Brendan Barnes, Head of Information and Communications Technology

After four seasons working in Antarctica and experiencing the natural wonders of the ice-covered continent, Brendan Barnes kept with the frosty theme when he took a career change in the Victorian Alps.

Brendan says the unique opportunity to provide information and communications technology support to expeditioners and climate science projects in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean was a career highlight.

“It was such a great experience working remotely with the Australian Antarctic Division,” Brendan says.

“You literally jump on a plane or a ship at the start of the summer in October and that’s it until the end of the season in March. It’s very remote and unlike many usual office IT jobs.

“People get really excited about penguin photos. The wildlife is so interesting down there, and remote living is such a different lifestyle.”

Now the Head of Information and Communications Technology, Brendan oversees all six Alpine Resorts Victoria resorts – Falls Creek, Mt Buller, Mt Hotham, Mt Baw Baw, Mt Stirling and Lake Mountain – and is leading the consolidation of ICT infrastructure, systems and processes.

Melbourne-based, but a frequent visitor to all resorts, Brendan says the Alpine region’s stunning surrounds make it a perfect year-round destination for adventure and relaxation.

“The opportunity to join Alpine Resorts Victoria was a chance to have the best of everything – a great job in a great part of the world where you can enjoy a great lifestyle,” he says.

“As a new statutory authority, ARV is a unique and challenging opportunity.

“My role includes harmonising the existing Resort Management Board technology, developing collaboration tools for staff to work across multiple resorts, and increasing the redundancy and resiliency of communications links in very remote parts of Victoria, all within a modern cybersecurity context.

“I love the high country, it’s absolutely beautiful. I’m an avid hiker so I really like to get out hiking during the green season in my spare time.”

Brendan has extensive experience in ICT and has held roles in a range of companies, including in the civil infrastructure and ICT consultancy sectors.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (Internetworking and Applications) and is currently completing his Master of Technology Management (Cybersecurity).

Also a keen volunteer, Brendan has been a St John Ambulance member for the past 10 years and particularly enjoys volunteering for events in the Victorian Alps, notably the annual Alpine Classic. He also assists with Bushwalking Tracks and Conservation (BTAC) trail maintenance projects under the Parks Victoria ParkConnect program.

Page last updated: 31/08/23