Athletes incoming: Iconic coastline backdrop to global volleyball event

THE Great Ocean Road Beach Volleyfest precinct is taking shape on Torquay’s esplanade with 2400 tonnes of sand filling three courts for the world-class volleyball competition.

From November 23 to December 4, Elephant Walk Torquay will come alive with more than 150 professional volleyball teams from across the world, including Australia’s top players, Olympic and World Champions, live entertainment and crowds of people creating a festival-like atmosphere.

The 11-day festival features three events; Volleyball World Pro Tour Challenge tournament, followed by the top-tier Volleyball World Pro Tour Elite 16. The Australian Beach Volleyball

Tour will wrap up the festival from December 2-4, providing the chance for Australian elite and emerging talent to play alongside the world’s best.

Ground Pass tickets will give spectators access to the festival, including street food, the performance stage, chill out zone and big screen as well as access to the Court 2 Grandstand to watch the beach volleyball action, while Centre Court ticket holders will have the same access, as well as a seat in the main grandstand to watch the best of the beach volleyball athletes and exclusives performances.

Former X-Factor contestant Taylor Henderson will headline Volleyfest’s live music line-up that also features hip-and-funk retro groovers The Soul Movers, folk artists Kyle Lionhart and the Pierce Brothers, Jack Botts, The Kite Machine keeping spectators entertained all day and night.

Henderson, who performed at the Closing Ceremony of the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, is looking forward to playing at a sporting event.

“Being a sports fanatic myself, this is the perfect combination of the two things I’m so passionate about,” he said.

“I got to watch the men’s beach volleyball final in Birmingham and I couldn’t believe the crowd engagement, it was on another level.

“To be a part of that atmosphere again, but being able to contribute my music and enjoy the crowd from the centre stage is something I’m so excited for.”

While enjoying live music and volleyball matches, food vendors including That Arancini Guy, Burger Boy, FRITZS WIENERS, Roadshow

Coffee and Taco Station will satisfy hunger pangs. Beverage partners including Better Beers, Great Ocean Road Gin, Moondog Fizzer Seltzer, Mt Duneed Wines, Grainshaker Vodka and Ned’s Whiskey will be available at the fully licensed venue as well as Coca-Cola beverages.

If you fancy being more than a spectator at the world-class event, committee members are calling out for volunteers.

Volunteers will enjoy a variety of perks during the event including behind-the-scenes action, ground passes and

receive an exclusive Beach Volleyfest uniform.

“Volunteering at the first ever Great Ocean Road Beach Volleyfest will offer people the chance to go behind the scenes and get up close to the world class beach volleyball action,” Volleyball

Australia Director of Sport Phil Muller said.

“We have roles to suit everyone, from back of house operations, athlete services, transport and logistics, to helping on the field of play, greeting ticket holders and much more.”

Volunteer accreditation passes will also offer people access to the event so they can enjoy the competition and music/food festival after their volunteer shifts.

“Don’t miss the chance to be part of this great summer sport in Torquay.”

To volunteer, head to beachvolleyfest.com.au/volunteer/

Tickets start from as low as $10, and if you’re a 3228 resident, enter the promo code Local3228 to buy one ticket and get one free. The promotion is valid to attend the event on Wednesday, November 23 and Tuesday, November 29. People using the code must present identification to prove their eligibility.

For tickets, head to tickets volleyball.org.au/