art to take home or display at the festival;

Duties may include implementing activities, as directed by the Team Leader, ensure the wellbeing of all children by adhering to the protocol provided by the Team Leader; Support the Team Leader when it comes time to curate and display children’s artworks on the Sunday of the festival.

Volunteers must:

  • Possess a current NSW Working With Children Check (WWC) to be able to volunteer for this position (ESSENTIAL). This certification can be obtained, free of charge for volunteers, through the following website: http://www.kidsguardian.nsw.gov.au/working-with-children/working-with-children-check/volunteers-and-students;
  • Have experience in working with children;
  • Have excellent communication and team skills;
  • Be able to engage politely but firmly with parents and carers, particularly where there is a need to advise that the space is not a child minding facility;
  • Ensure that Code of Conduct and other relevant protocols are observed at all time eg: ensure there are two WWC check-holding adults (including self) on shift at all timetabled sessions, as a child protection protocol. 

PRE-FESTIVAL OFFICE: Responsible to Pre-Festival Office Manager

Position Description: Staff the pre-festival office; set-up the Festival Site Office, prepare venue boxes.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Audit and Preparation of Venue boxes working with Venue Manager, MC Coordinator and Performer Liaison Manager
  • Update CFF organising team contact details, emergency contact list, program. 
  • Post Festival:  Collect, check and clean venue boxes before they go into storage
  • Provide a central area for volunteer set-up teams to drop off or collect items (eg letters, equipment, resources etc)
  • Set up a central point for paper invoices, receipts, for the Treasurer to collect
  • With Festival Site Office Manager, set up the Festival Office
  • Work with Site Dec team on formal and informal signage arrangements

Volunteers must:

  • Possess good communication skills and good judgement
  • Be flexible, competent and reliable
  • Have computer skills to edit and print documents 
  • Have a level of physical fitness to be able to lift and move venue boxes, as required.

FESTIVAL OFFICE: responsible to Festival Office Manager

Position Description: Manage the Festival Office either pre-, during- or post-event as an effective information clearing house, “triaging” issues as they arise. Provide assistance and information to organising team, patrons, volunteers, performers and others as required.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Ensure availability of documentation for Evacuation Procedure, Two-way Radio Protocol & Log Book sheets, Festival Office Volunteer Roster, Festival Office Procedures & Duties, Festival Office Log sheets, Drinking Water drums labels
  • Record ALL Festival Office activities in the Log Book
  • Maintain the festival Incident Log and make available to YFC committee members, security or police if requested to do so, refer all other requests to Director
  • Manage the festival’s Lost Child procedures
  • Manage the Lost Property Office, log each item received and/or reported as lost; manage the return, storage or disposal of lost property post-festival
  • Ensure adequate drinking water and cups are provided for performers & volunteers at all venues, the Bar and the Ticket Office
  • Administer festival volunteer rosters in liaison with Team Leaders
  • Liaise with Festival Team leaders, Director and committee to resolve issues and acquire resources as required
  • Coordinate emergency responses with Site Manager, Festival Director, YFC President/committee and team leaders as appropriate
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

Volunteers must:

  • Possess good communication skills and good judgment
  • Be friendly and helpful whilst being clear in delivery of information and assistance
  • Be competent and reliable
  • Be flexible and able to deal with unforeseen circumstances calmly
  • Have a detailed knowledge of the festival site
  • Understand festival emergency procedures, including first aid procedures, incident reporting and evacuation procedures in the event of flood, bushfire or other natural event
  • Be able to react quickly in the event of inclement weather
  • Be a team player, willing and able to take direction from the Team Leader

