Mount Hotham Falls Creek News

JUNE ISSUE, 2019

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inside

P3 VAIL’S BIG BUY Vail Resorts’ CEO discusses Falls Creek, Hotham purchase

P4 BACKCOUNTRY Festival moves to Hotham to make most of terrain.

STAY INJURY FREE P15 Some sound advice on making the most of the ski season.

index Hotham: new for 2019 P6 Falls: new for 2019

P12

SUN RISING: What better way to start a day, than with 7.30am runs down Mount Hotham’s Heavenly? With early winter storms blowing in a good dose of preseason snow, Mount Hotham and Falls Creek are set for a stirring start to winter 2019.

PHOTO: Chris Hocking

Fresh snow, new beginnings

THE feeling that accompanies an approaching winter in the mountains is about as pure as optimism can get.

For skiers and boarders everywhere, the start of winter is a new beginning.

It’s that point in time where everything exciting and wonderful lies ahead of you, and life can only get better and better.

With the first big snowstorm – which we experienced in late May – excitement builds, mountains whir into life, and are completely transformed from only weeks earlier into winter wonderlands.

Ski mountains are special places.

Everyone making the mountain

BY STRUAN JONES sjones@ nemedia.com.au

home for the winter, or the thousands visiting, are all there for one purpose: to have fun.

Few places on earth bring so many people together so intentionally.

Every season is a fresh slate, a new opportunity to clip in for the first time, to ski that black run you never have before, to hit that jump, or explore that new off-piste area.

It’s a feeling that leaves you 1000

miles from wherever you came from: from your normal job, your city, traffic lights and traffic jams.

For Mount Hotham and Falls Creek the 2019 season marks the start of a new era, coming under the wing of Vail Resorts in a $179 million deal that means exciting changes not just to the mountains, but to how and where Australians ski.

It also puts those mountains on the international ski map.

Vail’s Epic Pass gives holders access to its resorts throughout the world.

With Hotham, Falls Creek and Perisher all in the Vail family, skiers and boarders may be more inspired

to explore new mountains, even new countries.

The mountains are constantly renewing themselves. Every season is different to the last, with its own characteristics and trends.

So it’s time to scrape off your summer wax, dig out your poles, shake out your wheel chains, pray to the snow gods and thank the universe for another season in the mountains.

It’s a new era for Mount Hotham and Falls Creek and a new beginning for every skier and boarder.

Wishing you the happiest of fresh tracks and the deepest powder, enjoy winter 2019.

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PAGE 2 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2019

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e FIRST LOVE: Indi Sheridan and Kihana Exelby from Falls Creek Child Care loving the snow. PHOTO: Nathan Fenton

Mount Hotham, Falls Creek join Vail family snowboarders with Vail Resorts’ Epic Australia Pass is they have great value that offers three Australian resorts on one pass plus the international stable of Vail Resorts in North America and affiliated resorts in Japan.

The existing Hero Pass will be valid in Falls Creek and Hotham during the 2019 Australian season with guests having the option to upgrade to the Epic Australia Pass.

A Hero Pass must have been paid in full before upgrading.

The advantage of Hero Pass holders upgrading to the Epic Australia Pass would be access to Perisher in 2019, plus international

Serious about targeting the ski industry this Winter?

travel this coming northern winter.

The pass also affords many other discount benefits at Vail Resorts’ properties including food and beverage, snowsports lessons, retail discounts and depending on the resort, accommodation discounts.

The Epic Australia Pass is valid in the northern hemisphere after it has been used in the Australian season, meaning purchase now and use in the 2019 Australian winter to be valid then for the 2019/20 northern hemisphere.

While Hotham and Falls Creek have had a joint pass, the addition of Perisher is sure to temp guests to travel in both directions.

Victorian skiers with the Epic Australia Pass may be interested in heading north to Perisher, and current Epic Australia Pass holders at Perisher to visit Victoria.

Without doubt the Epic Australia Pass is the best pass for not only Australian snow options but international travel.

Vail Resorts have a stable of resorts from their flagship Vail and Beaver Creek resorts plus Breckenridge in Colorado, Whistler in Canada, Park City in Utah, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in Lake Tahoe, California plus affiliated Japanese resorts of Hakuba Valley and Rusutsu.

Mt Hotham Falls Creek News Est. 1997 AUGUST ISSUE, 2018

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FRESH POWDER A VIGOROUS cold front dumped more than a foot of snow at Hotham Alpine Resort between July 20 and 22, bringing the natural snow depth to 108cm. Hotham became the first alpine resort in Australia to break the magical one metre mark this season. The season snow tally has now risen to 195cm (since June). The resort is opening 100 per cent of it's terrain this weekend with 'Orchard' opening for the first time this season. Skier Drew Jolowicz from Bright is pictured enjoying the sublime snow conditions at Hotham Alpine Resort.

PHOTO: Chris Hocking

inside

P3 GETTING AIR Boardriders to celebrate 30 years on Mt Hotham.

IN THE FAST LANE P9 Q&A with Berni Haider, head coach of Falls Creek Race Club.

Ready for peak season

By JUSTIN JENVEY

CROSS COUNTRY P12 Top Europeans coaching Aussie skiers, calling Falls Creek home.

index Preventing knee injuries P15 Events calendar

P18

THE rush of the school holidays is over and the North East ski fields will, for a short time, return to quieter times ahead of peak season.

Both Mt Hotham and Falls Creek have experienced strong starts to the season and with snow conditions as good as they are who says we can’t see some records broken from here.

There’s plenty happening at both resorts over the next few weeks as the season gets into full swing.

Following celebrations last year for

30 years of snowboarding in Australia Hotham Boardriders will celebrate three decades in existence in August.

The club has a weekend of activities organised including a film and photo night while also inviting all riders to hit the slopes with them for a banked slalom event as part of the main festivities.

Talking milestones and the Dinner Plain Sled Dog Challenge is happening for the 25th time on the second weekend in August.

More than 75 teams and 350 sled dogs are expected for this year’s race.

At Falls Creek registrations continue

to come in for the inaugural Victorian Backcountry Festival while Astra Lodge is welcoming back a renowned chef for another short stint in the kitchen.

We sat down with Falls Creek Alpine Race Club head coach Berni Haider to learn a little more about his role and his background in skiing.

