Backcountry Ski Course 1

Description

This is a 2 day course.

Techniques Covered:

• Gear selection and preparation: Proper gear selection, packing, and
  preparation are critical for backcountry skiing. Participants will learn about
  essential equipment such as skis, bindings, boots, skins, poles, helmets,
  beacons, shovels, and probes.
• Avalanche Risk: Avalanche risk is one of the most significant hazards in the
  backcountry. Skiers must learn how to recognize avalanche terrain and
  assess the risk of avalanche activity. They must also know how to use
  avalanche safety gear such as beacons, shovels, and probes.
• Terrain Selection Basics : The backcountry offers a wide range of terrain, from
  steep couloirs to open slopes. Skiers must be familiar with the terrain they
  plan to ski and understand how to navigate it safely.
• Uphill travel: Refers to the technique of ascending hills and mountains on
  skis. In the backcountry, skiers often use a technique called skinning, which
  involves attaching specially designed skins to the base of the skis to provide
  grip and traction on the snow. Skinning is a highly efficient way to travel uphill,
  and it allows skiers to access remote areas that would be difficult to reach on
  foot. On this basic course, we focus on a series of different techniques for
  doing turns and skiing up .
• Backcountry skiing requires a range of skiing techniques to navigate varied
  and challenging terrain safely and efficiently. (Powder snow, Ice snow,
  crusty layers of ice on surface on top and sugar down and lots of other
  situations that a skier could face on a mountain)
• Using safety equipment (Shovel, probe, Transceiver): Learning to use a
  shovel, beacon, and probe is essential for backcountry skiing safety. These
  tools are used for avalanche rescue and can make the difference between life
  and death in an emergency. On this course, one of the main issues is to
  practice how to safely travel with these equipment and how to perform a rescue in
  case of an accident.

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:

1. First aid kit: A compact first aid kit with essential supplies.
2. 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.