Mt Hotham Falls Creek News

JULY ISSUE, 2015

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WELCOME TO WINTER Falls Creek and Mt Hotham recorded impressive visitor numbers during the first two weeks of the season and Tasmanian sisters Millie (front) and Charlotte Beach were just two of the many thousands who enjoyed some snow time.

See page 3 for story.

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No drone zone

By VANESSA BURGESS

INDEX Calendar.................P2 Season outlook ......P5 Sled dogs...P4, 11, 14 Mr Bump’s Blog....P12 Real estate P12, 13, 15

FALLS Creek has banned the use of all drone aircraft within the resort following concerns users may breach rules recommended by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).

The ban came into effect on June 17, after Fall Creek Resort Management Board (FCRMB) referenced the CASA, via Civil Aviation Safety Regulations part 101 (CASR101) to address concerns regarding property damage, privacy and public safety.

Drones are classified as Unmanned

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such devices in the interests of public safety and with respect to damage to property, infrastructure and people in general.

“The ‘follow me drones’ don’t have manual control and can’t see obstructions like lifts and buildings, so they are quite dangerous and we could end up with these things dropping out of the sky, which isn’t safe.”

Suitably qualified operators can apply for permits to use drones within the resort, but Mr Smythe said they would need proof of certification.

“The resort will issue permits for use

by suitably qualified and experienced operators based on proof of CASA compliance and certified operational status – with particular use for commercial or promotional opportunities only,” he said.

“As an active resort and with a product offering including the Heli Link between Falls Creek and Mt Hotham, our air space is active enough.

Mr Smythe said the CASA directive makes it very clear with regards to where it is appropriate to operate drones and ski resorts simply don’t qualify.

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Aerial Vehicles (UAV) and Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA).

FCRMB CEO Stuart Smythe said banning the use of drone aircraft within the resort has been done to ensure users do not breach the rules as recommended by the CASA. “The proliferation in Point of View cameras and now this next evolution with thrill seekers wanting to use drones to capture and record footage of users exploits needs to be carefully managed,” Mr Smythe said.

“The CASA guidelines are very clear.

“The resort simply cannot allow

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

PAGE 2 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015

FALLS Creek July 2: Falls Creek Summit Night Show Spectacular, 8pm on the Summit outside Frying Pan Inn. July 4: Birkebeiner Classic 2.5/5/10km, Nordic Bowl. Falls Creek Race Club Auction - The Boardroom at St Falls. Help support our young skiers - best fun night of the year.

July 4-5: Ski & Snowboard Australia Snowracer Series, on the NASTAR Course. July 5 Fast & Female (for girls aged 9 - 19), 10am Nordic Bowl.

July 9: Falls Creek Summit Night Show Spectacular, 8pm on the Summit outside Frying Pan Inn. July 10: Rossignol Children’s Cup - run on the extended NASTAR Course.

July 11: Snow Trek & Travel High Plains Tour 2.5/5/10km, 11am in Nordic Bowl. King of the Mountain races on the NASTAR Course. Glass Towers live at The Man. July 12: YMCA Howman’s Gap Victorian Relay Championships (F), Nordic Bowl.

July 14: Funkoars live at The Man. July 16 Falls Creek Summit Night Show Spectacular, 8pm on the Summit outside Frying Pan Inn. July 17 - 19: Karoon Gas Corporate Race Series. July 18 Victorian XC Junior Sprint Champs, 10am Nordic Bowl.

Briggs and Vents live at The Man. July 19: Victorian XC Junior Championships, 10am, Nordic Bowl.

July 20 - 24: Mim Sodergren Women’s Ski & Board Program.

July 23: Falls Creek Summit Night Show Spectacular, 8pm on the Summit outside Frying Pan Inn. July 26: Snow Trek & Travel Mini Series Two. 11am in the Nordic Bowl.

