Wollongong local Susan Cole has been a cycling volunteer for 14 years, and she's ready to take on her next challenge, right here in the streets of her home town.
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Susan is applying to be part of the 1500-strong army of volunteers at the 2022 UCI Road World Championships, to be held in Wollongong in September.
The world's best cyclists will flood the city for the eight-day event, with 1000 competitors expected to bring their best.
Organisers of the premier cycling event are hoping to rally a volunteer group to rival the crew at Sydney's 2000 Olympics, and they're hoping locals will answer the call.
"Being part of a major international sporting event - such as the World Championships or the Olympics - is an unforgettable experience and a unique opportunity to work with others behind the scenes to create a lasting legacy for Wollongong, for Australian cycling and for our country," Event ambassador and Governor-General David Hurley said.
For Susan, who has volunteered at cycling events from Grafton to Geelong, it's a chance to show the cycling world what Wollongong has to offer.
"We need it here in Wollongong - it's a good opportunity for everyone to get behind it and support our city," Susan said,
She's got cycling in her blood, and she's carrying on a legacy that stretches back generations.
"My grandfather on my Dad's side is an Illawarra champion when the cycling track was in MacCabe Park and it was just a wooden track," she said.
The volunteering roles available are varied, from rider registration to photography and media, but Susan's not picky.
As long as she's part of the action, she's ready to roll.
"I can drive a car, I'll do whatever!" she laughed.
Wollongong 2022 CEO Stu Taggart said the team are hoping to recruit a diverse volunteer group, and are committed to finding roles to suit all communities.
"We're looking for people who are enthusiastic, love working in teams, are friendly and professional and can follow instructions but also show initiative," Mr Taggart said.
"We welcome all applications from eligible candidates, and we value a diverse and inclusive workforce that celebrates the unifying power of major events such as the UCI Road World Championships," he said,
Acting Chief Operating Officer of the Disability Trust Carol Berry said they were excited about the event.
"As soon as we heard about the event, we knew this was going to create a lot of opportunities for the communities we support," Ms Berry said.
Volunteer registrations close on May 25.
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Rosie Bensley
Illawarra Mercury trainee journalist and newest recruit.
Illawarra Mercury trainee journalist and newest recruit.
