Field Organiser
The nominated FO leads and manages the Bushwalkers Search and Rescue members on each search, under the direction of the Police. A group of about ten very experienced members have been designated for the FO role. The first FO available when the call-out commences takes on the job for that particular search.
The FO will usually appoint a deputy. Together they will represent BSAR volunteers at all discussions and planning meetings. They will give all instructions to members, either directly or through the Group Leaders. Searches work best when either or both the FO and deputy remain at the search base almost all the time. The official contact with the Police is through the FO, but in the field this may not be practical. Once in the field instructions from the FO come via Police radio.
For detailed information on the role of the FO, see the Bushwalkers Search and Rescue booklet “Field Organiser and Police Liaison Officer Notes and Check List”.

Search Groups
The normal organisational structure for BSAR members on a search is the formation of search groups of four members. Usually while being transported to the search location, the FO will select Group Leaders from the members who have responded to the call-out and form the search groups around those leaders.
Even though your Club may rate you as a leader, you may not necessarily be used in that position in the field. Having many competent leaders is one of our real strengths. By working in small teams, everyone can make a significant contribution of ideas and skills, so your experience will not be wasted. Members of the group must take responsibility for first aid, radio communications and navigation.
The FO will attempt to form balanced and self- contained search groups of two or more members. This is generally achieved by grouping people from the same club, who may have walked together many times. The efficiency of the group is enhanced by their mutual confidence.
At search base (as elsewhere) it is essential to stay with your group. If you have to briefly leave the group ensure that your leader is informed of your whereabouts, so that you may be readily contacted if needed at any time.
As BSAR acts as an independent body for administration, all checking in and out at search base must be through the FO.
Search Group Leaders
Experience over many years has suggested that Group Leaders are the key people in the successful operation of BSAR.
Search Group Leaders are the vital link between the FO and the searchers. They are responsible for ensuring that the search tasks are carried out in the best possible way, communicating progress of the search to the FO and search command and ensuring the proper management and well being of their group members.
Group Leaders receive a briefing and relay instructions to group members. They are responsible for ensuring their search groups have sufficient equipment and food before departing search base on their assigned tasks. They are responsible for ensuring their search group functions as a coherent team throughout the search, both in the field and at base. They also have responsibility for passing on information and suggestions from the group to the FO.

Group Leader Selection by the Field Organiser
- Other FOs
- Members who:
- are previous search group leaders, current overnight club trip leaders or hold BMLC/STLC certificates AND
- have previously participated in a search where field work was involved AND
- have attended at least one training event in the last five years.