July 30: Falls Creek Summit Night Show Spectacular, 8pm on the Summit outside Frying Pan Inn.

massage at White Spa. July 18 - 19: Chicks with Stix - Mt Hotham Throwdown The CWS Throwdown is an entry level event for women and girls that is all about having fun and trying your hand at freestyle skiing and snowboarding. If you are a girl confident on blue runs and are looking to progress your freestyle and freeride skills, this event is for you. With coaching from some of Australia’s elite riders and skiers, you’ll have loads of fun and learn a lot aswell. Saturday session and coaching workshop in the park, 10am-1pm. Sunday throwdown competition, 10am. For more information check out chickswithstix.com. au July 18-19: Merlin’s Magic Wand Hotham Interschools Come and race your mates One of our Merlin’s Magic Wand fundraisers held July 18 and 19. The Hotham Interschools challenge is open and suitable for all school ages and abilities in both ski and snowboard events. Great racing experience and fun for all competitors.

Registration and bib collection information TBC. July 25: Hotham Freeride Series - Cheese and Crackered Rail Jam. Get ready for the second event in the Hotham Freeride series The Cheese and Crackered Rail Jam is your second chance to show off your park skills in the Basin Rail Park! Designed as a ‘grass roots’ pathway for both skiers and snowboarders the ALCP events are open to skiers and snowboarders of all

Mt Hotham July 3 - 12: Australian Biathlon - IBU-IOC 2015 Oceania Region Camp Including an IBU Coach from SWE and a team from NZL, PLUS an international team from ITA and SUI. July 4: Hotham Freeride Series - Bread and Butters Rail Jam The first event in the Hotham Freeride Series - Bread and Butters Rail Jam To kick off the season, Hotham is hosting a rail jam to get you in full swing for the park series set to launch this seasons ski and snowboard events. Designed as a ‘grass roots’ pathway for skiers and snowboarders the Hotham Freeride events are open to competitors of all abilities. Registration Information TBC. July 17 - 19: Women’s Week - Three day program. Fine tune your technique at the 2015 Women’s Week. Ski or Snowboard with like-minded ladies and recieve free tips from our best female instructors. Optional sessions on women’s ski equipment, ski and boot alignment and tuning, pilates, plus a

abilities. Entry and registration information TBC. July 25: Ski Club Race Weekend - New for 2015 On July 25 July we start the first of two inter ski club race weekends. Competitors compete for their club and take on allcomers. Join in with this fun and exciting new initiative from the Mt Hotham Events Department.

July 25-26: Victorian Biathlon Championships. The running of the 2015 Victorian Biathlon Championships will be held at the Whiskey Flat Biathlon course. Entrants will compete in the gruelling sprint format on their way to earn a spot in the Australian Championships to be held at Mt Hotham later in the season. More information at www.biathlon.asn. au/index1.html July 25-26: Women’s Week - Five day (Ski and Board) program. Fine tune your technique at the 2015 Women’s Week. In this five day program you will ski or snowboard with other like-minded ladies and receive tips from our best female instructors. Optional sessions on women’s equipment, ski and boot alignment and tuning, pilates plus a massage at white spa.

August 3-4: Ski and Snowboard Australia Future SBX Camp Here is your opportunity to join some great athletes and train in the best environment possible with the SSA Future SBX camp. Youngsters from all over are welcome to join this specific SBX training camp. Get to learn

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from the stars and develop your skills and race technique.

August 4-7: FIS ANC SBX Championship Watch the pros compete for Championship on Hotham’s Rider X Course, built to national standards and beefed up for the pros. The week’s schedule starts with training followed by races dependent on weather. Budding SBX athletes can also join some Australia’s and the world’s top riders in the SSA Future SBX camp held prior to the event.

August 8-9: Dinner Plain Sled Dog Challenge Located high up in the Victorian snowfields and bounded by the picturesque Alpine village of Dinner Plain, arrival of the season’s first snow is signal to the Altitude 5000 Sled Dog Group to step up preparation for their spectacular Dinner Plain Sled Dog Challenge!

Australia’s original and most prestigious Sled Dog race will once again see Sled Dog teams from across Australia competing for victory around the snow covered course around Dinner Plain Alpine Village.

August 8: Hotham Freeride Series - Banked Slalom The legendary Banked Slalom event is back again for 2015! As part of the Hotham Freeride Series, this is a snowboard only event and is set to challenge riders as they race against the clock down Gun Barrel for the best time.

See guests, locals and instructors alike fight it out for the Hot-Ham banked slalom for 2015. Open to all.

