When we held our first VMX events at Amaroo Park in 1988 we hired, through Amaroo management the Flag Marshals League to supply flaggies. It worked simply with a pre determined donation covering them, all we had to do was supply flags and feed and supply them drinks. They came in nice crisp white overalls, their own chairs and umbrellas and were really professional at what they did. This is the same crew that did Bathurst, the F1GP's and other big events. Sadly it seems that they've disappeared off the radar...I googled them but only found an expired website.
The new OH&S regulations for volunteers is yet another example of how the stinking insurance companies have lobbied governments to alter or introduce legislation to make their potential for litigation profit even larger. Insurance companies call the shots these days, not governments.
Below is a section from the MCRCWA website:
INFORMATION ON BECOMING A VOLUNTEER MARSHAL
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We hope the following information will assist you in your decision to become involved. As a marshal you are a most important member of any racing organisation – without your valuable time and knowledge there would be no racing.
To become part of the Motorcycle Racing Club of WA Marshal’s League you will need to register firstly by:
Completing a Registration Form, available from: the web site mcrcwa.com.au or Tel 9409 1002 and a form can be posted or emailed to you. (Minimum age 18 yrs)
Once registered:
a.You will be contacted a week prior each event to confirm availability.
b.Report to the Infield Tower, Wanneroo Raceway for Sign on and Briefing.Motorcycle Parking is allowed Infield prior to 8.30am, otherwise park at rear of Pit Paddock and access the infield via the Dummy Grid/Pit Lane/ Start Line ladder.
c.Sign on commences 7.30am – Briefing to follow at approximately 8.30am by the Chief Flag Marshal. It is a requirement of Motorcycling Australia that all flag and track marshals must sign the indemnity and read the terms and conditions before taking up position on the circuit.
d.A programme of competitors and events will be available at sign on.
e.Depending on attendance numbers, 2 to 3 marshals are allocated to each point (with flags, cement dust and fire extinguisher) plus radio communication at various points. Marshals are rotated from point to point during the day (numbers allowing).
f.Marshals are to note any incidents that occur in their area (ie passing under yellow flags, crashes) these are to be reported to the Chief Flag Marshal /Chief Communications as soon as is possible.
Please wear:
Suitable clothing ie long pants, t-shirt, jacket, hat and enclosed footwear.
A limited amount of wet weather gear is available but you are encouraged to bring your own. An identification marshals vest will be provided at sign-on along with gloves for handling of motorcycles. Ear plugs and sunscreen also provided.
Food and drink
The MCRC of WA will supply lunch and refreshments during the day, tea and coffee at sign on and a free drink voucher end of day – you are welcome and encouraged to join in the Race Presentations at the end of the day.
Newsletters, gifts and prizes
Each regular flag marshal will receive the Club’s monthly Newsletter via mail to keep you in touch with what’s happening. There are also prizes/fuel money to be won at each race meeting and at the final race meeting for the season, each marshal is presented with a thank you gift from the MCRC and a Trophy to the Flag Marshal of the Year is presented.
Duties of Flag and Track Marshals
a.To observe competitors in their area of operation (usually corner) and display relevant flags to ensure the safety of riders. When there is an obstruction on the track (usually a fallen rider or a rider with machine trouble or either an oil spill or debri on track) it is the flag marshal’s responsibility to give oncoming riders a warning, so that they may take precautions to prevent a further accident.
Clearing of the track or helping injured riders are not the flag marshals’ responsibilities but are to be carried out by a track marshal/s allocated to your point.
b.To communicate with relevant next in chain of command at meeting, any irregularities ie oil/ debri on track, fallen rider etc.
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