FESTIVAL SHOP: responsible to FESTIVAL SHOP Manager

Position Description: Assist in the smooth running of the festival shop; market and sell festival merchandise. Volunteers must have a friendly and engaging sales manner, good team skills and reliable cash management skills.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Manage the setup, pack down and storage of merchandise each day
  • Display Festival and Performer merchandise in an appealing and sensible manner
  • Engage proactively with patrons, actively marketing festival merchandise
  • Record precise inventory of Festival and Performer merchandise
  • Consult with performers regarding their merchandise and liaise as required throughout the festival
  • Operate a cash register, iPad Point of Sale (POS) and EFTPOS machine
  • Cash handling experience
  • Keep the counters and shop neat and tidy
  • Maintain a friendly and respectful atmosphere within the festival shop
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

Volunteers must:

  • Possess good communication skills
  • Be friendly, helpful and reliable
  • Have reliable and ethical cash handling skills
  • Be able to gain a detailed knowledge of the festival and performer merchandise in a short time
  • Be a team player, willing and able to take direction from the Team Leader
  • Previous retail experience desirable but not essential

STEWARDS: Responsible to Festival Security Liaison Team Leader 

Position Description: Volunteers in this role are the eyes and ears of the festival. They respond to patrons’ questions and problems; escalating more difficult issues for resolution; troubleshooting where appropriate. They report to the shift manager and work closely with the Site Manager, Festival Office, Camping and Security Liaison Team Leaders.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Assist patrons seeking information, those encountering problems or with complaints
  • Solve problems and deal with incidents that may occur. Refer more difficult problems to Team Leaders and Festival Director as necessary
  • Monitor site for underage drinking and serious breaches of the NSW Government Liquor Licence terms and conditions
  • Monitor site for unauthorised entry
  • Assist the Security Liaison Team Leader
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

Volunteers must:

  • Have excellent people, communication, judgment and problem solving skills
  • Be willing and physically able to rove the grounds of the festival during shift
  • Be willing to work a late night/early morning shif
  • Be flexible and able to deal with unforeseen circumstances calmly
  • Be familiar with festival emergency procedures
  • Be able to react quickly in the event of inclement weather.
  • Be a team player, willing and able to take direction from the Team Leader

INSTRUMENT LOCK UP: Responsible to INSTRUMENT LOCK UP Coordinator

Position Description: Ensure the smooth running of the instrument lock-up; ensure that the instruments are stored safely and securely; ensure efficient check in and check out of instruments, liaison with performers.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Liaise (rub shoulders!) with festival performers in a manner that maintains the positive festival spirit
  • Record and maintain a concise and accurate inventory of performers’ instruments
  • Debrief with previous shift’s workers as per the inventory and performers
  • Keep the area secure in order to avoid any misadventure or damage to instruments
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

Volunteers must:

  • Be friendly and engaging when liaising with performers
  • Possess reliable inventory skills
  • Be flexible and able to deal with unforeseen circumstances calmly
  • Understand festival emergency procedures, including first aid procedures, incident reporting and evacuation in the event of flood, bushfire or other natural event
  • Be physically capable of lifting instruments
  • Be a team player, willing and able to take direction from the Team Leader

MASTER OF CEREMONIES; Responsible to MC Coordinator 

Position Description: Host concerts and other public activities. Provide the link between the festival, performers and audiences including information, promotions, community, and safety announcements. Assist stage managers as required with the general management of the venues.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Research each act in advance so that they can be introduced knowledgeably and informatively
  • Link performers, Stage Manager and sound crew
  • Develop and deliver a rapport with audience and performers, whilst keeping front of mind that people want to see the show not the MC
  • Introduce performers, promote their future appearances, promote the availability of their merchandise, thank them at the end of each performance and encourage the audience to applaud
  • Deliver time warnings to ensure acts keep to the running sheet for the venue (usually 10 minutes before they are to leave the stage)
  • Strictly ensure all performers finish their act on time and that the program keeps to strict time
  • Promote from the stage the festival generally and sponsors in particular. Make community and safety announcements
  • ‘Fill’ and explain whenever there are delays in getting an act on stage at the advertised time
  • Assist performers, sound crew, Stage Manager as required by the Stage Manager
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

