Supported Guide Program

DWA’s supported guide program aims to increase guide retention, increase the skill level of guides and to improve the quality of services to our members.

The program has its foundations in the Resort Services Program Review, undertaken immediately after winter 2020. The review solicited input from volunteer guides and staff across all resorts.

What is the Supported Guide Program?

As part of the development pathway for our volunteer guides, DWA now offers this program for our experienced guides who volunteer for fifteen days or more of on snow volunteering.

Supported Guides are advanced skiers/snowboarders with demonstrable Level 2 Adaptive Guide or Primary Guide capability.

There are limited numbers of supported guides at each resort, with the essential criteria being commitment to at least fifteen days of guiding and attendance at three training or fundraising events.

Benefits include:

• A free season pass

• National Park/Resort entry fees

• Your own branded guide jacket to use for the season and access to a range of additional protective equipment, and

• Free Associate membership for the following year

To find out more about the program and the Supported Guide Agreement, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator.

What do current supported guides say about the program?

Amanda, from Perisher, says:

“This was a great initiative and long overdue. Despite initial doubts, I was able to meet the program’s requirements and juggle my many other commitments. The program is most helpful in engaging more volunteers. It’s good that DWA recognises the huge commitment that volunteers make and they will support the program again.”

Ian, from Mt. Hotham, made these comments:

“Being a Supported Guide has been a wonderful initiative by DWA as it recognises the extra effort and commitment made by those who do. We all note that we would do the same regardless, but it does increase our endeavours knowing that Management are aware of our extra work. Having our own quality waterproof jacket has made a big difference as we often operate in less than ideal conditions.”