A unique and exclusive opportunity to experience the action from the inside at the Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 is now available for women eager to learn more about the dynamic world of race and event officiating.

Thanks to a collaboration between the Coates Supercars Volunteers program cohort and Motorsport Australia’s FIA Girls on Track program, the opportunity is on offer to women 18-22 years of age curious about a future career in motorsport.

The FIA Girls on Track – Empower program caters to women of all experience levels, whether you’re completely new to motorsport or already have a budding interest, the experience provides a awesome chance to go behind the scenes of one of Australia’s biggest motorsport events.

Participants will rotate through a variety of roles across the three-day event, gaining hands-on experience, building industry connections, and discovering the many pathways available within motorsport.

From trackside action to gate operations, the Empower program gifts participants with a well-rounded introduction to the roles that make race weekends possible.

The program will run from Friday 24 October through to race day on Sunday 26 October at the Surfers Paradise Street Circuit. The program is free to be a part of, but due to size constraints, the program is limited to nine spots.

Applicants must be women aged 18 years or older, must not have not officiated at a Supercars event in the past, must be comfortable working in a fast-paced event environment, is willing to obtain a Motorsport Australia Officials Licence with the support of our member services team, and is able to commit to all three days of the program and a pre-event online meeting the Friday before the event.

In addition to unique networking opportunities and invaluable mentorship advice, each participant will get the chance to assist in rotating roles across the three days, contributing in different officiating roles such as Flag Marshalling, Gate Keeping and Scrutineering.

There are descriptions below about the importance of each of these roles:

Flag Marshalling

Flag Marshals are positioned right next to the circuit, placing them in the centre of the racing action. This role is essential to the safe and smooth running of the event. Flag Marshals use a system of coloured flags to communicate with drivers, signalling track conditions, incidents, and other important updates. They also act as the eyes and ears of Race Control, reporting on track activity through radio communication and hand signals.

Gate Keeping

Gate Keepers are responsible for scanning tickets and checking accreditation passes for everyone entering and exiting the event precinct. You will be stationed at one of the venue’s access points, helping to manage the flow of patrons and ensuring that only those with valid tickets or credentials are allowed through. This role involves assisting with queues, scanning tickets and passes, and directing anyone with issues to the appropriate support areas such as Ticketek or the Accreditation Centre.

Scrutineering

Scrutineers are responsible for checking all race vehicles and driver apparel to ensure they meet safety and eligibility standards before heading out on track. Working closely with Technical Delegates from each racing category, scrutineers carry out inspections before the first session and may also conduct checks after sessions as needed. If a car has been involved in an incident, scrutineers examine it before it is cleared to return to the track. No prior experience is required. You will be supported by experienced scrutineers who will guide you through each step and help you learn the process.

Successful participants will not only gain plenty of experience and behind-the-scenes access, but will also receive:

• 2x Supercars Officials event polo shirts
• 1x Officials cap or bucket hat
• Supercars Officials credential and lanyard
• 1x Three day General Admission ticket for a guest
• Supercars Officials gift
• Volunteer event pin
• Motorsport Australia Patch
• Your name in the digital event program
• Lunch and water provided daily
• Sunday Night Appreciation Dinner and Awards

Applications to be part of the Gold Coast 500 Empower program will close at 11:59pm AEST on Sunday 21 September with interviews to commence from Monday 29 September. Successful applicants will be notified in early October.