When you’re carving turns down Mt. Buller’s slopes or exploring the alpine backcountry, there’s a dedicated team quietly working behind the scenes to keep you safe: the Mt. Buller Ski Patrol. With a proud history dating back to 1950, it holds the honour of being Australia’s oldest continuous ski patrol—a legacy built on community spirit, resilience, and unwavering commitment.
From Humble Beginnings to Essential Mountain Service
The Mt. Buller Ski Patrol was born from a shared vision between the Ski Club of Victoria (SCV) and the Red Cross, forming part of the original Red Cross Ski Patrol. What began as a small group of volunteers providing first aid and rescue services has grown into a highly trained and professional team that’s integral to Mt. Buller’s operations today.
Over the decades, as skiing and snowboarding evolved, so did the patrol. Equipment improved, safety standards rose, and the team adapted—always staying ahead of the curve to meet the changing needs of mountain guests. Despite the growth, the patrol remains deeply rooted in its founding values: service, preparedness, and care.
More Than Just First Aid
Modern-day patrollers at Mt. Buller do far more than respond to accidents. They are first responders, avalanche safety experts, educators, and mountain stewards. From sunrise to sunset, in all conditions, the patrol works tirelessly to:
- Respond to medical emergencies and injuries on the mountain
- Assess and manage snow safety risks
- Support skiers and snowboarders in distress
- Promote responsible on-mountain behaviour
Their presence ensures that Mt. Buller remains not just one of Australia’s premier alpine destinations—but also one of the safest.
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
As we look to the future, the Mt. Buller Ski Patrol stands as a symbol of endurance and excellence. Its continued evolution is a testament to the passion and professionalism of those who wear the red jacket—past and present. Which is why, this Saturday 12th July, Mt Buller is hosting a very special event….
75 Years Ski Patrol Torchlight Parade
Celebrate 75 years of Mt Buller Ski Patrol’s commitment and dedication to the safety of the skiers and boarders of our mountain. We’ll celebrate together with fireworks, an ice bar and a torchlight parade down Bourke Street.
Location: Bourke Street ski run, ice bar outside ABOM on Saturday, July 12th
4pm: The ice bar opens. Gather for some apres and tunes as the sun gets low in the sky.
5pm: Twilight skiing officially starts, get out on Bourke Street to take a few runs under the lights.
6:10pm: The Bourke Street Express will pause for approximately 30 minutes to clear the run for the spectacle of the Ski Patrol torch parade. Get yourself in a good viewing position to take in the show and cheer on our men and women in red jackets.
6:20pm: Bourke Street night lights will be turned off and the torch parade will begin. Watch our heroic ski patrollers descend with their family and friends, lit only by torchlight. A spectacular fireworks display will follow their descent. Fireworks will be launched from the toboggan slope – best views will be in the village or any high vantage point in resort! Get your camera ready!
6:35-9pm: Enjoy an evening of twilight skiing, stop in at the ABOM ice bar, and celebrate our ski patrol’s 75 year contribution. Twilight Sessions are extended to 9pm for this special night and transport will continue until late so you can stay and enjoy the night.
Note – Twilight Session tickets are available online or at Buller Sports Central. Twilight sessions are included with Season Passes.
The legend continues…
So whether you’re a first-timer finding your feet or a seasoned powder chaser, you can ride with confidence knowing the Mt. Buller Ski Patrol has your back. And next time you see a patroller on the slopes, give them a wave—and remember the 70+ years of dedication that have helped make Mt. Buller the world-class resort it is today.
AMS Mt Buller Top Tip – after the parade – head to the Mt Buller cinema for the annual short film extravaganza that is the Banff Mountain Film Festival. It’s almost always a sell out and is a packed night of entertainment on the big screen. Starts 7pm. Prizes, great films and a mountain of inspiration. Book your tickets NOW!