Sticking with Falls Creek and with the Kangaroo Hoppet nearing we had head coach of the Australian cross country ski team, Valerio Leccardi devise a four week training schedule for anyone behind in their preparations for the iconic Worldloppet event.

If you’re looking for more tips or some specialised coaching you can always head to the Falls Creek Cross Country centre where three top-class European skiers are working this winter.

This edition also includes some interesting information on how to avoid serious knee injuries on the slopes as well as some tips to get maximum enjoyment out of your ski trip if you’re a first timer to the snow.

And lastly we’ve provided you with a full calendar of events for Falls Creek and Mt Hotham for the rest of July and all of August.

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Don't miss out on being part of the next edition of Mt. Hotham/Falls Creek News.

If you wish to promote your business or service please contact:

Jenny Zamperoni Email: jking@nemedia.com.au

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For international travellers some resorts do have holiday restrictions which are easily overcome by choosing dates carefully, plus with so many resorts to choose from there are options galore. Guests can also upgrade to Epic Australia Plus to avoid any restriction dates.

Hotham and Falls Creek websites have all the details and frequently asked questions relating to the Hero Pass. Visit www.hotham.com.au or www.skifalls.com.au.

For all information on the Epic Australia Pass including all international options and resorts visit the www.epicaustraliapass.com.au website.

NEXT EDITION: June 28 2019 Booking deadline: June 13, 2019 GROUP EDITOR: Jeff Zeuschner ADVERTISING: Jenny Zamperoni EDITORIAL: Struan Jones ADVERTISING SALES EMAIL: jking@nemedia.com.au Telephone 0427 495 309 EDITORIAL EMAIL: sjones@nemedia.com.au Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd at the registered office, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta, 3677.

Printed web offset by North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta, 3677.

PRODUCTION: North East Media P/L, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta, 3677.

Telephone: (03) 5723 0100 YOUR NEWS: Contributed articles, news, artwork and color photographs from readers are most welcome.

Please mail to: Mt Hotham/Falls Creek News, 76 Standish St Myrtleford Vic 3737 or telephone: (03) 5752 1058. or email jjenvey@nemedia.com.au

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VICTORIA’S snow industry has entered a new era with American company Vail Resorts acquiring the Falls Creek and Mount Hotham Skiing Companies in April in a $179 million deal.

Adding to their existing ownership of the Perisher Skiing Company in New South Wales, Vail Resorts now operates three of the largest snow resorts in Australia, providing even more options for skiers and snowboarders in Australia.

How this will change the Australian snow landscape in future years is yet to be fully understood.

What it does mean for skiers and

d WINDS OF CHANGE: A drone captures the beauty of sunrise at Falls Creek and the Rocky Valley Lake.

Photos courtesy of Mt Hotham Ski Company & Falls Creek Resort Management.

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2019 — PAGE 3

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ALL TOGETHER NOW: Mount Hotham (pictured) and Falls Creek have joined Perisher in Vail Resort’s international resorts portfolio.

Interview with Rob Katz, chief executive officer, Vail Resorts THE recent acquisition by Vail Resorts of the Falls Creek and Mount Hotham skiing companies has had the Victorian skiing community abuzz.

The massive New Yorklisted, Colorado-based ski resort company now boasts 19 mountains in its international portfolio, including Australia’s largest ski field Perisher, purchased in 2015.

Vail’s trademark Epic Pass, a 12-month international membership granting unlimited access to all its resorts has revolutionised the industry, sending loyal snow enthusiasts all over the globe to some of the world’s most famous slopes.

Ski mountains are special places for so many people, and the Alpine region is home to two of Victoria’s gems: Mount Hotham and Falls Creek.

Many locals in this region are interested to see what changes Vail Resorts will make to their mountains.

With only weeks before the official opening of the season on Saturday, June 8, Mount Hotham Falls Creek News had an exclusive chat with Rob Katz, chairman and chief executive officer of Vail Resorts, and Peter Brulisauer, senior vice president and chief operating officer, Australia and Perisher.

NEM: Why was Australia seen as a place to invest?

Will Vail specifically reach out to skiers in Asia to visit the Australian resorts, on the back of a booming snow sports scene in China?

Mr Katz: Australia is one of our most important international

markets. The acquisition of the leading mountain resorts in Victoria is part of our continued strategy to drive season pass sales and build loyalty with guests from around the world.

After our success connecting with skiers in Sydney and across New South Wales since acquiring Perisher in 2015, we have a huge opportunity to create a deeper connection with Melbourne and broader Victorian skiers and riders.

As we continue to expand our global footprint, growing markets like China and other parts of Southeast Asia will become increasingly important areas of focus for us.

NEM: Many climate scientists are predicting drier autumns and warmer winters in the Alpine regions of Australia.

Does Vail Resorts factor in the prospect of a changing climate when it comes to setting up ski operations?

Mr Katz: Weather variability has always been a factor in the ski industry, and we’ve gotten pretty good at adapting our business to it in order to provide guests an exceptional experience, no matter what kind of winter we’re having.

That said, we are seeing a higher variability in conditions – especially in the early season.

We address this by continually improving our snowmaking systems and coverage, and by ensuring that our resorts offer a full complement of activities and services. And, most importantly, we offer our guests a wide variety of choice on the Epic Pass so they can choose where to ski.

That said, tackling climate

TX.DIRECT

Rob Katz, CEO of Vail Resorts

change is not about saving the ski industry, it’s about the health of the environment and ensuring a more promising future for generations to come.

We made a bold Commitment to Zero in 2017 – zero net emissions and zero waste to landfill by 2030, as well as zero net impact to forests and habitat.

We are working to achieve zero net emissions by doubling down on energy efficiency and investing in renewable energy, including our recently-announced long-term wind energy contract.

NEM: Peter Brulisauer, what have been the most significant changes to Perisher since Vail took charge?

Mr Brulisauer: There’s been a number of really positive changes. The Epic Australia Pass has brought unprecedented value to Perisher’s skiers and snowboarders with year round skiing at a terrific low price which has underpinned visitation growth at the resort.

The EpicPromise ‘Commitment to Zero’ sustainability program has driven improved outcomes for employees and our local community while Vail Resorts’ leadership development focus ensures that we are giving our staff better tools to effectively lead Perisher teams into the future.

