Lake Mountain Ski Patrol (LMSP) is gearing up for the 2016 winter season and has launched a recruitment drive for more volunteers to join its weekend team.

Volunteer patrollers need to be 18 years and older, and be fit, competent cross country skiers with a minimum Level 2 First Aid qualification.

To be well prepared for the season, the patrol’s 2016 training weekend will be held at Lake Mountain on the weekend of June 4 and 5 and prospective members are invited to attend.

THIS IMAGE: Lake Mountain Ski Patrol volunteers refresh their skills during a scenario at the 2015 training weekend. HEADER IMAGE: Patrollers Mac Hanson (left) and Jesse Siebler enjoy Lake Mountain's winter wonderland.
THIS IMAGE: Lake Mountain Ski Patrol volunteers refresh their skills during a scenario at the 2015 training weekend.
HEADER IMAGE: Patrollers Mac Hanson (left) and Jesse Siebler enjoy Lake Mountain’s winter wonderland.

Lake Mountain is the closest alpine resort to Melbourne, attracting well over 100,000 visitors each winter.

“Ski patrolling is a great way of volunteering with a difference,” said Tim Hatten, LMSP captain.

He said ski patrol is an integral part of the operations of Lake Mountain, keeping the resort safe for visitors by monitoring areas for risks, providing first aid services and general advice to the public, and assisting with searches if the need arises.

“It is also a great way of meeting lots of interesting and like-minded people whilst providing an invaluable service to the thousands of visitors to Lake Mountain… and, of course, we work in a beautiful environment and have the chance to ski the trails and chat with other skiers/snow players who are getting out on the snow and having fun,” added Tim who is Manager of the Millgrove Outdoor Education Centre.

Some patrollers have been involved in LMSP for more than 20 years and have a wealth of knowledge and experience to share.

“With newer members, it is exciting to see them learning the ropes and fostering their involvement in this worthwhile community service,” said Tim.

“I can’t over emphasise the value of volunteering whether in the LMSP, or any other community organisation. The sense of satisfaction gained from helping out, for no other reason than the desire to ‘be of assistance’, is priceless.”

For those interested in becoming a volunteer ski patroller at Lake Mountain, please check out the LMSP website at www.lakemountainskipatrol.org or contact Catherine Sutton, LMSP Secretary on 0403 146 378/ ccrsutton@gmail.com.

 

(For further information, please contact

Sandra Bucovaz on 0401 617 122 or 03 5967 3074)