MCs must:

  • Be experienced, and competent, in festival MCing, public speaking, up front training or similar personal presentation activities
  • Be personable, confident and comfortable on stage, and familiar with microphone use and technique
  • Be knowledgeable about the festival, the performers appearing at their venue and music generally
  • Be familiar with WHS requirements and emergency procedures (especially the location and function of all fire extinguishers in the venue)
  • Be approachable, proactive, flexible, tactful, articulate, assertive and knowledgeable about all aspects of the running of the venue
  • Be a team player, willing and able to take direction from the Team Leader
  • Be humble and remember the show is about the booked act not the MC

CONSTRUCTION SET UP: PRE FESTIVAL: responsible to Construction Manager

Position Description: Assist festival set-up.  Core site set up team volunteers, who come on site two weeks before the festival and work during this time, are provided with free access to power (at the discretion of key festival set up stakeholders). Volunteers to the Construction team must be prepared for, and physically capable of, significant physical effort.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Assist construction of venues and stages
  • Undertake venue fit-out (acoustic drapes, stage blacks, chairs, tables, etc),
  • Assist stage build and fit out
  • Ensure all tents (ticket office, performer reception, volunteer reception, shop, bar, session bar, kids festival, volunteer chill out, patron chill out, The Crossing, village eating area etc) are fitted out as requested by relevant team leaders
  • Monitor goods and services in and out to ensure compliance with quotes and purchase orders
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

Volunteers must:

  • Be available before the festival begins to be a part of the set up team
  • Be prepared for long hours and physical effort
  • Be able to take direction
  • Be able to work in a team
  • Be flexible and able to adapt quickly in response to changing circumstances
  • Be able to communicate effectively
  • Understand and implement WHS requirements

SITE SET UP: responsible to Site Manager

Position Description: Assist festival site set-up, assist Site Manager to deal with site issues as they arise during the festival. Core site set up team volunteers, who come on site two weeks before the festival and work during this time, are provided with free access to power (at the discretion of key festival set up stakeholders). All other volunteers may purchase powered sites via the booking page on the website for $45. Volunteers to the Site team must be prepared for and physically capable of significant physical effort.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Pre-festival: Assist preparation of the Showground site:
  • Ensure amenities are clean and in good working order both pre and during the festival
  • Ensure fencing is in good order and monitoring the overall safety of the site, pre and during festival
  • Identify slip, trip and fall hazards and rectify where possible
  • Monitor security during pre-festival build and post-festival pack down
  • Liaise with electrical provider to ensure site lighting is set up in good time and fit for purpose
  • Liaise with bar, camping and parking team leaders to ensure signage is erected in good time; manage all other signage (village signs, waste management, emergency signage, festival etiquette etc)
  • Monitoring WHS hazards on-site and dealing with them as appropriate
  • Liaise with Showground Land Manager to troubleshoot issues as required
  • Liaise on waste management and recycling efforts with Sustainability Team Leader and Scouts Coordinator
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

Volunteers must:

  • Be available before the festival begins to be a part of the set up team
  • Be prepared for and physically capable of managing long hours and significant physical effort
  • Be able to take direction
  • Be able to work in a team
  • Be flexible and able to adapt quickly in response to changing circumstances
  • Be able to communicate effectively
  • Understand and implement WHS requirements

SITE DECORATION (PRE/POST FESTIVAL): Responsible to Site Decoration Manager

Position Description: Assist site decoration (venues, stages, market areas, food areas, session bar and other facilities) as directed by Team leader.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Prepare bunting, flags, signs and other creative works to beautify the site
  • Assist construction of stage backdrops
  • Erect flags, install bunting and other works
  • Manage formal and informal signage with Pre-festival Office team
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

Volunteers must:

