Join Ladysmith Search and Rescue

Pick your path.

We take new members periodically (not year-round). You don't need to be a wilderness expert. You need to be reliable, fit enough, and willing to learn.

Everyone starts with the same 75-hour GSAR course. After that, you specialize.

Email to Apply
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Operational Pathways

Field roles. These are the front-line disciplines.

Ground Search

What it is

You're in the field. Grid searches, hasty teams, containment lines. This is where most members start and many stay.

What it takes

GSAR certification (75 hrs). Physical fitness. Willingness to be out in terrible weather at terrible hours.

Rope Rescue

What it is

Technical vertical rescue. You're on the cliff, in the harness, managing the systems.

What it takes

GSAR + Rope Rescue Tech certification. Comfort with heights. Extra training sessions.

Swiftwater

What it is

River and flood response. Moving water, moving fast.

What it takes

GSAR + Swiftwater Rescue Tech. Strong swimming. Specialized gear training.

Tracking

What it is

Reading sign. Following trails that aren't trails. The quiet, detail-obsessed discipline.

What it takes

GSAR + tracking courses. Patience. A good eye.

Support Pathways

Off-field roles. Just as critical. Less mud.

Team Logistics
Managing base camp, supplies, communications. The operation doesn't run without you.
Fundraising & Events
Keeping the lights on. Grant writing, community events, donor relations.
Admin & Operations
Paperwork, compliance, scheduling, the unsexy work that makes the team legal and functional.
What to expect
From application to full member. This is the path.
  1. 1

    Apply

    Applications open periodically. Email us.

  2. 2

    GSAR Course

    75 hours. Navigation, survival, radio comms, rope basics, tracking, search techniques.

  3. 3

    Probation

    Minimum 6 months. You train with the team, respond to tasks, and senior members evaluate you.

  4. 4

    Full Member

    You're in. Pick your specializations. Keep training. Show up when the pager goes off.

The ask
This is what you're signing up for. Be honest with yourself.

We average 20-25 tasks per year. Often nights. Often weekends.

You need your own basic outdoor gear to start.

This is volunteer. No pay. But you'll be out with people who are there because they care.

Interested? Email us