WICEN has been involved in the detailed planning of this year's search for VH-MDX in the Barrington Tops. WICEN have taken members of NSW Police Rescue and Australian Defence Force on a reconnaissance on the Northern part of the likely search area in the last few weeks. This year's search looks like being in a different valley than has been searched in recent years and using different radio points inside the National Park.

A note of thanks on behalf of the Blue Mountains Police Rescue Squad in respect of our search for Garry Tweddle.

Initially I would like to join in the acknowledgement of the volunteers who have been involved in the search operation and, as a community , we should all recognize how lucky we are to have them, and continue to support them in any way we can. these include the Rural Fire Service, State Emergency Service, Bushwalkers Wilderness Rescue Squad, Caves Rescue and W.I.C.E.N.

The world famous Shazada Horse Endurance Ride, or Enduro, will be held again this year at St Albans, from Monday 26 August to Sunday 1 September. It is run as loops out of the small village of St Albans to the north of Sydney - or west of the Central Coast. This is a rugged and remote area, and presents many communications challenges.

The Navigation Shield, or NavShield is a two day bush navigation event conducted annually by the Bushwalkers Wilderness Rescue Squad, with a Saturday only option. The event is open to a range of competitors, including rescue organisations. There are 1 and 2 day options. This is the 25th NavShield, and will be held on 6th & 7th July. It is within 3 hours, roughly north-west of Sydney. WICEN are again looking for members to work at Base, up to 3 Radio Checkpoints, and a Repeater Site.