Tom Clarkson

Location: Wellington

Anyone involved for a few years in SAR recognises the difference that SARINZ has made since 2003.

The overall increase in skill levels we now see in LandSAR at the sharp end and in search headquarters is immense, and the uniformity of training and skills through the different regions is now much more evident. There is an expectation in the SAR community for SARINZ to continue to take the lead in SAR training and develop further.

The current volunteer system is an extraordinarily successful part of Land SAR and needs professional and government support to maintain and improve it. Proper research to support SAR requires proper money - research by volunteers is rarely the best approach.

Tom is a scientist with a background in tramping, skiing and climbing, especially in the 60s and 70s. He is a competitive mountainbiker and orienteer.

Tom has been an active SAR member since 1968; Face Rescue Team member and leader during 70s and early 80s; Chairman, FMC SAR Committee 1977-82; Adviser, Wellington, 1982- ; FMC/NZLSAR rep on National SAR Committee, 1977-84 and 1994-2003; SARINZ Director 2003-2010 and SARINZ Trustee from 2011 to present