National Volunteer Week with Volunteer of the year, Marta

Fri, May 17 2024
The Adelaide Fringe Volunteer Program is one of the pillars of our arts festival that makes it Australia’s biggest. This year alone, 170 Fringe Vollies completed an astonishing 3,753 hours across the 2024 season, and as it’s National Volunteer Week, we’re taking some time to reflect on their incredible generosity, hard work and passion for the arts.
Two people stand side by side holding trophies.
Fringe Awards. Photo: Jack Timberlake, Adelaide Fringe 2024
We sat down with Marta, 2024 Volunteer of the Year, to chat about her volunteering experience this season with Adelaide Fringe.

What made you become a Fringe Volunteer?
I love art, music, theatre and I enjoy helping people, and the excitement of live events.

What have you learnt from Volunteering at Adelaide Fringe?
I learned more about customer service in the training for volunteers, I learned how to approach visitors at events and I made new friends from volunteering.

What does Volunteering mean to you?
To help art venues to create lovely experiences for others, support musicians, artists, actors, which all have in my opinion a very hard life to survive in this competitive world.
How did you feel winning the Adelaide Fringe Volunteer award this year?
I was surprised, very excited and emotionally touched. I almost cried from happiness.

What core Fringe values do you align with?
I believe that there is an audience for every artist and we are here to help them connect and we should support art for the good feeling in our soul.

What would you say to someone thinking of volunteering?
Definitely, try it. It is inspiring, happy and satisfying. Do it and enjoy!

What has been your fondest memory during your time as a Fringe Vollie?
It is hard to answer because I have so many happy memories. But I really loved the kindness of other volunteers, great teamwork, sharing information about venues, shows… all the connections were amazing and I am still in contact with a few volunteers and I am grateful for these new friendships.
Volunteering at Adelaide Fringe is more than an opportunity to support the arts; it's a chance to be part of a community that values creativity, collaboration, and the joy of bringing people together. If you're inspired to make a difference and create lasting memories while supporting artists and performers, consider becoming a Fringe volunteer. Step into a role that promises not just personal fulfillment but also a deeper connection to the arts and your community. Applications to become a volunteer in 2025 open this November. 
 
The Volunteer Program is proudly supported by our Community Partner, Lumo Energy SA.