Organisation

Dunedin Edinburgh Sister City Society

Purpose

Dunedin Edinburgh Sister City Society looks after the sister city link between Dunedin and Edinburgh as well as plans local Scottish events in Dunedin.

Description

Dunedin is described as the Edinburgh of the South! Come and be part of a unique, character-filled event celebrating the Scottish music, dance, cuisine and culture of our great wee city.

St Andrew's Day is a free, outdoor event held in The Octagon from 10am-3pm on Saturday 30 November. It is traditional and contemporary in nature, interactive and family-friendly. The DESCS maintains the tartan tie with The City of Edinburgh through the staging of cultural performances that showcase Dunedin's Scottish links and connection to Edinburgh. This year is of further significance given it is the 50-year anniversary of being a twinned city.

Mulitiple volunteer roles are available and all volunteers will have the opportunity to experience the programme of performers and activities. It is not a requirement to have a direct connection to Edinburgh / Scotland, just enthusiasm and an interest in this event. DESCS are seeking volunteers to positively engage with the Dunedin community and visitors from outside the city. You will play a key role in representing their society.

Event crew roles include:

Hosts:

• The host role is expected to be welcoming to attendees and engage the public with the performances and interactive activities; specifically mini Highland Games.

• Inform the public on the sister city relationship and the history of Dunedin (information will be provided by DESCS).

• Gather demographics with a short, user friendly survey using Google forms format.

Food and Beverage Service:

• Assist with food and beverage needs and directing the public to rubbish and recycling points.

• Hand out food to the public.

• In some instances, you may be required to process food and beverage via cash transactions. If you have hospitality experience, please indicate this on your application.

• Help clean food and drink dishes, this may include washing up tasks.

General Volunteer:

• Help where needed, as needed.

• Take direction from society members and/or performers.

Volunteers can work in pairs or on their own and the roles would ideally suit people who like engaging with the public or who have previously volunteered at events. Experience is a plus, but not required. This is a fun event that showcases local talent and you will be working alongside society members who are experienced in the programme.

DESCS's point of difference is being able to inform the public about the society and Dunedin's Scottish heritage. This brings learning opportunities, a chance to meet new people and the potential ongoing connection with the DESCS.

Information and orientation to the roles will be provided and in advance of the event.

Requirements

• The listed roles would ideally suit those who are confident, friendly, approachable, enjoy public engagement and who show initiative.

• The mini highland games activity is popular with families and children and needs volunteers who would bring a fun attitude and the ability to deliver game instructions.

• St Andrew's Day is an outdoor event, so volunteers need to come prepared for the weather conditions. There will be a room provided for event crew to safely store belongings and make a tea or coffee.

Time commitment

• The event is on Saturday 30 November and open to the public from 10am until 3pm. It will be necessary for volunteers to attend at 9:30am. Health and safety information will be provided via email prior to the event.

• While staying for the duration of the event is not expected, a minimum time committment of two hours is requested and volunteers may need to provide a handover to crew taking their place.

How to apply

Please contact Sarah Davis at dunedinedinburghsistercity@gmail.com

Please copy (cc) volunteer@otago.ac.nz into your application email