Mt Buller News

July 2020

Mt Buller & Mt Stirling’s Newspaper PH: (03) 5775 2115

E: sales.mcourier@nemedia.com.au

FREE

INSIDE

HAPPY BLAKE MT Buller mascot Blake the Flake is a happy lift rider - keeping his distance and abiding by the COVID-19 rules.

PAGE 3

Laurie puts off retirement

PAGE 6

Mountain memories

PAGE 13

Aerial girls on Buller

INDEX Skier profile........ p6 Real Estate ....... p14

Buller continues to please snow lovers

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

MT BULLER operators welcomed the State Government announcement giving a green light for alpine resorts to open for skiing and boarding from June 22 in Victoria.

Welcoming the season in is Resort Management Board chief executive ofďŹ cer Mark Bennetts.

Mr Bennetts commented last week that this season will be like no other.

With social distancing, limited numbers entering the resort, and once at the resort, limits on seating in cafes, restaurants and ski outlets will all have an impact. “We have to calculate the numbers we can cater for in the resorts (both Mt Buller and Mt Stirling) on a daily basis and have had to work out a formula for those numbers,� Mr Bennetts said. “In considering how many

visitors we can take in any one day we have to work out how many staff are present, the number of season pass holders likely to be on the mountain, and with pre-paid passes only we should then know how many multi-day pass holders to expect. “After that we then calculate how many day visitor passes we can offer on line and still stay within our restricted overall numbers.

“There are a lot of calculations needed every single day and getting them right is all important.�

With the COVID-19 restrictions the number of day visitors trying to come to the resorts will be very limited - not like the previous few years where an ‘overload’ has been experienced on some weekends and Mirimbah Park has been used for parking.

Ĺś

Continued page 2

LARGEST RANGE OF SKI BOOTS IN AUS U Ă•>Ă€>Â˜ĂŒii` VĂ•ĂƒĂŒÂœÂ“ LÂœÂœĂŒ wĂŒĂŒÂˆÂ˜} LĂž ÂŤĂ€ÂœviĂƒĂƒÂˆÂœÂ˜>Â?Â?Ăž ĂŒĂ€>ˆ˜i` LÂœÂœĂŒ wĂŒĂŒiĂ€Ăƒ U 7ÂœĂ€ÂŽĂƒÂ…ÂœÂŤ ĂœÂˆĂŒÂ… ˜iĂœ 7ÂˆÂ˜ĂŒiĂ€ĂƒĂŒiˆ}iĂ€ iĂ€VÕÀÞ ĂƒiĂ€Ă›ÂˆVˆ˜} U >ĂƒÂ…ÂˆÂœÂ˜] ĂŒiV…˜ˆV>Â? ÂœĂ•ĂŒiĂ€Ăœi>Ă€ E >VViĂƒĂƒÂœĂ€ÂˆiĂƒ U ÂˆĂ€i ĂƒiĂ€Ă›ÂˆVi ˆ˜VÂ? `i“œ E ĂŒÂœĂ•Ă€ÂˆÂ˜} }i>Ă€ U œ˜ˆ} -Â˜ÂœĂœ Â…>ÂˆÂ˜Ăƒ

BUMPS.COM.AU

! 03 9528 2701 !

PAGE 2 — MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020

www.nemedia.com.au

NEWS

Keeping track of visitor numbers

Mt Buller & Mt Stirling’s Newspaper

Est. 1984 Incorporating Mt Buller - Mt Stirling News and Mt Buller Times (Est. 2007)

MARKETING & SALES MANAGER: Leah Scott Phone: (03) 5733 1102 lscott@nemedia.com.au

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

EDITOR: Jarrah Loh JOURNALIST: Pam Zierk- Mahoney PZierk-Mahoney@nemedia.com.au Ph: (03) 5775 2115.

Published by Hartley Higgins for Mansfield Newspapers Pty Ltd at the registered office, 98 High Street, Mansfield 3722.

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

YOUR NEWS:

Contributed articles, news, artwork and color photographs from readers are most welcome.

Please mail to: Mansfield Newspapers 98 High Street, Mansfield 3722 P.O. Box 290, Mansfield 3724.

Ph: (03) 5775 2115 Fax: (03) 5775 1580

OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER. OVER 100 SEATS AVAILABLE. BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL TAKEAWAY MEALS AVAILABLE THROUGH OUR BOTTLESHOP.

EACH winter the Alpine Resorts Coordination Council (ARCC) compiles weekly statistics on visitor numbers for each of the Victorian alpine resorts.

The visitation statistics are based on weekly gate entry data as well as seasonal pass holder data.

The weekly visitor numbers collected throughout the winter season include an estimate of season pass visitation.

Call us to order meals ahead

thedelatitehotel.com.au

PH: 5775 2004

This estimate is adjusted at the end of the winter season using the returns of seasonal pass holder survey forms to create a final ‘end of season visitor result’.

The end of season visitor results as well as a separate annual report of visitation are prepared each year and can be found on council’s website by clicking on the Research and Statistics Reports page within the Publications & Research Section.

Historical winter season visitation statistics, dating

back to the 1980s, is also available on council’s website by clicking on the Historic Statistics page within the Publications & Research Section.

And it has been the practice in the past for Buller News to publish the latest up-to-date figures allowing readers to follow the trends of visits to both Buller and Mt Stirling.

So far this year no figures have been recorded, however, by the next issue of Buller News some four weeks of stats will be available.

We have a great range of fresh butchers cuts plus heat and eat meals

VIRUS FREE: It may be getting colder on Mt Buller but workers preparing for the winter season opening still have a sense of humour.

The Man From Snowy River is being kept ‘virus free’ with a facial mask – all in keeping with COVID-19 advice.

Taking orders Monday to Friday for deliveries on mountain

or drop in to collect supplies on your way.

Y Chris, Kristie, Kate, Audrey, Christian and Jack Y

Mansfield Shopping Village 5775 1163 j/24d08517/28-20

NEWS NEXT ISSUE OF MT BULLER NEWS

AUGUST 6TH Editorial contributions & Advertising Booking deadline Monday 20th July lscott@nedmedia.com.au 03 5733 1102 v/24D07813-v8/2820

Buller continues to please snow lovers Ŷ

From page 1

Mr Bennetts explained that guest services may have numbers increased as well so visitors can still be guided around the resort and ‘monitors’ around the village who will keep track of where visitors are congregating, guide them to areas less crowded and monitor behaviour so that all COVID-19 rules can be kept.

“But it is also important that people have a great time on both Buller and Stirling,” Mr Bennetts said.

Buller Ski Lift’s managing director Laurie Blampied said “for those eager to hit the slopes we’re

urging Victorians in all your activities, be considered; be cautious; use your common sense”.

“The ski season opening gives renewed optimism and certainty for the local community and the 10,000 Victorian jobs that rely on alpine tourism,” Mr Blampied said.

Mr Blampied said Victorians are now familiar with social distancing, cashless/tap-and-go payments, reduced capacity in venues and hygiene measures, and the snow season will be an extension of that.

“Skiers and boarders will need to pre-plan like never

before, booking in their resort entry and lift access so that we can manage guest numbers, particularly on the lifts on a daily basis,” Mr Blampied said.

“A coordinated plan for the resorts will include capacity management measures at key points such as transport, day shelters, public spaces, food and beverage outlets and, of course, ski lifting.”

New safety measures such as traceability of guests, physical distancing requirements and increased hygiene and cleaning, has been adapted to the unique challenges of the alpine setting.

MT BULLER APARTMENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES IS A LOCAL FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED BUSINESS We provide full management service to properties on Mt Buller Call for a quote to have us maintain or manage all aspects of your property

We do the hard work so you can enjoy your time on the mountain

P.O. Box 66, Mt Buller Vic 3723 | 1300 787 270 | info@amsmtbuller.com.au |

www.amsmtbuller.com.au

k/51d03801/2718

Property Management Specialists

We specialise in: t Summer & Winter Rental management t Summer Property checks t Full linen service t Offering a midweek cleaning and maintenance service

www.nemedia.com.au

MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020 — PAGE 3

Retirement on hold for now ‘The changes in technology really has changed the face of Mt Buller’ – Laurie Blampied

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

MARKING his 24th year on Mt Buller, general manager of Buller Ski Lifts (BSL) Laurie Blampied was looking forward to retiring at the end of this winter season but has put those plans on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Talking to the Buller News, Mr Blampied said the plan was for him to retire at the end of the 2020 season but with the COVID pandemic that has all changed.

He explained the succession plan was to appoint a new general manager in March or April and for him to work in parallel with the new appointee through this winter while gradually handing over the reins towards the end of the year.

