Lake Light Sculpture 2023 - Street Edition Volunteers, The Invaluable Contribution To Our Community

VOLUNTEERISM is alive and well in the Snowy Monaro. Many events in the region are supported by a volunteer workforce, and without them a number of our key events would be in jeopardy. Lions Club (Art Show, Easter, and Christmas Fairs) Rotary (weekend markets), Dragon Boat Festival, along with many of the cycling, running and mountain bike events sit alongside Lake Light Sculpture in trying to attract volunteers.

Lake Light Sculpture is a small-scale community-based organisation that produces a big event. An event with over 26,000 visitors, which continues to grow, cannot exist without volunteers to support the small Committee.

Community engagement is a core value and volunteering at Lake Light Sculpture is a fantastic way for anyone with an interest in arts and events to get involved with a flexible, rewarding, short-term commitment.

“I remember it was my first-time volunteering at Lake Light Sculpture. I was rostered onto the main tent, giving out information brochures and encouraging people to fill out the people’s choice nomination form. It had a great buzz to the night. I was surprised at the number of people coming to see the sculptures, even on a chilly night.” Jen

Lake Light Sculpture aims to engage volunteers in a mutually beneficial relationship by engaging with, and promoting, concepts of learning, culture and community. LLS is not unusual in the landscape of regional and remote community arts events in their reliance on the volunteer workforce. Through sponsorships and income from sales at the event, they survive. It is only through the support of volunteers that small arts events can overcome limited budgets and provide a region leading event for the community. Every person that has volunteered since the events inception has contributed to its success.

“When I attended the 2020 Lake Light exhibition it was as a re-emerging artist / sculptor. After many years focused on work commitments, I returned to my passion - sculpting in wood. Lake Light gave me the opportunity to exhibit and contribute firsthand in the groundwork setting up the exhibition trail. I was able to meet and talk to many like-minded people, artists and public. I found the experience extremely rewarding. Thank you for the opportunity. I look forward to returning in 2023 to this great location.” Peter

Volunteers at the event are the most frequent visitors to the event and area, they know the history of the place and the significance of the event itself better than most. The community own Lake Light Sculpture and are integral to its

ARE YOU AVAILABLE TO VOLUNTEER FOR THE LAKE LIGHT SCULPTURE?

The LLS committee volunteer their time to organise the event, a huge task, and they need help prior and during the event. Please make contact via the website contact page if you can assist during the 2023 Street Edition event. www.lakelightsculpture.com.au delivery each year.

“I always try and make myself available to do at least one volunteer shift for the Lake Light Sculpture each year - it’s the least I can do to support this amazing local event. Always a great vibe at the Park really enjoy being a part of it.” Jo D, TRC Tourism & TRC Trails

The purpose and role of the volunteer is far more complex than recruiting “free” labour and relies on multifaceted purpose, needs, and objectives of the Lake Light Sculpture, the artists and the community. Volunteers participate in the event planning and delivery with dynamic and purposeful involvement from community members whose passions are equally aligned.

In 2023 LLS are focused on recruitment, induction, and training for all our volunteers for the smooth running of the event. Lake Light can o er exposure to community driven art, fresh air and one of the best views in the region.

Cherie McNair, Chair Lake Light Sculpture said “It is because of our dedicated team of volunteers, Lake Light Sculpture can continue as a free exhibition to the public. We are proud to have volunteers aged from 16 years to 80 years.

“Lake Light Sculpture Inc also proudly endorses the Statement of Principles for the Recognition of Volunteers that clearly articulates that volunteer roles are respected, and their contributions valued.”