Bush Search and Rescue Victoria

Prerequisites for joining Bush Search and Rescue

As a prospective member you need to:

• be an experienced overnight bushwalker or ski tourer
• have successfully completed an extended walk of at least four days or more
• have had snow camping experience
• be a competent off-track navigator
• be fully equipped for overnight walking
• be sufficiently fit for prolonged heavy scrub bashing in difficult terrain
• be over 18 years of age

You also need to have your employer's support in order to take leave on a few hours notice for a minimum of two days. You should attend a training weekend prior to your being considered for inclusion on the callout list.

How to join Bush Search and Rescue

Join one of the many clubs that are members of Bushwalking Victoria and be nominated by your club to join Bush Search and Rescue. You can view a list of clubs here then follow the link to a club for contact and joining details.

Alternatively, join Bushwalking Victoria as an Individual Member - details and a Bushwalking Victoria membership application from are available here.   Once you have joined Bushwalking Victoria you can apply to join Bush Search and Rescue using the Individual BWV members application form.

Once you are a member of a BWV Bushwalking Club or are an individual BWV members you will need to fill and submit a BSAR membership application form.

 BSAR Membership Applications Forms

• Membership application via a BWV Bushwalking Club (pdf)
• Membership application for Individual BWV members (pdf)

FAQs

Is there an age limit? You're almost never too old to join, but you must be at least 18. Our oldest members are very fit and capable 70 somethings!

What skills do I need for bush searches? Experience in overnight bushwalking and the ability to navigate off-track.

What skills do I need for snow searches? Most winter searches are in the snowfields, so previous snow camping experience is essential. The ability to use snowshoes or skis is highly desirable.

What gear do I need? Come equipped with your own bushwalking gear to spend two nights in the bush. However, most searching is undertaken as day searches returning to base to camp. Some extra equipment is required for snow conditions.

When do I go? Callouts can happen at any time, generally late in the evening. BSAR’s SMS alert system gives early warning of the possibility of a search callout allowing searchers to consider their availability and make arrangements in case a Club Contact calls them.

How do I get to the search area? From the departure point, Police provide bus transport.

Is there training? Annual training activites teach search and rescue techniques, and hone navigation skills. There’s the opportunity to meet and work with fellow BSAR members from different Clubs.

What do I tell the Boss? Support of your employer in advance, for the two-day commitment, is essential. It is the same support employers provide for CFA or SES members.

Can I decline a callout? Yes, of course. Family, work or other commitments often prevent individual members from responding to a callout. A callout must be declined if you are not 100% fit or your gear is not in good order at the time of the call.

Am I covered by insurance? On a search or during training you are covered under the Emergency Management Act 1986.

It would be great to see more people involved in Bush Search and Rescue, so consider participating in this very worthwhile volunteer community service.