  • Be available pre-festival for unpacking, preparation and installation of flags, bunting, other decorative items  and post festival for pack down
  • Be committed to recycling and upcycling
  • Be able to work as part of a team to beautify the venues, stages, session bar, facilities and overall festival site
  • Be able to take direction while also taking own initiative
  • Be creative and practical
  • Have craft skills (sewing, painting, fibre work, etc) or be keen to learn some (swiftly)!
  • have light construction skills (hammer, nails, some work on ladders, etc)

PACK DOWN (POST FESTIVAL): Responsible to Construction manager or Site Manager

Position Description: Assist pack down of all festival venues, gear and equipment as directed by Team Leader. Responsible for assisting venue pack down, deconstruction/storage of staging, barriers, signage, backdrops, decorations, stalls, electrical etc. Volunteers must be prepared for, and able to undertake, significant physical effort.

Condition of Entry:

  • This position is an important role that comes with a condition of entry. This ticket is a great option for those that want to enjoy the WHOLE festival uninterrupted. It is also a great choice for volunteers who have a couple of days after the festival available.

If you choose/accept this role you are also accepting the following conditions:

  • To ensure all pack down volunteers actually stay and do the job we ask for your credit/debit card details ahead of the festival.  These details are kept on file until the completion of minimum hours has been approved. Upon completion, all details are destroyed and no fee is incurred.
  • If hours are not met or volunteer fails to appear on shift then your card will be charged the full weekend ticket and camping price.
  • This condition is in place to ensure we have sufficient volunteers to help pack down post festival. This condition is in place to ensure that only dedicated and committed volunteers choose this role.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Dismantling tents and stages
  • Assisting festival suppliers collecting chairs, tables and other gear
  • Assisting the Site Decoration team pull down, take inventory of and store decorations
  • Assisting the  Parking, Camping, Site, Electrical and Sound teams pull down, take inventory of and store gear and equipment
  • Ensuring the storage shed is packed efficiently and that gear remains accessible (do you have STORES experience? Call us now!)
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste generated post-festival in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.
  • Cleaning and tidying permanent venues, including the Yuin Shed, bar and cafe
  • Collecting litter and rubbish from the site so it can be handed back to the owners in good order

Volunteers must:

  • Be available for two to three days after the festival ends (the more volunteers the less time required to complete the pack down)
  • Be able to take direction
  • Be able to work in a team
  • Be able to communicate effectively
  • Understand and adhere to WHS requirements
  • Be prepared for and physically capable of significant physical effort
  • Adhere to the condition of entry

STAGE/VENUE Team:: Responsible to STAGE/VENUE MANAGER

Position Description: Manage the complete physical environment of an allocated stage including front of house cleanliness and tidiness, backstage security, cleanliness and tidiness, moving performers and their equipment on and off stage, keeping the program on a strict schedule. The position requires initiative, approachability, self-confidence and physical capacity.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Liaise with performers, sound crew, MCs and others and assisting as required
  • Work with MC to ensure concerts/events keep strictly to running sheets
  • Assist performers and sound crew with physical stage set up as required
  • Ensure water supply for performers and venue crew is maintained
  • Check regularly that the venue is free of litter and that chairs are arranged
  • Ensure that the backstage area is a secure place to store instruments and equipment and a safe place to work, free of unauthorised people and physical clutter
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

Stage Managers must:

  • Be physically capable of moving equipment and easily ascending and descending stairs while carrying equipment
  • Be familiar with WHS requirements and emergency procedures (especially the location and function of all fire extinguishers in the venue)
  • Be approachable, proactive, flexible, tactful, articulate, assertive and knowledgeable about all aspects of the running of the venue
  • Be a team player, willing and able to take direction from the Team Leader

