Mt Hotham Falls Creek News - September 2021

SEPTEMBER ISSUE, 2021

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SAVOUR SENSATIONAL SPRING

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SPRING is something to be savoured at our alpine resorts, now that they have re-opened and are back in business after the regional lockdown enforced from August 21 finally ended on September 9. Snowboarder Sam Purdie, pictured getting some early runs on the Summit at Falls Creek last month, is among those hoping to make the most of the good snow cover and warmer weather at the resort for the remainder of the season.

PHOTO: Chris Hocking

POWDER JOY P3 Mt Hotham turns it on with the white fluffy stuff.

BACKCOUNTRY P10 Explore all that Mt Hotham and Falls Creek has to offer.

Building for future Ű

More than just a car park for Mt Hotham visitors next year

By CHRIS EPSKAMP

BILL ON PATROL P14 Accidental career for Mt Hotham Ski Patrol director.

index CHAMBER CHAT GET A LESSON

P6 P15

THE days of battling steep icy surfaces and sheltering from the frigid winter storms behind your car to get into ski gear at Mt Hotham’s Loch Car Park appear to be numbered.

Anyone familiar with the car park will have noted excavation works completed prior to winter, significantly leveling its difficult surface.

For the 2022 winter season a new development will transform the area between Mt Hotham alpine resort’s snow making dam and the Great Alpine Road into a purpose built

visitor centre and car park, providing comforts that most users of the current car park will have only dreamt of.

Called ‘Alpine Gateway’ and supported by $4.2 million in funding from the Victorian Government, the new two-storey facility will provide year-round benefits to visitors.

With a completion target of summer 2021/22, the new building incorporates a top deck with a large level space for 135 cars (an increase of 45 car spaces on the current number of around 90 .. on a good day!) and a viewing platform with a fully enclosed lower level providing visitors to the ski area with

change rooms and toilets plus safe and direct ski field access for the skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.

Interpretive facilities will welcome visitors and showcase the resort.

Significantly, Alpine Gateway provides a real alternative to the Corral Car Park, reducing vehicular congestion in the heart of the Mt Hotham village.

Images of the finished project reveal that the Alpine Gateway building will be stepped into the slope, reducing its visual bulk and minimising the impact of the regular and intense prevailing weather.

The colour palette and building materials have apparently been selected to reflect the natural tones and textures found at Mt Hotham and draw inspiration from high country huts.

The car park level appears to provide easy entry and egress from the Great Alpine Road for 2WD and 4WD vehicles, something that has been sorely missing.

It is anticipated that the village bus service will extend to include the Loch car park during the 2022 winter season, providing day visitors with simple, safe access to the resort village.

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PAGE 2 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021

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McKayos event cancelled again, due to uncertainty of restrictions AUSTRALIA’S most unique mountain bike event has been cancelled at Falls Creek for 2021, due to the ongoing uncertainty with COVID restrictions.

Falls Creek Resort Management this week announced the difficult decision to cancel the McKayos event, scheduled for the weekend of October 2 and 3.

The event was forecast to welcome more than 400 racers from around Australia to challenge themselves on the iconic course with interest being sky high following the event’s postponement in 2020.

The course is infamous in mountain biking circles as the only mass start event in Australia which sees racers battle head-to-head on snow, roads and trails.

Racers drop over 1000 vertical metres from the Summit of Falls Creek to the finish line at Bogong Village some 15km from the start line.

Event supervisor, Nick Buckley, said with the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic causing uncertainty for organising major events and other external factors,

ON THE JOB: VICSES Falls Creek unit volunteers (from left) Anthony Johnson, controller Craig Moegel and Simon Allen had a busy day on August 19.

PHOTO: VICSES

School trips provoke slew of snow rescues

IT’S OFF: COVID restriction uncertainty has led to the cancellation of the McKayos mountain bike event at Falls Creek on October 2/3.

PHOTO: Courtesy Falls Creek Alpine Resort

Falls Creek Resort Management was left with no choice but to cancel the event again for 2021.

“Falls Creek Alpine Resort is devastated to have had to cancel the iconic McKayos MTB event for the second year running,” Ms Buckley said.

“We know how disappointed our

riders, stakeholders and community will be not to see the McKayos of the race unfold in our alpine resort.

“We want to thank all the racers, spectators and crew who have made the past iterations of McKayos so amazing, it’s been quite the ride!”

As the McKayos event usually signifies the transition for the resort from winter skiing operations to summer alpine activities, Ms Buckley encouraged participants to look ahead to the three-day Ignition MTB festival scheduled to be held at Falls Creek on November 19 to 21.

More than just a car park for Mt Hotham visitors next year Ŷ

From page 1

Outside the snow season, Alpine Gateway will be the trailhead for the proposed Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing multi-day walk and a range of other signature walks.

The project is part of the resort’s efforts to support climate change adaptation and sustained community resilience by providing a year-round facility.

Whilst improving the visitor experience, it is also hoped the development will stimulate new commercial opportunities in the village and local communities.

“The Alpine Gateway is a strategic enabling project that will create a new visitor hub and parking facility with capacity for further public and private investment within the resort in support of a new visitor precinct,” said Amber Gardner, CEO of Mount Hotham Alpine Resort Management Board.

“This facility will provide a muchneeded boost to Mt Hotham’s year-round offering and the local visitor economy.”

FUTURE DEVELOPMENT: An artist impression of the Alpine Gateway developmnt, viewed on the snow making dam side of the Loch car park.

PHOTO: Mt Hotham Alpine Resort Management Board (MHARMB) CHANGE COMING: Loch car park adjoining the Great Alpine Road will be transformed over the summer with a twostory visitor centre to be developed.

PHOTO: Chris Epskamp Mt Hotham Falls Creek News Est. 1997

Serious about targeting the ski industry this Winter?

AUGUST ISSUE, 2021

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Mountains of snow

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LOCKDOWNS may have paused the season in July, but there is so much to look forward to after the biggest snowfalls this winter pushed average snow depths at both Falls Creek and Mt Hotham well past a metre. Pictured enjoying himself at Falls Creek in fresh powder, prior to lockdown, is Tom Costa.

PHOTO: Chris Hocking

BRITT COX P3 Mogul master preparing for her fourth Winter Olympics

P9 BACKCOUNTRY Inaugural tour for women at Mt Hotham a huge success

Unsung heroes How snowmaking has helped shape the season at Hotham, Falls Creek

YOUNG GUNS P19 Aussie cross-country ski team members hard at work

index KANGAROO HOPPET P14 THINGS TO DO

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AS evening falls and you’re winding down after a day on the mountain, Len Dobell is briefing his team for a full night’s work.

