BALLARAT and regional residents interested in lending a helping hand at Melbourne's 2006 Commonwealth Games can take part in free training.
BRACE Education Training and Employment yesterday announced it would be one of 75 adult and community education providers across the state delivering a new volunteer training program for Games volunteers.
BRACE community and adult learning manager Angela Hunt said the course would build Victoria's strong tradition of volunteering by targeting groups that could otherwise face barriers to participating in major events.
"The course will target first time volunteers, particularly migrants and new arrivals, people with disabilities, the long-term unemployed and early school leavers," she said.
"Participants will be able to leverage volunteer opportunities such as those generated by the Games.
"They will also learn new skills and gain the confidence to take advantage of opportunities that may lead to personal growth, career development and a stronger involvement in their community."
Ms Hunt said participants would gain experience by preparing a volunteer application, undertaking interviews and working in teams, through a series of scenarios and role playing activities.