2026 Dates
7 - 8 March
5 - 6 September
SYDNEY EVENTING
Sydney International Equestrian Centre
Volunteers
We need you
Sydney Eventing simply could not run its events without the incredible support of our volunteers.
Volunteering is a rewarding way to be part of a major equestrian competition, experience the atmosphere of a world-class venue, and contribute directly to the smooth and safe running of the event.
Why Volunteer with Sydney Eventing?
Our volunteers typically:
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Have an interest in equestrian sport (or want to learn more)
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Enjoy being part of a busy, well-run event at a purpose-built venue
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Want to learn more about the three disciplines that make up eventing
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Like meeting new people and building friendships with like-minded volunteers
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Receive a volunteer levy refund if they are also competing at the event
Volunteer Roles Available
Dressage Pencilling
Dressage pencillers sit alongside the dressage judge and record scores and comments using an iPad-based scoring system.
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Training is provided before you begin
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Judges are familiar with the system and can assist if needed
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Best suited to those with an interest in dressage and a basic understanding of movements and terminology
Cross Country Jump Judging
Jump judges are positioned safely near a cross-country obstacle and are responsible for recording:
Clear jumps
Refusals
Rider or horse falls
Missed or omitted jumps
Volunteers also assist in ensuring spectators remain clear of the line of riding.
Scoring is completed via a mobile phone app
Instant access to a controller if assistance is required
Full training is provided
Volunteers should bring a fully charged phone and, if possible, a power bank
This role is ideal for those who enjoy cross-country and love watching horses tackle well-built, rustic fences.
Important note: For safety and course flow, cross-country volunteers are asked to commit to a consistent shift rather than short, rotating time blocks. Minimising movement on course is essential.
Road Crossing Stewards
Road crossing stewards help ensure pedestrians remain clear of horse and rider traffic at designated crossing points, maintaining safety for everyone on course
Cross-Country Start & Finish Stewards
After appropriate training, volunteers may assist at the start or finish of the cross-country course. Duties include:
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Recording start and finish times
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Ensuring competitors do not start early
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Confirming riders pass correctly through the finish flag
Time Commitment
Dressage Pencillers
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Assigned to the same judge for a session
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Sessions typically run for 2–4 hours
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Rest breaks are provided
Cross-Country Judges & Stewards
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Minimum commitment of half a day
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Short breaks between classes
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Relief volunteers are available as needed
Pre-Event Volunteering Opportunities
In addition to event-day roles, we have several pre-event volunteering opportunities, including:
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Working bees (usually Saturdays or occasional weekdays)
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Painting, oiling and numbering cross-country fences
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Flexible time commitments — a couple of hours, half a day or a full day
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Feel free to bring a friend (and sometimes even a dog!)
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Fence dressing on the Thursday or Friday before the event
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Assisting committee members with finishing touches on course
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Volunteer pack preparation on the Friday before the event
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Cross-country clipboard preparation
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Extra hands are always appreciated
These tasks are social, hands-on and a great way to get involved behind the scenes.
Food & Comfort
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Volunteers are asked to advise any dietary requirements when signing up
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Cold drinks are provided throughout the day
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Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea are supplied depending on your shift
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All-day cross-country volunteers on Sunday are also provided with breakfast
We recommend volunteers bring:
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A sunhat and sunscreen
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Comfortable clothing
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A lightweight, portable chair if desired
New to Volunteering or New to Horses?
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If you have never volunteered before or have limited experience around horses, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
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You will be welcomed and fully supported. Many first-time volunteers go on to become some of our most valued helpers.
How to get involved
Our volunteer coordinators manage sign-ups and enquiries through a combination of online sign-up platforms and direct contact.