Cathy McGowan (Indi, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

My condolences go to the families of two Melbourne men, Daniel Kerr and Martin Buckland, who perished at Mt Bogong in the Victorian Alps on the weekend. My sympathy is with their loved ones and friends, as they grieve this double tragedy and try to come to terms what has happened. These men were doing what they loved. in one of the most scenic parts of Australia.

It takes a huge community effort to conduct a significant search and rescue. I want to thank everybody who participated in this harrowing task. This includes members of the Victoria Police Search and Rescue Squad, local SES volunteers, the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club Search & Rescue Group, and Falls Creek Ski Patrol members. These rescuers take a selfless approach to finding people in the mountains. Their roles need to be acknowledged by this House. My thoughts are with them all.

The snowfields have enjoyed one of the best starts to the season in more than 20 years. I am informed that ski conditions are rare: the snow is dry and powdery, leading to the risk of avalanches in steep areas yet perfect conditions on the slopes. I warmly encourage my parliamentary colleagues and staff to come and visit the Indi snowfields this winter—Falls Creek, Hotham, and Buller—they are at their best. However, bear in mind that the Victorian Alps can be treacherous as well as beautiful.