Join the Australian Brain Cancer Foundation as a General Event Hand volunteer 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.
General Event Hands will provide practical support across a range of areas before, during and after the event. This is a varied, hands-on role suited to volunteers who are flexible, reliable and happy to assist wherever needed.
Key duties may include:
- Assisting with venue setup, including moving light furniture, placing signage and preparing event spaces
- Helping arrange tables, decorations, guest materials, auction items and displays
- Supporting the registration and guest welcome area
- Directing guests to the correct entrance, tables, facilities and event areas
- Assisting with cloakroom, raffle, auction or fundraising activities
- Delivering items and messages between event areas
- Helping restock supplies and keeping service and public areas organised
- Supporting wait staff, bar staff, catering teams and event coordinators with non-specialist tasks
- Monitoring event areas and reporting any safety, access or operational concerns
- Assisting guests who require directions or general support
- Helping with cleanup, pack-down and the collection of event materials at the end of the night
- Completing other reasonable tasks as directed by the Volunteer Coordinator or event management team
We are looking for volunteers who are:
- Friendly, approachable and willing to help
- Reliable, punctual and available for the full allocated shift
- Flexible and comfortable moving between different tasks
- Able to follow instructions and work well as part of a team
- Calm and professional in a busy event environment
- Comfortable standing, walking and completing light physical duties for extended periods
- Able to safely lift and carry light event materials
- Respectful when interacting with guests, volunteers, suppliers and venue staff
- At least 18 years of age
Previous event, hospitality, customer service, fundraising or volunteer experience would be helpful, but it is not essential. Training, instructions and an event briefing will be provided. The most important qualities are a positive attitude, good communication and a willingness to contribute.
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 a General Event Hand, you will help the gala run smoothly and create a welcoming experience for guests. Your support will also help reduce event delivery costs, allowing more of the funds raised to be directed toward programs that assist people affected by brain cancer.
Benefits of volunteering include:
- Gaining practical experience in major event operations
- Building teamwork, communication, organisation and customer service skills
- Learning more about fundraising event delivery
- Working alongside experienced event, venue and hospitality professionals
- Meeting other community-minded volunteers
- Supporting a meaningful Canberra-based 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. Some duties may involve light lifting, standing and walking for extended periods. Further information about shift times, arrival instructions and allocated responsibilities will be provided to successful applicants.
To apply, please submit an expression of interest outlining your availability and any relevant event, customer service, volunteering or practical experience. Selected applicants may be contacted for a brief phone or email discussion before their placement is confirmed.