Search and rescue in Victoria is the responsibility of Victoria Police.   But when people are lost in the bush the Victoria Police Search and Rescue Squad may request assistance from BSAR - Bushwalkers Search and Rescue.

BSAR is a dedicated group of bushwalkers and ski tourers that assist Victoria Police in searching for lost people, often in rough terrain. BSAR was formed in 1949 after the Police had been impressed by the professionalism of several volunteer bushwalkers who had been involved in an extended search. Since then, BSAR has provided volunteer search and rescue services to the people of Victoria on over 90 occasions.

BSAR volunteers can be asked to participate in searches at short notice, in adverse weather conditions and in rough and extreme terrain. The community needs bushwalkers, ski tourers, snowboarders and other people experienced in the bush for this role.

BSAR has the ability to send out small, self-sufficient search groups, which can navigate accurately without landmarks and stay out overnight. This is what sets BSAR apart from most other volunteer search and rescue organisations.

To join BSAR you must be a member of Bushwalking Victoria, either as a member of a club or as an individual member.  Join us

Visit the Bushwalkers Search and Rescue website at   www.bsar.org   for further information and details about BSAR entry guidelines and training events.