Festival co-ordinator Graham Cockerell said the event had grown each year, and so had the need for more volunteers.

"Volunteering is a good chance to help a worthwhile cause while having some fun at the same time."

The festival, run by the Casey-Cardinia Lions Club, was established in response to the 2006-07 East Gippsland bushfires.

In three years, the event has raised more than $65,000 for the Victorian Disaster Relief fund and distributed $100,000 worth of fodder.

Mr Cockerell said as with the Black Saturday disaster, the bushfires three years ago had left many Gippsland farmers to fend for themselves without government assistance.

"Not many people who donated to the Victorian bushfire appeal would have realised that most farmers and small businesses burnt out on Black Saturday were unable to access the bushfire fund because they are a business that trades as a company or are a family trust.

"This stress, on top of 12-15 years of the worst drought in recorded history, falling milk prices and a rising dollar, has been too much for some to bear."

Mr Cockerell said more volunteers were needed to ensure the event continued to be a success.

"If you are able to help by volunteering in any way, by donating your time, or money, or even goods for the charity auction, please do."

The 2010 Cars, Guitars and Stars Festival is on March 27 and 28 at the Pakenham Racecourse. Details: Graham, 59444111.