As general manager of operations at Hotham, Len and his team of snowmakers and groomers work through the night to transform the mountain and continually provide mountain visitors with the best terrain and snow conditions possible.

“In the last 18 months Hotham has purchased eight new, state-of-the-art mobile snow guns,” he said.

“It’s great to see our continuous investment in getting the runs our guests love open sooner and offering

the best possible snow conditions all season long”.

The grooming and snowmaking crews at Mt Hotham and Falls Creek are the hidden heroes behind your snow holiday.

It was their skilled and dedicated work that produced the goods and ensured skiable terrain to make up for Mother Nature’s shortfall earlier in the season.

And while plentiful natural dumps in July have helped set both resorts up for the remainder of the season with snow depths well in excess of a metre, the mountains’ teams won’t stop.

Every night the hardworking team sculpt the slopes and paint with snow to craft the terrain that facilitates and becomes the background of your winter memories.

“We have about seven groomers and five snowmakers who work the night shift each night,” said Len. Made up of nocturnal creatures, the night shift is fondly referred to as the graveyard shift and can see crew members starting at 4.30pm and work through the night, often finishing at 5am, or until lifts open the next morning.

Snowmaking has been a key focus for Hotham and Falls Creek and

significant investments made by both resorts have helped stabilise an industry reliant on mother nature, providing snow-goers and business owners alike with confidence each season.

Snowmaking has been especially valuable for the resorts to safely open terrain earlier in the season.

“This season in the lead up to Hotham’s opening weekend, we produced over 8500 cubic meters of snow each night,” said Len. “We contributed an extra 69,000 cubic metres of snow to opening weekend - enough to fill over 27 Olympic size swimming pools.

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Continued page 2

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VICTORIA State Emergency Service (VICSES) Falls Creek Unit volunteers performed three different snow rescues, all in one day on Thursday, August 19.

All incidents involved members of school groups who had been camping close by to the Falls Creek alpine resort.

VICSES Falls Creek unit controller, Craig Moegel, said volunteers were called to assist police in search and rescue, and patient extraction.

“At 11.01am our VICSES volunteers were called to their first job, to assist police with a teen who had injured themselves in the snow,” he said.

“The crew was made up of the VICSES volunteers and two Victoria Police members.

“Our volunteers attended in snowmobiles and provided first aid at the scene, before taking the teen to a medical centre close by in Falls Creek.

“A second incident occurred at around 4pm, with another teen who had fallen, sustaining injuries which rendered the patient unable to ride on the snowmobile.

“Though a non-ambulatory case, the teen was spinally immobilised with a backboard, and secured in the trailer for transport to Falls Creek Medical Centre.

“The third incident for the day, flagged by Victoria Police shortly before 10pm, related to another teen who had been camping overnight as part of a school group, and had dislocated their knee.

“Though the group had coordinates of their location, the location at Watchbed Creek lay approximately 10 kilometres from the unit, along Paul’s Track - a cross-country trail.

“The location necessitated a lengthy trip by snowmobile.”

Mr Moegel said persons who are intending a trip out into the high plains should ensure they have the proper safety equipment, warm clothing navigation skills, at a minimum one form of communication - like a working mobile phone - and a back-up battery.

VICSES Falls Creek unit volunteer, Anthony Johnson, who works for the lift company as part of the slope maintenance team, said it was important people know the coordinates of where they are.

“This makes it easier for us to find you quickly,” he said.

NEXT EDITION: June 2022 Booking deadline: May 14, 2022 GROUP EDITOR: Jeff Zeuschner ADVERTISING: Jenny Zamperoni EDITORIAL: Jeff Zeuschner ADVERTISING SALES EMAIL: jking@nemedia.com.au Telephone 0427 495 309 EDITORIAL EMAIL: JZeuschner@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 email material to Jeff Zeuschner at jzeuschner@nemedia.com.au or phone (03) 57230 107.

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

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021 — PAGE 3

Where Am I?

SHEER DELIGHT: The author enjoying a powder day at Mt Hotham earlier this season.

PHOTO: Lyndell Keating

PERFECT: A powder day backcountry bootpack exit at Mt Hotham in July this year.

PHOTO: Chris Epskamp

Powder Getting that addiction fix at Mt Hotham

By CHRIS EPSKAMP

THE cold wave of snow washes across your face, leaving one breathless but in ecstasy.

And then again and again, turn after turn, perhaps proving that not all white powder addictions are bad for you!

Skiing and snowboarding deep, dry, untracked powder is the pinnacle of the sport.

The float, the wave, the face shot, the perfect line..... Entire seasons or overseas trips can be made or broken on just one big powder day.

In the Australian Alps, Mt Hotham ranks as the best in the land for powder seekers.

Even so, scoring some requires a touch of good luck, and a healthy dose of good management.

Addictions can be strange; tough to manage.

They drive one to acts of madness that most people baulk at.

Travelling by car for eight hours to get one day of delicious powder skiing during the fiercest storm of the season is not deemed sane by most people, but powder chasers are not ‘most people’.

Skiing powder in Australia can be as good as anywhere in the world on its day.

Mt Hotham offers the best of it.

And even in a ‘sub-optimal’ season, there is always at least one or two cracking ‘pow’ days.

Most Australian skiers will be aware of the pleasures of skiing deep powder in Japan or the fabulous resorts in the USA and Canada, but many have ‘forgotten’ the joys of skiing Europe.

Austria, Switzerland, France, Italy, Spain, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Russia, Georgia ... the list goes on.

From the glaciers of the high alps, tiny village-based ski hills to the sprawling mega-resorts that cross international boundaries and endless freeride backcountry, Europe has it all and more.

But with the COVID pandemic putting the brakes on overseas travel and even our lifts turning on occasions (damn!), we need to make the most of our own limited powder days.

Being caring, sharing kinda people, we think everyone should get a piece of powder in their lives.

So here is this powder-addicted skier’s top 10 tips for scoring the goods (..... deep powder goods that is!) and the perfect Mt Hotham powder day.

Be flexible, i.e. able to take a leave a day (or two) from work at very short notice.

Know the snowpack and terrain.

How much snow is on the ground

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MAGIC: Wendy Skene ascends Mt Blowhard a few days after a storm with Mt Hotham in the background earlier this season.

