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The Oceania's Alpine Ultra-Trail taking place in the Snowy Mountains from 27-29 November is not only for runners to participate in but also provides an opportunity for local community organisations to get involved by assisting in voluntary roles to raise funds for the group.
As a volunteer community group assisting with certain roles, the race organisers provide donations in return for their support.
Snowy Brumby Horsemanship (SBH) is one such local charity which is participating in a volunteer capacity and has put a call out for more helpers.
SBH charity president, Sidonie Carpenter, is urging community members to lend a hand and in turn help raise vital funds for SBH.
"This is the fourth year since the Ultra-Trail started and we have been raising funds from the event every year," Sidonie said.
"Last year nearly $6000 was raised, which kept the brumbies fed over winter.
"It's a really great event, and just fun being out there with the runners," she said.
Whether it's for one or two hours or longer, any assistance is appreciated.
"Come for a few hours in town and help at the athlete check in or head out to the checkpoints or finish line for some serious fun and race vibe," Sidonie said.
Being a volunteer is almost as exciting as being in the race; there is something for everyone, from being the first to greet hundreds of participants, cheering them on as they take on the course, or handing out their hard-earned finisher gear as they cross the finish line. Whatever you do as a volunteer, you’ll be at the heart of it all.
Roles needing volunteers include:
Thursday check in -
7.30am - 1pm; 1pm - 6pm
Thursday check points -
Bullocks Flat: 7.30am - 2pm (split over two shifts if preferred); Village Green Thredbo: 9am - 4.30pm (split over two shifts if preferred).
Friday check points -
Guthega Base Camp: 11am - 11pm; Perisher Ski Tube: 12pm (Fri) - 5am (Sat); Bullocks Flat: 1.30pm (Fri) - 8am (Sat).
Finish line Thredbo -
Operating from 5pm Friday through until 3pm Saturday (a lot of shift options there).
Sidonie said any new users can use a link to create a profile linked to the group.
"Thank you in advance and a huge thanks to all those amazing people who have helped us over the years," she said.
"What you do keeps the brumbies coming in for training. So, we couldn't be more grateful."
For any issues navigating the site or if someone needs help, they can contact the volunteer co-ordinator, Nick Cheek on email: nick.cheek@ironman.com or phone 0409 175 230.
Snowy Brumby Horsemanship, located in Dalgety on the Snowy River, trains once wild horses and guides them through into a domestic life to be a riding partner and/or a loved companion.
In 2023 the SBH team decided to start a registered charity to help wild horses and brumbies that needed a new home.
The SBH charity is managed by a volunteer board of directors who match the needs of the brumbies to the donations given.
SBH currently has its popular summer program in full swing involving tours, training and riding lessons.
Those interested in the operation of the brumby rescue group can meet the mob or do a special tour where they learn how SBH trains once wild horses. Riding lessons are also part of the program helping the rider gain skills and confidence to ride as a partner to your horse.
Spokesperson and trainer, Claire Rogerson, said SBH is a team of great people working with these once wild horses.
"Our registered charity team raises much needed funds for us to continue our work," Claire said.
"We run training tours and pat and feed tours here for all visitors that also supports our work.
"Come open your mind to learn how we actually use these animals as a weed control, and yes they are approved by our local council.
"If you live on more than 100 acres and were wondering what to do with your weeds, give us a call on 0483 283 078," Claire said.
The SBH mission is to create a positive change for the brumbies through the sharing of knowledge, skills and expertise with all people.
Visit the SBH's website or Facebook page for more information or to book a tour, workshop or riding lesson this summer.





