Source: 9news
Ski resorts in Australia’s alpine regions are kicking off the winter season early after a polar front brought heavy snow and icy temperatures to the country’s south-east.
It’s been a lean couple years for the ski business, with COVID-19 restrictions, lockdowns and travel bans seeing tourism essentially dry up for successive winters.
So it’s understandable that a number of the biggest names in the industry have decided to jump the gun and push the opening date forward by a week to this Saturday.
Traditionally it’s the Queen’s Birthday long weekend – this year from June 11-13 – that marks the opening of the ski season.If you’re hankering for a snow fix, here’s what you need to know about who’s opening when.
June 4
A number of resorts in NSW and Victoria are kick-starting things early, with slopes open from this Saturday.
In NSW, Perisher will be “pulling the trigger” for an early start.The decision was prompted by a 30cm snowfall on May 31, with more forecast.
In Victoria, Mt Hotham, Falls Creek and Mt Buller will all be joining the early fun as well.
“The snow gods have heard us and blessed the resort with an average of 37cm of snow in the past 48 hours,” a Falls Creek media spokesperson said yesterday.
June 11
If you can’t get away on short notice, there are plenty of resorts still sticking – so far – to the traditional opening date.This close to June 4, it’s unlikely to change.
This close to June 4, it’s unlikely to change.
The other major NSW destinations, Thredbo and Charlotte Pass, will mark the Queen’s Birthday season opening.
In Victoria, the same can be said for Mt Baw Baw and Dinner Plain.
All resorts have issued guidelines about what to bring and how to prepare, so make sure to check out your preferred destination to ensure you’re equipped for a snow trip.