Now that transition is most likely to happen at the end of the 2021 season.

When March came along so did the world wide pandemic COVID-19, with not only travel put on hold but a total lockdown across Australia and the winter ski season put in doubt.

Ski resort openings were only announced in May with significant restrictions in place including social distancing and reduced numbers allowed at each resort.

Mr Blampied has been at the helm of BSL (owned by the Grollo group) since 1996 when he joined the company moving over from Falls Creek.

He recalls the mountain had around 24 lifts when he arrived and a program commenced to consolidate some of the older lifts, replacing them with more efficient ones.

“We replaced the old Shakey Knees t-bar with a new quad, removed Burnt Hut, the Helicopter Flat Chair and the Blue Bullet chair - adding some detachable six-seaters which have significantly improved the flow around the resort,” Mr Blampied said.

But the major advancements and investment in snow making is where he has seen the biggest improvements for the mountain and its skiers and boarders.

“The changes we’ve seen in technology really has changed the face of Mt Buller,” Mr Blampied said.

“The key limiting factor we have faced is the available water for snowmaking.

“The snowmaking system has quadrupled and brought an astronomical change to the ski area from the very basic system we had when I arrived.

“Automation, improved technology and now two SnowFactories that are able to

STILL SKIING: General manager of Buller Ski Lifts (BSL), Laurie Blampied, has put retirement on hold until the COVID-19 crisis ends and life can get back to normal.

operate 24/7 and make snow in any temperature have transformed our ability to promise snow for our guests,” he said.

“We can promise many more days of snow making operation in 2020 from when I started in the industry in 1994 and as we adapt to changing climate this is increasingly important for the resort’s future.

“We have been ‘starved’ for water at Mt Buller and it has been most satisfying seeing the construction of the new 100 megalitre water reservoir this year.

“It will secure the future snow making for many years to come.

“Climate change is real and will affect the ski industry so having state-of-the art snow making facilities that work efficiently, paired with

ROAD SAFETY BEGINS WITH YOUR TYRES No matter how many safety features your vehicle has, it’s the tyres that determine how it drives and handles on snow and ice.

a larger water supply will give our snowsports community greater peace of mind into the future.”

It is not only the mountain that has changed over the 24 years but the faces at the top.

“I have worked with some four resort managers in my time,” Mr Blampied said.

“When I first came here Sandy Jeffcoat was resort manager and there was no Resort Management Board (RMB) or CEO - that came in 1997.

“I worked well with Sandy.

“I got on very well with him - he was well liked and respected and he had a very strong affinity and passion for Mt Buller and the people who live and work here - he was delightful to work with.

“I have since worked with three CEOs at the Resort Management - Phil Nunn replaced Sandy, John Huber followed Phil and now Mark Bennetts is in the chair - all very different characters who have brought different approaches to the role.”

Challenges over the past 24 years - the increase in numbers?

“I would say the demographics of our visitors over my time have changed,” Mr Blampied said.

“Back in 1996 it was a

strong culture of lodge members - very much ‘dyed in the wool’ Buller skiers.

“Times have changed and now we have a shift in the demographics we see coming to the resort, new groups of people coming to experience snow and coming for a different length of stay.

“Lodge members would settle in for a week, two weeks or three each year back then.

“Life is different now, faster paced perhaps, and we see shorter visitation patterns.

“We also see a much more diverse cultural demographic so that’s been a big shift.

“It’s interesting that Mt Buller has a long history of welcoming migrant communities, who bring their passion for the mountains with them.

“Sixty years ago it was Europeans leading the way and now we see all the diversity that makes up Australia - and Melbourne in particular - reflected in our visitors who claim heritage from across Asia, the Middle East and even Africa.”

Mr Blampied said he can see Mt Buller will continue to grow -- Melbourne now has five million people - and with no more ski resorts being built in Australia - he expects the demand for product snow experience will only increase.

“The mountain does not look the same as it did 20 to 30 years ago, and as snow becomes rarer (with climate change) it will be even more sought after,” Mr Blampied said.

“I have no doubt climate change is real.

“The ski industry is far from being in denial- it has been at the forefront embracing adaptation to climate change since the early 1990s.

“We need to adapt to survive, which is why we first got into snow making - some 30 years ago now.”

And although Mr Blampied’s plans for retirement are definitely on hold he said he has no ‘bucket list’ of things to do.

“I have been very fortunate in my working life to have travelled extensively around the world being involved in the ski industry, so I’m looking forward to living in Mansfield, playing golf, doing some more fishing and spending time with my grandchildren.,” he said.

Until that retirement date comes around Mr Blampied will continue to enjoy Mt Buller, facing the challenges thrown his way, the people including his highly praised team of staff that he works with.

BE ROAD-TRIP READY THIS WINTER With driving holidays the new norm this year, we’ll help you carry everything you need with comfort and safety.

At Snow Tyres, we’re not only committed to finding the right tyre for your vehicle, but also to helping you understand why and how you can travel safely on our winter roads.

Roof Racks Boxes & Trays Water Sport Accessories Bike & Ski Carriers Snow Chains

(03) 9822 9539 snowtyres.com.au

ROOF CARRIER SYSTEMS – 469 Burke Rd (corner Toorak Rd) Camberwell 3124 SNOW TYRES – contact us today to find your local installation location

ROOF CARRIER SYSTEMS roofcarriersystems.com.au

PAGE 4 — MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020

www.nemedia.com.au

Coping with COVID-19 restrictions

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

DUE to travel restrictions and reduced staffing this snow season sadly many of Buller Ski Lifts’ (BSL) international staff will not be in the resort this winter.

The Ski and Snowboard School will be commencing the season with a private lesson offering, and Snow Squad and seasonal programs.

However, many other products offered by BSL and lesson offerings will need to be reduced and changed this year to adapt to the changed conditions with less staff and less guests in the resort.

BSL have also had to modify their lift numbers.

There will be modified use of the lifts to maintain physical distancing; for a six-seater only three will be allowed, a four-seater will allow two per seat and a three-seater only one at a time.

Taxis are now to be known as Ride Share and will operate from a central phone number.

Gate entry is to be strictly pre-paid - this way resort management can monitor the numbers on the mountain and provide the services accordingly.

Visitors are encouraged to monitor the website for the number of tickets to be sold each day and to plan well ahead.

All resort entry must be pre-booked (except for season parking permit holders) and all cars (including permit holders) must stop at the gate for passenger information to be collected in line with the COVID-19 guidelines.

Guest services personnel will be roaming the resort as usual and giving advice on where people can go to eat, rest, shelter from storms and take part in activities while still maintaining the social distancing rules.

The resort is committed to managing the limits on visitors in resort and collecting contact tracing information.

Stirling 34 year-legend continues

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

HAPPY CHAPPY: Craig Jones has been instructing skiers and helping snow enthusiasts of Mt Stirling for the past 34 years and continues with his love of the alpine country this season.

AS the season commences for Mt Stirling it seemed only right that Buller News includes a question and answer session that was put to long-time owner and operator of Stirling Experience - Craig Jones.

Q. When did you first come to the area and what was it about it that made you decide to make it home and start a business?

A. I fell in love with the area when I first skied Mt Buller in 1957. My parents were members of SCV. My wife and I purchased a farming property in Booroolite in 1984 and took over the business permit to operate the ski hire at Telephone Box Junction (TBJ) in 1986. We loved the rural life and the mountains and there is nothing better than working and living in an environment that you love.

Q. What is Stirling Experience and how many staff work for you in winter?

A. We own and operate ski hire, ski school, alpine camp, manage school groups and provide 4WD bus transport for schools and resort guests. We normally sponsor and hire six Estonian ski instructors, however, due to travel restrictions this season, we are on the hunt for local qualified Nordic ski instructors.

Q. What would be your idea of the perfect day exploring Mt Stirling?

A. No matter what my mode of transport (snowshoes, XC, telemark or alpine touring skis), or whether I set out for a leisurely cruise on the beginner trails or an exhilarating descent down the mountain, I always enjoy being among the towering Alpine Ash and mystical Snowgum forests. Mt Stirling, with its mantle of winter snow, simply refreshes my soul.

Superb Ros Ritchie Wines for you to enjoy

MIRIMBAH SKI CENTRE TAKE AWAY FOOD ONLY BUS TRANSIT STOP 24/7 FUEL CHAIN HIRE

Cellar Door Open Magnolia House 190 Mt Buller Road 11am-4pm Weekends

OPEN: MON - THURS 8AM - 4PM FRI - 8AM - 5PM SAT-SUN - 7.30AM-5PM

24D07893-V2

Covid 19 Protocols in place

www.nemedia.com.au

MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020 — PAGE 5

Change of name for Uni championships hopeful leading Mt Buller agent MT BULLER is adapting plans for the 2020 snow season in alignment with the advice of the Victorian chief health officer.

