Backcountry Ski Course 2

Description

Techniques Covered:

• Uphill skills: More advanced kick turns on steeper terrains, herringbone,
• sidestepping, Transitions. Using ski crampons and boot crampon on more icy
• slopes. Using Ice axes
• Snow pit study: Techniques for evaluating the stability of the snowpack,
• including digging snow pits, performing advanced tests and analyses such as
• extended column test, Rutchblock test, shovel shear test, propagation saw
• test.
• Rescue: More practical scenarios for finding more than 1 buried person under
• the snow using different methods of searching like Microsearch, grid search,
• signal isolation…
• Anchor building and short abseils: Anchor building using the normal
• equipment on backcountry skiing. Short Abseil on rocky or steep parts of the
• mountain.
• Skiing Techniques: Advanced backcountry skiing also requires strong skiing
• skills, including the ability to ski in challenging snow conditions such as
• powder, crust, and variable snow. Techniques for skiing steep and technical
• terrain may also be covered.
• Advanced avalanche assessment: Includes 5 lemon method, Nivocheck
  

  Equipment needed:

1. Skis or splitboard: Choose appropriate skis or a splitboard for backcountry terrain.
2. Ski boots or snowboard boots: Ensure they provide proper support and fit comfortably.
3. Ski poles: Lightweight and adjustable poles for balance and propulsion.
4. Skins: Adhesive climbing skins to attach to the base of your skis for uphill traction.
5. Avalanche safety gear: Transceiver, probe, and shovel for snow safety and rescue.
6. Backpack: A backpack to carry your essentials, including water, snacks, and extra layers.
7. Helmet: Protect your head with a suitable ski or snowboard helmet.
8. Goggles or sunglasses: Eye protection from sun, wind, and snow glare.
9. Layered clothing: Dress in moisture-wicking and insulating layers suitable for changing weather conditions.
10. Gloves or mittens: Warm and waterproof gloves or mittens for hand protection.
11. Hat or beanie: Keep your head warm with a suitable hat or beanie.
12. Sunscreen and lip balm: Protect your skin from sun exposure and windburn.
13. Food and water: Carry enough food and water to stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.
    

    The guide will carry the following:

14. First aid kit: A compact first aid kit with essential supplies.
15. Repair kit: Includes tools and materials for minor equipment repairs on the go.
    

    Location:

• Either Bright or near Mt Hotham. The final location depends on the snow conditions and will be communicated to participants closer to the course date.
  

  Times:

• Aim to be learning from 9am to 4pm each day.
  

  The course fee does not cover:

• Transport to/from Melbourne, including parking fees on location
• Food
• Accommodation
• Equipment rental
  

  Note on accommodation: 

• We have a contact in Bright where a few beds are available for $50 per night and ground accommodation (bring sleeping bag and mattress) is available for $20 per night.