August 8: Mum’s the Word Rail Jam The Annual Mum’s the

Word Rail Jam is back again this year. This is a well-loved event that brings a whole bunch of prizes, freebies and good times to the Basin Rail Park and Swindlers. Enter, compete, have a blast and watch some thrills and spills and buy a raffle ticket to help raise funds for Cancer Council’s Daffodil Day. The Mum’s the Word sessions are truly one of the mountain’s favourites.

August 11-14: RAAF Games 2015 Once again the RAAF will head to Hotham to fight it out on the slopes for a week during their annual games. An exciting event to watch as the RAAF competitors fight for 2015 bragging rights. Registration information TBC. August 15: A la Carte in the Park - Cow Hide Free Ride The last main course of the ALCP series! The Cow Hide Free Ride will allow skiers and snowboarders of all abilities to show us their stuff on Canyons run in Heavenly Valley. Helmets are compulsory.

August 15-16: 2015 2015 Australian Biathlon Championships On 15-16 August the running of the 2015 Australian Biathlon championships will be held at the Whiskey Flat Mt Hotham Biathlon course.

Entrants will compete in the gruelling sprint format on their way to learn who is the fastest, most accurate and the best in the country for 2015. Come along and watch these professional athletes at their best. For more information visit www.biathlon.asn.au/index1.html

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WINNER: Monique Agnew from Montrose, Victoria, was the lucky winner of a 2015 Mt Hotham Season Resort entry permit and a brand new pair of K2 170cm AMP 80XTI Skis with Marker MOD MXC 12.0 bindings. Ms Agnew has been skiing and boarding at Hotham since 2005 and she went into the draw after purchasing a 2014 resort entry permit and completing a short visitor survey. “The reason I choose to ski at Hotham is that there is no better feeling than standing at the top of Heavenly Valley Chairlift and seeing a perfect drop onto freshly groomed runs. Best place in the world,� Ms Agnew said. Anyone who purchases their 2015 Mt Hotham Resort Entry Permit online at www.alpineeasyaccess.com.au and fills out a visitor survey will go into the draw to win a 2016 entry permit and a new pair of skis.

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inside

GREAT OPENING 2 Snow provides resorts with best start to season in years

-9 452. 4OM #OSTA GETS IN SOME TRAINING AT &ALLS #REEK LAST MONTH AHEAD OF TAKING ON SOME OF THE WORLD S BEST FREESKIERS THIS MONTH 0(/4/ #HRIS (OCKING

Extreme dream for Aussie skier

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER JZEUSCHNER

this Winter?

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JULY ISSUE, 2010

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YOU don’t get much more extreme than this.

Flown in by helicopter to the peak of a remote mountain,with kilometres of vertical, untracked descent, competing against some of the world’s best.

It’s the kind of challenge Falls Creek skier Tom Costa has dreamed of, and will make a reality at the end of this month.

The former World Cup mogulist will carry the hopes of his nation, again, in the World Heli Challenge in New Zealand.

Some 60 of the best skiers and snowboarders from around the world will battle it out - all trying to pick the best line amid unforgiving back country terrain deep in the South Island’s wilderness. “I have wanted to give this type of event a crack for years and this year with the help of my sponsors, Central Snowsports and Deep Powder Tours, I am making it happen,� Costa said.

Born and raised at the base of Falls Creek, in Mt Beauty, Costa and his three brothers learnt to ski young - and fast.

Adrian and Paul Costa represented Australia at the Winter Olympic Games

and Tom also competed for his country in freestyle on the World Cup circuit, and at two world championships. “I guess this freeskiing is just a natural progression,� the 32 year old said. “I’ve had the opportunity to ski around the world and be exposed to some pretty extreme terrain..and I just love the challenge.�

But this is his first event. “It’s hard to say how I will fare, but I am definitely very excited about representing my home resort of Falls Creek, and you can bet I will be giving it my very best shot,� he said.

“Obviously this sort of event is not easy to train for, especially in Australia, but the plan is to do as much backcountry skiing as possible and try to get comfortable in the big mountain arena. “Weather permitting, I hope to spend some time on Mt McKay with local skiing legend Steve Lee on his new backcountry tours.�

Peaks with 50 degree pitches, 80 to 100 foot drops, open bowls, deep snow and rocky chutes will test every ounce of Costa’s skill and endurance.

Crashes and injuries are inherent risk.