PHOTO: Chris Epskamp

already and what does the next storm mean? Is it just going to be a veneer on a non-existent, glacial or thin base; or is it the cream on top? We are hunting the cream!

Watch the weather and hit the road when any cold storm of 20 to 30cm potential is bearing down. But ask deep powder connoisseur and Powderhounds. com founder Greg Doyle, and he will say some his greatest days at Hotham are on what we call a ‘Doylie-10’ day.

A mere 10cm of dry snow on a cold base with a blue sky!

Be on the hill or in a nearby valley the night before the storm hits.

If extreme winds or big 24hr snow totals are forecast, use the Omeo approach if travelling up to Mt Hotham at night. Everyone on the hill loves it when the Harrietville approach is closed on a powder day, but if you are one of those waiting down in that valley, disappointment reigns supreme!

Get up and out early. The early bird gets the worm, and if you snooze, you lose or at least will need to push further to, and beyond the boundaries to find it. Remember there is at least one big powder run you can do at Hotham without the need for a lift (or skinning).

Not too many places in the world one can do that!

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4 5

6

7

Ski and ride the storm. Unless a super-cold few days follow, waiting for the storm to clear can render the powder in the resort tracked out or turned to various forms of porridge, elephant snot or something equally less pleasant. On the upside, everyone will thank you for giving away your first tracks!

If heading into the awesome Hotham (or Falls Creek) backcountry, have the skills, knowledge and equipment to do it safely and respectfully.

For an awesome steep, big vertical descent on a cold, south-aspect slope, go and ski or ride the...........

On second thoughts, rules 9 and 10 need to be learnt for yourself.

Didn’t think we were gonna tell you exactly where to score your hit did you?

Suffice to say that the bests powder are earnt.

And if you can’t manage to score a powder day, spending time on snow on the slopes of Hotham, Falls Creek and the surrounding backcountry peaks is a wonderful training ground for developing skills, staying fit, enjoying the outdoors, and developing a snow passion that can lead to amazing ski adventures both at home and overseas.

Enjoy the chase, share it, laugh, whoop and yip when slashing your fresh powder line at Hotham...

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9

SOME mornings, nature just reminds one of the possibilities when skiing at Mt Hotham.

Whilst having breakfast, the sight of the first rays of sunshine kissing the summit ridge of a favourite local backcountry peak in the distance can be enough to propel one beyond the resort boundary for a bit of soft adventure.

Whilst there are many peaks and ridges worthy of exploration near Mt Hotham, this particular summit is both easy to get to, has awesome terrain, gets loads of snow in a storm but is comparatively rarely visited.

The summit ridge often has a cornice running along its entire length on its southern aspect but may be completely bereft of snow on the sunny northaspect.

Skiing its spur lines and bowls provides a big mountain feel due to its position high above a river valley.

Anywhere along the summit ridge can be fabulous for a snow picnic but it is best avoided when the wind is blowing hard.

Close to the road, it is still a backcountry mountain with all the requisite risks (and rewards) that entails.

Anyone can visit its summit, but only those with the knowledge, skills and equipment should ski or ride it.

Where am I? Answer on page 15.

Omeo 147 Day Avenue

NOW DELIVERING TO MT HOTHAM & DINNER PLAIN! Delivery service available to Dinner plain 5 days a week Mt Hotham deliveries available on Tuesday & Friday only.

Free delivery for purchases of $150 and over (Excluding cigarettes and alcohol). Minimum delivery fee of $8 to Dinner Plain and $10 to Mt Hotham for all other orders.

Orders required by 8am for all deliveries. (Delivery prices may be negotiable) *Terms and Conditions apply*

TRADING HOURS Monday - Friday Sunday -

7:00am to 7:00pm 9:00am to 5:00pm

Orders can be placed by phone or email or fax. Store contact:

03 5159 1210

Fax: 03 5159 1448 | Email: omeofoodworks@gmail.com

PAGE 4 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021

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Snow Monkey: vertically integrated and still smiling

By CHRIS EPSKAMP

WITH his signature cheeky grin (and a glint in his eye), Mount Hotham identity Richard Neville describes his position at the vertically integrated ski and snowboard company ‘Snow Monkey’ as ‘Chief Monkey’, ‘Big Dog of the Monkeys’, ‘Grand Poo Bah’ ... and sometimes just simply ‘Owner’.

His company now has an all-pervasive presence on the mountain and despite his many responsibilities and the difficulties presented this season, Richard is still smiling!

With a lifetime of connection to the Victorian ski fields, Richard started skiing at Mt Buller when he was four years old in 1969.

“I grew up skiing Buller from 1969 to 84, when my cousins built apartments here at Hotham,” he said.

“I have been at Hotham ever since and then started Snow Monkey in 2004.

“I opened the shop here in the Jack Frost building at Hotham in 2006.

“It was effectively a decision to enjoy life again and do something I loved.

“From the tiny Jack Frost

ALL SMILES: Snow Monkey owner Richard Neville.

location, initially only 54m2, we have built the business up to four locations.”

From those humble beginnings Snow Monkey is almost completely vertically integrated and offers fuel, snow chains, snow gear hire and retail (alpine ski, alpine touring, crosscountry, snowboard, splitboard and toboggans), over-snow transport (at Hotham) and accommodation services.

Locations include Omeo, Happy Valley (aka Ovens between Porepunkah and Myrtleford), Jack Frost at Mt Hotham, plus the inner Melbourne sub-

BEST OF FRIENDS: Richard Neville with Sammy the Snow Dog.

urb of Collingwood.

Employing a total of 32 people, 11 are based at Hotham during the winter.

Fulfilling the role of ‘Director of First Impressions’ is the 33rd employee and one of the most lovable characters in the Snow Monkey enterprise Sammy the Snow Dog. A fine-looking Golden Retriever, Sammy’s endearing nature certainly makes a fabulous first impression.

Anyone that knows Richard understands how appropriate the company name of Snow Monkey is, but in his words.

“The name Snow Monkey was created over a few convivial beverages whilst reviewing video of the ski tours we took to Japan and Kashmir. I was looking for an intuitive name that said what we did and what we were about. And what we are about is fun in the snow.

Whilst suffering from the consequences of said beverages, I was sitting alone in the store, looking at the video and thought you know what, even the monkeys in Kashmir, who have quite difficult lives, were having fun in the snow. Same for Japan.”

So there it was - Snow Monkey, having fun in the snow.

Richard adds, “We want to make coming to the snow easier, funner (sic) and cheaper ... without going broke!”