NEM: What’s your longerterm vision for the two mountains, for both winter and green seasons? Do you see the mountains becoming more exclusive, high-end resorts for wealthier snow-goers?

Mr Brulisauer: Vail Resorts’ investment into the guest experience is unparalleled in the

industry and differentiates our company with more than US$1.2 billion in capital over the past decade.

Specifically, $4.2 million of capital was just invested into Perisher for a new quad chairlift and additional snowmaking that will be ready in time for the 2019 season.

We’re planning to work with local leadership to identify the best use of investments moving forward but our efforts will emphasize the unique character of each resort while investing in improvements to the guest experience.

NEM: Falls Creek has become a renowned green-season destination. Do you foresee Mount Hotham developing in a similar way? And would the mountains ever require an entrance ticket in summer as they do in winter?

Mr Brulisauer: Our first priority is to ensure we’re aligned with local leadership to collectively determine the best way forward for both resorts.

NEM: Peter Brulisauer, what changes do you foresee to operations at Falls Creek and Mount Hotham this winter ski season and next?

Mr Brulisauer: We are thrilled to welcome the guests and employees of both Falls and Hotham into the Vail Resorts family and to now have three diverse resorts in Australia available to Epic Pass and Epic Australia Pass holders.

We are currently working with local leadership to determine the best way to manage each mountain going forward.

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PAGE 4 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2019

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2nd Backcountry Festival moves to Hotham AFTER a ripping inaugural festival last year, the second Victorian Backcountry Festival (BC Fest) will be held at Mount Hotham over the weekend of September 7 and 8, 2019.

The BC Fest celebrates ‘all things backcountry’ – human powered winter sports including cross country skiing, snow shoeing, telemark and alpine touring, split boarding and mountain culture.

It’s a grassroots, volunteerrun festival for the adventurous backcountry community.

It is also an opportunity for resort riders and skiers to be introduced to terrain beyond the lift lines and the whir of turning lifts.

The festival will offer tours, clinics, gear demos, and workshops in BC skills such as navigation, snow

camping, self-rescue and avalanche safety.

The 2019 festival will be bigger and more diverse than last year, with: z An extended speaker’s program, hosted by The General on Saturday, September 7. z A stronger set of opportunities for splitboard touring. z More advanced tours, including an introduction to ski mountaineering. z An outdoor bar in a ski-in backcountry location z Two-day avalanche safety courses (teaching the Canadian AST level 1 curriculum), which are offered by Alpine Access Australia. z A three day backcountry camp on the Razorback and Mt Feathertop (September 9 – 11) for people who want to test new skills in some of

BIG WHITE WONDER: Backcountry skiing is growing in popularity, and festival organiser Cam Walker wants a disparate community of adventurers to come together at Hotham this September for a weekend of turns and fun.

Australia’s grandest alpine terrain.

Festival organiser Cam Walker said the inaugural year had been a success, and he wanted to move the festival to Hotham for its accessible, big mountain terrain.

“Shifting to Hotham allows us to increase opportunities for advanced skiers and riders because of the easily accessible side and backcountry terrain,” he said.

“It also aligns with the terrain and focus of Hotham to be known as the backcountry capital of Australia.

“We have an incredible line-up of tours and workshops.

“There are free tours for beginners and advanced cross country, alpine touring, telemark skiers and snowshoers and splitboarders.

“Hotham Lift Co and Traverse

Hotham are also offering guided sessions as part of the program.”

Mr Walker said each year more people head into the backcountry, and each year the backcountry community becomes more diverse.

“We are showcasing a range of voices in the program, with a strong focus on women speakers,” he said.

Confirmed speakers include Katya Crema, who will talk about her transition from an Olympic ski-cross racer to backcountry adventurer, and Hotham legend Buff Farnell who will present images of his favourite Hotham sidecountry.

“We have a fantastic range of speakers, including head of ski patrol Bill Barker and skier and journalist Melissa Clarke,” Mr Walker said.

The speakers program will cover

topics ranging from efforts to protect the mountain pygmy possum and ski mountaineering, to a human powered traverse of Antarctica.

“Hotham is the perfect place for a backcountry festival, with diverse and challenging terrain easily accessible from the resort and fantastic touring options,” he said.

As in 2018, the festival has a ‘Ski/Ride Hard. Do Good’ ethos, encouraging a low impact event and raising funds for a range of mountain related charities.

“The Hotham community has embraced the festival, and we have events happening over three nights at a range of venues, including a fund raiser for Protect Our Winters on the Sunday night.”

For more information please check https://backcountry-festival.com.

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2019 — PAGE 5

— FALLS CREEK 2019 —

winter events CROSS COUNTRY SKI EVENTS JUN 23 | Snow Trek & Travel

SKI & SNOWBOARD DOWNHILL EVENTS JUL 6 | Falls Creek Junior

Mini Series #1

Agility Race

JUL 6 | Fast & Female

JUL 6-7 | Falls Creek Demo Ski Festival

Snow Trek & Travel Mini Series #2 FIGHT MND ICE PLUNGE June 1

WINTER SEASON OPENING WEEKEND | June 8−10

JUL 12 | Rossignol Cup

JUL 7 | Birkebeiner Classic JUL 13-14 | Interschool XC Trials

Cranky Charlie Cup

JUL 15-19 | South Australian

JUL 13 | Snow, Trek & Travel

Interschools Championships (SAKSI)

High Plains Tour

JUL 14 | YMCA Howman's Gap Vic Relay Championships

JUL 20 | Vic Junior Championships JUL 21 | Vic Junior Sprint Championships WOMBATS RAMBLER NIGHT RACE | July 26

