Reap the membership benefits

Kate Dzienis • December 21, 2017

It’s that time of year again when our AURA memberships are winding down, and we need to start looking ahead to 2018. Sure, some of us don’t even know what we’re doing tomorrow or this coming weekend, but I can guarantee you that most of us already have an idea of what races we’ll be entering, whether they be locally, in another state, or even across the seas in international territory.

In this age of social media where we are hyper-connected and can find information almost anywhere from just about anyone, there are still benefits to joining a membership organisation. With AURA, one of the biggest factors is you’ll be supporting a member-based group that promotes the sport of ultra running and as an individual, you’ll be helping build its growth in Australia.

Our mission is to not only advocate ultra running and boost its popularity, but maintain all channels of communication about events and rankings, as well as encourage the physical, mental and social well-being of Australians through the sport.

Joining a membership based organisation has other perks too, from members only discounts at AURA-listed events to networking and being a part of a family. When you wear your AURA singlet, shirt or cap at a race, and spot someone else wearing the same thing, don’t you feel a connection straight away? We already have strong bonds with others in the ultra running community, having met so many people along the way, but don’t you just love that sensation of happiness when you have a visual association from across the start line?

There’s really nothing that compares.

And honestly, the cost of joining is reimbursed with all the discounts on offer for AURA-listed events, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Ultimately, the sport of ultra running is part of the fabric of a community of people who are actively involved, and who are going to be healthier both physically, mentally and emotionally. Even spiritually. We always find ourselves gravitating towards other runners and enthusiasts, and runs become more fun (wait, more fun than what they are already?!).

So make sure your membership is renewed and ready for 2018!

Pictured: Aid station 1 volunteers at this year’s 6 Inch Ultra Trail in WA, most of whom are ultra runners and AURA members. Photograph – Alexis Oosterhoff.

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Location : Bangkok, Thailand Dates : November 21 - 24 2025 Role Type : Volunteer Position Time Commitment : Pre event planning + Travel Application Deadline : 7th September 2025 Thank you for your interest in supporting the Australian team for the 2025 IAU Asian 100k Championships. This role goes far beyond logistics. It’s about leadership, inclusion, and creating a positive, empowering environment for athletes competing on the world stage. AUTRA is committed to opening doors for those outside traditional pathways. We strongly encourage applications from coaches, former athletes, club leaders, volunteers, and passionate community members. You don’t need to have served on a board or managed a team before as we’re looking for people who genuinely care, are highly organised, and can proudly represent our athletes and country. Role Overview As Team Manager, you’ll work closely with AUTRA President Gary Mullins and Vice President Geoff Russell to prepare and support the national team before and during the championship. Pre-Departure Australia Act as the main contact for selected athletes and crew Assist with final entry forms and travel planning Prepare a Championships Agenda in alliance with the Team Managers Agreement Document Coordinate flights, uniforms, and team communications Help identify and organise crew support Attend online team planning meetings On the Ground in Thailand Be present and ready as athletes arrive Ensure all athlete needs are met so they can focus fully on their race Attend all technical meetings and represent the team professionally Coordinate team attendance at the opening and closing ceremonies Ensure the team and crew are prepared, organised, and calm Address any issues that arise with efficiency and discretion Provide hands on leadership and moral support throughout the 24 hour race Support Provided Accommodation in Bangkok for 3 - 4 nights will be provided by AUTRA An official team uniform will be supplied A volunteer allowance of $1500 will be provided to acknowledge your time and service during the championship period What You’ll Need Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Strong organisational ability under pressure A calm, inclusive, and athlete first mindset Commitment to AUTRA’s Code of Conduct Member of AUTRA Applying To apply for the role of Team Manager please CLICK HERE and fill out the Application Form. Applications Close on the 3rd September 2025 Selection Process Following the application deadline, the AUTRA Committee will review all submissions and select the most suitable candidate. All applicants will be contacted by Gary Mullins within 7 days of applications closing. Gary Mullins AUTRA President