Whilst Richard admits that running a business that employs 32 people over the winter season limits his ski time at Hotham to once or twice a week, he still loves to get out and about.

“I’ve got lots of favourite runs at Hotham, but I won’t spill the beans on it, because everyone will go there,” he said.

“Suffice to say it is not inbounds.

“My second favourite is the ‘Secret Chutes’ or ‘Forgotten Face’ on Marys Slide.”

Everyone in the ski industry gets asked their favourite places to ski and Richard was forthcoming with his ‘go to’ snow locations.

Hotham is a given, but away from Australia, Richard rates the USA’s Aspen Colorado, Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing at Blue River in British Columbia Canada, and Kashmir’s Gulmarg as his top three overseas ski destinations.

Surviving the COVID pandemic has been challenging for Snow Monkey.

“Lockdown has been disastrous for the whole mountain,” said Richard.

“We have been able to tick along OK. “It has been key for us to be able to support and manage our staff, so when we get out of lockdown we are still up and about and able to work and happy to work.

“That’s been really our key consideration during lockdown.”

Lockdown and subsequent lift closures have certainly spawned a greater awareness and participation in crosscountry skiing at Mt Hotham in 2021.

From a business perspective, Richard is adamant, “As an avid alpine skier, never would I have thought we would be thankful for crosscountry skis to get us through lockdown”.

Richard no longer even calls them ‘misery sticks’, and now stocks so many cross-country skis, he may even take up the sport himself.

That will be a sight for sore eyes!

Anyone wanting to utilise any of Snow Monkey’s many services should go to www. snowmonkey.com.au

Open 7 days a week from 10am Dining Wednesday - Sunday Lunch 12pm - 2pm Dinner 6pm - 8.30pm

252-254 Great Alpine Road Myrtleford, VIC, 3737 Ph: (03) 5751-1296 Email: info@clubsavoy.com.au Web: clubsavoy.com.au

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021 — PAGE 5

RESTAURANT, BAR & BISTRO

ACCOMMODATION

Sit back, relax and enjoy the ambience of our historic restaurant with an open fireplace for those chilly winter nights. Our menu offers an excellent range and selection of local produce prepared by our professionally qualified and highly experienced chefs.

We offer 24 clean and comfortable, newly refurbished rooms at the hotel as well as four modern self-contained apartments located nearby at Butler Court. All within close walking distance to boutique shops, parks and walking tracks and offering a home away from during your stay in Bright.

Are you chasing a more relaxed dining experience? Look no further than our Bar & Bistro, which offers light and delicious snacks to share right through to the classic ‘pub’ favourites that you can enjoy in the Beer Garden or the shade overlooking Bright’s main street. The choice is yours. One thing is for sure you’ll certainly enjoy the atmosphere.

Find out more: Address: 7 - 9 Anderson Street, Bright Email: accom@alpinehotelbright.com.au Website: alpinehotelbright.com.au

With Bright being located only an hour’s drive from the snowfields, you can discover the abundance of activities and things to see and do in the beautiful alpine landscape. From Snow Skiing, Cycling and Mountain Biking, Bushwalking and Hiking, Climbing, Caving and Abseiling, there is something for the whole family.

1 Y Y "Y$&$$Y!"%%

PAGE 6 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021

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KEEPING POSITIVE: Mt Hotham Chamber of Commerce president Steve Belli has been trying to make the most of a challenging 2021 season.

Making the most of a challenging season

By STEVE BELLI, Mt Hotham Chamber of Commerce president THIS 2021 season has been a ride!

We don’t know when we are on or off, lockdown or not, and who can come and when.

As I wrote this in mid-August we were able to have our regional guests coming but unable to have our Melbourne friends join us because of the latest COVID lockdown The mountains are hugely social and having major gaps in our owner market, seasonal market and restrictions for Melbourne continues to be a source of stress and disappointment for our community up here.

We are a unique market where most of our operators rely on making their living on three to four months of the year.

With lockdowns, we are again faced with an uncertain future.

We appreciate we are not the only ones but do highlight our ability to trade in a short amount of the year as compared to other industries.

The merry-go-round of opening and closing has taken its toll on staff with some leaving and others being temporarily paused and then given a short amount of time to gear up before opening again.

The good news is we are open, we have lifts spinning, we have hire/retail and food and beverage going to look after you, our valued guests.

Here’s to rest of the season, whatever that maybe, and we look forward to seeing you here when you are able.

NB: Steve runs a number of businesses at Mt Hotham and Dinner Plain during the ski season.

EXPLORING: Lisa Logan and Diana Alpine Lodge staff member, Bronte Lewis, out ski and snowboard touring after the last big snow fall, near Mt Mckay.

PHOTO: Tim Spano

Our roller coaster ride, with much still on offer

By LISA LOGAN, Falls Creek Chamber of Commerce president

LIFE in the mountains is all about the ups and downs, but this past month seems to have been more than most years.

While we have all been learning to live with the COVID normal we have seen another layer of uncertainty; and it has definitely been a roller coaster that all Victorians have become all too familiar with.

Yet this past month we have seen some incredible snowfalls; the joy of the fresh snow, the terrain that it opens up and enables us to explore and venture into, has been fantastic.

If you have ever stood on top of one of Victoria’s snow covered peaks and looked to the valleys below, you would know how amazing life can be here, and how fortunate we are to have something so unique and so accessible.

The joy of these moments unfortunately has been affected by our inability to share with visitors these past few weeks, so it is with some

Spring delight

Spring is a great time to visit Falls Creek, as the days are longer, the sun is shining and the snow is fast and firm in the morning and softens up in the afternoon.

Apres ski starts earlier and google tans abound.

There’s plenty of lovely accommodation available and it tends to be cheaper outside the peak season.

There are great places to eat and drink - from Asian fusion dining at Bob Sugar, fine dining at Astra and great barbecue food at the Frying Pan Inn, a Falls Creek institution.

Take a stroll around the village and enjoy one of the famous brownies and coffee from Milch, or book in for a degustation at Summit Ridge.

hope that the amount of snow on the ground still gives us time to share it with more visitors.

After the succession of lockdowns our focus is now on the remaining weeks of the season.

Our declared snow season concludes on Sunday, October 3.

For families the mountains are definitely calling as the season includes the entire Victorian school holidays and September is the time where we have always felt offered the best value and the better weather.

For those who have grown up with the snow holiday will recall it being one their best holidays.