XC NIGHT SPRINTS August 22

JUL 26 | Wombats Rambler Night Race

JUL 26-28 | Vic Masters Championships

JUL 27 | Australian Open Sprint Championships

JUL 29 - AUG 2 | Australian Police

JUL 28 | Australian Open Distance Championships

AUG 6-8 | ASSSTC

AUG 4 | Snow Trek & Travel Mini Series #3 AUG 7-9 | ASSSTC

Winter Games

AUG 15-16 | FIS SL Racing AUG 29 | Pendl Cup AUG 30 - SEP 3 | SSA Aus

AUG 10 | Ski De Femme

Alpine U16's

AUG 11 | Rocky Valley Rush/ Sun Valley Ramble KANGAROO HOPPET August 24

LIGHT THE NIGHT August 31

FREESTYLE EVENTS

AUG 15 | No h East Primary

JUL 13 | FCFS - Rails Competition

School Relays

AUG 22 | Falls Creek Invitational Night Sprints

AUG 8-14 | Nitro Good

AUG 24 | Joey Hoppet

Times Weekend

Australian Birkenbeiner Kangaroo Hoppet

AUG 31 | Australian Junior Sprint Championships GAY SKI WEEK September 3−8

FALLS CREEK OCTOBERFEST | October 5

JUL 27 | FCFS - Rider X

SEP 1 | Australian Junior Distance Championships

AUG 9 | The Board Lounge Throwdown AUG 10 | FCFS - Big Air Competition AUG 24 | FCFS - Slopestyle Series SEP 7 | FCFS - Summit Masters SEP 14 | FCFS - Banked Slalom

WEEKLY EVENTS TUESDAY | During Jul/Aug Twilight Tuesdays (featuring Pete the Snow Dragon), Village Bowl

WEDNESDAY | Night Skiing, Wombats Ramble THURSDAY | During Jul/Aug Night Show Spectacular, Village Bowl MCKAYOS October 5

THE BIG DIG/POND SKIM October 5

SATURDAY | Night Skiing, Wombats Ramble Weekly events subject to change. Dependent on weather and snow conditions.

Scheduled events are subject to weather conditions and may be subject to change or cancellation

MORE INFO (03) 5758 1202 | WWW.FALLSCREEK.COM.AU | #ADVENTUREYOURWAY

PAGE 6 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2019

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DREAMLIKE: Sunrise at Mount Hotham.

Ain’t no place like home.

PHOTO: Chris Hocking

New developments for 2019 Hotham WITH the quiet green season dramatically giving way to another exciting, powder-filled winter at Hotham, the mountain is going to new levels to improve visitors’ experiences.

A new mountain app, a new backcountry festival and tours, the prospect of grilled cheese in a heated tipi, and James Bond-level accommodation are just some of the new developments.

Here’s just some of the latest news from on-mountain: z Upgrade with the latest snow tech Hotham provides the newest and latest mountain tech as it introduces a new mobile App. Created by Wearlynx developers from the US, you can track every run, speed and vertical kilometres ridden.

From finding friends with instant resort tracking to being

sent live snow conditions and status updates, the app is a must have upgrade. z Brockhoff Hut now a must find on the slopes Perched amongst the action of Hotham slopes, the unassuming stone hut has been transformed to be the home of heart-warming meals and celebratory toasts to the snow gods.

Riders can now have the ultimate ski in, ski out food stop with deck views. z Redefine comfort zones with Hotham’s backcountry tours The best spots are not always marked on a map, and this season Hotham introduces guided tours into its renowned backcountry terrain.

Let the adventure continue with clinics and workshops at Victoria’s Backcountry Festival on September 7 and 8, 2019.

z World-first student media centre at Hotham Nikon and WorldStrides have taken collaboration to new heights with a world-first student media centre at the top of Hotham. A new Nikon Media Centre will create an innovative video experience for students travelling on a WorldStrides educational snow tour. z Cheese feast - Raclette Lunch Alpine Nature Experience’s team invites you to a cheese feast like no other! Grill a half wheel of French cheese and scrape the melted goodness on baked potatoes, all accompanied by delicious charcuterie, smoked meats and a selection of wine and craft beer. Held in the heated tipi at Alpine Nature Experience’s ecovillage and includes a guided snowshoe tour.

STONE HUT: The Joyce Brockhoff Hut has been revamped into a food and drink destination, perched in the action of the Hotham slopes.

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2019 — PAGE 7

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THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOTHAM WHAT’S NEW

FEATURED EVENTS

Guided backcountry tours and festival

Furphy Night Rail Jam

The best spots are not always marked on a

3 August

map and this season, Hotham introduces

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guided tours into its renowned backcountry

ƃɽ ɽȃlj 9ƃɰȈȶ ĄƃȈȢ ɥƃɨȟ ƃȶǁ ƺɁȴɥljɽlj ǹɁɨ Ԥњѕѕ

terrain. The adventure continues with clinics

prize money and celebrate with a Furphy

and workshops at Victoria’s Backcountry

Tap Takeover at Swindlers.

Festival in September.

Oakley Weekend

Upgrade with the latest App tech

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Hotham provides the newest and latest

Demo the latest eyewear and join top snow

mountain tech as it introduces a new mobile

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ƃɥɥӝ yɨɁȴ ˎȶǁȈȶǼ ǹɨȈljȶǁɰ ʥȈɽȃ Ȉȶɰɽƃȶɽ ɨljɰɁɨɽ

chance to win prizes.

tracking to being sent live snow conditions and status updates, the app is a must have upgrade.