TICKET OFFICE: Responsible to TICKET OFFICE Manager

Position Description: To welcome all patrons and process their tickets in a timely and friendly manner. The Ticket Office is the Festival shop front, the first point of contact, and in many ways the face of the festival. The quality of an individual’s engagement at the Ticket Office can set the tone for the whole festival. We want to make it the best possible experience by ensuring that everyone is warmly welcomed to the festival when they arrive at the ticket office. Computer skills are essential and EFTPOS/cash handling experience is highly desirable.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Welcoming patrons, VIPs to the festival
  • Selling festival tickets to patrons on arrival
  • Scanning pre-purchased tickets as patrons arrive
  • Wrist-banding patrons prior to entering the festival site
  • Selling festival programs and providing information about the event.
  • Operating an iPad/tablet/laptop operated “check-in” system
  • Liaising with Camping and Parking Team Leaders and volunteers as required
  • Distributing camping information and forms as required
  • Briefing on site layout
  • Briefing on emergency procedures
  • Answering enquiries
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

Volunteers must:

  • Be friendly and approachable with excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Be welcoming to attendees and able to work under pressure
  • Maintain a professional attitude and represent the CFF in a positive manner
  • Have computer skills for using scanners, iPads and EFTPOS.
  • Be flexible and able to deal with unforeseen circumstances calmly
  • Understand the festival site layout
  • Be a team player, willing and able to take direction from the Team Leader

Volunteer CATERING: responsible to CATERING Manager of volunteer kitchen pre and post-festival

Position Description: Prepare morning tea and lunches for the set up team on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday immediately prior to the festival. Prepare lunches for the pack down team on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday after the Festival.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Develop a menu for approval of Volunteer Team Leader
  • Work within the budget provided by the Club Treasurer
  • Provide morning tea and nutritious lunches suitable for a hardworking construction team
  • Keep the kitchen and eating areas clean and tidy
  • Ensure drinking water is available at all times
  • Liaise with Volunteer team leader and construction/site and decorating team leaders  if required, before the set up week, to determine catering numbers
  • Confirm numbers with team leaders every morning to ensure that only volunteers with meal tickets are provided with meals.
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

Volunteers must:

  • Have a current food-handling certificate (obtained, for free, through the local council’s website: Click Here) ;
  • Have experience in catering nutritious and tasty food for a large group
  • Assist in the running of a clean and tidy catering facility
  • Familiarise themselves with WHS requirements and emergency procedures
  • Be able to work in a team
  • Be able to effectively communicate with team members

FESTIVAL PERFORMER RECEPTION: Responsible to the Performer Liaison Manager

Position Description: This role includes being the first point of contact for performers upon their arrival. You will be briefed by, and work closely with, the Performer Liaison Manager and relevant shift managers. Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Greeting performers and their families
  • Receiving and/or scanning printed tickets
  • Operating an iPad/tablet/laptop operated “check-in” system
  • Issuing performer wristbands and programs where required
  • Liaising between Team Leaders and volunteers as required
  • Distributing performer information and forms as required
  • Briefing performers on site layout
  • Briefing performers on emergency procedures
  • Briefing performers on camping options and Green Room
  • Answering performer enquiries
  • Alerting Performer Liaison Manager and/or Shift manager of performer no-shows
  • Managing communication site for volunteers
  • Liaising with Instrument Lock-up team
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

Volunteers in these roles must:

  • Have impeccable people skills and an approachable attitude
  • Be able to take initiative when it comes to troubleshooting and liaising between the public, performers, Team Leaders and volunteers
  • Maintain a professional attitude and represent the CFF in a positive manner
  • Be familiar with the names of acts (can be studied on-site)
  • Be team players and able to take direction from the Team Leader

VOLUNTEER RECEPTION: Responsible to Volunteer Coordinator

Position Description: Assist the Volunteers Manager to ensure volunteers have a positive experience in meeting their commitments to the festival.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Greeting volunteers and other non-paying patrons or stall-holders
  • Receiving and/or scanning printed tickets
  • Operating an app “check-in” system on varying devices
  • Issuing volunteer wristbands & the current volunteer appreciation gift
  • Liaising between Team Leaders and volunteers as required
  • Distributing volunteer information as required
  • Briefing volunteers on site layout
  • Briefing volunteers on emergency procedures
  • Answering volunteer enquiries
  • Liaising with Team Leaders
  • Alerting Volunteers Manager  of volunteer shortages/no-shows
  • Managing communication site for volunteers
  • Witnessing sign in sign out sheets
  • Assisting in the setup and delivery of the volunteers after-party
  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.