It is an experience that can be enjoyed by all ages and truly have fun as a family, and it is not just about skiing.

Building a snowman or sliding down on a toboggan are experiences those memories can be built on.

Those with a more adventurous spirit may prefer to ride a snowmobile beyond lifts to see some of the splendid views or join a backcountry tour.

Local guides even take tours by ebike and touring skis for a unique adventure.

The adventures don’t stop there.

Even when the snow melts away, Falls Creek is an all-season resort

- always a cool destination even in the peak of summer.

For those seeking a different pace there are short and easy hikes moments from the village to the iconic Falls Creek Hotham Crossing and many adventures in between.

Taking in some of the high country history of the alpine huts, enjoy a picnic for sunset at Australia’s highest driveable point; or trout fish at altitude.

From long distance running at the Alpine Challenge to the Mile High Dragon Boat Championships, events here have that added element of altitude.

We launch into our cycling season with the Ignition Mountain Bike three day festival in late November.

Our newest cycling event Grinduro (enduro - gravel grinder-style road race) will be held in December and the Peaks Challenge Falls Creek in March is a 235km loop which has become iconic for being one of the world’s toughest and most picturesque road cycling challenges.

NB: Lisa operates Diana Alpine Lodge at Falls Creek.

Falls Creek Medical Centre Winter Consultation Hours Daily 10 am to 12 noon and 2.00 to 5.00pm

Due to Infection Control recommendations, no-one will be allowed entry into the Medical Centre without liaising first with the practice.

Please phone 03 5758 3238 to organise your appointment.

Email enquiries@mbmc.com.au Web www.mbmc.com.au This is a private trauma clinic and general practice. Fee for service will apply.

This practice is fully Accredited by Quality Practice Accreditation Pty Ltd and staffed by fully qualified Rural Medical Practitioners

Falls Medical

Creek Centre

Bogong High Plains Road, Falls Creek 3699 Phone (03) 5758 3238

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021 — PAGE 7

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www.castran.com.au

PAGE 8 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021

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JUST RELEASED. John Castran

|

0411 502 424

|

john@castran.com.au

HOSPITALITY ASSETS + SNOWDRIFT LODGE

FALLS CREEK

There are nine components to the assets that are being offered for sale, these are as follows and can be purchased individually or in one line.

• • • • • • • • •

Bazaar Restaurant Stingray Bar FIXX Cafe & Function Area Slalom Plaza Pop Up Licensed Area The Pass (leased to an operator) Day Spa Facility 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom Managers Apartment Snowdrift Lodge - 15 Falls Creek Road Management Rights over 38 apartments + management rights over day spa, reception area & transit rooms.

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13928 &900)6 Approximately 600sqm of Sensational Footprint That Can Be Converted Into Residential Apartments (STTP) Located in the most sort after location at Mount Buller - Chalet Hotel, this North facing development space also has direct frontage and access to athletes walk/ ski in ski out straight off Bourke street. This site provides a blank canvas to carry out numerous alternatives relating to residential and commercial development.

Includes two car parks.

All services connected to the space.

www.castran.com.au

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021 — PAGE 9

THERE’S NO HOME LIKE A SNOW HOME John Castran

|

0411 502 424

|

john@castran.com.au

Ă 7/=0-2) 8)66%')

ă 7/=0-2) 8)66%')

MOUNT HOTHAM

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www.castran.com.au

PAGE 10 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021

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Our hidden playground

COME EXPLORE: Hotham Backcountry tours is helping people fully appreciate hidden playgrounds beyond the resort’s lifts.

PHOTO: Chris Hocking

Discovering the magic of Hotham’s backcountry, in expert hands THE allure of a day spent arcing turns through untouched, fresh snow without a lift line in sight, is what draws many people to the Alpine backcountry.

It’s what initially drew Danny Foster, tour manager for Hotham Backcountry tours.

“I love that you get further out into nature and that you’re operating under your own power and earning your turns,” says Danny, “it just brings me a lot of satisfaction”.

In recent years, backcountry touring has increased in popularity.

Guided tours, like Hotham Backcountry tours, have sprung up across the Australian Alps making this seemingly impossible terrain more accessible than ever.

With 24 winters of backcountry experience, Danny has been leading the charge to establish a range of tours operating from Hotham’s Snowsports School to guide visitors into its renowned backcountry terrain.

“It’s such an amazing experience that people are often completely unaware of,” Danny says.

“Running these courses is a way to help people get out and explore Hotham’s backcountry in a way that is safe for them, and also the environment”.

Danny began his backcountry journey in Canada where he spent 10 winters exploring the Canadian terrain, experiencing many unforgettable moments most of us can only dream about.

“I still remember the first time I bagged a proper, impressive peak,” he said.

“I was in Canada touring to reach the peak of Ymir”.

Ymir mountain stands at 2398 metres and the hike through deep powder took Danny and his friend four hours to get to the top.

Once there, and after an internal pep talk, Danny skied down the steep and exposed slope in four huge turns.

“It was mind-blowing!” he exclaims.

The experience was so good, Danny and his friend made the four hour hike back to the top for a second lap.

“It was well worth the climb!” he says.

Leaving Canada, Danny toured in Austria and Japan before settling back at Mt Hotham and pursuing aims to share his passion with others by launching Hotham Backcountry tours.

After a difficult season last year where COVID-19 drove the closure of the resorts, the crew are back for their third season.

Expanding courses into a sixth zone, they’re looking forward to guiding visitors into Hotham’s backcountry, and to also teach them how to explore untouched terrain safely.

“There’s really two parts of our tours,” Danny explains.

“We want you to enjoy the terrain and the physical experience of being in the backcountry, but we also want you to learn about the environment around you and ensure you’re able to operate safely in the backcountry”.

For this reason, Danny worked with an experienced team from Hotham’s Snowsport School to create the Intro to Backcountry tour.

The tour invites snow goers who have limited experience in the backcountry to join a group and learn vital information while enjoying the unique terrain.

“You don’t need to be an advanced skier or boarder to get out and explore the backcountry,” Danny says.

“A strong intermediate rider will have enough skills to have a great time on our tours.

“Our guides are all qualified instructors at Hotham and all of them have professional level avalanche certifications, and loads of experience.

“They want to share their knowledge, so before heading out they will sit down with the group and go over maps and terrain that they’ll be exploring for the day”.

From here, the group are guided to one of the six entry zones into the backcountry where they’ll be taught essential skills.

“We’ll go over how to use touring equipment and what to do in emergency situations,” says Danny.

