While the number of helpers can fluctuate each year, at least 1000 people give up their time to help set up, pull down and assist over the course of the festival itself.
Muster general manager Vicky Lowry said quite a few come from the local area, but some come from all over Australia just to be involved in the festival.
And she said the event would not be what it is today without any of them.
“No matter their motivation, we simply could not do it without our volunteers given the sheer manpower required for the event,” Mrs Lowry said.
“We have some dedicated volunteers who come year after year, and we also have about a dozen who work with us year round too.
“The year round volunteers help with merchandise sorting, organising accommodation for our guests, general office duties, cleaning and even site maintenance.
“They’re just part of the team.
“We then have those who help leading up to, during and post-event, which includes the local community and sporting groups who receive a donation from us for their efforts.
“Some of our volunteers come just to help out, and some volunteer so they can get a free ticket to the event.
“But they all seem to love it, and many of them learn new skills at the same time.”
Mrs Lowry said in its early days the Ute Muster only allowed volunteers from the 2710 postcode area, but she said it soon became obvious they would have to cast the net wider to cater to the growing crowds.
“Now we have a database of helpers from all over Australia, and we would always welcome more,” she said.
If you would like to volunteer for the 2024 Ute Muster - to be held October 4 and 5 - go to www.deniutemuster.com.au and select ‘volunteer sign up’ in the ‘apply’ tab.
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