By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY
A call has gone out for more volunteers to support the Disabled Wintersport Australia (DWA) program, which operates across snow resorts including Mt Buller.
To support the program, the DWA team will hold a fun-filled 1980s disco night at the Dump Inn, Ski Club of Victoria, on 8 August.
The event will run from 7.30pm to 11.30pm, with music, dancing, raffles and auctions raising funds for DWA Mt Buller and its work providing people with disability the opportunity to experience the freedom of snowsports.
DWA Mt Buller coordinator Paula McCall said the night would not only raise much-needed funds but also allow those attending to learn more about the programs offered.
“At present, we are looking for more volunteers to assist people with disability who still want to enjoy the fun of snowsports,” Ms McCall said.
“Our volunteers come from many different backgrounds and walks of life.
“You can start volunteering from the age of 14.
“However, until the age of 18, volunteers must be accompanied by an adult guide.
“Our oldest volunteer is over 70 and the youngest is currently 18, although he started when he was only 14.
“Many are good intermediate to experienced skiers and snowboarders who simply want to give something back to the community,” Ms McCall said.
“For many of them, volunteering becomes one of the most rewarding activities of the winter.
“The impact of volunteering goes far beyond skiing.
“For many participants, it means independence, self-confidence and inclusion,” she said.
“We often see people who never thought they would be able to ski take on a run with a big smile on their face.
“Families often tell us it is one of the few activities they can all enjoy together.
“These are incredibly special moments,” she said.
“Volunteers can be trained to either Level 1 or Level 2, depending on how they would like to assist.
“We particularly need volunteers who can assist sit-ski participants, as there is a little more to learn when guiding these skiers,” she said.
“The training includes weight ratios, how to set the skis and how best to assist the visitors taking part.
“We also need volunteers in a more general capacity as ski guides for people with disability who can already ski but need someone alongside them,” Ms McCall said.
Expressions of interest are open for anyone wishing to volunteer with the program.
Volunteers receive free resort entry courtesy of Alpine Resorts Victoria, with lift passes jointly funded by DWA and Buller Ski Lifts.
For further information, contact Paula McCall on 0410 607 609 or email pmccall@disabledwintersport.com.au.