Anyone can do it
OACT events are made possible by volunteers, through roles both big and small. And thanks to the diversity of volunteer roles available, anyone can contribute, without any previous experience.
You can participate and volunteer
You can always participate in the event if you are also a volunteer. Most volunteer roles are about 60 – 90 minutes long, so there is still plenty of time for your course.
Everyone benefits!
Volunteers ensure that OACT events run smoothly. Are you ready to contribute? Check out the list of roles below to see how you can help.
As each event is managed by one of the clubs, please contact your club event manager to volunteer. If you are unsure or not a member of a club, please contact the office.
Orienteering wouldn't exist without all our volunteers!
Volunteer Roles
These are just some of the volunteer roles. There are many more not covered here, especially many behind-the-scenes roles. Also, when OACT runs major events there are many specific roles for these events, such as event directors, website creators, marketing people, commentators, etc.
Event Organiser
- Be responsible for the smooth running of the event
- Organise key volunteers, oversee equipment and organise jobs on the day
Great for those who like managing people!
Assembly & Registration Setup
- Arrive early and help set up all the equipment (tents, tables, water, start & finish banners, parking signs, etc)
Great for the early birds!
Registration
- Check off season passes, hand out maps, and help first-timers fill out their registration cards
- Collect money and give change
This role is great for learning people’s names!
Start Team
- Maintain the time and flow of participants at the start
- Verify that everyone has cleared their SI Stick
Be a part of the start line energy!
Parking
- Direct drivers where to park
- Make sure cars are parked efficiently
This is especially important at venues with limited parking space!
Computer Assistants
- Monitor the event software as people register and download after their course
- Enter in first timer registrations
- Collect hired SI Sticks
Congratulate people on their (hopefully) successful course.
Newcomer Instruction
Hang out near registration and provide basic instruction to newcomers. Use a beginner course map to show newcomers what a map and course look like.
Cover the basics of:
- Punching the start, a control, the finish, and downloading
- Orienting the map, thumbing your location, and choosing a route
- Understanding the map colors and symbols
- Safety information, such as course closure and how to use a whistle
Make newcomers feel welcome.
Control Pick-up
- Collect controls!
A great way to do some more orienteering!
Assembly Pack-up
- Pack down all equipment, including tables, tents, banners, etc
A quick job, but you have to wait until course closure to start!
Course Planner
- Plan amazing courses!
- Provide the full range required
- You need to start about 6 weeks before the event
- Requires about two site visits to determine suitable control locations
- Put out controls on the day of the event (or sometimes the day before)
- Usually help with control collection after the event concludes
Arguably the most important job of all!
Vetter/Controller
- Help the Course Planner
- Run/walk the courses before the event and provide feedback to the planner
- For larger events, oversee the overall event organisation process
Provide another perspective and contribute to the creative course designing process!
Expense Reimbursement
Members can be reimbursed for expenses when undertaking volunteer activities. For details see Member Expense Reimbursement