Event students go the distance at the EVA Air Brisbane Marathon Festival

Under the guidance of TAFE Queensland staff and event supervisor Antoinette Adams, Certificate III in Events (SIT30522) and Diploma of Event Management (SIT50322) students worked across multiple days and roles to support the delivery of this large-scale event.

With over 14,000 participants, 650 volunteers, and runners from over 35 countries, the Brisbane Marathon Festival is a key fixture on the Australian running calendar.

The EVA Air Brisbane Marathon is a scenic 42.2km course that winds through the Botanic Gardens, Story Bridge, New Farm, and Kangaroo Point, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars annually for charity.

“For students pursuing a career in event management, volunteering at a high-profile event like the Brisbane Marathon is an invaluable opportunity,” said Antoinette.

“This isn’t just volunteering - it’s a front-row seat to the inner workings of a professionally run, large-scale event.”

Students were involved in all phases of the event, from bump-in to race day and pack-down, gaining practical skills in logistics coordination, signage, supplier liaison, registration, customer service, and on-the-ground problem solving.

“They especially loved the registration activities, and the bag drop definitely challenged us all,” said Antoinette.

“We started at 4:30am on race day in the pouring rain, and the students handled it with maturity, focus, and incredible teamwork. They learned some big lessons in logistics.

”Students conducted stakeholder analysis in class to prepare for success and researched the event’s history and key partners.

“We always aim to instil a strong work ethic in our students - there’s no hiding in events, and nothing can prepare you for the thousands of people that you will interact with in one shift - you just have to step up and get the job done,” Antoinette continued.

On the Thursday before the event on Sunday, the student-led registration team processed over 2,000 runners in just three hours - a record effort that required precision, composure, and strong customer service.

At the bag drop area on race day, students managed thousands of personal belongings in wet conditions with care and efficiency.

“Each student worked a minimum of three shifts across five days. These experiences reinforce classroom learning and build critical, transferable skills like adaptability, leadership, and attention to detail,” said Antoinette.

“It’s a standout addition to any resume and a powerful step toward a successful career in events.”

Their professionalism and commitment didn’t go unnoticed, and the event organisers, Atlas Events, praised the students’ efforts.

“Volunteers like the TAFE Queensland students are essential to the successful delivery of the EVA Air Brisbane Marathon Festival,” said Susan from the Atlas Events Volunteers Coordination Team.

“Their professionalism, attention to detail, and enthusiasm helped us maintain a high standard across every aspect of the event.”

Antoinette explained that a significant standout moment for the students was being on-site as the sun rose on race day and watching the first marathon runners cross the finish line.

“This isn’t just volunteering, it’s hands-on learning that sets our students apart. Our industry partners are essential - they give students a safe space to build skills and gain real-world experience,” Antoinette explained.

“With the Brisbane Olympic & Paralympic Games coming in 2032 and growing interest in major sporting events, volunteering again in 2026 was an easy decision,” concluded Antoinette.