Although the Victorian

but family friendly service remains

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

FAMILY operated real estate agency, Mark Adams Real Estate, has re-branded to Adams Estate Agents - just in time for the 2020 season.

A modernisation, more synonymous with the future of the brand for this father and son duo, it is an exciting move for the Adams team as they enter a new decade.

The Adams family has a longstanding association with the mountain, having been the leading agents since 1996. “It is with great pride that the agency launches its new Adams brand,� Mark said. “And while it is an aesthetically modern interpretation of the trusted family name, the same honest, hardworking approach with integrity will always remain at the forefront. “The Adams focus will continue to be on achieving outstanding results for our vendors and happy buyers. “I’m extremely excited to have launched our re-invigorated branding to the marketplace. “The reason for the rebrand is to position us for more success and continue our market leading processes in the Mt Buller region.�

University Championships 2020 events are yet to be confirmed organisers are hopeful of good snow and social distancing restrictions easing by then.

The championships are due to be held from July 23 to July 25.

Mt Buller looks forward to welcoming guests when it is safe to travel and gather again.

EXPERIENCE THE SNOW

Visit Mt. Stirling Alpine Resort for a Fun and Affordable Family Adventure

BRAND NEW: Father and son duo Zac (left) and Mark Adams will continue the family tradition of great service to the Mt Buller and Mansfield district real estate customers under their new branding Adams Estate Agents.

Over the coming weeks visitors to the mountain and MansďŹ eld will see the new Adams branding on all boards and signage, and be sure to keep an eye out for the website re-launch.

Adams Estate Agents’ focus is on lifestyle properties at Mt Buller, as well as base of mountain and surrounding regions.

With an extensive database of clients from Melbourne to Mt Buller, Adams Estate Agents also assist buyers and sellers in Merrijig, Alpine Ridge, Sawmill Settlement and MansďŹ eld districts.

If you are looking for your dream lifestyle property, contact Mark on 0419 858 007 or Zach 0437 199 500 or visit www.adams.com.au.

NEW THIS WINTER. RENTAL & RETAIL Find us in the new Kooroora development in the Village Square.

NEW boot fitting specialists, visit Ortho Ski within the new Altitude Kooroora store. altitude.com.au 24D08515/2820

8/ 8 0 "/) , / O , 8

&O &. 8 +. Î +" " /& 9 TRANSPORT SERVICE P 7 Ĕ3O ê Ĕ3O 2 Ĕ " 7 Ĕ3 Î " 2 ê7 Equipment Hire P Ĕ J O "

33ĂŞÄ” 2 Ä” 'ĂŞ ĂŽ .ĂŞÄ” 7 7 P 87 8 Ä” 7 & Ä” RSO RĂ” ĂŽ Ă” ĂŞ 2 P 97 ĂŞ .ĂŞ ĂŞ3 K -ĂŞ 2 O 8 2 7 ĂŽ Lesson P ( J Ä” 2 Ä” Ä” 8ĂŞ

FAMILY DISCOUNT PACKAGES BOOKINGS AND INFO 0418 773 541

WWW.STIRLINGEXPERIENCE.COM.AU

PAGE 6 — MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020

www.nemedia.com.au

Almost 30 years of ski instructing MANSFIELD

SKIER PROFILE DELIVERING TO BULLER

k/51d03529/2217

Phone (03) 5775 2028

NAME: Ross Taylor Position on Mountain: Manager Ski & Snowboard School Mt Buller How many years on Buller?: I have been skiing for 44 years on Buller and 29 of those have been instructing. I started out at the start of the 90s teaching people to ski and I love that I still get to do that today, as the manager of the Ski & Snowboard School with a fantastic team of ‘blue jackets’ making learning fun each winter.

When did you first learn to ski/ board?: I was just 3 years old and started out with the French Ski School here at Mt Buller. I loved it and worked my way through the Ski & Snowboard School programs and the Mt Buller Race Club. I have

vivid memories of the old Bourke St double chair from those days. It’s been fun to revisit my early days on skis as I’ve shared the journey with my own daughter who is already a ripping skier.

Favourite Run?: When the conditions are on there are just so many great spots on Buller it’s hard to choose just one.

I’d struggle to pick between Powder Keg, Outer Edge, Summit Ridge, Dam Run and Sun Valley. We really are spoiled for variety and terrain here.

Favourite place for Apres?: I like to unwind up in the Loft Bar in the top of Breathtaker. It’s nice and quiet and good for connecting with friends in a cosy corner. I’ve heard they might only be able to

host in-house guests this year, so perhaps my après spot for 2020 might be the couch at home.

Tip for Visitors?: The tip for 2020 is like the scouts ‘be prepared’. It’s all about preplanning, booking ahead and being ready to adapt. I’m impressed by the work the community, and my superb team, has done already to adapt to this incredible challenge of COVID-19. We will start with a limited offering and reduced staff.

Beginners I’d suggest definitely book a private lesson and make the most of that personalised instruction to get started safely. Get online, do your research and even though it will be a smaller team than usual, we’ll be doing all we can to help our guests have fun on the slopes.

ILE ROF P ER SKI

LOVING IT: Ross Taylor has grown up skiing on Mt Buller and loves it.

Sundowner Ski Lodge - Ray Lopez celebrates 60 years on Mt Buller

By ROB AIVATOGLOU

IN 1960 Ray Lopez and his then wife decided to go away for the weekend with three other couples.

They were friends that had connected through the Black Rock Spear Fishing Club and selected Mt Buller as their destination, as it was the closest ski resort to Melbourne.

Back in 1960 Mt Buller road was only sealed to the Hunt Club at Merrijig.

From there on it was gravel.

However, the Austin A40 Tourer (soft top) handled it superbly.

There were no beds available on Mt Buller so the group stayed at Sawmill Settlement where there were six weatherboard houses available for rental.

They ended up in the one nearest Mirimbah which was interesting as the back half of the house was missing as many of the weatherboards had been used for firewood.

The group had no ski equipment, it was to be a snow play weekend, but Ray’s wife had made parkas for them all.

From Mirimbah the road was an absolute goat track.

They parked at the Old Chalet site

COWBOY RAY: Ray Lopez with his Stetson hat taken in the days of the Poma on Bourke Street.

GRINNER: Ray with his trophies after winning the Ernst Forras Perpetual Trophy in the early 1990s.

SKIING ON: Ray Lopez with his partner Shirley skiing in Aspen.

and made their way on foot up to the village.

There they met the brothers Ernest and Aurel Forras who had built and operated the Kooroora Hotel.

The snow seed had been planted.

Shortly thereafter a business associate enquired if Ray was interested in becoming a founding member of Sundowner Ski Lodge.

Gerry Gannon was the secretary of the Forests Commission Victoria and in 1960 he granted an occupan-

Equipment for all levels everything you need!

cy licence for site 132 on Stirling Road.

It was valid for one year and needed to be renewed annually.

Sundowner Ski Lodge was the largest commercial site at that time, having even more beds than Kooroora.

In total the village had only 30 lodges.

There were 16 original members and the lodge took two summers to build.

Members would head up to SCV

HARROART Gallery: NEW to the village for 2020

Huge range of 2020/21 demo skis & boards Ski in, ski out!

Mt Buller Village Centre T. 0357 776088 ‘On the mountain since 1962'

for showers while the lodge was still under construction.

Helmet Thory was the inaugural club president.

Up until 1965 Sundowner was powered by generator.

And the sewer was connected around 1966.

One story that Ray shared relates to Hans Grimus and his job as the ‘powder monkey’.

It was 1966 and while doing works he needed to detonate a

charge of diesel fuel, potassium nitrate and half a stick of gelignite.

Well, the explosion set off a rock about a metre in diameter that landed on the Sundowner roof.

Fortunately it didn’t penetrate the galvanised roof.

Ray’s first skis were the much sought after Silvano Cable Bindings skis, purchased at Bruce Bretherton’s for £8.

Bruce had his shop and an indoor ski slope in an old picture theatre in Armadale.

He ran ski lessons from there and had a big block of wax built into the floor to help the skis glide.

Sundowner quickly built a reputation as the party lodge attracting the social set from Melbourne.

Opening weekend parties became infamous and in 1968 it even attracted two reporters from The Truth newspaper in Melbourne, to investigate what all the fuss was about.

I believe their banner headline read, “Mothers - don’t let your daughters go to Mt Buller”.

Besides Sundowner, Ray has been a member of the SCV (Ski Club Victoria) for 57 years and became a life member in 2006.