Volunteers in this role must:

  • Have impeccable people skills and an approachable attitude
  • Be able to take initiative when it comes to troubleshooting and liaising between the public, Team Leaders and volunteers
  • Be very familiar with Team Leaders’ and volunteers’ roles and responsibilities
  • Be very familiar with induction package
  • Be able to work in a team and take direction whilst having a great time!

SUSTAINABILITY AND ZERO WASTE TEAM: Responsible to Sustainability Coordinator

Position Description: The 2022 festival is committed to ZERO LANDFILL. This team will play an integral role in our waste management and recycling operations, smooth running, cleanliness, sustainability and appearance of the festival. In this role you will be mobile throughout your shift as you move about the festival site, fulfilling your duties (listed below). This job requires volunteers who are physically capable of meeting expectations and responsibilities. Please note: you will NOT be cleaning any toilets, only tidying the bathroom spaces.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Assist the Sustainability Team Leader manage the recycling and disposal of waste in a sustainable manner to support our “ZERO LANDFILL” commitment.
  • Monitoring bins and advising patrons of correct waste disposal when required
  • Clearing tables in eating areas
  • Assist in keeping eating areas and bar clean and tidy
  • Keeping grounds clear of waste, including camping areas
  • Monitoring Volunteer Respite and Breastfeeding Space for bin collection
  • Working with Scouts to ensure full bins are swiftly dealt with.
  • Monitoring toilets and amenities for cleanliness and health and safety concerns
  • Replenishing provisions when and where necessary
  • Liaising with Cleaning and Maintenance contractor, and associated staff, regarding issues/concerns.
  • Liaising with Site Manager and/or 2IC
  • Working with Workability and/or Scouts teams on education and messaging.

The Tidy Team is ideal for Under-18s (5 hours total of tidying the eating areas and venues and collecting waste from vendors).

6am starts for the ‘Sparrow Fart Team’. Volunteers in this sub-group start their shifts this early in order to tidy the area in and around the bars and venues, preparing them for the day. In your application include a note, in the comments box provided, about your willingness to fill this role (limited spaces).

THE CROSSING YOUTH TENT MC (COMPERE)

Position Description The Cobargo Folk Festival’s The Crossing Youth Tent is one of the Festival’s most important contributions to music development and youth education. The Crossing is looking for an MC who is ideally between 16 – 18 years old. 

Duties may include:

  • Introducing performers and acts and thank them at the end of performance;
  • Making community announcements to audiences as required;
  • Developing a rapport with audiences and create an enjoyable atmosphere;
  • Liaising with performers (and sometimes parents/carers);
  • Liaising with the stage manager regarding time and programmed events;
  • Ensuring the program runs to time.

This applicant must have:

  • Great communication skills;
  • An understanding of, and empathy for, youth culture;
  • An ability to improvise when the time calls for it;
  • A warm and approachable attitude;
  • Confidence to be on stage to introduce and thank performers.
  • Working with Children check essential if over-18.

RAFFLE TICKET SELLERS: Responsible to Raffle Coordinator

Position Description:

This role requires volunteers (working in pairs) to roam the festival site selling raffle tickets to the festival public. This raffle consists of multiple prizes and the proceeds support our Youth Crossing team/family. The right people for this role must be friendly, vibrant, approachable and able to handle money in an efficient and honest manner. Raffle ticket sellers are ideally 18+, in order to potentially access licenced areas of the festival.

 

Thank you! 

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