CONTINUED PAGE 12

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WHAT’S ON 5,10, 11 Live entertainment, school holiday fun, and ski calendar of events at resorts

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NEXT EDITION: July 2015 Booking deadline: June 18, 2015

GROUP EDITOR: Jeff Zeuschner ADVERTISING: Julie Luxford EDITORIAL: Vanessa Burgess ADVERTISING SALES EMAIL: jluxford@nemedia.com.au Telephone (03) 5731 3302 EDITORIAL EMAIL: edit.alptimes@nemedia.com.au Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd at the registered office, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta, 3677.

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015 — PAGE 3

Disoriented hikers lucky to be found

By VANESSA BURGESS TWO ill-equipped young hikers from Melbourne had a lucky escape last Tuesday after becoming lost on the Razorback.

Senior Sergeant Doug Incoll of the Bright police said Parks Victoria contacted police after receiving a distressed phone call from the hikers, a 25-year old male and 21-year-old female, at 2.30pm.

“They had intended to walk to Federation Hut down the Razorback to Diamantina Spur,

and they contacted Parks Victoria to say they were lost on the Razorback,” he said.

“I was communicating with them on the young man’s mobile phone and he told me they had lost their backpacks and only had a light rain coat each, a Bic lighter, iPhone, compass and a torch.”

With visibility down to around 500 metres, Snr Sgt Incoll said police utilised the man’s mobile phone and were able to identify their location.

“Their latitude and longitude position indicated that

they were extremely close to the head of Champion Spur which is a track that leads you to the Razorback from Harrietville,” Snr Sgt Incoll said.

“We had the view that we could guide them towards Champion Spur and they could pick it up and begin to descend, but they still couldn’t find it as it was getting dark at around 5pm.

“I told them to stay where they were and we’d send someone up to find them.”

Snr Sgt Incoll said a group of four, including two police, one Parks Victoria and one SES mem-

ber and two 4WD vehicles were deployed to Champion Spur.

“The search party were able to drive a fair way up Champion Spur as a dozer had cleared the track during the 2014 fires,” he said.

“They continued on foot and found the two hikers after about one hour.”

The mild weather worked in the hikers favour and Snr Sgt Incoll urged inexperienced hikers’ to stay away from the high country during the winter months.

“This could have been much, much worse – they were lucky

the weather was favourable, although it was raining and cold they weren’t caught in the middle of a blizzard,” he said.

“This is another example of inexperienced people going into the high country unprepared and five-six police officers spent 10 hours trying to find them – it’s a huge waste of resources and I would encourage hikers to stay away from the high country during winter if they haven’t been up there in summer.

“If people are planning to head up to the high country

during winter, please make sure you are extremely well prepared and are carrying all of the appropriate equipment including an epirb, maps, compass, warm clothes, food and most importantly know how to use it.

“I would also urge people to have a back-up power source for their phones as the cold sucks the power out of the battery much quicker than normal and don’t leave your backpacks unless you are 100 per cent sure you can locate them again.”

Exquisite textile works on display in Wangaratta AN exhibition featuring some of the finest contemporary textile art being created in Australia today is now on display at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.

The Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2015 features the work of the 47 finalists who were selected for their exceptional skills, original concepts and techniques and finishes.

The works vary in size, materials, colour and technique and demonstrate the variety of artistic expression possible within the world of textile and fibre art.

The Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2015 is open to the public and will be on display at the gallery until July 26.

Also on display at the gallery is an exhibition of 25 exquisite and finely woven, small-scale landscape tapestries by textile artist Cresside Collette.

The works on display in Gallery 2 celebrate the artist’s decade long journey of refining a method of tapestry weaving inspired by the impressionist tradition of painting outdoors in the open air, or “en plein air”.

The exhibition will be open until June 28 with entry by gold coin donation.

SNOW MUCH FUN: Visitors enjoying a coffee before heading out for some fun in the snow at Mt Hotham.

Visitor numbers soar MORE than triple the amount of snow lovers visited Victoria’s six alpine resorts in the first two weeks of the season.

According to the Alpine Resorts Co-ordinating Council (ARCC) in week one of the season (ending June 7) Falls Creek had 2324 people visit the resort which was 119 per cent more than last year, while week two’s 1436 visitors represented a 169 per cent increase on the same week in 2014.

