Tourism
resort lifts swing into operation

HEAVY dumps of fresh snow, coupled with conditions for snow making over recent days, allowed Mount Hotham and Falls Creek alpine resorts to kick-start their season on the slopes last Friday, following the official season opening over the King's Birthday weekend.

“It was all about the kids today and I’m really looking forward to watching them progress and have a lot of fun with their skiing and snowboarding during the season,” said Hotham’s field marketing manager Emily Smith last week.

“School holidays are looking great with plenty of snow forecast for next week that should set up the resort nicely.

“We’ll have night skiing and boarding, fireworks displays, Subaru Snowfest, rail jams and plenty more happening to keep the whole family entertained – we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to the slopes.”

According to resort management, on Sunday 10cm of snow fell at Falls Creek, with 30cm more expected on Monday, while Mount Hotham saw 12cm of snow on Sunday.

The ski school at Mount Hotham is now open with Mighty Mites, Kids Club, group and private lessons all available to book.

All rental, retail and food and beverage outlets are also ready to welcome guests to the resort.

As of Monday, Halley’s Comet, Mouse Trap and Towers ski lifts were open at Falls Creek.

Last week Richard Phillips, vice president GM Falls Creek Ski Lifts, said snowstorms over the past week delivered a whopping 36cm of fresh snow at the resort.

Private lessons have begun for those wanting to try skiing and boarding for the first time, and all other snowsports lesson options were set to begin from the weekend.

Lessons should be booked in advance to avoid disappointment.

“We have Australia’s most beginner-friendly terrain, coupled with amazing apres-ski options and a ski-in, ski-out village – it’s just beautiful here right now,” Mr Phillips said.