He was club president 1999-2003 and for 10 years he ran their race program.

In 2020 Ray celebrated his 60th consecutive Queen’s Birthday long weekend on Mt Buller - an amazing achievement.

DISCOVER Tony Harrington’s stunning collection of photographic art and installations with unique local ceramics, paintings and sculpture in an exciting new space.

Appointments recommended for genuine buyers.

0427 427 761 harro@harroart.com Open 11am – 6pm daily. j24d07921-v2/28-20

www.nemedia.com.au

MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020 — PAGE 7

PAGE 8 — MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020

www.nemedia.com.au

Ski boots for comfort and correct fit KOOROORA Building at Mt Buller village welcomes one of its first new and exciting businesses this season - Ortho Ski - customised ski boots and podiatry services.

Ortho Ski is a clinical ski boot fitting podiatry service that focuses on resolving chronic ski boot issues.

Ortho Ski uses biomechanical analysis and 25 years of boot fitting knowledge to fix your chronic ski boot issues.

No other single item has as big an impact on your skiing experience as ski boots do.

This is why Ortho Ski offers a range of boots within

SERVING NOW: General manager of The Black Cockatoo, The Bird Cage and Kooroora Hotel, Rhett Gidman has helped in redesigning this season’s menu at the Bird Cage which now includes pumpkin, fetta and sun dried crockets served with a delightful relish.

their clinics that they can customise to suit your needs.

Custom boots are ideal for people with chronic foot and leg issues as they allow complete customisation of shape and fit to accommodate the foot’s complex needs.

With combined knowledge of how the foot and leg function in a ski boot, Ortho Ski are able to provide you with a solution for your chronic ski boot problems that have previously prevented you from enjoying your skiing experience.

Custom boots are a combination of a ski boot shell modified for your foot shape, and a foam injected liner.

Being on the mountain means two things when you buy ski boots: * You get the benefit of being able to get your boots sorted and comfortable with immediate feedback and modifications. No need to try to remember the issue until you get home and hope your boot fitter ‘gets it’ and can get it right for your next trip. * Staff get to see every boot they sell go from the box to being perfect. Ortho Ski learns from this, and they improve their process daily.

This type of feedback is only possible on-mountain. * The liners are injected with a foam that forms and

sets around your foot’s contours creating a truly bespoke fit.

When done with Ortho Ski’s expertise and knowledge, these custom boots will give you your best ski boot yet, and have you skiing better and enjoying yourself on the snow.

Everyone is seen by a podiatrist at each appointment and can claim relevant items on their private health cover.

A thorough assessment and history is the key to diagnosing and putting you on the path to ski righteousness.

Ortho Ski is in the Kooroora Building, Mt Buller Village - call in today.

FIT RIGHT: Correctly fitted ski boots - made to order for your feet will have you skiing even better down Mt Buller slopes this season.

Eating in and taking away - most are open

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY HOTELS and accommodation lodges on Mt Buller are uncertain as to where the season will go in 2020.

At the Arlberg, Carol McDonald says she is at a loss at to what they will and will not be allowed to offer.

“Accommodation in the apartments will probably be fine as everyone has their own space, but as far as offering meals and drinks it is still unknown completely,” she said.

“We know we can offer food to our accommodation guests but must limit the dining room to 50 and with table service for drinks only.

“And we will be offering takeaways for breakfast and lunches but again people are going to have to order and either wait outside for their food to be ready or queue away from the counters - but then we will probably be restricted to around 20 at a time.

“And we need to keep a register of people coming and going into the building which will require one person standing taking those particulars.

“It is all going to be twice as hard this season.”

But one Arlberg staff member will have no worries about working the hallway.

Digger the Labrador is well

known on the mountain and just loves greeting folk wherever they may be from.

At other restaurants such as the Bird Cage, Black Cockatoo, Kooroora, Cattleman’s, ABOM, Pat’s Italian, Breathtaker Hotel and others, seating will be restricted to 50 per section - but again take-aways will be offered by most.

Resort management has opened up additional recreational areas so if the weather is being unkind outside visitors may take their ‘take-aways’ to one of those areas for consumption, but at the same time limiting the numbers in the area to around 20.

DECADENT BLUEBERRY LIQUEUR

WELCOME: Digger the Labrador is waiting to welcome guests to the Arlberg apartments – always on hand with his constant companion the gnome.

PUR LOCACHASE FoodwLLY at Produc orks, e and IGStore A

Sassy Sister honours the strong talented amazing women in all our lives.

We are open for takeaway wine sales everyday from 11am-4pm.

Cnr Pollards & Stoneys Rd,

www.delatitewinery.com.au

Mansfield, Victoria, 3722 0 3 5 7 7 5 2 9 2 2

info@delatitewinery.com.au

We welcome visitors to our Alpine areas to enjoy your Aprés with our local drop.

Available on the mountain at Buller Grocer.

sassysisterliqueur.com.au le Availabils at ta in Cockgst the Amon s, Bos Stick nd The Taurus aa Bar. Lun

Locally Produced

www.nemedia.com.au

MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020 — PAGE 9

GET FIT: New to this 2020 snow season is Upside Pilates of Mansfield now being offered to skiers and snowboarders for sessions both before and after hitting the slopes.

Introducing Upside Pilates

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

BRINGING first-hand experience of the benefits of Pilates for skiers and snowboarders, Edwina Backwell and Annika Mielnik, introduce Upside Pilates for this 2020 snow season.

As alpine sports enthusiasts, they can attest to the added strength, flexibility and balance that practising pilates provides.

Studio owners and trainers, the girls invite both the Mt Buller community and visitors to the mountain to their new studio in High Street, Mansfield to take classes before, during and after hitting the slopes.

In addition to their love of alpine sports, Edwina and Annika share a background in dance and are qualified instructors in a number of fitness disciplines.

They offer a range of classes including Mat Pilates, Barre, Boxing and HIIT. Private and small group sessions, including reformer, are

available by appointment.

The girls highly recommend their Stretch+Release class to lengthen, stretch and roll out key areas of the body in preparation for and after a day on the mountain.

The Upside studio is following COVID-19 regulations with distancing, sanitising and the use of equipment and can accommodate nine per mat class and five for Barre.

“It is rewarding to be able to work face-to-face with our clients after an extended period of online classes from our lounge rooms,” the girls commented.

“We are extremely grateful to local and city based clients who supported our online sessions during COVID-19 shut downs, but we are happy that they can now enjoy the purpose built studio space with full length mirrors, ballet barre and specialist equipment.”

Edwina and Annika admit that they were required to think outside the square

when unable to open their doors, however, they have experienced unexpected positives.

“I have really enjoyed leading zoom sessions with the Mansfield Eagles netballers,” said Edwina, while Annika confirmed she has launched the Pilates Podcast, a project she has been working on bringing to fruition for some time.

Both girls agree that it was fun to see parents being joined by their children in online classes.

The Upside Pilates website www.upsidepilates.com. au provides comprehensive information on the studio, memberships and class passes in addition to an e-book and sample classes for all fitness levels By following Upside Pilates on Facebook and Instagram you will receive regular updates, glimpses into the studio space and all that happens there, in addition to opportunities to interact and provide feedback.

40B High St, Mansfield

Classes MAT, BARRE, HIIT, BOXING, SMALL GROUP, PRIVATES, MUMS & BUBS

INTRO OFFER

$50 2 weeks unlimited group classes.

Find full timetable and pricing on Mind Body or our website .

U P S I D E P I L AT E S . C O M . A U j/24d08511/28-20

mansfield pizza HANDMADE & WHOLESOME

handmade dough

+ gluten free & vegetarian

feed the whole family

online ordering

ʦʣʴ ʻ˜˚˛ ˆ˧ʟ ˀ˔ˡ˦Ё˘˟˗

Cold nights, tasty delights

˂ˣ˘ˡ ʪ ˗˔ˬ˦ ˙˥ˢˠ ʧˣˠ 5775 3088

˪˪˪ʡˠ˔ˡ˦Ё˘˟˗ˣ˜˭˭˔ʡˡ˘˧ʡ˔˨

PAGE 10 — MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020

www.nemedia.com.au

Located a short distance IURP WKH VQRZ²HOGV We have a wide range of ELNHV DYDLODEOH IRU KLUH WR H[SORUH WKH ORFDO UDLO WUDLOV RU PRXQWDLQ ELNH SDUNV We also offer guided tours and skills clinics for private bookings, schools or corporates.

15D15332-V2/2820

We are here all year, making adventures happen!