Falls Creek’s marketing and communications manager Jo Prothero said she was thrilled with the opening week’s results.

“We couldn’t have written the script any better in the lead up to the opening weekend,” she said.

“Falls Creek had 20cm of natural snow on the first day of winter with sub-zero temperatures resulting in a week of snow making.

“Guests were treated to blue skies and skiing from 9am and a free sausage sizzle and entertainment in Slalom Plaza.

You couldn’t wipe the smile off visitors’ faces.”

Early snowfalls also enticed visitors to Mt Hotham with over 2000 people visiting the resort in the opening week of

winter, 71 per cent more than the same week last year.

Mt Hotham’s manager of visitor services and information technology Kevin Raymond said the opening weekend was all about winter friends getting back together.

“It was great to see all the Hotham locals moving in and enjoying themselves,” he said.

“It was also fantastic to see so many first-time Hotham visitors throwing snowballs, riding toboggans and enjoying time with their families.

“With more snow predicted, we are looking forward to the school holidays.”

The impressive visitor statistics have been recorded across all six of Victoria’s resorts and a total of 19,381 people visited the six resorts in week one, which was a 216 per cent increase on 2014 numbers.

The ARCC is a government agency that focuses on the strategic direction and sustainable growth for Victoria’s alpine resorts and compiles weekly visitor statistics through the season on behalf of the resorts.

Anyone wishing to subscribe to the Weekly Visitor Statistics Report can visit www.arcc.gov.au.

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Have more fun at the snow

PAGE 4 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015

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Program continues to grow talent

By JUSTIN JENVEY

EXPERT TIPS: Hotham Snowboarders Inc head coach Jake Hall is committed to developing young snowboarders in all areas of the sport. they visit the mountain, they rode with Hannah Trigger last year and Chumpy Pullin as well.”

The club offers a number of different programs from their main development squads to school holiday and weekend programs with boarders receiving specialised coaching with video analyses, course analyses and goal setting.

The development team consists of 30 days of training and caters for rider’s 12-17 with the program designed to achieve the riders individual goal in snowboarding whether that be in in racing

or freestyle events.

The Grom Squad is also a 30 day program catering for children aged 8-11 and is an opportunity for the kids to have fun, learn new skills and experience competitive snowboarding at the entry level.

Mr Burdekin said the club hopes to expand its reach and provide other training and competition opportunities in the future.

“We are looking at having more individualised programs and will be introducing dry land training programs for the kids this year,” he said.

“We have plans in the

pipeline to have kids compete at more events away from Hotham and hope they will be able to follow events around Victoria and NSW. “And we also want to branch out to local school squads and get them involved in the program.

“There are some talented snowboarders around so we want to try and maximise that talent and build a culture here that provides the best opportunity for kids to become high level athletes in the sport.”

For more information visit www.hothamboarders.com. au.

GREAT SPECTACLE: The Falls Creek Sled Dog Classic is an event that can’t be missed by those on the mountain.

Sled dogs back at Falls Creek

IT’S a spectacular sight hundreds of Huskies pulling sleds through the Falls Creek village under lights and it’s all set to happen again on the last day of July and the first day of August.

The Falls Creek Sled Dog Classic, the only alpine village sled dog race in Australia, returns for its fifth running this year and will see around 50 mushers and their sled dog teams come from around the country to race up and down the ski slopes and through the village streets of Falls Creek.

After many years of planning, Victorian mushers Shaun Butcher and Stewart Cumming managed to convince Falls Creek Resort that

running sled dogs through the village would make for fantastic viewing as well as being a huge tourist drawcard.

And the event hasn’t disappointed with it growing each year to become one of the premier alpine events in Australia due to the support of competitors, spectators and Falls Creek Resort.

The races’ start and finish line will again be located in Slalom Plaza (near Falls Creek Express chair), offering prime viewing and an exciting atmosphere as the dogs race out and return to the village, so make sure you don’t miss any of the action over the weekend of July 31 and August 1.

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

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NOW in its fourth year of existence Hotham Snowboarders Inc (HSi) continues to develop the skills and techniques of talented young snowboarders through the guidance of some of the best coaches around.