Bricktastic school holidays і °ʍȢʰ Ӹ іљ °ʍȢʰ їљ Čljɥɽljȴƹljɨ Ӹ ћ ÝƺɽɁƹljɨ

°Ɂʰƺlj 9ɨɁƺȟȃɁǹǹ ȃʍɽ ȶɁʥ ƃ ȴʍɰɽ ˎȶǁ

LEGOLAND® AȈɰƺɁʤljɨʰ :ljȶɽɨlj ɰljɨȈljɰ Ɂǹ

Āljɨƺȃljǁ ƃȴɁȶǼɰɽ ɽȃlj ɽɁɥ Ɂǹ 9Ȣƃƺȟ Čȶƃȟlj

ԄƹɨȈƺȟɽƃɰɽȈƺԅ ƃƺɽȈʤȈɽȈljɰ ǹɁɨ ɽȃlj ʥȃɁȢlj ǹƃȴȈȢʰ Ɂȶ

ɽɨƃȈȢ ɨʍȶӗ ɽȃlj ȃʍɽ ȃƃɰ ƹljljȶ ɽɨƃȶɰǹɁɨȴljǁ ɽɁ

ƃȶǁ Ɂǹǹ ɽȃlj ɰȶɁʥӝ

ƹlj ɽȃlj ȃɁȴlj Ɂǹ ȃljƃɨɽӸʥƃɨȴȈȶǼ ȴljƃȢɰ ƃȶǁ

Australia and New Zealand Cup

celebratory toasts to the snow gods. Make ɽȃlj ȴɁɰɽ Ɂǹ ɽȃlj ʍȢɽȈȴƃɽlj ɰȟȈӸȈȶӗ ɰȟȈӸɁʍɽ ǹɁɁǁ ɰɽɁɥӝ ŚɁɨȢǁӸˎɨɰɽ ɰɽʍǁljȶɽ ȴljǁȈƃ ƺljȶɽɨlj ƃɽ Ɂɽȃƃȴ Nikon, WorldStrides and Hotham have taken ƺɁȢȢƃƹɁɨƃɽȈɁȶ ɽɁ ȶljʥ ȃljȈǼȃɽɰ ʥȈɽȃ ƃ ʥɁɨȢǁӸ ˎɨɰɽ ɰɽʍǁljȶɽ ȴljǁȈƃ ƺljȶɽɨljӝ ěȃlj ƺljȶɽɨlj ƺɨljƃɽljɰ ƃȶ ȈȶȶɁʤƃɽȈʤlj ʤȈǁljɁ ȢljƃɨȶȈȶǼ ljʯɥljɨȈljȶƺlj ǹɁɨ students travelling with Worldstrides.

New levels of luxe with west elm Global retailer west elm has partnered with Ɂɽȃƃȴ ɁȢȈǁƃʰɰ ɽɁ ɽɨƃȶɰǹɁɨȴ ƃȶ ljʯƺȢʍɰȈʤlj apartment to be the coolest place on the ɰȢɁɥljɰӝ AɨƃʥȈȶǼ ǹɨɁȴ ɽȃlj °ƃȴljɰ 9Ɂȶǁ ɰɽʰȢljӗ the space is a sophisticated apartment ʥɁɨɽȃʰ Ɂǹ ѕѕќ ȃȈȴɰljȢǹӝ Raclette cheese feast experience The ever popular, Snowshoe to Fondue ljʯɥljɨȈljȶƺljӗ ljʯɥƃȶǁɰ ǹʍɨɽȃljɨ ɽɁ ljȶɽȈƺlj ƃȢȢ ɨƃƺȢljɽɽlj ƺȃljljɰlj ȢɁʤljɨɰӝ {ɨȈȢȢ ƃ ʥȃljljȢ Ɂǹ

(ANC) Championships °ʍȢʰ ɽɁ ʍǼʍɰɽ Watch World and National Champions battle Ȉɽ Ɂʍɽ ƃɰ ɽȃljʰ ɨƃƺlj ǹɁɨ ɽȃljȈɨ ɥɁǁȈʍȴ ˎȶȈɰȃljɰӝ Hotham Banked Slalom їњ ʍǼʍɰɽ :ljȢljƹɨƃɽlj јѕӸʰljƃɨɰ Ɂǹ ɰȶɁʥƹɁƃɨǁȈȶǼ Ȉȶ Australia with the exciting open Banked Slalom course.

Australia Gay Ski Week іӸѝ Čljɥɽljȴƹljɨ ĄƃȈȶƹɁʥ ƺɁȢɁʍɨɰ Ɂǹ ɥɨȈǁlj ɽƃȟlj Ɂʤljɨ Ɂɽȃƃȴ ǹɁɨ ƃ ʥljljȟ Ɂǹ ɰȟȈȈȶǼӗ ɰȶɁʥƹɁƃɨǁȈȶǼӗ ɥƃɨɽȈljɰ ƃȶǁ ǹʍȶӝ Chicks with Stix іј Ӹ іњ Čljɥɽljȴƹljɨ ʍɰɽɨƃȢȈƃԇɰ ɽɁɥ ǹljȴƃȢlj ɰȟȈljɨɰ ƃȶǁ ɰȶɁʥƹɁƃɨǁljɨɰ Ǽljɽ ǼȈɨȢɰ ǹljljȢȈȶǼ ƺɁȶˎǁljȶɽ Ɂȶ the snow and learning new skills.

French cheese onto baked potatoes as

Retro Day and Sunset Party

ʰɁʍ ǹljƃɰɽ Ɂȶ ƃ ƺȃƃɨƺʍɽljɨȈlj ƹɁƃɨǁ Ɂǹ

іљ Čljɥɽljȴƹljɨ

smoked meats.

Gear up in your most outrageous retro Ǽljƃɨ ǹɁɨ ƃ ǁƃʰ Ɂǹ ɥɨȈ˃ljɰ ƃȶǁ ɰʍȴȴȈɽ ɰʍȶɰljɽ party vibes.

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19D12881-v5/2319

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2019 — PAGE 11

Messages from the Mountains:

Marketing our resorts IN today’s age of social media, if you’re not onscreen, you’re not visible.

And with unbelievable scenes of beauty on the Alpine mountains, the job of sending those images out to the world falls to marketing people.

Mount Hotham Falls Creek News’ Tahlia Philp caught up with Nathan Fenton, marketing officer for Falls Creek Resort Management.

What exactly is your job?

It’s my job to manage all of our media, our digital assets, all social media, our website and I also put together all of our promos.

This includes making poster and advertisement in the lead up to the season and throughout.

How did you get into this field?

I did my degree in marketing and I’ve always had a passion for this field and loved it. About 14 years ago my wife had introduced me to the snow. I was instantly hooked. That’s when I decided whatever I’ll be doing I want to be doing it on the snow. So I joined those two passions together of marketing and snow and that’s why I’m here now.

What do you love about the area?

I’m living in Bright at the moment, so I do the drive up to Falls Creek and back every day. I moved here for the snow and I love the mountain life.

Although moving to Bright and the region has been amazing, I have two kids and bought a house in Bright.

I couldn’t imagine living

anywhere else other than the North East, as I’m able to ride mountain bikes all day during summer and then in winter go snowboarding.

It’s a really nice lifestyle and the best place in the world to do it.

The community up here is amazing, when I first started this job nine years ago it had about 100 permanent residents and it’s now closer to 300.

Falls Creek has a year-round primary school, facilities, and you have many options to go get breakfast lunch or dinner.

It not a village with a ski resort, it’s a community that has a ski resort.

What are you looking forward to this season?

