Patrol leader does what he does best

Throughout the ski season, the Queenstown Times will profile some of the jobs the seasonal workforce do on the mountains. In this first portrait, Canadian Michel Lepage tells of his job as ski patrol team leader at the Remarkables skifield, where he is back for his sixth season in what he calls "his dream job".

Queenstown Times: Why did you choose this job?

Michel Lepage: I have a passion for the mountain. This is what I do best! QT: What made you come back for more seasons?

ML: I come back mainly for the team that I work with. And to be part of the Remarkables' future development.

QT: What kind of work did you do before you took up this job?

ML: Outdoor pursuits educator, canoeing, seasonal work of 26 years of white-water rafting and 25 years of ski industry work as ski instructor and ski patroller.

QT: What is the best thing about your job?

ML: The relationship with all staff and challenging myself with the goal of creating the best patrol team.

QT: Which challenges comes with the job?

ML: Pushing limits physically. And leading a team of proactive patrollers who are high achievers and love to go hard at their job.

QT: Which skills or qualities are needed to do your job?

ML: You have to be physically fit, have good skills on skis, a sense of humour - and be a bit of a jack of all trades.

QT: What is your best advice to people who move to Queenstown for seasonal work?

ML: It is all here - go out and grab it. Don't hold back!

QT: What has been your most amusing, interesting or surprising on-the-job experience so far this season?

ML: I would have to say the conversations on our staff transport vehicle up and down the hill every day. You would not believe how amusing that is!