EVENTS CATERING TEAM

Welcome to the Team!

A message from our Pastor - Alex Tan

OUR VISION

MORE PEOPLE BECOMING MORE LIKE JESUS

Jesus' last words are our first priority.

18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

(Matthew 28:18-20 | The Great Commission)

As a church, we exist to see souls saved and disciples made. We exist to see more people becoming more like Jesus.

This statement speaks of multiplication and discipleship; it is a mission to expand our community, not just in numbers, but in the depth of our faith. We're committed to reaching more of the coast and extending the invitation to experience the transformative power of Jesus' teachings. Simultaneously, we're focused on deepening our understanding and embodiment of those teachings and fostering a community of disciples who reflect the love and grace of Jesus.

This is where you come in! How can you embody “more people becoming more like Jesus” this year?

Our values are who we are. They are not just what we do, but they are part of our DNA. 
If the vision is the roof, the values are the pillars to support it and keep it strong.
Our values propel us toward our vision and guide all that we do.
This is the language we want to hear in every team rally, team meeting and team chat.

1 - JESUS IS OUR MESSAGE 

  • We believe Jesus is God’s answer for the world.

  • We’re Jesus people and live to represent Him.

  • We believe one encounter with Jesus changes everything.

2 - PEOPLE ARE OUR HEART 

  • We value people because God values people.

  • We choose to encourage, honour and love one another.

  • We are authentic, family focussed and make real connections.

  • We’re here to see people saved and make disciples.

  • We believe everyone can do something to reach others.

3 - SERVANTHOOD IS OUR ATTITUDE

  • We love serving the Lord together.

  • We are contributors, not consumers.

  • We choose to go the extra mile.

  • We serve generously with our time, talent and treasure.

OUR VALUES

Meet your Team Leaders

Hi there! If we haven’t met already, we are Darren and Megan and together we oversee the Operations department. We’re so glad you’re here and excited to have you on the Events Catering Team!

As your leaders, we are here to support, care and lead you by building you up in your faith journey, being available to listen, guide and encourage you, and leading this team with a culture where feedback is welcome, growth is celebrated and no one feels alone in their role.

The Events Catering Team plays a unique and powerful role in the life of our church. While Sunday services are vital, many of our most meaningful community moments happen around special events.

Think:

  • Welcome Home Lunches

  • Easter and Christmas services

  • Momentum Summit and conferences

  • Mother’s Day and Father’s Day celebrations

  • Team events and parties

  • Baptisms

These moments create memories. They create connection. They create belonging.

Being part of the hm.team is not just about organising food or coordinating logistics. It is discipleship in action. God has given each of us grace to play our part. The win for every event is simple, to create spaces where people feel valued, celebrated and able to encounter Jesus in a joyful, welcoming environment.

Our role often includes:

  • Organising catering

  • Coordinating food trucks

  • Managing decorations and printed materials

  • Arranging event extras like face painting or animal farms

  • Supporting setup and styling

  • Running last-minute errands and pickups

  • Overseeing food presentation and service

We handle the details so others can focus on the moment.

Events can be busy, dynamic and sometimes unpredictable, but that is part of the joy. We serve with excellence, flexibility and a spirit of hospitality. When we do this well, people feel seen, honoured and included.

So what’s next? Below you will find more information about what serving on the Events Catering Team looks like, expectations and practical next steps.

We are here for any questions you may have and we can’t wait to serve alongside you.

Darren & Megan Lockwood

How we serve & serve well

  • Dress Code:

    We come to our Sunday services dressed modestly and to honour God. 

    Practically, that means wearing your hm.church lanyard while serving, bottoms that reach your knees, and no low-cut necklines that may show cleavage. Crop tops are not acceptable. Nothing that’s too tight, short, or revealing. 

    Clothing with prints and patterns are acceptable, unless they have language or images that may be offensive or inappropriate.

    We respect everyone’s styles and personalities, however, please dress to ‘blend in’, rather than to ‘stand out’ - we want our congregation’s focus to be on Jesus!

    If unsure, please feel free to ask our leaders at any time.

    Blue Card:

    All volunteers at hm.church are required to have a blue card issued by the Government. This is free and easily accessible. Once you have applied for a blue card, please provide your name, date of birth, card number and expiry date to Darren. If you don’t yet have a Blue Card go here for more info.

  • Punctuality:

    Your reliability sets the tone for the team. Please arrive on time and stay until it is complete. If you are unable to attend or will be late, let the leader know as early as possible.

    Communication:

    We use Facebook Messenger & SMS for Sunday updates and team communications. We believe in honouring each other's time and effort so expect responses to communications.

