Air Search Observation

SES has 60 specially trained Air Search Observer volunters trained across the state to assist AusSAR (Australian Search & Rescue) and SA Police in undertaking searches for missing people over land and water. These volunteers are drawn from Units which can respond to Adelaide, Port Lincoln or Mt. Gambier airports within 30 minutes.

Air observing is a very demanding task both mentally and physically, requiring intense concentration over extended periods of time. Other tasking's that these teams are called in to assist with include Emergency Position Indicator Radio Beacon or Personal Locator Beacon activation's, and shark spotter beach patrols.

Air Search Observers must:

• Have normal vision including colour vision.
• Not be prone to motion sickness.
• Be fit for the task (as attested to by their local GP).
• Maintain a current flight logbook.
• Participate in skills maintenance flights on a regular basis.
• Participate in theory and practical access/egress and water survival training.