Calling all Volunteers

Calling all Volunteers

Dunedin (Friday, 13 November, 2009) – With the countdown to the ACC New Zealand Masters Games in Dunedin well underway, the attention has turned to the many volunteers who make the games happen.

After the death of her husband, Annette Williams, of Mosgiel, was looking for something to fill in her days. She had entered Masters Games in the past in Dunedin and thought volunteering to help run the event sounded like it could be what she needed.

In 2004, she ended up on the accreditation desk, checking the details of those who had already registered.

“It was so interesting. I got to meet so many wonderful people,” she said.

She volunteered at every games since in Dunedin and at the last one met with those organising the World Masters Games in Sydney.

“My son lives in Sydney and I had enough Airpoints so the trip would be free so I thought why can’t I?”

The Worlds were in October and there she also helped at the accreditation desk and was given an “amazing” kit – including a shower-proof jacket, polo shirts, long pants and shorts, a cap and a bag.

“I didn’t get to see any of the games - I was just so busy - but it was a lot of fun,” Annette, who is in her late sixties, said.

“The only thing I saw was the opening ceremony and it was an amazing sight to see so many mature athletes marching into the stadium.”

ACC New Zealand Masters Games Manager Aaron Joy said without volunteers the Dunedin games wouldn’t happen.

“We have about 150 volunteers help out at the Dunedin games and we couldn’t do it without their help,” he said. “As well, each sport at the Games provides their own volunteers to run events.

“We’re always on the lookout for new volunteers. Really, the more the merrier.”

Dunedin Masters Games volunteers are invited to a meeting at 6pm on Thursday, 3 December at the Sir Clifford Skeggs Gallery to let them know what will be happening at next year’s games which are on from 30 January to 7 February.

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