Volunteers are an important and highly valued part of Bendigo Art Gallery’s day-to-day operation, and there are various opportunities for people to become involved at the Gallery.
Individuals interested in participating on a long-term basis could consider the Guides and Friends groups, while secondary and tertiary students who would like to explore a career in the arts industry can enquire about a short-term placement.
For further information on the different options, see below.
The Friends
The Friends of the Gallery is a dedicated group who provide support to Gallery staff through assistance with mail outs, acting as attendants for exhibition openings, after hours events and special exhibitions.
The Friends present the Art & Tea public program, hosting relevant speakers throughout the year, linking with temporary exhibitions and also the permanent collection.
Throughout the year the Friends organise various fundraising events, contributing to the needs of the Gallery and the broader community.
The Guides
The Guides provide an integral service, through daily tours of the permanent collection at 2pm, assisting the Education Officers with school groups, and scheduled tours of special exhibitions.
Taking part in one of the tours offers our visitors the opportunity to gain a fuller appreciation of art, perhaps instilling a life-long enthusiasm for the Gallery in the process.
The Guides participate in an ongoing training program, including talks by artists and industry professionals, in addition to regular visits to other galleries and exhibitions. While the recruitment and training process to become a Guide is a vigorous one, it is an ultimately rewarding experience through which these volunteers become part of the public face of the Gallery. Recruitment for the Guides usually occurs biennially, with the next intake is scheduled for 2014.
Internships
Although Bendigo Art Gallery does not currently offer a structured internship program for university students, it does occasionally host tertiary students to assist with and learn about specific programs and events. The content and duration of an internship/placement must be negotiated with the Gallery and higher education institution.
Work experience
Each year the Gallery provides placements for a number of secondary school students undertaking structured workplace learning or work experience. These placements fill quickly and it is advisable to contact the Gallery early.
If you would like to enquire about any of our volunteering options, please contact the Gallery by email on bendigoartgallery@bendigo.vic.gov.au and include your area of interest in the subject line.
Post Office Gallery Volunteers
Situated in the former post office building, Post Office Gallery is a satellite gallery of Bendigo Art Gallery. Post Office Gallery offers a changing exhibition program that explores the region’s long and proud history. If you love history and collections and would like to be involved with this unique gallery, contact the Curator, City History and Collections on
5434 6179 or postofficegallery@bendigo.vic.gov.au