For all your

TOWING NEEDS in the snow MT BULLER and surrounding area $FFLGHQW Breakdown 5HFRYHU\

Call us on 0458 077 572 j/24d08519/28-20

30

days

X

COME ON IN: Tony "Harro" Harrington is ready to welcome visitors to his newly opened gallery in the Village Square.

Harro injects fresh new art into The Gallery TONY “Harro” Harrington and his striking photographic art is not new to Mt Buller, but his vibrant new gallery in the village centre is a fresh presence this winter.

“Every challenge creates an opportunity and I think we all need art, nature and beauty perhaps more than ever at the moment,” Harrington said at the ‘soft’ opening on Queen’s Birthday weekend.

“People are going to be feeling so grateful to be alive, to be able to travel again and spend time up on the mountain in this beautiful place.

“I hope I can provide some special artworks that help take a little of that feeling to their home or holiday home.”

Harrington has curated some stunning exhibitions in recent years and the new gallery will enable a season-long display of a revolving collection of his work.

The photographs include a rich collection of Mt Buller landscapes, sweeping panoramas and some birds-eye view shots that ‘stitch’ together dozens of high quality images creating a wide view with impeccable detail and sharpness not usually seen.

“The big panoramas are deceptively complex pieces,” explains Harrington.

“These are not one photo blown up to large scale.

“In order to create images of this quality it takes multiple images precisely combined together to give that realistic view as your eye sees it – pin sharp and detailed.

“I work with one of the best studios in Australia to ensure the work is printed using museum grade papers and technology and it shows, especially in the popular large metallic face mounts.

“They leap off the wall.”

The gallery carves out a creative space for the Mt Buller village and when people are allowed to gather again it is set to be a place for the community to come together for films and talks.

“In Hawaii, where I spend time each year, there is a lovely tradition of ‘talk story’, which is how ideas are shared and community is created through sharing and listening," he said.

“I am excited to foster that tradition here where creativity can flourish, people can get stoked on ideas and art.”

CREATIVE KITCHENS: Tony Harrington has taken his world-wide photographic works to a new level creating picturesque splashbacks for kitchens.

All items are regionally connected and buyers can expect to find one-of-a kind items as well as a collection of gifts and mementos for those wishing to take a piece of Mt Buller with them.

The Gallery is not only packed with inspiring artworks, the fit out of the space itself is an artistic creation.

Reclaimed timbers and old skis are incorporated into the design of the space connecting this fresh new gallery with decades of Buller heritage and its alpine roots.

Harrington is also offering innovative installations of his work with customised splashbacks and pieces integrated into interiors, with a sample in The Gallery kitchenette.

The installation pieces he is creating for people’s homes are stunning.

The Gallery also showcases carefully curated local works from local artisans including fine ceramic art, paintings, jewellery and sculpture.

Included at The Gallery will be some of Wendy Jagger’s work, who is a wellknown and award winning ceramics and alpine landscape artist.

www.nemedia.com.au

From the

Top to the Bottom

MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020 — PAGE 11

Food&DrinkGuide

Marcus makes the move to Mansfield Hotel

By SAM ROUGET BACK in 2015, Marcus van Clute spent his days making paella at local events such as the Day on High festivals and ran Italian eatery, the Mill Inn. Born in Guildford (England), he later moved to Bakewell - a small market town, which is where he discovered his passion for cooking and desire to become a chef.

Since the age of 12, Marcus has been in the hospitality industry - from seasonal work in Monte Carlo to the Intercontinental Mayfair Hotel in London.

He has travelled to many parts of the world, following his love for food and cooking.

In an interview with the Mansfield Courier back in May 2015, he said that he “fell for

the Australian tourist campaigns - come to Oz for the sun, surf and beaches”.

And he did just that - falling in love with food even more along the way.

He spent the better part of the next decade working in Australian restaurants; in Sydney, Byron Bay, the Whitsundays, Port Douglas and then away from the coast on El Questro Station in the Kimberley region of Western Australia.

Eventually, he found his way to the Victorian High Country - and since then, hasn’t looked back.

Today he can be found at the Mansfield Hotel, after making the move some six months ago.

“I owned and ran my own restaurant for four years in Merrijig,” he said.

“I decided that I needed a change.”

Shifting jobs during the current climate may prove difficult for some - but Marcus has enjoyed the challenge and adapting the hotel to meet people’s needs.

“We only provided take away during the pandemic,” he said.

“So that was an unusual way that we had to adapt to very quickly.

“However, I also have my own Artisan pasta business so I was able to keep very busy with that.”

While he loves the hospitality industry because of the people he meets and the opportunity to prepare food, he loves being able to show his creativity at the Mansfield Hotel.

“I love creating new dishes,” he said.

STIRRING THE POT: Marcus van Clute (pictured) whipping up some paella.

MERRIJIG HIGH COUNTRY HOTEL & MOTOR INN

PHOTO: Melissa Crowe

W H O L E F O O D S CA F E & JUICE BAR Wholefoods cafe with a selection of Gluten Free, vegan, vegetarian foods.

Traditional French Crepes Raw cakes Whole cakes for special events

BARRISTA STYLE COFFEE AND QUALITY GOURMET FOOD

Monday - Thursday 6:30am - 8:00pm

OPEN TUESDAY TO SATURDAY 9 TO 3 PM

Ski Hire and Chain Hire available onsite

5775 2928

1915 Mt Buller Rd, Merrijig Ph: 5777 5702 www.merrijigmotorinn.com.au

E24D07677-V6/3419

145 MT. BULLER ROAD

www.camilleinthekitchen.com.au

Pizza available 7 days a week during winter

Friday - Sunday 6:30am - 9:00 pm

ALPINE DIESEL SNOW CHAINS HIRE & FITTING

Eisners lane, Mansfield

Gin and Whisky Bar with over 100 varieties

Open 7 days a week for Lunch and Dinner

Take Away 10% off Menu Prices Numbers are limited.

86 HIGH STREET 5775 2101

www.mansfieldhotel.com.au

24D08509

Open Daily from 11am to 8pm

Head Chef Marcus Van Clute continues to bring Alpine Pasta Co. to our menu, with some new feature dishes and specials.

PAGE 12 — MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020

www.nemedia.com.au

Mt Buller Property...

Invisible protective germ shield

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

WHEN a global pandemic enters the world and threatens to impact family and friends, and shut-down local businesses, finding a solution became a heart and soul project for Bri Seaton.

Her first line of thought was “where do I even start looking for the protector that fights an invisible virus?”

“Putting my head in the sand was not an option, as much as I wanted to when it felt all too hard,” said Bri. Instead she spent hours researching products on the internet, making phone calls

and emails to potential sanitiser suppliers, but all was in vain.

“We wanted a safe sanitiser that could be used on our children, around our pets and to protect our team at our other company High Country Tree Services,” partner Al Seaton said.

“It needed to be long-lasting and protect for more than one hand wash.

“Then factoring in the emerging skin conditions from the drying effects of the alcohol components of sanitisers, and how a surface protectant could be applied to large areas such as our depot

and work vehicles.”

Following a chance meeting with the founder and creator of the technology SIQURA, it opened doors to a positive and safe sanitising solution.

Bri and Al knew this product was what they had been looking for.

From this discovery, High Country Home and Business Solutions was born.

SIQURA is not just an average hand sanitiser, it’s a 24hour germ shield.

Like wearing an invisible germ destroying glove, the product creates an anti-microbial shield on your clothes

and skin, repelling 99.9 per cent of bacteria and viruses, mould and mildew.

The natural hand sanitiser technology has zero alcohol and is easily and safely applied to the skin.

The SIQURA surface spray has similar properties as the hand sanitiser, however, provides 30 days of protection.

“It is designed to be applied with a commercial fogging machine or personal aerosol foggers that you can apply yourself, much like a household animal flea bomb,” Al says.

The ingredients in both SIQURA products are listed

by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and are also TGA certified.

They are a simple but safe way to protect your home and business from bacteria and viruses, and are an environmentally friendly solution for your team and family.

“Knowing the ingredients are gentle on the skin and won’t cause harm in the air and on surfaces, gives me peace of mind that my children and pets are safe,” said Bri. Bri and Al are offering a surface fogging service, with essential health and commu-

nity businesses already booking in.

These businesses will be treated as a priority, and then spaces will be opened up to local businesses and personal homes.

High Country Solutions will also be offering for purchase surface sprays, hand sanitisers and small foggers for personal use.

If you would like to know more about Bri and Al’s sanitising solutions or to book a home or business sanitising treatment, please direct all your enquiries to 5775 1935 or www.highcountrysolutions.com.au.

Buller developments thriving WHITELAW Flynn Lawyers wish to again congratulate our client, the Grollo Group, on the thriving success of Kooroora and White Horse Village.

