![WORK AND PLAY: Volunteers will have plenty of time to join the merry-makers at Birdsville. WORK AND PLAY: Volunteers will have plenty of time to join the merry-makers at Birdsville.](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/ezJUJGp6GbYvhKygBYtWTb/3b9dc1ea-d62b-445b-a25b-6b76162fd182.jpg/r0_3_1200_678_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
The Birdsville Races, the race that stops the outback, is calling on volunteers nationwide to help.
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The event will be staged on September 3-4, with tickets to go on sale on May 26 and expected to sell out fast.
Further announcements regarding ticketing options are to come.
"All indications are that interest is very strong this year and demand to secure a ticket is bigger than ever before, so volunteering is a great way to guarantee you can be part of all the action," said Birdsville Race Club vice-president Gary Brook.
Not just a dusty good-time in the heart of the outback, the races are an opportunity to also give back to the community via volunteering; funds raised go to the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Volunteers can nominate to complete their shift with friends and family, and in line with a particular skill-set or area of interest.
Depending on the team, the time commitment can start from as little as nine hours.
Roles are available in hospitality, information, media liaison, ticketing, mini-bus driving marshalling, set-up and pack-down and more.
In return, volunteers receive an a souvenir volunteer polo shirt, a stubby holder, cap and a medallion that gives complementary entry to both race days.
Before and after shifts, volunteers can take part in an array of experiences such as film, live music, cocktail parties, the Birdsville Hotel and Fred Brophy's travelling boxing troupe. You can even play a round of golf.
Along with thousands of intrepid travellers, volunteers from all over Australia \ flock to Birdsville every year to help deliver the two-day, 13-race program.
"We know that previous volunteers have developed friendships and memories to last a lifetime, and have been part of a truly unique experience," Gary said.
Many begin their journey from early August and setting up camp early to enjoy the region's yabby races, street parties and more in the lead-up. Some even charter private jets to cut down on travel time.
Volunteer registrations are now live at www.birdsvilleraces.com/Volunteer, with all volunteers required to be 18 or over.
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