BUSHWALKERS WILDERNESS RESCUE SQUAD ^INC.

A volunteer group of experienced outdoors people.

Join the Squad

Who can join BWRS, what are the members like?

Our members are generally very fit and active in the outdoors. Many members come from the Bushwalking Clubs or the Outdoor Recreation Industry. However people with other backgrounds are welcome, skills such as advanced Wilderness first aid, radio communications and mapping computer programs such as Oziexplorer will be highly regarded. The bulk of the membership is 20s to 40s with a number of experienced old-timers still active. Everyone is encouraged to participate and achieve to the maximum of their ability.

Squad members must be at least 18 years of age.

So if you are an experienced off track multi day trip walker or you believe that you have other skills that will benefit the squad please contact us. [click here] for information on how to join us.

In 2008 we have introduced a minimum bushwalking experience requirement for prospective members who wish to be operational field members. The minimum experience level is to have completed at least 6 overnight bushwalks in the past 3 years, one of which must be at least 3 days duration. At least one of these walks must involve a significant amount of off track walking. You will be required to briefly describe your bushwalking experience on the prospective membership form, and you must show that you have achieved the minimum experience level.

The success of BWRS is due to the quality of the people involved, and we are always looking for skilled new members. If you have these skills and are interested we would like to hear from you [click here].

Other skills

The squad has a need for people with other skills such as radio technicians and operators, trainers, administrators and fund raising. While these people do not enter the field during a search they do work essential for the operation of the squad. These roles are ideal for people who are less active bushwalkers, so there is no minimum experience level required to join the squad in these roles. If you have these skills and are interested we would like to hear from you [click here].

Bushwalking Clubs

For details about bushwalking clubs in New South Wales, go to the NSW Confederation of Bushwalking Clubs web page [click here].

Volunteer Rescue Association

For more information about the Volunteer Rescue Association, go to the VRA web page [click here].

Time off work for week day callouts

Most public service awards have provisions for emergency services leave and work with BWRS should qualify for this. Some private companies offer emergency services leave but most are happy to grant it even if it is not in the award of employment contract provided it is discussed and agreed in advance. The squad can help you discuss this matter with your manager if required.

Proof of attendance at an emergency services operation can be supplied by the squad. They are usually authorised by the Police officer in charge of the operation.