Despite the challenges of bushfires and a pandemic, the Grollo Group, in conjunction with Lang Constructions, have overcome significant obstacles and brought Stage 2 of Kooroora to completion, comprising residential apartments and ground level retail.

Buyers of apartments are gearing up for the season and have the benefit of a registered security on the certificate of title at Land Use Victoria.

Whitelaw Flynn Lawyers are proud to be involved with such iconic developments as Kooroora and White Horse Village.

Whitelaw Flynn Lawyers are available to assist and guide on all manner of transactions in the alpine regions, including sales and purchases of apartments together with business and retail leasing advice.

We are able to provide guidance and advice on COVID-19 relief and support that may be available for landlords and tenants.

Should you have any queries or wish to discuss any alpine transactions please do not hesitate to contact us at Whitelaw Flynn Lawyers on 9090 6700.

HOT SPOT: The newly built Kooroora Hotel in the village square continues its renowned history, its new sleek lines blending in with the Kooroora apartments building as its backdrop.

MOVING IN: The Kooroora apartments are now completed with 100 per cent sold and ready for owners to move into.

Victoria’s Premier Alpine Lawyers Need to speak to a legal professional about any of your alpine matters?

We specialise in the development, sale and purchase of alpine property.

-Buying -Selling -Leasing -Managing -Disputes -Building Disputes www.wflawyers.com.au

Level 12/533 Little Lonsdale St Melbourne

Dan Flynn - Director dflynn@wflawyers.com.au

(03) 9090 6700

www.nemedia.com.au

MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020 — PAGE 13

Flying Kangaroos still hopeful

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

WITH world-wide pauses on sporting events due to COVID-19 there is uncertainty as to whether major winter sports will be held as well.

However, the Australian contingent of ‘hopeful’ aerial skiers for the Beijing Winter Olympics 2022 are not resting on their laurels - expecting by the time these Olympics come around pandemic restrictions will be lifted.

Training for the women’s aerials team has been ongoing during June at Mt Buller with a 10-day regime at the gymnasium for Danielle Scott, Laura Peel, Abbey Willcox, Airleigh Frigo and Gabi Ash.

“We are training here and were expecting to go to Queensland but with that state’s borders still closed we are not sure - we may just stay here to continue training,” Danielle said when the Buller News caught up with them at Alpine Central.

The five girls are being coached by former winter Olympian David Morris who has also spent the time on Mt Buller and enjoying a little of the early snow and hospitality of mountain staff.

Uncertain as to whether the Australian teams will travel to China, they will be monitoring the COVID-19 situation and will be making final decisions closer to the 2022 Olympic Winter Games date.

TRAINING HARD: Australia’s winter aerials Olympic team members (from left) Danielle Scott, Laura Peel, Abbey Willcox and Airleigh Frigo at Mt Buller last week.

Beijing is set to host the thousands of athletes in February 2022.

The coordination commission for the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022 recently praised the progress being made in preparation for the

Winter Olympics and Paralympics in China.

On the official International Olympic Committee (IOC) website for the Winter Olympics Beijing recently reported the Commission, joined by International Federations and World Para Sport representatives, met with the Beijing 2022 Organising Committee via video-conference for an update on the work accomplished.

Speaking after the meeting, IOC Coordination Commission chair Juan Antonio Samaranch said: “China has faced an incredibly difficult period over the past few months - our thoughts are with all those impacted.

“Despite these unique circumstances, Beijing 2022 has continued

to meet key milestones, a true testament to its determination to provide the perfect stage for the world’s top winter athletes in just under two years’ time.”

While the topic of legacy focused on the future, all stakeholders acknowledged the current context in which the world finds itself, the impact COVID-19 is having across the sports industry, and the challenges facing Beijing 2022 in its preparations for the Games.

It was noted that the ability of international experts, officials and athletes to be able to travel to China will need to be closely monitored, and mitigation measures put in place should restrictions prove disruptive.

Shuttling guests on and off the mountain

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

MOVING thousands of visitors on and off and around Mt Buller can sometimes prove to be demanding and frustrating.

COVID-19 has added new pressures to the Resort Management Board (RMB) in providing sufficient shuttle services while at the same time keeping social distancing restrictions in place.

RMB chief executive officer Mark Bennetts made it clear that this season guests should plan ahead.

“Our primary message is if visiting the ski fields this year, plan ahead and pre-book to

minimise disappointment as there are capacity restrictions in place,” Mr Bennetts said.

He said the restrictions on the number of visitors allowed on the mountain each day will be calculated on a daily basis.

This will vary day by day depending on the conditions weather, number of lifts open and the skiable terrain available.

Prior to June 22, vehicles were capped at 200 per day at Mt Buller and 30 per day at Mt Stirling (excluding season pass holders and overnight guests).

“For the Queen’s Birthday weekend we contemplated the bus shuttle and other services

as the season was not officially open,” Mr Bennetts said.

“Anticipating visitation we decided shuttle services in particular was necessary based on the number of guests who had booked resort entry online.”

Appointed in 2019 to run the shuttle services, TravelSafe has since gone into receivership and a new company has had to be employed.

“TravelSafe advised the RMB on that basis, they were unable to fulfil the contract at Mt Buller,” Mr Bennetts said.

“The RMB undertook a selective evaluation process with operators experienced at

Mt Buller and comparable environments.

“The successful participant is a publicly listed company and has notified the ASX of their appointment.”

The Snow Play Express won’t be required in 2020 as it was there to deal with excess demand for the available parking bays on the mountain by encouraging guests to park at Mirimbah, and due to reduced capacity on the ski fields this season because of the COVID-19 restrictions, “Village shuttles didn’t commence initially (up until June 22) as they were considered a non-essential service

and there was no ability to trace passengers if a transmission risk was identified.

However, Mr Bennetts indicated this would be monitored over the season as restrictions are rolled back to determine if feasible to re-introduce the service.

Given the COVID-19 restrictions and social distancing rules are still in place the bus drivers and passengers will be catered for as best as possible.

Shuttle buses from the car parks will be limited to 42 passengers seated only (no standing) with a 1.5 metre barrier between them and the drivers.

“It’s impossible to guarantee safety anywhere and Mt Buller

Twin Towers A502

is no different,” Mr Bennetts said.

“But measures are being put in place to minimise transmission risk.

“Guests will be required to enter and egress via the rear doors of the buses to minimise interaction with drivers.”

Other measures put in place include supervisors at bus queues and bollards to keep guests in lines and maintain social distancing as well as signage at both the village and carparks.

Additional ‘guest services’ staff may be allocated around the mountain to keep an eye on visitors and watch that social distancing is being maintained if and when required.

Breathtaker 505/3

$750,000

$275,000 A newly renovated two bedroom apartment over two levels located on the fifth level of Breathtaker Hotel and Spa. Fully furnished with large living area with two leather couches, one a pullout bed, expanding dining table with eight chairs, large TV and fireplace, a spot light floor lamp make this a cozy place.

Galley kitchen fully fitted out with convection microwave, fridge and all utensils.

Located overlooking Bourke Street skiing is outside the door. A much sought after three bedroom apartment will be all that is required for your Mt Buller residence. Easy rear access from the Arlberg bridge has Bourke Street literally at your doorstep. The views are to the East and North with sunrise over Mt Stirling this is a well maintained apartment with an impressive rental history.

Snowflake 5/22

R FE

Located on Stirling road this three bedroom apartment is all that is wanted for your alpine residence. Relax and enjoy in the in the open plan kitchen with all appliances including dish washer and microwave, dining for 6 plus and a living space with large leather modular couch.

$200,000 - $220,000 This fully furnished two bedroom apartment sleeps six in comfort. The living area along with a galley kitchen and bathroom are on the entry level with a double room, bunk room and a powder room upstairs. The apartment has all the benefits of the hotel management and use of hotel facilities. They include restaurants, bars, the day spa as well as a children’s games area. Ideally situated close to Helicopter flat and the ski school.

0

0 0,0

0

RE

D

E C U

D

2 $ TO

Address available on request

Leasehold Interest and Business on a walk in/walk out basis.

Thriving restaurant and bar in prime position with long lease.

NEW PROPERTIES NEEDED - Dont leave Buller without talking real estate with Woody!

Mark Woodsford: 0429 930 700 Email: woody@rtedgar.com.au

‘We know Mt Buller property’

www.rtedgar.com.au

24D07659-V8

D UN

E

F O R

$550,000

305 Breathtaker

PAGE 14 — MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020

www.nemedia.com.au

Leading the way.