“We can also delve into snowpack analysis and how to make decisions

based on the terrain available and the group we are riding with”.

For people with more backcountry experience, or private groups, Hotham Backcountry tours offer private tours where you can work with your guide to customise your experience.

“Whether you want to get nerdy and learn about the snow science or explore different areas with the safety of a guide, we can craft your day, so you get the most out of it,” says Danny.

With COVID-19 impacts making this another challenging season for the region, Danny and his team are looking forward to introducing more guests to Hotham’s backcountry again.

“There’s such amazing untapped terrain all around you if you get off the beaten track, particularly around Hotham,” he says “and because they’re hidden away, they’re like you’re own little playground - it’s a lot of fun”.

Head to mthotham.com.au/backcountry-tours to find out more.

We ski for Steve Lee Backcountry Tours

By TOM COSTA AS many readers of this publication would be aware, one of Falls Creeks favourite son’s, skiing royalty, Steve Lee suffered a major stroke last September.

Safe to say, this was a massive shock to everyone and a massive blow to Steve, his family and indeed the whole Falls Creek and skiing community.

In one way or another since childhood, Steve’s life has revolved around skiing.

Growing up in Falls Creek, skiing came naturally to Steve, but he was certainly not content with it being a recreational pursuit.

Instead Steve took his sport to the very highest level achievable as a representative of Australia in the dangerous and demanding discipline of Downhill racing.

After arguably the most successful

alpine skiing career of any Australian male to date, Steve went on to work in various fields but his love for skiing never faded (and probably never will).

He then set himself up to keep the skiing dream alive.

His first venture was here in Falls Creek, where he came up with the genius idea of creating a lightweight passenger trailer to ferry skiers into the backcountry.

This is where I came into the picture.

Steve needed a second guide/sled rider who knew their way around the area, so my hand went up like a shot.

Fast forward more years than I care to count and here we are.. Steve’s daughter Layla has decided to take over the reigns of the family business.

It was a no brainer to put my hand back up and offer my help.

After a couple of early hiccups and a hand full of COVID setbacks, we are happy to announce that we are back

in business for the remainder of the 2021 winter season.

Suffice to say that Steve Lee’s ski boots are metaphorically too big to fill, but we will be doing our best to keep the dream alive and continue offering an amazing and unique backcountry skiing experience.

The team consists of Steve’s nephew Paddy Dodd, long time friend and co-conspirator Bruce Johnston, and yours truly out in the field and Layla Lee taking care of the business and booking side of things.

The resort is open for business and has a great cover of natural snow and the backcountry is looking primed for the rest of winter and the spring season.

So, do yourself a favour, grab a couple of your best buddies and book yourself a backcountry tour.

For details/bookings, go to backcountrytours.checkfront.com/reserve or checkout @weskiforstevelee.

FOUNDER: The backcountry tours Steve Lee (pictured) started are now being run by his daughter Layla. PHOTO: Danii Forde

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021 — PAGE 11

PAGE 12 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021

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When are you going to have a Hotham snow picnic?

By CHRIS EPSKAMP

THE art of the picnic in the snow is elusive for many.

A muesli bar, piece of chocolate and a splash of water tend to be the standard inside and on the fringes of the ski resort.

But with a little effort the mountain snow picnic can be one of the more memorable aspects of a ski holiday at Mt Hotham.

Inside the resort boundary (technically just outside it but who is counting!), the best spot by a country mile is a small little-known pinnacle historically called McCutcheon’s Shoulder on pre-1980s ski trail maps.

Identified by various other names (my circle of ski friends call it ‘Picnic’!), it is situated on the opposite side of Mary’s Slide, skier’s right of the entrance to the fabulous Spargos run.

Up on top, a lovely view of all the best Hotham terrain is laid out before you.

Awash with sun all day (assuming there is no cloud - big assumption), it is close enough, yet far enough away to make a super comfortable and quiet picnic location.

THE SPOT: The location of McCutcheons Shoulder as viewed from the top of Orchard. PHOTOS: Chris Epskamp OUTDOOR FEAST: Michael Higginson and Brett Godden enjoy a picnic at McCutcheon’s Shoulder in mid-August.

Getting off the Shoulder is either a traverse through the trees to Spargos, or a drop down open off-piste slopes or glades down to near the Mary’s Slide Bridge and return trail.

A skin or snowshoe back

up to the Orchard is an option for those not up to riding the reasonably difficult descent options.

Provisions for a snow ski picnic are only limited by your imagination and capacity to carry items in a back-

pack to your preferred location.

Last weekend our provisions included two sorts or crackers (a crusty loaf of bread would have been nice!), prosciutto, sardines in lemon and thyme, boiled eggs, to-

mato, blue cheese, double brie, kalamata olives and a thermos of coffee.

For a table, put the spread on the base of a snowboard or a couple of fat skis.

Finished off with a sweet treat, it is a perfect way to

FREIGHT

spend a lunchtime in the resort.

Other great winter picnic locations at Mt Hotham include several that come complete with their own picnic table.

The Village Lookout on the Christmas Hills cross country trails is a beauty (the table comes with its own set of snowboards!), as is the top of Mt Higginbotham, accessed either via the Big D lift or a short walk up from the Corral car park.

Alternatives a little further afield include the summit of Mt Loch which is easily reachable from the top of Orchard, or for the more adventurous, the gorgeous Spargos Hut via Golden Point.

Local Hotham snowboarder Brett Godden says, “The snow picnic is always a highlight, particularly on a busy Saturday in the resort.

McCutcheon’s Shoulder is a spanking location and the combination of fine food, good friends plus a cracking ride down through the glades is a real treat”.

Pick your weather, purchase supplies from local providores and enjoy the outdoors with a snow picnic at Mt Hotham alpine resort.

MELBOURNE BRIGHT FALLS CREEK HOTHAM

www.hothamfreight.com | info@hothamfreight.com | Ph (03) 5750 1085

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021 — PAGE 13

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PAGE 14 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021

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Accidental career for mountain’s chief ski patroller

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER

FOR a kid from the south coast of New South Wales, what was to be a mere week’s holiday at Mt Hotham in 1987 changed Bill Barker’s life.

Offered work at the Mt Hotham General Store, Bill stayed for the winter, came back the next year, and next, and is now into his 34th season.

The first day I skied Hotham was the official opening of the Heavenly Valley Chair,” Bill recalled.

“The offer of work, while also getting to ski every day was too good to pass up.

