Background to AlpineSAR

VNRS was formed in 1979 as a skilled volunteer cross-country ski search and rescue group available for search callouts and rescue in Alpine areas.

Within 12 months of formation VNRS established a sub group to provide cross-country ski patrol services at Mt St Gwinear and shortly thereafter at Lake Mountain. Assistance was also provided with the establishement of a ski patrol group at Mt Stirling and at Mt Reynard (the Snowy Plains as part of the Maffra SES). As these patrol sub-groups matured they evolved into separate independent patrols at their own mountain.

Since its formation VNRS has always provided search and rescue services as part of the Bushwalking Victoria's  Bushwalkers Search and Rescue group.

In 2003 VNRS extended its membership criteria to also accept experienced bushwalkers who are not skiers.

In 2007 VNRS became Alpine Search and Rescue Victoria Inc (AplineSAR) and adopted a new set of Association Rules.

Search Callouts                                            

AlpineSAR Members are called out for search and rescue as part of the Bushwalkers SAR by the Victoria Police, normally the VicPol Search and Rescue Section.

Training

During the winter some form of training day is held, normally at a ski area. The type of training varies depending on the particular need at the time. AlpineSAR members participate in Bushwalkers SAR training activities. BSAR have at least one training weekend per year. To remain on the Callout List AlpineSAR members must participate in one weekend training activity at least every two years.

alpineSAR Structure

AlpineSAR has a commmittee structure with currently Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer and committee members who manage the day to day activities of the Service.These activities include maintaining callout lists, newsletters, arranging training, new member applications, representing AlpineSAR at the BSAR meetings, etc. The Annual General Meeting is held each autumn. The AlpineSAR annual membership fee is currently set at $25-00.