JUST SOLD

Bella Vista 4.2/15 Summit Road, Mount Buller 1 2 2 $1,150,000 Largest 2 Bedroom Apartment On Mt Buller %HOOD 9LVWD LV 0W %XOOHUȇV ODWHVW OX[XU\ GHYHORSPHQW R΍HULQJ UHVLGHQWV WKH PRVW LQFUHGLEOH QRUWKHUQ YLHZV RYHU WKH YDOOH\ DQG WRZDUGV 0W 6WLUOLQJ &UDIWHG ZLWK ZDUP ILQLVKHV WLPEHU SDQHOOHG ZDOOV DQG 6FDQGLQDYLDQ DFFHQWV Pt RI LQWHUQDO OLYLQJ ZLWK EHG EDWK ODUJH RSHQ SODQ OLYLQJ GLQLQJ ZLWK IORRU WR FHLOLQJ JODVV ZLQGRZV ([SDQVLYH 0LHOH NLWFKHQ ODXQGU\ JDV ILUHSODFH K\GURQLF KHDWLQJ KHDWHG EDWKURRP IORRULQJ VL]DEOH EDOFRQ\ )XUQLVKHG UHDG\ WR PRYH LQ *DUDJH FDU SDUNV DOVR DYDLODEOH WR SXUFKDVH

Christiana 7/1 Breathtaker Road, Mount Buller 3 3 CONTACT AGENT Appealing Floor Plan In Sought After Location $ EHDXWLIXO DSDUWPHQW MXVW D VKRUW ZDON WR %RXUNH 6W 6NL RXW WR 6WDQGDUG 5XQ MXVW PHWUHV DZD\ 2XWVWDQGLQJ VLQJOH OHYHO ȵRRU SODQ ZLWK DOO EHGURRPV ERDVWLQJ PRGHUQ HQ VXLWHV DQG %Ζ5 PDVWHU EHGURRPV WR FKRRVH IURP DQG D SHUVRQ EXQN URRP VOHHSLQJ LQ FRPIRUW 6SDFLRXV 0LHOH NLWFKHQ DQG H[SDQVLYH FRPIRUWV RI RSHQ SODQ OLYLQJ DQG GLQLQJ ZLWK JDV ȴUHSODFH DQG URFN VXUURXQG /DXQGU\ 'U\LQJ FXSERDUG LQ HQWU\ 3ULYDWH VNL VWRUDJH &RPPXQDO VNL WXQLQJ DUHD ΖQWHUFRP V\VWHP )XOO\ IXUQLVKHG UHDG\ WR PRYH LQ

Bella Vista 5.4/15 Summit Road, Mount Buller 3 2.5 2 CONTACT AGENT Final Release - Top Floor Chalet Ready For Fit-Out %HOOD 9LVWD LV 0W %XOOHUȇV ODWHVW OX[XU\ GHYHORSPHQW R΍HULQJ UHVLGHQWV WKH PRVW LQFUHGLEOH QRUWKHUQ YLHZV RYHU WKH YDOOH\ DQG WRZDUGV 0W 6WLUOLQJ RI WKH FKDOHWV DUH QRZ FRPSOHWH VR WKH GHYHORSHU LV R΍HULQJ WKH ODVW FKDOHWV DV D VKHOO 640 SOXV IXOO OHQJWK EDOFRQ\ EHG EDWK DQG ODUJH RSHQ SODQ OLYLQJ $OO LQWHUQDO ZDOOV DQG SOXPELQJ KDYH FRPPHQFHG 7KH SHUIHFW RSSRUWXQLW\ IRU WKH NHHQ UHQRYDWRU WR ȴQLVK R΍ WKH ȴQDO WRXFKHV $GMDFHQW JDUDJH FDU SDUNV DOVR DYDLODEOH WR SXUFKDVH

Chalet 606/11 Summit Road, Mount Buller 3 2 $640,000 Priced To Sell – Huge Potential /RFDWHG LQ WKH KHDUW RI WKH YLOODJH LQ DUJXDEO\ WKH EHVW VSRW RQ WKH PRXQWDLQ ZLWK GLUHFW DFFHVV WR %RXUNH 6WUHHW VNL VFKRRO VKRSV DQG UHVWDXUDQWV YLD $WKOHWHȇV :DON )HDWXUHV D SULYDWH VNLHUV HQWUDQFH ULJKW R΍ WKH EDOFRQ\ +XJH XSVLGH SRWHQWLDO IRU IXWXUH LPSURYHPHQW ZLWK EHGURRPV OLYLQJ VSDFHV PRGHUQ NLWFKHQ *HQHURXV PDVWHU EHGURRP GRXEOH VLQJOH EXQN URRPV DOO ZLWK %Ζ5 %RWK EDWKURRPV DUH VSOLW ]RQHG 6NL VWRUDJH FDJHV 1HYHU EHHQ UHQWHG R΍HUHG IRU VDOH IXOO\ IXUQLVKHG

JUST SOLD

The Peak 302/1 Stirling Road, Mount Buller 1 3 2 CONTACT AGENT Penthouse 302 - Exceptional Value &HQWUDOO\ ORFDWHG DQG GLUHFWO\ RSSRVLWH /\GLDȇV &KDLUOLIW 6SUHDG RYHU WZR OHYHOV DQG LV VXUH WR OHDYH D ODVWLQJ LPSUHVVLRQ 3DQRUDPLF YLHZV RI WKH YLOODJH %RXUNH 6WUHHW DQG EH\RQG WKH +RZTXD +LOOV ODUJH EHGV EDWKV JDUDJH SDUNLQJ 2SHQ SODQ OLYLQJ ZLWK JDV ORJ ȴUHSODFH 2QH RI WKH ODUJHVW EDOFRQLHV RQ WKH PRXQWDLQ ZLWK SOHQW\ RI RXWGRRU HQWHUWDLQLQJ VSDFH +HDWHG WRZHO UDLOV GU\LQJ URRP VNL VWRUDJH FDJH HXUR ODXQGU\ EDOFRQ\ VODE KHDWLQJ /LIW DFFHVV WR \RXU IURQW GRRU 2΍HUHG IRU VDOH IXOO\ IXUQLVKHG

Mark Adams 0419 858 007

Bella Vista 4.3/15 Summit Road, Mount Buller 1 3 2 $1,200,000 Bella Vista - Last Remaining 3 Bedroom Apartment %HOOD 9LVWD LV 0W %XOOHUȇV ODWHVW OX[XU\ GHYHORSPHQW R΍HULQJ UHVLGHQWV WKH PRVW LQFUHGLEOH QRUWKHUQ YLHZV RYHU WKH YDOOH\ DQG WRZDUGV 0W 6WLUOLQJ &UDIWHG ZLWK ZDUP ȴQLVKHV WLPEHU SDQHOOHG ZDOOV DQG 6FDQGLQDYLDQ DFFHQWV Pt RI LQWHUQDO OLYLQJ ZLWK EHG EDWK ODUJH RSHQ SODQ OLYLQJ GLQLQJ ZLWK ȵRRU WR FHLOLQJ JODVV ZLQGRZV ([SDQVLYH 0LHOH NLWFKHQ ODUJH GU\LQJ URRP (XUR ODXQGU\ JDV ȴUHSODFH K\GURQLF KHDWLQJ KHDWHG EDWKURRP ȵRRULQJ VL]DEOH EDOFRQ\ *DUDJH FDU SDUNV DOVR DYDLODEOH WR SXUFKDVH

www.adams.com.au

Zach Adams 0437 199 500

www.nemedia.com.au

MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020 — PAGE 15

Leading the way.