Next Steps

  • Our onboarding process is designed to set you up for success and help you feel confident serving on the Events Catering Team.

    Events are dynamic and often larger in scale than a regular Sunday, so preparation, communication and teamwork are key.

    To get started, please review the following resources:

    • Day in the Life – Events Catering Team

    • Event Run Sheet (when applicable)

    • Food Safety Expectations
      Safety Guidelines

    • Helpful Hints

    From there, onboarding takes place over your first two events serving on the team.

    You will serve alongside experienced team members, watching and learning:

    • Event setup and styling

    • Food preparation and presentation

    • Coordination with external vendors (food trucks, suppliers, decorators)

    • Serving workflow and guest engagement

    • Pack down and reset procedures

    • Last-minute adjustments and problem-solving

    You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, observe how events flow, and gradually step into responsibility with hands-on support.

    You are considered fully onboarded when:

    • You are confident in event preparation and service processes

    • You understand food safety and hygiene expectations

    • You can follow an event run sheet independently

    • You can respond calmly and flexibly to unexpected changes

    • You are able to explain and show someone else how to do the role

    Our goal is not just competence, but confidence. We want you to feel equipped, flexible and ready to serve with excellence at every event.

  • We have a high feedback culture, and a culture of leading up. What this means is that communication is always two-way, we welcome any and all questions you may have, and encourage you to bring any issues, concerns, interests and more to our leaders.

    Our leaders are equipped to answer your questions to the best of our ability, and will always be ready to support you.

More Info

  • Throughout every event, your role is to create a space where people feel welcomed, celebrated and able to encounter Jesus. Events often carry extra energy and expectation, and our preparation shapes the atmosphere.

    Here’s what a typical event day looks like:

    Pre-Event Preparation

    Prior to the event, preparation may include:

    • Confirming catering numbers

    • Coordinating food trucks or suppliers

    • Organising decorations and styling

    • Printing signage or menus
      Arranging extras such as face painting or animal farms

    • Collecting supplies or running last-minute errands

    Clear communication and early preparation reduce stress on the day.

    Arrival & Setup

    Arrival time will vary depending on the event, but the goal is always the same — be early and prepared.

    Setup may include:

    • Arranging tables and seating

    • Setting up food service areas

    • Styling and decorating event spaces

    • Organising serving stations

    • Checking power access for food trucks or equipment

    • Preparing food presentation areas

    • Briefing volunteers on roles and timing

    We prepare with excellence because atmosphere matters.

    Team Briefing

    Before guests arrive:

    • Review the event run sheet

    • Clarify roles and responsibilities

    • Pray togethe

    • Highlight key moments in the event

    • Discuss any special guests or considerations

    Unity before service creates confidence during service.

    During the Event

    Once guests arrive, the focus shifts to hospitality and flow.

    You may be:

    • Serving food or drinks

    • Managing catering timing
      Supporting food trucks or vendors

    • Refilling serving stations

    • Monitoring cleanliness

    • Engaging with guests

    • Adjusting layout as needed

    Stay attentive, flexible and positive. Events often require quick thinking and calm problem-solving.

    Mid-Event Adjustments

    Be prepared to:

    • Restock items

    • Respond to increased demand

    • Assist with special requests

    • Adjust setup if weather or attendance shifts

    • Handle unexpected needs

    Flexibility is key. Keep communication clear and supportive.

    Post-Event Pack Down

    Once the event concludes:

    • Clear tables and serving areas

    • Pack away decorations and signage

    • Ensure leftover food is stored or disposed of safely

    • Clean all preparation and serving spaces

    • Return borrowed equipment

    • Load vehicles if required

    • Leave the space clean, tidy and reset

    We finish strong.

    The Win

    • Guests feel honoured and welcomed.

    • The event runs smoothly and joyfully.

    • The space supports connection, celebration and encounter.

    Events are more than logistics. They are moments where memories are formed and lives can be impacted.

    When we serve with excellence, flexibility and heart, we help create moments that matter.

  • Throughout every event, your role is to create a space where people feel welcomed, celebrated and able to encounter Jesus. Events often carry extra energy and expectation, and your preparation helps shape the experience.

    1. Warm & Hospitable

    Friendly and welcoming presence
    Comfortable engaging with guests
    Creates a positive and relaxed atmosphere
    Understands that hospitality builds belonging

    Events are often someone’s first impression of our church culture.

    2. Flexible & Adaptable

    Comfortable with changing plans
    Able to respond calmly to last-minute adjustments
    Willing to jump in wherever needed
    Open to serving in different roles depending on the event

    Events can be dynamic. Flexibility is strength.

