Big White avalanche victim identified
by Kelly Hayes - Story: 36422
Jan 8, 2008 / 7:50 am 

"Kelowna RCMP have confirmed that a body found following an avalanche at Big White Ski Resort is that of an Australian man.  Three people were swept by an avalanche Sunday at Big White's Parachute Bowl -- a double black diamond run.  Two of them managed to escape unharmed, but Leigh Barnier was buried by the snow. After an extensive search, officials found a body Monday.  RCMP confirmed early Tuesday morning the body is that of Barnier. He was 22 and an employee at Big White Ski Resort.  His father is travelling from Australia."

My prayers and condolences to the Barnier family on the loss of their son Leigh.  As a father myself I cannot fathom the depth of sadness felt by the parents and friends of this young man.  I was driving up to the resort at the time the ambulances were dispatched and knew that something must have gone horribly wrong that morning.  Reports from his friends indicated that he left his group of mates he was riding with and told them he was going on one last run.  Big White Ski Resort immediately called for Search and Rescue after the avalanche took place.  I commend all the efforts of the Search and Rescue personnel for trying to get to the three victims as quickly as possible.  I am sure that Big White Ski Resort will revisit all their procedures and safety protocols for dealing with the potential threat of avalanches.  One can only hope and pray that something like this never happens again!

Below is a link to the Brisbane Times:

http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/news/national/avalanche-claims-aussie-snowboarder/2008/01/08/1199554628584.html

 In memory of Leigh Barnier.