Volunteers ready for Lismore Masters Games

Southern Cross University students with a desire to learn about event management and a passion to make life fun are among the 108 volunteers helping to run the 2007 Lismore Masters Games, which start on Friday.

The University is sponsoring the volunteers, who will be decked out in distinctive gold and blue Southern Cross University ‘crew’ T-shirts, for the three-day event.

Over 2000 competitors aged from 83 to 30, from all over Australia, will descend on Lismore for the weekend’s games and will compete in 12 different events.

“The University’s significant and ongoing sponsorship for this event – right from its inception in 1999 – has been integral to the development, management and ultimately the success of this significant regional sporting event,” said games manager John Bancroft.

“Each year the University provides student interns from its tourism, sport management and media degrees to help with running and promoting the event and a significant number of students volunteer throughout the weekend in lots of different ways.

“The interns receive real-life, hands-on experience in running a major tournament and learn about venue management, catering, promotion and marketing, volunteer recruitment, logistics and a host of other issues that bring classroom theory to life.

“And in return we receive their unfailing enthusiasm and energy as well as their considerable knowledge and skills. It benefits both parties.”

Photo: Prospective student advisor Glenn Jeffery is ready to volunteer for the 2007 Lismore Masters Games, being held this weekend.