Townsville volunteers shine under new Coates program

A record number of volunteers have thrown their support behind this year’s NTI Townsville 500, with 367 passionate locals and motorsport fans forming the backbone of the Supercars event — marking the highest volunteer turnout since before the pandemic.

The surge in participation comes as Coates, Australia’s leading equipment hire and solutions company, expands its support of Supercars events by becoming the naming rights partner of the Supercars Volunteer Program from 2025.

Now known as Coates Supercars Volunteers, the program celebrates the contributions of the volunteers who keep race weekends running smoothly — rain, hail or shine.

The program recognises more than 5000 volunteers who contribute across Supercars’ promoted events each year, covering roles from ticketing to scrutineering to flag marshalling.

In Townsville, more than 45 of those volunteers serve as flag marshals alone — under the leadership of newly promoted Chief Marshal Cosmin, a proud local who has volunteered at every Townsville round except one.

Long-time volunteers Tim and Therese are also celebrating a milestone in 2025—marking their 10th year of volunteering together at the Townsville event. Known for their humour and generosity of spirit, the Townsville locals say it’s the people that keep them coming back.

As part of its new role, Coates is focused on recognising and rewarding these behind-the-scenes heroes. So far, this has included gift vouchers for selected volunteers and planning is already underway for expanded appreciation events, skill development initiatives, and recruitment campaigns through TAFEs, universities, and grassroots motorsport clubs.

Supercars GM – Commercial, Jamie Black, said the partnership with Coates would help take the volunteer program to the next level.

“Without our volunteers, we simply couldn’t go racing,” Black said.

“They are the heart and soul of our events. With Coates on board, we can enhance the volunteer experience and encourage even more people to get involved.”

Interest in the program has already spiked, with applications for upcoming events such as the Century Batteries Ipswich Super440 that has introduced a waiting list due to overwhelming demand.

Those keen to become part of the Coates Supercars Volunteers team can register their interest by emailing [email protected].