“I worked at the general store for several more seasons, then picked up other work after that, including a lot of ski modelling with mountain photographers such as Andrew Barnes.”

Fast forward to today and Bill is one of the most recognisable faces on the mountain, in one of the most challenging roles working for Mt Hotham Alpine Resort Management as director of Mt Hotham Ski Patrol.

He has been doing it for around a decade, having first joined the patrol part-time back in 1992, and then fulltime in 2000 while recovering from a ski accident suffered in Austria.

“I didn’t plan to be here this long, but it’s hard to leave,” Bill said.

“I just work with such good people and have met most of my best friends up here on the mountain.”

Bill has around 30 paid ski patrollers and mountain safety members, as well as another 35 volunteer ski patrollers from across the country and all walks of life.

ON THE JOB: Bill Barker and a fellow ski patroller attended to a paient on the slopes.

“On any given day, when the whole mountain is opened, we’ll have approximately 15 to 20 patrollers on deck,” he explained.

“We work nine to 10 hour shifts, starting well before the lifts begin rolling.

“After every significant snowfall we have to go out at first light to assess how much snow we’ve had and do any avalanche control work.

“Members will ski and assess runs, mark any hazards, set up netting and any signage needed around lifts and runs before the lifts open each morning.

“They will patrol in their designated areas and respond to any emergencies.”

And emergencies sometimes happen in difficult to access locations within the resort and nearby backcountry, so the patrollers also need to be highly skilled in roped evacuation techniques and search and rescue procedures.

Along with rigorous onmountain training, all ski patrollers need to successfully complete an intensive training course held by the Australian

Ski Patrol Association, which largely focuses on medical skills.

“A lot of it parallels some of the skills of paramedics,” Bill said.

“In fact, a lot of paramedics work as ski patrollers during the season, and we also have other medical professionals such as doctors, nurses and surgeons in our volunteer ranks.

“Ski patrollers need to be solid expert skiers or snowboarders...they need to be able to confidently get around all terrain in any snow conditions and be able to ski down with a rescue toboggan.

“They don’t need to be as technically pretty as instructors though.”

Bill said this season, like all others, has ebbed and flowed, be it from snow cover to COVID restrictions.

“During the early part of the season when the snow cover wasn’t as substantial as now, there was still significant visitation and we were a lot busier than normal,” he said.

“Per capita though, we were still seeing a similar

September is a great time to enjoy the resort but people should know their limitations, ski/ snowboard to the conditions, stay hydrated and have a break if you feel tired.

- BILL BARKER SAFETY FIRST: Mt Hotham ski patrol director Bill Barker is into his 34th season at the mountain.

number of incidents.

“For skiers, knee injuries, particularly to ligaments, were common, while for beginner snowboarders wrist injuries were most common.

“You also see dislocated shoulders, fractured clavicles and concussion fairly regularly.

“We tend to see a majority of accidents in the beginner areas, but accidents in advanced areas are generally more serious because of the speed and steepness of terrain.”

As we head into spring, Bill said everyone out on the slopes should pay particular attention to the snow conditions.

“The runs can start off really hard but the snow will usually soften for great turns mid-morning but may become too heavy later in the day,” he said.

“South facing slopes can stay rock hard all day, while north facing aspects can lose its snow cover.

“And beware of the snow refreezing once a slope goes into the shade.”

“September is a great time to enjoy the resort but people should know their limitations, ski/snowboard to the conditions, stay hydrated and have a break if you feel tired.”

Spring is also a particularly popular time for backcountry adventures - something particularly close to Bill’s heart, as he usually spends our warmer months guiding backcountry tours in the Himalayas and Antarctica.

“It’s important you understand the snow conditions if you’re going out backcountry, and know where to go,” Bill said.

“A majority of accidents occur because people have misread the surface conditions.

“The risk of sliding on icy slopes increases in spring....so be careful out there.”

Looking at the possibilities of an overseas snow holiday

By CHRIS EPSKAMP FOR many, the COVID pandemic has necessarily interrupted their snow holidays to Mt Hotham and Falls Creek this season, so what are the chances of getting your snow fix overseas in the 2021/22 northern hemisphere winter?

Australians traditionally travel overseas in huge numbers chasing powder and other snow adventures in Canada, Europe (particularly Austria, France, Italy, Switzerland), Japan and the USA. Whilst exiting Australia for travel overseas (and then returning) is still banned or incredibly limited, we asked Mt Hotham locals and co-founders of global ski travel website Powderhounds.com, Greg Doyle and Lyndell Keating, for their views on what was happening around the world.

“Unfortunately things aren’t look-

ing too good for international travel to Japan this coming season,” Greg said.

“In recent meetings we held with many of Hokkaido’s major resorts, we were told that they are all planning for the 2022/23 ski season as being the next time when it is likely for international guests to be able to access Japan.

“As of August 9, 2021, fullyvaccinated US citizens are eligible to travel to Canada and from September 7, 2021, provided that Canada’s COVID-19 remains under control, the government of Canada intends to allow non-essential travel by people from any country who have been fully vaccinated with government of Canada-accepted vaccines at least 14 days prior to entering Canada and who meet specific entry requirements.

“So this is great news for most of the world if they are planning to ski in Canada.

“The USA still has travel bans in place for international visitors however there are discussions underway to assess whether fully vaccinated travellers may be allowed into the country later in the year.”

Lyndell adds, “Europe presents other options and challenges.

“As of mid-August, travellers from Australia can enter Austria without the need for quarantine, however, need to show either a negative COVID test or proof of vaccination/past infection upon entry. “For France, Australia is classified as a ‘green’ country, and citizens can enter with just a negative PCR test within the last 72 hour or if fully vaccinated.

“In Italy, tourists from Australia can enter with a negative PCR test, a selfquarantine period of five days and a follow-up PCR test.

“Unfortunately, no tourists can currently enter Switzerland.

“So at this stage the best options

for quarantine free ski travel is to head to one of the many great ski resorts in Austria, France and the amazing resorts, snow cat operations or heli ski companies in Canada ... but be quick because most or the cat and heli skiing in Canada is already booked out for next season.”

For Australian citizens, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) ‘Smartraveller’ website outlines the current circumstances for travelling overseas.

“There’s a ban on overseas travel from Australia,” it states.

“You can’t leave Australia unless you have an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs, or are travelling to a destination that is exempt from the ban...”.

Whilst there have been some indications of an easing of the travel ban in 2022, a specific timeframe has not been announced at this stage.