I’m looking forward to strapping my boots in and

going for a snowboard, as I haven’t been snowboarding since last September.

I always look forward to winter as I love the cold air, the crispness and being up in the mountains.

I love the silence; there’s really something about walking around by yourself among the snow.

Mainly I’m just looking forward to those winter conditions coming back.

What’s everyone looking forward to?

Everyone’s looking forward to seeing if we can back it up this season, as the last two seasons have been the best on record with having more than two metres of snow.

We’ve also had a lot of unprecedented preseason snowfall, so there’s a lot of

WELCOME TO mountain staf MY OFFICE: Along with all f, Nathan Fenton such as Falls Creek’s ski patr ollers, said he couldn of fice anywhe re in the world ’t imagine a better .

PHOTO: Nathan Fenton anticipation about what’s going to happen this season in terms of snow.

We’re ramping up to a pretty big season and were completely flat out getting everything ready.

What’s new this season at Falls Creek?

We’re expecting the chaos to really step to the next level this year, especially with our event ‘mountain bike race on

snow’ towards the end of the season.

This event was a bit of a slow burn until last year as we now have heaps of people interested and plan on getting it internationally recognised.

It’s the events we have up at Fall Creek that are really exciting and emphasise the uniqueness of this resort and what we can do.

SELLING SNOW: Ever since Nathan Fenton spent time on snow, he decided he had to combine his work with his new passion.

Falls Creek Medical Centre Winter Consulting Hours Daily: 10.00am - 12noon & 2.00 - 5.00pm After Hours Ring 03 5758 3238 or if an emergency call 000 Email enquiries@mbmc.com.au Web www.mbmc.com.au

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PAGE 12 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2019

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For your diary, FALLS CREEK EVENTS

FLYING: Happy second season, Eagle Chair.

PHOTO: Lachy Keevers

Ticket to ride: Falls Creek ready to slide Eagle Express 2019 see’s the Eagle Express turn for its second season.

This $9 million Leitner-Poma detachable quad chair cuts down the journey time from eight minutes to three minutes, meaning skiers and boarders can spend more time on the slopes and less time on the chair.

Falls Creek has also upgraded Gully Chair for the 2019 season, repurposing the motor from the old Eagle Chair to improve the speed for consumers to access the Village Bowl and get out on the slopes.

Ski & Boot Co At Falls Creek in 2019 there is a new retail store, the Ski & Boot Co.

Located within Base One in the Village Bowl, the Ski & Boot Co offers expert advice on the latest range of skis and ski boots.

Their range is tailored to the terrain and conditions at Falls Creek and the team knows how the gear will perform for you and what will suit your ability.

The Ski & Boot Co also offers a full boot fitting and customisation service.

Not only do they offer the best boots from leading brands, their expert boot fitters are qualified to perform a range of boot fitting services.

The new store also stock a range of the world’s leading brands

NEW BAR: A touch of New York City at Falls Creek’s Elk. Apartment 3 is the latest development to accompany the restaurant and accommodation offerings.

PHOTO: Richelle Gent

including: Salomon, Atomic, Black Crows, Faction, Technica, Rossignol, Lib-Tech, K2 and Volkl.

Ski & Boot Co is open daily 8am6pm.

Apartment 3 at Elk If you’re looking for a little bit of luxe during your snow holiday, Elk at Falls has a new bar, Apartment 3.

Apartment 3, Elk’s new seductive cocktail bar hidden behind a luxe emerald curtain, is an après and late-night New York-style, 50-seat lounge and bar.

Designed by the coolest and most talented, Coy Yiontis Architects, it is an intimate and visually stunning space.

Apartment 3 boasts luxurious

finishes, sensory lighting and curated playlists to keep you unwinding into the night.

Grab a signature or classic cocktail created by the house mixologist, sink into the divine velvet lounges and lap up the chilled atmosphere.

For your additional drinking pleasure, spirits have been carefully selected to showcase Australian distilleries and love for everyone’s favourite spirit; gin.

A boutique selection of local and international wines, ciders and beers - including two on tap, are served.

Apartment 3 is open seven days a week, 3pm ‘till late.

Adults only from 6pm.

THIS season Falls Creek will be hosting a range of exciting events: Thursday’s | Night Show Spectacular: The Night Show Spectacular is a must do during your Falls Creek holiday. Running from the first Thursday in July for eight weeks it is a great event to attend with your friends and family.

You’ll see the mountain’s most talented instructors and park crew hit Summit under lights, displaying amazing skills with synchronised skiing and boarding, flips and tricks off of a custom built jump and a brilliant firework display to end the night.

Starting at 7:30pm every Thursday night, head to The Village Bowl for this action packed free family friendly event. If you’re lucky you may even see Pete the Snow Dragon hit the slopes!

July 6 & 7 | Ski Demo Weekend Try before you buy at the Ski Demo Weekend, where Falls Creek celebrates all things skiing. Head to the Village Bowl to demo skis from your favourite brands including Salomon, Atomic, Black Crows and more.

August 9, 10 & 11 | Nitro Good Times Weekend The Nitro Good Times Weekend is back in 2019. Bringing some of the world’s best snowboarders to Falls Creek, you can ride with the pros while having nothing but good times.

Mim Sodergren Women’s Ski Program Falls Creek Snowsports School’s renowned women’s-only ski program continues to be the most successful on-snow experience for women.

Enjoy the support of female instructors, designed to give women the chance to improve their skills and overcome their fears in a dynamic and comfortable environment.

Each session has up to six hours of instruction daily incorporating video tape analysis.

The program is open to all level skiers with the emphasis on small groups. It involves individual assessment, discussions on achieving goals, overcoming fears and having a lot of fun at the same time.

There will be three dates in 2019: A longer five-day program: July 22 – July 26; three-day program: August 23 – August 25; three-day program: September 6 – September 8.

September 7 | Summit Masters Bring out your best retro gear and test your skills at the Summit Masters, Falls Creek’s classic mogul event. With categories for all age groups it is a fun event for the whole family!

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2019 — PAGE 13

Sky of snow: Chance to sleep in a real igloo at Hotham

By STRUAN JONES

TEAMWORK: Taking in the scenery down Falls Creek’s Wombat’s Ramble on a blue bird day. Falls Creek is now home to a new fully-accessible facility for DWA members and volunteers.

