At our recent club meeting, we had the privilege of hearing from Dr Philip Henschke, President of Alpine Search and Rescue in Victoria. Dr Philip is a neonatologist who specialises in providing intensive care to very premature infants at the Mercy Hospital for Women, and his work with Alpine SAR is volunteer based. Much of his experience in the outdoors prior to joining AlpineSAR was as a Scout Leader. His presentation gave us an eye-opening look into the vital, often life-saving work his team does in some of Victoria’s most rugged and remote alpine terrain.
From search missions in extreme weather to rescues on challenging mountain trails, we learned about the dedication, training, and teamwork required to respond quickly and effectively when people go missing or get injured. Before being approved for alpine search and rescue work, a volunteer must possess a number of mandatory competencies such as radio communications, significant outdoor experience in areas such as skiing and multi-day walks, navigation, rope work, wilderness first aid and more.
We’re incredibly grateful for the time and insights shared, and we thank Dr Philip and the Alpine Search and Rescue for their service to our community. Their commitment to safety, service, and saving lives is truly inspiring.
