Join the Australian Brain Cancer Foundation as a volunteer bar staff member at the 2026 ABCF RAKU Brain Cancer Gala Dinner.
This major fundraising event will be held on Saturday, 10 October 2026 at ANU Manning Clark Hall in Canberra. The gala will bring together approximately 350 guests, including supporters, sponsors, medical professionals, community leaders and families, to raise vital funds for brain cancer care, research, medical equipment and patient and family support programs in the ACT.
Volunteer bar staff will play an important role in providing professional, responsible and efficient beverage service throughout the evening.
Key duties may include:
- Assisting with setting up bar areas, glassware, beverages and service equipment before guests arrive
- Serving beer, wine, sparkling wine, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages
- Checking identification where required and ensuring alcohol is not supplied to minors
- Monitoring guest behaviour and refusing service when required under Responsible Service of Alcohol obligations
- Following all liquor licence conditions, venue requirements and directions from the bar supervisor
- Keeping bar areas clean, organised, stocked and safe
- Collecting and organising glassware
- Replenishing ice, beverages and other bar supplies
- Assisting with stock control and monitoring beverage consumption
- Communicating any safety, intoxication or service concerns to the bar supervisor or event management team
- Supporting other bar volunteers and event staff during busy service periods
- Assisting with bar pack-down, cleaning and stock consolidation at the end of the event
Applicants must:
- Hold a current ACT Responsible Service of Alcohol certificate
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Be able to provide evidence of their RSA before the event
- Understand and follow responsible alcohol service requirements
- Be reliable, punctual and available for the full allocated shift
- Be comfortable working in a busy and fast-paced event environment
- Have strong communication and customer service skills
- Be able to remain calm, professional and respectful when managing difficult service situations
- Be comfortable standing for extended periods and carrying light beverage supplies
- Follow instructions and work effectively as part of a team
Previous bar, hospitality, restaurant, catering or major event experience is highly desirable. However, applicants with a current RSA, good customer service skills and a willingness to learn are also encouraged to apply. A full event briefing and bar-specific instructions will be provided before service begins.
The Australian Brain Cancer Foundation is a Canberra-based registered charity dedicated to rebuilding and strengthening the brain cancer care system in the National Capital region. Our work focuses on supporting patients and families, advancing brain cancer research and biobanking, and funding vital medical equipment.
By volunteering as part of the gala bar team, you will help us deliver a safe, professional and memorable event while reducing event delivery costs. This allows more funds raised on the night to be directed toward programs that support people affected by brain cancer.
Benefits of volunteering include:
- Gaining practical experience in bar service and major event delivery
- Working alongside experienced hospitality, venue and event professionals
- Building customer service, teamwork, communication and responsible service skills
- Contributing to a major Canberra fundraising event
- Meeting other community-minded volunteers
- Supporting an important local cause
- Receiving recognition for your contribution and, where appropriate, confirmation of volunteer hours
Volunteers will be required to wear neat black clothing and enclosed black shoes. Successful applicants must provide a copy of their current RSA certificate before their placement is confirmed.
To apply, please submit an expression of interest outlining your availability, current RSA status and any relevant bar, hospitality, customer service or event experience. Selected applicants may be contacted for a brief phone or email discussion before their place is confirmed.