JUST SOLD

Twin Towers B504/15 Summit Road, Mount Buller 2 1 CONTACT AGENT Modern Apartment In Prime Location 6NL LQ VNL RXW EHGURRP ZLWK VWXQQLQJ QRUWK IDFLQJ YLHZV RI 0W 6WLUOLQJ )DQWDVWLF UHDU DFFHVV IURP OHYHO ULJKW RQWR %RXUNH 6WUHHW *UHDW GU\LQJ VSDFH LQ HQWU\ )XOO\ UHQRYDWHG ZLWK VWRQH EHQFKWRSV 0LHOH RYHQ ZDVKLQJ PDFKLQH GU\HU DQG *DJJHQDX GLVKZDVKHU :RRO FDUSHW DQG KHDWHG WLOH ȵRRULQJ WKURXJKRXW *RRG VL]HG EDOFRQ\ R΍ GLQLQJ DUHD 'HOLJKWIXO ORXQJH 0DVWHU EHGURRP ZLWK TXHHQ EHG *XHVW EHGURRP ZLWK EXQN EHGV *UHDW UHQWDO KLVWRU\ 2΍HUHG IXOO\ IXUQLVKHG RQ D ZDON LQ EDVLV

Chalet 610-714/11 Summit Road, Mount Buller 1 4 2 $940,000 Highly Desirable Corner Apartment 2FFXS\LQJ D SULPH ORFDWLRQ ZLWKLQ WKH 0W %XOOHU VNL UHVRUW 7ZR LQWHUFRQQHFWLQJ DSDUWPHQWV RYHU WZR OHYHOV ZLWK VSHFWDFXODU XQLQWHUUXSWHG YLHZV WRZDUGV 0W 6WLUOLQJ 0LHOH NLWFKHQ RSHQ SODQ OLYLQJ GLQLQJ ZLWK FODVVLF DOSLQH LQVSLUHG G«FRU )OH[LEOH ȵRRU SODQ ZLWK EHGV ODUJH EDWKV D IXUWKHU ORIW VSDFH XVHG DV D WK VOHHSLQJ DUHD IRU WKH NLGV &DQ VOHHS 8SVWDLUV KDV LWV RZQ NLWFKHQHWWH VHSDUDWH IURQW GRRU HQWU\ WR VXLW D YDULHW\ RI XVHV GU\LQJ URRPV VNL VWRUDJH FDJHV FDUSDUN 2΍HUHG IXOO\ IXUQLVKHG

Kabuki 4/17 Chamois Road, Mount Buller 1 3 3 $975,000 ‘BLUEBIRD’ – VENDOR WILL CONSIDER OFFERS 3DUW RI D ERXWLTXH FROOHFWLRQ RI WRZQKRXVHV Ȇ%OXHELUGȇ LV D EUDQG QHZ 640 DOSLQH KRPH 6SUHDG RYHU OHYHOV ZLWK EHG EDWK D SULYDWH HQWU\ DQG JDUDJH SDUNLQJ *HQHURXVO\ VFDOHG %RVFK NLWFKHQ RSHQ SODQ OLYLQJ GLQLQJ KHDWHG EDWKURRP ȵRRUV DQG WLPEHU ȵRRULQJ WKURXJKRXW 6XLWDEOH IRU HDJHU VNLHUV ZLWK H[SDQVLYH WXQLQJ GU\LQJ ODXQGU\ URRP DPSOH VWRUDJH VSDFH DQG ODUJH DWWLF 4XLHW ORFDWLRQ MXVW D VKRUW ZDON WR /\GLDȇV &KDLUOLIW DQG WKH YLOODJH VTXDUH %HDXWLIXOO\ VW\OHG DQG IXOO\ IXUQLVKHG UHDG\ WR PRYH LQ

Bella Vista 5.2/15 Summit Road, Mount Buller 2 3 2.5 $1,650,000 Final Release - Brand New Top Floor Chalet %HOOD 9LVWD LV 0W %XOOHUȇV ODWHVW OX[XU\ GHYHORSPHQW R΍HULQJ UHVLGHQWV WKH PRVW LQFUHGLEOH QRUWKHUQ YLHZV RYHU WKH YDOOH\ DQG WRZDUGV 0W 6WLUOLQJ &UDIWHG ZLWK ZDUP ȴQLVKHV WLPEHU SDQHOOHG ZDOOV DQG 6FDQGLQDYLDQ DFFHQWV EHG EDWK DQG ODUJH RSHQ SODQ OLYLQJ GLQLQJ ([SDQVLYH 0LHOH NLWFKHQ ODXQGU\ JDV ȴUHSODFH K\GURQLF KHDWLQJ KHDWHG ȵRRULQJ 7KLV %UDQG 1HZ WRS ȵRRU FKDOHW KDV EHHQ PHWLFXORXVO\ VW\OHG ZLWK KLJK TXDOLW\ IXUQLVKLQJV UHDG\ WR PRYH LQ $GMDFHQW JDUDJH FDU SDUNV DOVR DYDLODEOH WR SXUFKDVH

JUST SOLD

TIKA CABIN - 2625 Mt Buller Road, Merrijig 2 1 1 $523,000 Rustic Cabin On The Delatite River ΖQVSLUHG E\ LWV QDWXUDO DQG UXVWLF VXUURXQGV WKLV KLJK FRXQWU\ FDELQ KDV EHHQ XQLTXHO\ UHVWRUHG DV D PRXQWDLQ JHWDZD\ D SODFH RI FRPIRUW DQG UHOD[DWLRQ 7KH SURSHUW\ LV SHUIHFWO\ SRVLWLRQHG DW WKH IRRW RI 0W %XOOHU RQ Pt RI VHFOXGHG ODQG DQG ZLWK GLUHFW DFFHVV WR D SULYDWH UHVHUYH DORQJ WKH 'HODWLWH 5LYHU 0HWLFXORXVO\ VW\OHG ZLWK KLJK TXDOLW\ IXUQLVKLQJV DQG DOO WR EH LQFOXGHG LQ WKH VDOH RQ D ZDON LQ Ȃ ZDON RXW EDVLV ([SORUH WKH FUHHNV DQG ULYHUV WKURZ LQ D ȴVKLQJ OLQH RU HQMR\ D VZLP

Mark Adams 0419 858 007

St Anton 311/20 Stirling Road, Mount Buller 1 1 $290,000 $΍RUGDEOH 0RGHUQ $SDUWPHQW 6W $QWRQ DSDUWPHQWV LV QHVWOHG DPRQJVW PDQ\ IDPLO\ IULHQGO\ ORGJHV MXVW D VKRUW ZDON DORQJ 6WLUOLQJ 5RDG IURP /\GLDȇV &KDLUOLIW :HOO DSSRLQWHG %HG ZLWK JRRG VL]HG OLYLQJ GLQLQJ VSDFH *UHDW QDWXUDO OLJKW WUHHWRS YLHZV WRZDUGV %RXUNH 6WUHHW .LWFKHQ ZLWK VWRYHWRS PLFURZDYH RYHQ IXOO VL]H IULGJH IUHH]HU 4XHHQ VL]H EHG ZLWK %Ζ5 +\GURQLF KHDWLQJ 3ULYDWH VNL VWRUDJH 6KDUHG ODXQGU\ IDFLOLWLHV DQG GU\LQJ URRP GRZQ WKH KDOO (DV\ ZDON WR WKH YLOODJH 2΍HUHG IXOO\ IXUQLVKHG UHDG\ WR PRYH LQ

www.adams.com.au

Zach Adams 0437 199 500

PAGE 16 — MT BULLER NEWS — July 2020

www.nemedia.com.au

So, you want a chalet on the edge of Bourke Street that is drive in, drive out – ski in, ski out. You just found it - it’s also North facing!

3.2 Whitehorse Village Road, Mount Buller 3

2

1

1 Ski Room

Three oversized bedrooms, one overlooking Bourke Street and two having possibly the best views of the Bluff of all time – have a look at the photographs!

Commercial Miele kitchen, integrated refrigerator and porcelain benchtops. French oak timber flooring throughout with Savanna / Bertzon carpet in bedrooms. Two incredible ceramic tiled bathrooms full ceiling height, underfloor heating, enormous shower recess. Separate Miele laundry and bench trough, excellent storage cupboards. The living room features timber walls around the fireplace.

This apartment has the most incredible Northerly sun-drenched aspect overlooking all the action on Bourke Street. There are only three apartments in the development, complete with a private lift. Located off the lock up garage is the largest private ski room / utility room we have ever seen.

This ski in, ski out property is for sale with all Fenton & Fenton furniture, on a walk in, walk out basis.

Information Memorandum: Available upon request John Castran: 0411 502 424 | john@castran.com.au

www.castran.com.au

Mt Buller’s finest apartment with unobstructed views of Chamois Valley to the Bluff.

Mt Buller Chalet’s most breathtaking kingsized one bedroom apartment.

Courchevel Penthouse 15, Mount Buller

614 Mt Buller Chalet Hotel, Mount Buller

3

1

2

1

Penthouse apartment only three years old. 3 oversized bedrooms, master with ensuite and large second bathroom.

Fully fitted out with all modern appointments and furnishings.

Well appointed drying room and ski storage coupled with easy parking and skier access to Mercedes chair make this truly prized alpine real estate.

1

Mt Buller Chalet is the premier address on the mountain. Apartment 614 is a stunning example of contemporary alpine style has been achieved by Beth Decarne of Versus Design Concepts.

Located on level 6 with private access only and overlooking the moving view of skiers on Bourke St. This king-sized one bedroom apartment (sleeps four) is offered for sale at $499,000.

Gobsmacking views.

John Castran: 0411 502 424 | john@castran.com.au John Castran: 0411 502 424 | john@castran.com.au www.castran.com.au

Ben Khong: 0400 882 439 | ben@castran.com.au www.castran.com.au