MEMBERS of the Army will be pitted against the likes of experienced ski patrollers and keen Victorian Police skiers in this year's Victorian Emergency Services Snow Championships at Mt Buller.

Scheduled for August 14, the championships will see full and part-time competitors, as well as RAAF and Navy personnel, up against members of all Victorian Emergency Services.

The best skiers and snowboarders in the Army will take on the Victorian Ambulance Services ski patrollers and members of the Victorian Police, some of whom have represented Australia at international ski events recently.

The championships are in their 16th year and represent a rare opportunity for personnel of all ranks, ages and trades from all locations to race in a competitive but friendly environment against personnel in other emergency services.

The increased challenge of taking on racers from outside the Services should whet the appetite of Air Force snow enthusiasts this year.

Participating services include State and Federal Police, Ambulance, MFB, SES, Defence personnel, as well as the relevant sections of the Prisons' Service, Parks Victoria and the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, plus the Sheriff's Office, and the Surf Life Savers Association, who have been added to the list this year.

Capt David Wilson-Pearson, 4/19PWLH, is the point of contact for any service personnel interested in competing.

He said it was about time another service took out the honours as Service champions, with the Victoria Police reigning winners for the past five years.

"As it is a teams event, the Army could easily win in 2002 simply by force of numbers, as all competitors add to the total score," he said.

Race experience is not necessary and the events are conducted in a relaxed way ideal for novice racers.

There are two separate events run back to back: a giant slalom and a slalom, each consisting of two downhill runs, held under official race conditions by the Mt Buller Race Department.

Skiers and snowboarders are welcome to participate, with separate categories for snowboarders and teams events.

Teams of three can be nominated, or you can enter as an individual and be placed in a team according to your service. Accommodation is available at the Police Ski Lodge at Merrijig.

A full race package will be available for participants, including discount and/or free lift tickets, meals, accommodation, transport and race entry fees.

For further information, contact Capt Wilson-Pearson on (03) 9427 1666 or email vpsc_race_dept@hotmail.com