This year’s eisteddfod runs from August 26 to September 15 and the days will be jam-packed with events which can only run successfully with the help of volunteers. 

While many eisteddfod volunteers are regulars, roster co-ordinator John Vickery said he would like to attract a new crowd.

“We’re trying to get the new generation in. The older generation has been brilliant but we need to get the new generation to step up,” he said. 

“It’s the repetitive people that come back and they might bring a friend. It’s great to be a volunteer because you get to watch all the local talent for free and you can get involved with the local community.

“When it comes to volunteering people panic and think it might be a busy role. You can do an on and off shift and most jobs are easy.

“There are a couple of hard ones, like being a scribe. All the other jobs are straight forward.”

Volunteers are usually recruited by word of mouth. 

Entries for this year’s eisteddfod closed on May 31 with 738 entries received from Bathurst and other regions across the state including the Blue Mountains, Orange, Mudgee and Cowra. 

Fellow roster co-ordinator Renee Fowler is encouraging the next generation of volunteers to step up.

“I want these kids – 15, 16, 17, 18-year-olds – who are versed in all these genres to come and help us,” she said.

“If they can come and help do a little extra and get involved, that would be great.”

Some of the roles that need filling include door person, announcer, backstage, collecting copies, office, theatre lights, secretary to the adjudicator and ticket sellers (only evenings and weekends).

All volunteers are required to have a Working With Children Check.

If you are interested in volunteering, get in contact with Mr Vickery or Ms Fowler at 0439 107 666 or 0417 673 631 respectively.

A form can found on the Bathurst Eisteddfod Facebook page.

Forms are to be email to either reetfod1@gmail.com or bathurst.eisteddfod1@gmail.com or by post to 54 Keppel Street.