Festival of Sails 2026 – Volunteer Callout

Join the Crew and Be Part of the Action!

They’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help make the 2026 Festival of Sails another
unforgettable success. Whether you’re on the water supporting race operations or on land
creating a fun, welcoming festival atmosphere — there’s a role for everyone!

When: Saturday 24 – Monday 26 January 2026
Where: Royal Geelong Yacht Club & Geelong Waterfront

Volunteer Opportunities: 

⚓️ On-Water & Regatta Roles
Get out on the water and help deliver one of Australia’s biggest sailing regattas.
Roles include:
• Committee Boat Crew / Drivers
• Mark Boat Crew / Drivers
• Safety Boat Crew / Drivers
• Time Keeper, Recorder, Visual Signals Officer & Top Yacht Operator
• Radio Room & Regatta Office Support
• Discover Sailing Helpers
• Deputy Race Officers & Race Management Team Support

Note: Boat drivers must hold a Power Boat Handling Certificate or equivalent; Radio Room
personnel require a valid SROCP.

🎪 On-Land & Festival Roles
Help bring the shoreside festival to life!
Roles include:

• Event Operations – signage, set-up & pack-down
• Information Booth & Ticketing
• Kids & Family Activities
• Artisan Market Support – assist stallholders, set-up and visitor guidance
• Classic Car Display Assistants – help with display coordination and visitor engagement
• Volunteer Hub Support – assist with apparel, meals, and volunteer check-ins
• Green Room Assistants – help with performer logistics
• Plant Distribution & Potting
• General Event Support – jump in wherever needed!

Why Volunteer?

• Be part of Australia’s largest keelboat regatta and waterfront festival
• Meet great people and gain hands-on event experience
• Enjoy volunteer perks including meals, event apparel, and entry to volunteer activities
• Training provided — no sailing experience necessary
• Register before 1 November 2025 for your chance to win a Musto Sardinia 2.0 Jacket
valued at $330!

Shifts
4-hour shifts across the weekend starting at 8am, 12pm, 4pm, or 8pm.
(Regatta on-water roles are full-day positions.)

Requirements
• Working with Children Check
• National Police Check
• COVID-19 vaccination (if required by current regulations)
Accessibility & Suitability
Wheelchair accessible
Great for individuals or groups (10+)
Suitable for travelling volunteers and people with disability
Ages 16–80 welcome

Contact
Maiys Winduss
Major Event Coordinator, Royal Geelong Yacht Club
majorevents@rgyc.com.au / maiysw@rgyc.com.au

(03) 5229 3705 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm)
25 Eastern Beach, Geelong VIC 3220