The people behind the events: recognising the volunteers helping power UniSport

There’s a moment at almost every UniSport event where things just click into place. 

Athletes are competing. Music is playing. Livestreams are running. Photographers are moving between venues. Medals are being presented. Teams are arriving. Spectators are watching from the sidelines. 

What often goes unseen are the people helping make all of it happen. 

Across UniSport events throughout the year, volunteers play a critical role in creating the atmosphere, energy and moments that student-athletes remember long after competition finishes. 

From event operations and accreditation to photography, administration and event crews, volunteers are woven through almost every part of delivery. But for many, volunteering becomes about far more than simply helping out. 

Volunteers supporting the 2026 UniSport Nationals Athletics Championships on the Gold Coast repeatedly spoke about the sense of connection and enjoyment they experienced throughout the event, with many highlighting the people they met and the environment they became part of during the week. 

“It was lovely talking to Gary, he gave me some valuable advice for growing my career in sports,” one volunteer shared. 

Others spoke about “meeting the wonderful event staff and other volunteers”, while another described their time volunteering as “an enjoyable and rewarding experience.” 

That same sense of connection was also evident at UniSport Nationals on the Gold Coast in 2025, where one volunteer said, “I came for the volunteering experience and ended up making friends from universities across Australia.” 

The feedback shared across UniSport events tells a consistent story. People arrive to support an event, but often leave with new friendships, industry connections, practical experience and a strong sense of belonging. 

For some, volunteering becomes a pathway into the sports industry. For others, it’s an opportunity to meet people, contribute to something positive and be part of the atmosphere that makes university sport unique. 

One volunteer summed it up simply: 

“I would love to get involved again.”

The impact volunteers have on the event environment is something UniSport Australia’s Logistics and Workforce Support Partner, Mainfreight, recognises, and is a key reason why they have continued their support for UniSport Nationals in Perth this year. 

“At Mainfreight, we value people who step up, get involved, and make a difference. We actively seek opportunities to give back and be part of the communities we’re in. 

“This is why we appreciate the volunteers at UniSport so much. The volunteers are like the wheels on our trucks – they keep everything moving. Without them, the events that bring people together and energise communities wouldn’t happen.” 

Mainfreight also highlighted the role volunteering can play in developing practical skills and experience for students and young people. 

“Volunteering gives students the chance to build practical skills while making a positive impact – skills we value highly at Mainfreight and look for in future team members.” 

That idea of growth and opportunity was echoed throughout volunteer feedback, with many highlighting networking opportunities, exposure to event delivery and the chance to work alongside staff and industry professionals. 

As UniSport Australia prepares for Nationals in Perth this September, volunteers will once again help create the environment that defines the event, welcoming teams, supporting competition delivery, assisting behind the scenes and helping bring thousands of students together from universities across the country. 

National Volunteer Week provides an important opportunity to recognise the contribution volunteers make across communities and sport, but at UniSport, that appreciation extends far beyond a single week. 

They are part of the culture behind the events. They are the people helping create the experiences, and connections that make university sport what it is. 

UniSport Australia thanks all volunteers who continue to contribute their time, positivity and passion across events throughout the year. 

Update to this: Those interested in volunteering at UniSport Nationals 2026 in Perth can register their interest via the UniSport Australia website here.

For more upcoming volunteer opportunities and event information, follow UniSport Australia across social media channels.