    3. Organised & Detail-Oriented

    Pays attention to presentation and setup
    Understands event run sheets and timelines
    Ensures food is displayed well and safely
    Follows through on tasks without reminders

    The small details create memorable experiences.

    4. Team-Oriented

    Communicates clearly with leaders and team members
    Supports vendors and external suppliers respectfully
    Works collaboratively under time pressure
    Encourages and helps new volunteers

    We succeed together.

    5. Reliable & Responsible

    Arrives on time for event setup
    Completes assigned tasks thoroughly
    Sees pack down through to completion
    Follows food safety and safety procedures

    Finishing strong matters just as much as starting well.

    6. Calm Under Pressure

    Maintains a positive attitude during busy periods
    Keeps service smooth even when unexpected things arise
    Does not allow stress to affect hospitality

    Guests may remember the atmosphere more than the food.

    The Win

    • Guests feel welcomed and valued.

    • Events feel organised, joyful and well prepared.

    • The environment supports connection and encounter.

    When we serve with excellence, events become moments that people remember for years to come.

  • Welcome Home Lunch

    Catering Guidelines - READ HERE

  • 1. What time do I need to arrive?

    Arrival time will vary depending on the event.

    You will be notified in advance of your call time, which is usually well before guests arrive to allow for setup, food preparation and team briefing.

    Being on time ensures the event starts calmly and runs smoothly.

    2. Do I serve every Sunday?

    No. The Events Catering Team serves at special events such as:

    Welcome Home Lunches
    Easter and Christmas services
    Momentum Summit and conferences
    Mother’s Day and Father’s Day celebrations
    Team events and parties
    Baptisms

    Serving is event-based rather than weekly.

    3. Will I be responsible for handling money?

    Some events may involve payments, ticketing or float handling.

    If you are assigned to a role involving money, you will receive clear instruction on the process and never be left unsure. Integrity and accuracy are important, and support will always be available.

    4. Do I need catering or hospitality experience?

    Not necessarily.

    A willing heart, flexibility and a servant attitude are most important. You will learn by serving alongside experienced team members.

    5. What if the event plan changes last minute?

    That can happen.

    Events often require flexibility. Stay calm, communicate clearly and follow the direction of the team leader. A positive attitude makes all the difference.

    6. What if I can’t serve at an event I’ve committed to?

    Please let the team leader know as early as possible so we can organise cover.

    Clear communication helps the whole team prepare well.

    7. What are my food safety responsibilities?

    You are expected to:

    • Follow hygiene standards

    • Wash hands regularly

    • Store food properly

    • Monitor temperatures where required

    • Keep preparation and serving areas clean

    Food safety protects everyone.

    8. What happens after the event?

    We finish strong.

    This may include:

    • Clearing tables

    • Packing decorations and signage

    • Cleaning preparation areas

    • Storing or disposing of leftover food correctly

    • Returning borrowed equipment

    • Leaving the venue clean and reset

    Pack down is part of serving.

    9. What if I feel overwhelmed during an event?

    That’s normal, especially during large events.

    Stay calm, communicate with your team leader and remember you are not serving alone. We work as a team and support one another.

    10. Why does this team matter?

    Events create memories. They build belonging. They often open doors for connection and conversation.

    When we serve with excellence, warmth and flexibility, we help create moments that people remember long after the event is over.

Safety

Creating a safe, welcoming and well-organised environment is one of the most important ways we care for people, especially during larger events where attendance, movement and activity levels are higher than usual.

Safety is not just policy, it is pastoral. It is loving people well by preventing harm before it happens.

All Volunteers Should:

  • Know the emergency evacuation procedures

  • Know how to report incidents, hazards or injuries immediately

  • Have their Blue Card linked to hm church (where required)

  • Follow Safe Ministry expectations

  • Follow food safety and hygiene standards

  • If you see something unsafe, act or report it straight away.

Specifically for Events Catering Team

  • Because events often involve food service, external vendors and higher foot traffic, extra awareness is required.

  • Team members must:

  • Keep walkways, entrances and exits clear at all times

  • Monitor cables, power leads and generator access for food trucks

  • Handle hot food and beverages safely

  • Clean spills immediately to prevent slips

  • Use knives, utensils and preparation tools safely

  • Store food correctly and monitor temperature requirements

  • Supervise children appropriately around food and equipment

  • Never attempt to repair electrical or catering equipment without approval

  • Remain calm and alert during busy periods

  • Events can be fast-paced. Staying observant protects everyone.

In the Event of an Incident

  • Notify a team leader immediately

  • Complete any required incident report

  • Assist calmly if requested

  • Do not attempt to manage serious situations alone

Emergency Contacts:

Darren Lockwood: 0412 378 561

FEELS LIKE HOME