The Role: Festival Volunteer Volunteering at SWELL is a great opportunity to meet artists, enjoy the company of like-minded people and enjoy the creative and energetic atmosphere of SWELL. Our agile volunteers come from a diverse range of backgrounds, giving their time generously to support artists, the SWELL team and help visitors connect and enjoy the event. Our volunteers assist us through all stages of the Exhibition including: Support on installation and de-installation days, helping to set up and take down the sculptures

Working with us during the exhibition: at the launch, artist talks, information tent, program sales, survey collection, visitor liaison

Working within the education program to help facilitate workshops

Maintenance and security patrols of the site during the exhibition Qualifications

Current Blue Card (or willingness to get one via SWELL)

Ability to provide friendly visitor service, including clear communication, active listening, and confident public interaction.

Strong organisational skills, reliability, and the capacity to follow instructions and manage time effectively in a busy event environment.

Comfort working outdoors for extended periods, with a focus on safety awareness and basic problem-solving on site.

Teamwork skills, including collaboration with staff and other volunteers, and a respectful, inclusive approach to diverse communities.

Interest in visual arts, events, or community engagement; prior festival, hospitality, or customer service experience is beneficial.

Availability to work full-time across the festival period, including some weekends or evenings as required.

Ability to travel to and from the Currumbin Beach (Gold Coast),



QLD site independently; familiarity with the Gold Coast arts scene is an advantage but not required.

Placements available for our volunteers: GENERAL EXHIBITION VOLUNTEER

Provide assistance at the designated Hubs and marquee at Swell greeting visitors, offering information about What’s On and assisting with program sales. This role also includes collecting surveys & voting forms, water and sunscreen runs, general help and putting on a welcome smile.

SITE CREW

Requires hard yakka and strength to keep the site looking pristine and presentable. Will involve shoveling and maintenance on sculpture sites and restorative work on signs, tents, flags and banners.

SWELL Kids Elements & Workshops Volunteer Provide assistance to Artists during and after morning and afternoon workshop sessions with preparation of workshop space, materials and clean-up at the conclusion. Volunteers in this category are required to hold a valid Blue Card. SCULPTURE PATROL VOLUNTEER

Provide a presence to encourage positive interaction with the sculpture and to assist monitoring the site in general during peak periods. EVENING VOLUNTEER

Assist with evening activities such as twilight walks, video projection, marquee activities and lighting.

SWELL FRINGE VOLUNTEER

Assisting with hospitality at SWELL Fringe Bar, events, masterclasses, live music etc. RSA required.





While we will always try to allocate your preferred volunteer role there may be instances when we may need you to cover other areas such as the general exhibition area. We ask for your understanding in this instance.

Company Description SWELL Sculpture Festival (SWELL) is a multifaceted, not-for-profit arts organisation based in Currumbin, Gold Coast, Queensland. Each year, SWELL transforms coastal landscapes into expansive outdoor galleries, offering large-scale public art experiences that connect people, art, and place. Through its major annual festival and a growing suite of year-round programs, SWELL invites audiences from all walks of life to experience art in engaging and accessible ways—across beaches, parks, galleries, and public spaces.

Our Purpose & Impact

SWELL exists to make art, culture, and creativity accessible to all. Reimagining natural and urban environments through sculpture, performance, and installations, the festival produces meaningful, sensory-rich experiences that stay with audiences long after they leave. SWELL is for everyone—an inclusive, intergenerational platform that fosters belonging, joy, and reflection.

Since 2003, SWELL has provided a world-class platform for artists—from emerging to established—supporting sustainable creative careers and encouraging bold artistic expression. Through storytelling, education, and immersive programming, SWELL promotes wellbeing, fosters social cohesion, and strengthens cultural identity across Queensland and beyond. For more information oand to apply to be a Festival Volunteer at SWELL Sculpture Festival 2026 please visit: https://www.swellsculpture.com.au/working-with-swell/ Our team will be in contact with you once your completed application is received.

📌 Festival Volunteer (Gold Coast)
🏢 SWELL Sculpture Festival
📍 Gold Coast