Media Release: NSW SES ALPINE RESCUE TRAINING STRENGTHENS EMERGENCY RESPONSE IN SNOWY MOUNTAINS

NSW SES

• Emergency services have completed more training in Kosciuszko National Park, with snowmobile operations, overnight deployments and search techniques tested in rugged alpine terrain.

• With 13 search and rescue taskings this snow season, authorities are urging visitors not to underestimate post-season alpine conditions, with unpredictable weather and remote terrain always posing a risk. 

   

Editors note: Vision and photos of the training are available here: https://spaces.hightail.com/space/2bGUjZwOhz  

As the 2026 snow season comes to a close, the NSW State Emergency Service (SES), NSW Police Force and the Australian Antarctic Division have put specialist search and rescue teams through their paces, building skills and strengthening partnerships for future alpine emergencies.  

The training follows a busy winter for specialist responders in the Snowy Mountains, with NSW SES volunteers assisting the NSW Police Force in 13 search and rescue incidents during the 2026 snow season.

With only a narrow window each year to train in snow conditions, the exercise was a valuable opportunity to build capability in Australia's rugged alpine environment and ensure responders remain prepared for complex search and rescue calls.  

The multi-agency training exercise held in Kosciuszko National Park focused on snowmobile operations, overnight field deployments and search and rescue techniques in alpine terrain.  

NSW SES South Eastern Zone, Chief Superintendent Tom Jory said the exercise highlighted the importance of collaboration in delivering successful search and rescue outcomes. 

"We took the opportunity to conduct an interoperability exercise with NSW Police and the Australian Antarctic Division, one of our Commonwealth support partners, who bring significant expertise from operating in hostile environments," Chief Superintendent Jory said. 

"These connections are critical. NSW Police are the lead agency for search and rescue operations in NSW, and we work alongside them to achieve the best possible outcome for people who find themselves in trouble." 

The NSW SES has continued to invest in building and refining its specialist alpine capability over the past two decades. 

"Given Australia's relatively small alpine environment and short snow season, it's important we continue investing in training to ensure our volunteers are ready when they are needed,’ Chief Superintendent Jory said. 

"We are committed to building that capability and continually evolving our training, so our volunteers remain prepared for complex incidents in alpine environments." 

Monaro Police District Commander, Superintendent Toby Lindsay APM said the multi-agency training further highlighted the importance of hikers and skiers planning ahead and being well prepared before heading into Australia’s alpine areas. 

“Conditions can be tough and unpredictable in the NSW Snowy Mountains. Alongside our emergency services partners, and their volunteers, the NSW Police Force continues to build its Alpine Operations Unit capability and exercises like these are crucial to ensuring our personnel are prepared for the arduous nature of the work they do in alpine areas,” Superintendent Lindsay said. 

“While the NSW ski season is over, the alpine weather conditions and terrain demand respect. Planning your trip carefully, knowing the weather conditions and your own limits are key personal safety.  

“Bushwalkers are urged to submit a Trip Intention Form with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service before they commence their hike, and have suitable cold climate clothing, shelter, food, water and a personal locator beacon (PLB) with you. These items will help you stay hydrated, maintain your body temperature, and raise help promptly if required.” 

Australian Antarctic Division employee and long-serving Tasmania SES volunteer Tim Whelan said the training provided valuable opportunities to share knowledge and strengthen relationships between agencies. 

"We came to the Snowy Mountains to work with the Alpine Search and Rescue Team, conducting snowmobile training around Perisher and the surrounding high plains," Mr Whelan said. 

"We also did search and rescue exercises and overnight deployments in the field. 

"We've built a great connection with the NSW SES and NSW Police Alpine Operations Unit, and these relationships will be invaluable moving forward as we continue to share information, ideas and expertise." 

By committing their time to train in remote, unpredictable and often harsh conditions, these dedicated teams are helping keep snow-goers safe today while strengthening alpine rescue capability for future seasons. 

As the 2026 snow season ends, emergency services are reminding anyone planning a trip to the Snowy Mountains that alpine conditions can remain unpredictable. 

Visitors are encouraged to check weather forecasts before heading out, carry appropriate clothing and equipment, tell someone their plans and expected return time, and ensure they have a reliable means of communication in case of an emergency. 

Media enquiries: NSW SES Media on 1800 067 234 or [email protected]