One of the most beautiful pacific paradises and home to the Fiji International is preparing the sun loungers and tropical fruit punch for a new batch of volunteers to hit their shores in October.

Fiji is one of the world’s most idyllic holiday destinations. Its crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and soft coral reefs is what makes Fiji irresistible, but the heart of the South Pacific isn’t just a great place to holiday – it’s also a great place to volunteer.

The PGA is searching for 300 enthusiastic volunteers to fill various roles that will assist in delivering this year’s tournament, which just happens to be located in one of world’s most exquisite destinations.

Sally Thomassen, a first time volunteer at the inaugural Fiji International in 2014, found the experience both enthralling and tranquil in a location that provides one of the most spectacular backdrops in tournament golf.

"It was a great experience to volunteer in Fiji, it’s a beautiful place and the golf course was breathtaking to walk around," said Thomassen.

"The tournament has a very relaxed feel about it and this flowed through to the Pros as well."

Volunteers are an important component to running any event. The benefits of being a volunteer, both personally and professionally, are significant and provide a positive impact on local communities, expand social networks and offer individuals the opportunity to learn new skills or even kick-start a
career in major events.

"It was great to meet so many volunteers from different places including the locals, Aussies and Kiwis," added Thomassen.

It doesn’t matter what your experience, there is a volunteer role to suit everyone.  Volunteering offers the chance to get inside the ropes at a PGA Tour of Australasia tournament and be involved in the logistical side of an international event. Plus, you might even get the chance to rub shoulders
with the Pros!

Thomassen possessed good golf knowledge that enabled her to act as an on-course scorer and a crucial tournament role.

"Acting as walking scorer was a wonderful inside the ropes experience. I was lucky enough to walk with Stephen Leaney’s group and received a signed a ball for my efforts," 

"It was really nice to know that the work volunteers do is appreciated by the Pros."

Volunteers are required to work a shift of four to six hours on all four days of the tournament and in all weather conditions. Volunteers may find themselves assigned to various duties that are crucial to the overall running
of the tournament, including ball spotters, scoreboard attendants, walking scorers, courtesy car drivers and driving range attendants.

To ensure volunteers feel confident in their role by the time the tournament commences, full training is provided. Volunteers receive lunch and drinks each day and a free shuttle bus will run from Nadi and the Shangri-La Hotel during the tournament to allow easy access to Natadola Bay Golf Course. 
As a thank you, volunteers receive two guest tickets and the opportunity to attend a golf clinic after the tournament.

International and local residents are welcome to volunteer at the Fiji International. Flight and accommodation packages are available for international volunteers through tournament travel partner, Flight Centre, and as the halfway point between North America and Asia other parts of the world can be
easily accessed from Fiji for the enthusiastic traveller.

"I would encourage anyone thinking about volunteering at the 2015 Fiji International to do it!" said Thomassen.

"I volunteered for the tournament which I thoroughly enjoyed and then had a holiday afterwards. It was the perfect combination."  

Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course on the coral coast will host the 2015 Fiji International from October 15th-19th. To find out more about volunteering, please contact Norm Emerson on [email protected]

For fans, kick off your summer of golf early and join us at one of the world’s most idyllic locations. Tickets are on sale through the Fiji International website with prices starting at AU$20 with discounts available when you purchase online. Several hospitality package options also exist and allow visitors a VIP tournament experience. 

We’re in, are you?

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Employment opportunities at the PGA