PHOTO: Andrew Lee AT THE READY: DWA’s sit-skis require an immense amount of skill to negotiate the Mount Hotham slope: PHOTO: Phil Knight

Wintersports for all abilities: DWA go from strength to strength

By ANDREW LEE National operations manager of Disabled Wintersports Australia ESTABLISHED in 1978, Disabled Wintersport Australia has supported generations of snow sports enthusiasts to find a way into extreme sports and explore the opportunities available to them in our beautiful alpine regions.

It was founded after snowsports athlete Ron Finneran, OAM, realised his dream of attending an Olympic Games.

Mr Finneran, alongside Nick Dean and Bruce Abel, led the charge in developing

Para-Winter Sport in Australia, and in the 41 years since has transformed the opportunities available to disabled Australians.

During its 40th Anniversary Year, DWA was proud to open a new fully accessible facility at Howman’s Gap Alpine Centre at Falls Creek – the first of its kind above the snow line in Australia.

This building is now the base of camps programs providing services to all DWA members, ensuring they are able to enjoy the experience of visiting the snow with the same access as anyone else.

With at least one camp

running a week at Falls, the facility will be home to athletes and volunteers from all over Victoria coming to put their stamp on the Australian ski industry.

By removing this barrier to access, families who have dreamt about the snow can now make it a reality.

Much like DWA’s years of development in this field, it has changed perceptions of what is possible.

At Mount Hotham, DWA athletes aren’t being quiet either, with over 300 days on snow being enjoyed by members during the 2018 season and a lot more to come this year.

DWA has extended its fleet of sit-skis, hired new staff and in conjunction with Adaptive Concepts Australia will be hosting a high-end athlete pathway camp.

This event will give the next generation of para-athletes the stepping-stones they need to push their boundaries and represent Australia on the international stage.

Disabled Wintersport Australia is continuing to push towards more inclusive access to the Australian Alpine regions – ensuring that the infrastructure, training and equipment are available for anyone that wants to enjoy the snow.

THIS year Mount Hotham will host the first and only igloo village in Australia.

This truly unique experience, offered by Alpine Nature Experience, includes an evening snowshoe adventure through the snow gums to reach a fully sustainable eco-village and central tipi.

Learning how to prepare an authentic French cheese fondue and a three-course dinner is all part of the experience, before enjoying a cosy night’s sleep in your own snow igloo all furnished with a proper bed, -8° sleeping bags and fur blankets.

After some fresh coffee and a cooked breakfast in the morning, a scenic snowmobile tour is also on offer to finish off a memorable experience.

Alpine Nature Experience is the brainchild of founder Jean-Francois, who always wanted to encourage others to discover the beauty of the mountains and experience the snow.

Since relocating to Australia in late 2014 from the heart of the French Alps, he has been looking for the chance to share his passion for the outdoors and alpine activities.

“At first I was sceptical of the term “Alps” in Australia, but I love the mountains here, they are more accessible than in France and have an untouched feeling to them,” he said.

“With Alpine Nature Experience, I want to encourage more people to experience everything the snow has to offer.”

Jean-Francois said Mount Hotham was a clear standout for his project due to the

striking beauty of the mountain, snow reliability and overall atmosphere.

He said he aims to attract more first timers to the snow, including families and school groups.

“For me the snow is about much more than skiing, it’s about the beauty of the scenery, the food, and surrounding yourself in nature,” Jean-Francois said.

As of this year his company has become a member of ‘1% for the Planet,’ pledging to donate one per cent of annual sales to support nonprofit organisations focused on the environment.

Started in 2002 by Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, and Craig Mathews, founder of Blue Ribbon Flies, 1% for the Planet members have given more than $200 million to environmental nonprofits to date.

Today, 1% for the Planet is a network of more than 1800 member businesses, a new and expanding core with hundreds of individual members, and thousands of non-profit partners in more than 60 countries.

According to the organisation, only three per cent of total philanthropy goes to the environment and only three per cent of that comes from businesses.

For Jean-Francois, it’s something close to his heart.

“We have always cared deeply about the environment we operate in: the Victorian Alps. We are willing to do as much as we can to preserve nature for everyone’s enjoyment,” he said.

“We’re about discovering nature and educating people, but it feels even better when you can put your dollars where your mouth is.”

BABY IT’S COLD OUTSIDE: Mount Hotham’s Alpine Nature Experience will be offering overnight igloo stays this season.

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PAGE 14 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2019

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EMERGENCY SERVICES: Victoria Police, along with emergency services including SES and ambulance attend several car accidents every winter season in the mountains, many of which were preventable.

PHOTO: Graham Gales

Police: Driving in snow more than just driving slow

BY ASHLEIGH PILES AS the snow season sets in, a safety warning has been issued for motorists traveling to and around the Alpine areas.

The message from police this season is to simply be prepared.

Victoria Police Senior Sergeant Doug Incoll from Bright said the best advice police can give is to be prepared and be aware of the safety measures.

“As the snow season sets in its timely we remind people heading to Alpine areas of Victoria to be aware of the safety measures they can take to ensure their holidays are safe and enjoyable,” he said.

“Planning and preparation are the keys to having a safe Alpine experience.”

Alpine roads in winter can be dangerous and driving on snow or ice cover requires concentration, adept driving skills, and patience with the 40kph speed limit.

“Keep your cool if stuck in a long queue of traffic, and always follow directions by resort staff, police, and road signs,” Snr Sgt Incoll said.

Motorists are reminded to ensure their vehicles are fitted with appropriate wheel chains and the radiator is filled with anti-freeze or Alpine Mix before making their journey.

“Before leaving the ski fields, be sure to clear any snow from the car roof to avoid creating a road hazard to other vehicles – and failure to do so if an offence,” Snr Sgt Incoll said.

“Drive cautiously with

gradual pressure on the accelerator to avoid wheel spin and avoid unnecessary gear changes.

“And remember that when meeting oncoming vehicles, common sense dictates that a vehicle heading up the mountain has right of way.”

Snr Sgt Incoll said locals and visitors must always take extra precautions to prevent the theft of expensive snow equipment and personal belongings.

“Unfortunately theft of snow equipment and personal belongings does occur on the mountain,” he said.

