In July 2025 Orkney will play host to the 2025 International Island Games, an event which will welcome over 2000 competitors and officials from across the world to the Scottish islands.
Over 700 Games-time volunteers are required to ensure that the Games, which will take place from July 12 – 18 2025, are a success, and organisers are appealing to the public of Orkney and anyone visiting during the Games, who already has accommodation, to register to volunteer.
At an event at Kirkwall’s Pickaquoy Centre hosted by Liam McArthur MSP yesterday, over 50 would-be volunteers found out more about the opportunities to get involved. Becoming a volunteer provides a unique opportunity to play a key role in a once in a lifetime event for Orkney that celebrates both sports and island communities. From marshalling crowds and welcoming visitors to assisting individual sports and helping with transportation or IT, there really is something for everyone to play their part in making the Games a success.
Liam McArthur said: “Having attended various Islands Games over recent years, I have seen first-hand the importance of the role played by volunteers. While the exploits of the athletes capture the headlines, it is undoubtedly the volunteers who help create the welcoming atmosphere that is key to making these the Friendly Games.
“I am in no doubt that Orkney will deliver the best Games yet but this will require everyone to play their part. Excitement is already growing locally and with so many volunteering opportunities available, I would strongly encourage anyone interested to get involved. This is a chance to build memories and friendships for life.”
Taking the lead on Ceremonies, is volunteer Bev Clubley, an Orkney resident who values community and togetherness above everything else. With a long career as a head teacher, Bev thrives in leadership roles and her wealth of experience in theatre and drama is the perfect background to putting on a spectacular show with the opening and closing ceremonies.
Bev Clubley, Head of Ceremonies, said; “It’s a once and a lifetime opportunity and I had to get involved and play a part in showing Orkney as the incredible place it is. The impact on the community will be massive and I want it to feel like a celebration of people. Volunteering is such an amazing way to get involved with the games, it opens up other avenues other than sports and gives us creatives a chance to be part of it and make it a success!”
Games Director Kirsty Talbot said: “In July 2025 Orkney will welcome competitors and officials from 24 islands across the world so, as the largest event that the islands have ever hosted, the 2025 International Island Games is a brilliant opportunity to promote Orkney as the perfect host and Scotland as the perfect stage.
“The opportunities for volunteering are endless and we feel there is something for everyone to get involved. We would like to encourage those who are able to lend a hand to volunteer and help to ensure that the Orkney 2025 International Island Games are a huge success.”
Maree Todd, Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport, said: “These Games represent a fantastic opportunity to showcase the outstanding beauty of Orkney, foster relationships across islands and nations, and provide a long, lasting legacy for sporting participation in the area. Sport is a community endeavour that brings people together and this simply wouldn’t happen without the fantastic contributions made by volunteers; from coaches and officials, to event organisers, and trustees on boards. Volunteering has the power to make an impact on both society and to our own health and wellbeing. It brings so many benefits – not only improving skills, but making new friends and most of all, having fun. It really is one of the most rewarding things you can do.”
Volunteers must be over the age of 16 from July 1 2025. Visit www.orkney2025.com/volunteer for further information and to register.