To sum up, Lyndell says, “The

advice and restrictions for travel to and from every country is constantly changing.

“Our advice for Australians is to keep an ear and eye out for any changes the government may make later this year once vaccination rates increase, but in reality, there are too many ifs, buts and maybes, so wax the surfboard, rig the windsurfer and get ready for another summer at home!”

Of course, there are also our alpine resorts to consider, as they make a perfect destinations to visit and holiday during spring, summer and autumn, to beat the extreme heat and enjoy high country hospitality, with magical walks, mountain biking and sheer relaxation.

And then there is always next season at Hotham and Falls Creek.

For firsthand information on the world’s best ski resorts, cat skiing and heliskiing, check out www.powderhounds.com

www.nemedia.com.au

MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021 — PAGE 15

Do I need a lesson?

DO I need a ski or board lesson?

It’s a common question we all ask ourselves when we start planning a snow trip.

For some, the obvious answer is yes.

Whether you’re a beginner or just new to the mountain, a lesson is a great place to start.

For others, even the seasoned professionals amongst us, it’s a question worthy of consideration.

“As an instructor we are continually training and learning,” says Falls Creek senior ski instructor Charlie Evans.

“Whether I’m doing professional development courses or skiing in a new area, or with new people, I always find myself learning something new about the terrain or my technique.”

Growing up in the ski resorts around Scotland, Charlie began instructing when he was 17 years old.

“I was in and around the snow and snow sports industry my whole childhood,” he said.

“I’ve skied all my life and I love it!

“Sharing my passion is one of the reasons that drove me to start instructing.”

If learning from someone like Charlie, who has over 17 years of experience, has encouraged you to consider a lesson, the next question we usually find ourselves asking is what type of lesson do I need?

When weighing the pros and cons of group vs private lessons, Charlie advises you consider what you’d like most out of your lesson.

“If you’re happy to learn in a group environment and from your peers, group lessons are great,” he said.

“If you’d prefer one-on-one tuition, then a private lesson might be better for you.

“A private lesson is tailored toward whatever aspect of snow sports you would like to achieve.

“Most of the explaining is done on chairlifts, which means when you’re on the slopes it’s focused on the practical”.

Finally, the third question we’re all asking ourselves is what exactly happens on a private lesson?

“Firstly, your instructor will greet you and find out exactly what you want out of your lesson,” Charlie explained.

“They’ll quickly be able to see where they can help you, and where you don’t need instruction.

“Once they see your abilities then let the coaching begin.”

Private lessons at Falls Creek kick off at the top of the mountain.

Once you move away from the top you’ll find the one-onone tuition become even more valuable.

“When I’m instructing a private lesson, the student has 100 per cent of my focus,” Charlie said.

“The progression you can get from a private lesson is amazing because of the more personalised time you get with an instructor who really knows skiing, and the area well.”

This personalisation and ability to tailor a private lesson is what Charlie enjoys best.

“When I go on private lessons I make sure my guests really

get a feel for the resort and the mountain,” he explained.

“I want to help make the whole mountain more accessible for them by showing them terrain appropriate for their ability that they didn’t know existed”.

By the end of your lesson you’ll find conversation naturally drifts to where to get the best lunch or hot chocolate.

With instructors usually being experts in the local area, as well as their snow sport, they’re the right people to ask.

“One of the main reasons I love private lessons is because you can really interact with your guests,” exclaimed Charlie.

“You’re able to talk about things outside of skiing.

“The person can get to know me, and I can get to know them and recommend different things for them to try in the area”.

At the end of the lesson your instructor will take you back to where your lesson began and will leave you to enjoy the rest of your day on the slopes.

Some may like to rebook a

z Charlie Evans

lesson with the same instructor to build on their abilities with someone familiar.

Others will enjoy the new areas of the mountain they’ve been introduced to.

“I’ve had guests that I’ve skied with year-on-year for nearly nine years,” said Charlie.

“It becomes a really nice experience for the guest to catch up on what’s been going on in Falls Creek and to progress their abilities”.

For more information on Snowsport School at Fall Creek head to https://www.skifalls.com. au/lessons-rentals

LEARNING FROM AN EXPERT: Ski lessons with a trained instructor can not only improve your abilities, it can also help better inform you of how to make the most our your terrain.your

Volunteer Ski Patrol fundraiser MOUNT Hotham Volunteer Ski Patrol is an incorporated organisation that works with the Mt Hotham Ski Patrol to keep guests safe and assist them if they are injured on the snowfield.

The volunteers go through a rigorous training period so they’re equipped to work alongside the paid patrol, and in fact a number of the paid ski patrollers have come through the voluntary ranks.

But that’s not all they do for Hotham.

Each year, the Mount Hotham Volunteer Ski Patrol (MHSP) holds its Big Gig fundraiser, an event that is

legendary in Hotham’s winter calendar and which raises funds for essential equipment.

In recent times the Mt Hotham Volunteer Ski Patrol has been able to purchase the Mt Hotham Ski Patrol 4x4 ambulance, and a powered ambulance stretcher for the ambulance.

Unfortunately, due to COVID the Big Gig can’t be held this season (and couldn’t be held in 2020 for the same reason), but the MHSP would like to invite people to donate to its current drive to purchase a ‘Can-Am Patient Transport’, an all terrain, over-snow casualty extraction

vehicle for taking critically ill casualties off the snowfields.

These patients are currently transported via skidoo and trailer and sometimes, Kassbohrer, however, this method is not ideal.

The Can Am retails at about $57,000 so all contributions are appreciated.

If you’d like to support this fundraiser you can donate directly by using the ‘Donate’ button on this page: https:// mhsp.org.au/fundraising/ For more information about the Mount Hotham Volunteer Ski Patrol visit their website at http://mhsp.org.au/.

And stay safe out there!

APPEAL TARGET: Mt Hotham Volunteer Ski Patrol is appeal for public support to raise $57,000 to purchase a ‘CanAm Patient Transport’ - an all terrain, over-snow casualty extraction vehicle for taking critically ill casualties off the snowfields.

Where am I? Answer is Mt Blowhard.

PAGE 16 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2021

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Australia’s GREATEST Snowplay Dinner Plain Pure High Country

Dinner Plain is the perfect destination for family snow fun. With an all-ages ski & snowboard poma, dog-friendly village and Australia’s longest dedicated toboggan run, this winter it’s time to experience Australia’s greatest snowplay.

visitdinnerplain.com.au