Volunteers encouraged for CinefestOZ

Volunteers with a passion for movies are being called on to lend a hand with this year's CinefestOZ film festival.

In the past, more than 240 people have volunteered at the five-day festival, with roles including film ambassadors, general hospitality, festival promotion and ushers.

Some volunteers have even played host to the festival's numerous VIPs or driven the stars around.

Festival chief executive Melinda Nixon said great film festivals around the world relied on volunteers and CinefestOZ had grown its own brand of hospitality.

"Our volunteer movie crew are a terrific group who welcome our audiences, stars and VIPs to the South West each year to experience what we think is the friendliest film festival in Australia," she said.

"As the public face of CinefestOZ, movie crew volunteers are incredibly important to the festival.

"With over 40 events and more than 200 screenings, we rely heavily on volunteer support and we are grateful to everyone who is able to give up their time."

Volunteers have the option of working for the duration of the festival or for as little as one day and in return, they watch at least one general screening, wear the CinefestOZ shirt and beret and attend a catered after-party at the CinefestOZ marquee.

Anyone interested in volunteering can register online at www.cin efestoz.com or contact moviecrew @cinefestoz.com for more information.