Surf Coast Arts Trail returns, seeking arts enthusiasts to volunteer for its biggest trail yet

The annual art studio pilgrimage is returning to the Surf Coast this August.

Are you a lover of the arts? Do you want to be part of a major annual exploration of the local arts ecology? Do you want to contribute to a vibrant arts community? We have an opportunity for you!

A beloved arts calendar event, The Surf Coast Arts Trail is returning for 2026 and they are invited volunteers to be part of the event for the first time. The move comes as the event sees major growth for the upcoming trail weekend, and demand from community to be part of the celebrations.

Surf Arts Trail 2026

When: Saturday 1 & Sunday 2 August 2026, 10am – 4pm

Where: Over 60 venues across the Surf Coast

Volunteer application: Apply here. Ensure you read the position description and code of conduct before applying. Applicants must be 18+

Keep up to date with all things arts, exhibitions and stage here.

 

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A post shared by Erin Reinboth | Australian Artist (@erinreinbothart)

Proudly presented by the Surf Coast Shire, The Surf Coast Arts Trail is an annual calendar favourite for the local arts community and visitors. The Trail is a colourful weekend celebration of creativity which sees the public step into the studios, galleries, and creative spaces of local artists across the Surf Coast. This rare opportunity allows you to meet artists where they make, experience in action art making, and explore the diverse range of practices taking place in the community. There are painters, sculpture makers, ceramists and potters, textile artists, public art commissions and muralist, jewellers, glass blowers, and so much more. The Surf Coast Arts Trail maps out the makers, allowing you to move from studio to studio, gallery to gallery, and sit in creative zones as an authentic arts adventure, feeling inspired along the way.

On The Surf Coast Arts Trail, the new inclusion of volunteers will enhance the experience. Volunteers will work alongside artists to welcome visitors and help them fully immerse themselves in the arts experience. Volunteer tasks are incredibly simple – greet visitors, share information about the artists and their work, assist with some basic venue tasks, and ensure that each space has a friendly and safe feel for visitors.

Volunteering puts you directly in the studio with the artist to get up close and personal with their works, witness them in action, and share that special opportunity with others. It’s also a great way to be embedded in the arts community, connect with those Surf Coast community and visitors, and experience the Trail in way previously reserved for the coordinators and artists. For budding arts makers, students, or general arts enthusiasts, this volunteer experience also looks fantastic on the resume! Applications must be over 18, and are required to read the full position description and code of conduct before applying.

In exciting news for The Surf Coast Arts Trail, 2026 sees the Trail expand with more artists and spots to visit. As the Surf Coast welcomes more artists and creators to the region, the trail is reflecting that vibrant network with nearly 300 artists across 67 studios registered to participate in this years run.

The Surf Coast Arts Trail will be a must-attend for 2026, and if you want that volunteer access there’s only one thing to do.

If this sounds like an opportunity for you, head here to start the application process. To find out more about The Surf Coast Arts Trail, head here.