VICSES alpine rescuers refine capabilities as winter sets in

17/07/2025, 12:01 PM
VICSES Bright Unit volunteers often support winter rescue responses in freezing conditions throughout the state's alpine reaches.

As Victorians flock to alpine areas this winter snow season, Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) volunteers are ensuring they’re well-prepared to provide vital emergency response in some of the state’s most unforgiving terrain.

While typically associated with their role in responding to flood, storm and road crash emergencies, VICSES volunteers also provide valuable support in alpine communities throughout the year. They bring specialist expertise in high-angle rescues and alpine search and rescue for emergencies in some of the most treacherous parts of the state.

Earlier this week, VICSES Bright Unit volunteers gathered to refine their skills when responding in the alpine equipment, weeks after members were called to assist police near Mount Hotham following a snow event which left several holidaymakers stranded over the King’s Birthday weekend.

As an Alpine Search and Survival (ASAS)-accredited unit, VICSES Bright Unit volunteers prepare for all weather conditions and are trained to be self-sufficient for multiple days in the field. This allows them to access those in need and ensure their safety in even the most complex and remote emergencies.

With a response area inclusive of some of the state’s most scenic alpine vistas, VICSES Bright Unit volunteers are adept at carrying out complex high-angle rope rescues to assist patients in precarious situations, often in freezing conditions.

Alpine search and survival training aids members such as VICSES Bright Unit's Eleanor Gales (pictured) in safely conducting challenging rescues in some of the state's most unforgiving terrain.

Often working alongside other first responders in multi-agency teams, VICSES volunteers are trained to use unique equipment and specialist skills to locate, access and rescue patients in isolated or difficult terrain.

At VICSES Falls Creek Unit, volunteers utilise a fleet of snow mobiles to support Victoria Police search and rescue operations, while across the Great Dividing Range at Maffra, members use an all-terrain vehicle to navigate and access hard-to-reach locations.

To ensure volunteers are prepared to support community members and partner agencies during an alpine emergency, VICSES offers optional alpine search and survival skills training. Volunteers from as far afield as Sorrento, Whitehorse and Bendigo units have attended and trained alongside alpine units to provide additional support when needed.

Among the most highly trained volunteers in the state, ASAS-accredited members play a vital role in ensuring the safety of residents and visitors alike, drawing on their knowledge and experience to support effective emergency responses across a range of challenging environments.

For more information about the specialist roles available to VICSES volunteers, visit www.ses.vic.gov.au/join-us/volunteer-opportunities.