“There are a number of common sense measures you can take to reduce theft of your property including using a combination lock, marking all clothing and knowing where to your board is at all times.

“Separate your skis or split them with a friend – one ski is no good to a would-be thief.”

Snr Sgt Incoll said planning and preparation are also paramount in preventing an emergency search and rescue situation.

“Again, the best advice police can give to prevent an instance of people becoming lost in snow areas is preparation,” he said.

“Know the signs of hypothermia, get fit to go skiing, let someone know before you go, wear appropriate wind and waterproof clothing and never wear jeans.

“Regularly check weather and snow conditions and finally, if you get lost – stop, seek shelter, and wait.”

INNOVATIVE ART: Falls Creek’s Rachael Gadd next to the brand new ‘ski fence’ constructed at the alpine resort, made from 400 repurposed skis. Snowsports equipment is especially difficult to recycle, being made up of different materials difficult to separate.

PHOTO: Nathan Fenton

Skis slide into place at Falls Creek

GAME OF SKIS: Rachel Gadd takes up her appointed place. The ‘Throne of Skis’ has become a striking feature at Falls Creek’s Windy Corner.

PHOTO: Nathan Fenton

SKIS unfortunately have little use beyond snowy mountains in winter, and once they reach their use-by dates, they are usually thrown away and not recycled.

But as part of an innovative ski reuse program, Falls Creek is turning unwanted skis and snowboards into eye-catching artworks throughout the alpine village.

Two new ‘ski fences’ have been constructed over the summer months, repurposing over 400 skis sourced from the Alpine Shire and rental outlets, that would otherwise have been headed for landfill.

As part of Falls Creek Resort Management’s ideals around sustainability, the ski fences have been constructed by resort staff in areas including a popular thoroughfare to Falls Creek Road, and are expected to become a point of interest this winter.

Other recycled ski artworks installed recently include ‘The Wren’ in the Slalom Plaza fountain and the ‘Throne of Skis’ at the Windy Corner Cross Country Ski Centre.

Discarded skis and snowboards are notoriously difficult to manage for landfill operators and are unable to be stripped and recycled by recognised methods.

With large piles of discarded snowsports equipment at local North East transfer stations, initiatives like this are invaluable for the ski industry to maintain a responsible approach to sustainability.

Falls Creek Resort Management’s asset manager, Rachael Gadd, said the organisation’s Environmental Management Plan includes a recognised goal of 50 per cent landfill diversion by the year 2020, a goal that looks well in reach with current rates at 46per cent.

Falls Creek has made great steps of recent years to promoting the resort’s heritage as an arts-based community.

A dedicated Arts and Culture Strategy has seen a number of accomplished artists serve in the Artist in Residence program, including a 12-metre tall mural of a Bogong Moth on the village’s water holding tank.

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2019 — PAGE 15

STRONG KNEES: Snowsports can be high impact activities, but there are ways to prepare for the season to stay safe.

Stay injury free this snow season

By PHEBE LISTON, Physio at Ovens Valley Physio & Pilates WHILE there will always be an element of risk involved with skiing or snowboarding, there are certainly things that you can do to minimise your chance of getting injured this snow season.

The key things to consider are: z Being “Snow-Fit” We all want to get the most out of our day on the slopes, but those last runs when your body is tired are always the most risky.

Building strength in the specific muscles you use when skiing and snowboarding is key, but so is improving your balance and joint mobility.

Pilates classes are a great way

to target all of those elements and there are options for all fitness and skill levels. z Equipment Set-up For skis, making sure your bindings are on the right setting to match your skill level is particularly important in preventing acute knee injuries.

For beginners, you want the ski’s to pop off more readily if you fall so that you are at less risk of twisting the knee ligaments with your foot stuck in the ski.

Then conversely, if you are an advanced skier you need the bindings set tight enough so they don’t just pop off if you hit a bump at speed.

So when hiring or buying skis, don’t rush the process and read and fill out any forms honestly and accurately.

PREVENTION IS THE BEST TREATMENT: Injuries on-mountain are not souvenirs you want to take back to the office. Physio Phebe Liston treats keen snow-goer Steve Prince, and says preparation, strength and fitness are the best way to stay injury-free this season.

For snowboarding, your knees take a lot of the load, so to prevent overuse injuries getting the binding position right is key.

The recommended position will vary for each individual as, for example, some people have tighter hips or ankles.

As a starting point, if you tend to naturally squat with your knees together, then keep the angle fairly straight, whereas if you tend to squat with your knees out, then you are better to widen the angle.

Keep in mind it may take a few goes to get the position right for you, but if you are experiencing pain anywhere when riding, then it’s best to seek further advice from a physio. z Wearing Protective Gear There are factors that may cause you to fall that are outside of your control, such as variable weather

ALPINE MARKET SOARING

conditions or an out of control beginner skier or boarder!

This is why wearing protective gear is important. z Helmets If you fall you are at risk of hitting your head and causing a serious head injury, similar to if you fall off a bike, so a helmet is a must.

The other advantages of helmets are they keep you warm and help to hold your goggles in place! z Wrist Guards for Snowboarders The wrist is one of the most common sites for injuries with snowboarders as when you fall, your natural response is to put your hands down to break your fall, forcing your wrist to bend back.

Wrist guards aim to limit this movement and are recommended for snowboarders of all skill levels.

Padded Undergarments There are a range of garments now available that are designed with impact protection padding over areas that skiers and boarders are prone to falling onto, such as the hips and tailbone.

This will help to decrease the risk or severity of impact injuries to these areas and they can be worn in place of (or over the top of) thermals.

At Ovens Valley Physio & Pilates, we have a range of garments and products (including padded undergarments and wrist guards) available for purchase at our Bright studio.

If all else fails and you do get injured this season, our Hotham clinic will be operational throughout winter inside the Hotham Medical Centre, seven days a week by appointment.

Mt Hotham and Dinner Plain Rob Ford 0430 749 701 rob@zirkyrealestate.com.au Falls Creek Christa Smit 0402 277 808 christa@zirkyrealestate.com.au

Alpine Specialists

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ʻ˘˔˗ ˂˙Ё˖˘ WR1/ 17 Bogong High Plains Road Falls Creek VIC 3699

PAGE 16 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2019

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Aspen Snowmass

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