The not-for-profit program is fully accredited by Ski and Snowboard Australia (SSA) and offers aspiring snowboarders the opportunity to pursue the sport through the SSA’s development pathways.

The program is designed around the core principle of the sport, having fun, and caters for accomplished boarders between the ages of 8 and 17 who have completed level five (or equivalent) at Ski School and are looking to further develop their skills.

“The biggest thing is we follow the SSA coaching structures so the kids are getting similar training to what the country’s best Olympic athletes get,” HSi president Tom Burdekin said.

“It’s for those kids who have gone past ski school and are looking to go to that next level.

“The main focus is on general rider improvement but we are also here to develop the skills of riders in whatever area they want to compete in whether it be boarder cross, slalom, slopestyle or freestyle riding.

“Kids also have the chance to ride with some of the country’s best snowboarders when

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015 — PAGE 5

Snowfall indicates promising season

By VANESSA BURGESS DESPITE Mother Nature’s refusal to bring the snow, both Mt Hotham and Falls Creek are all systems go with runs open and ready to ride.

An early dump in the season had everyone looking optimistic for another great snow season, but since the initial snow fall, Falls Creek Ski Lifts and Mt Hotham Ski Company’s Anthony O’Shea said snow falls had been a

little on the light side. “We are sure the snow is coming, and while we’ve been waiting we’ve used the great conditions to make tonnes of snow,� he said. “We would of course like to see more natural snow, but we are actually in a better position than we were at the same time last season. “We didn’t get our first good dump until late June last season, and despite minimal natural snow falls, 2015 is the

earliest skiing has started in more than a decade.�

Mr O’Shea said runs were open and firing over the June long weekend and they have continued to remain open, due to the thousands of cubic metres of snow being made at both resorts. “We have been able to keep the product good and keep people skiing and boarding since the season started and have taken advantage of the cold temperatures and

low humidity and made a lot of snow. “We are now in a position that as long as nothing unforeseen happens we are about to open more terrain, especially at Hotham.�

Unlimited snowmaking facilities at Falls Creek have enabled the resort to keep good quality snow on the ground and the improvement of infrastructure at Mt Hotham has also enabled greater snow production.

“Falls Creek is really blessed because of the lake – it gives us unlimited snowmaking capacity, and the beauty of that is when the snow melts it flows back into the lake,� he said. “Mt Hotham have made their own luck and improved infrastructure with greater capacity piping and made more than 3000 cubic metres of snow in a relatively short space of time.�

While snow making facili-

ties enable the resorts to keep the white stuff on the ground, Mr O’Shea said everyone was hoping a cold front would bring some natural snow to the mountains. “There is snow in the forecast and we are holding out hope more cold fronts will come our way and some snow will fall,� he said. “Everyone does love fresh natural snow, so fingers crossed it’s here for the holidays.�

Know your limits in the snow, take note of speed

TECH NEWS: Mt Hotham Falls Creek News advertising manager Julie Luxford and journalist Justin Jenvey show off the digital editions of the paper. 0(/4/ 6ANESSA "URGESS

VICROADS would like to remind all motorists travelling to and around the Alpine areas of the importance of taking extreme care on the road this snow season.

Weather conditions, like heavy snow, fog and ice, will have an impact on the road network and motorists should be vigilant and drive to the changed conditions.

Road users are also reminded about the following changes to speed limits on key roads in the Alpine district that have been implemented since the previous snow season: s 'REAT !LPINE 2OAD &REE burgh - the 100km/h speed zone has been reduced to 80km/h on a 2.7 km section of the road, starting 320 metres north of Farrington Lane.

Seasonal speed limit changes (only apply during the snow season): s "OGONG (IGH 0LAINS 2OAD seasonal speed limit change –

various reduced speed limits apply on the road between Mount "EAUTY AND &ALLS #REEK s 'REAT !LPINE 2OAD %UROBIN seasonal speed limit change the 100km/h speed zone has been reduced to 80km/h.

VicRoads reminds motorists to obey the reduced speed limit for their own safety and the safety of other road users.

Winter and snow season road safety tips: s 4HOROUGHLY CHECK YOUR VEHI cle before leaving home - tyres, battery, brakes, cooling system, engine and windscreen. s 9OUR ENGINE RADIATOR MAY require anti-freeze and add antifreeze to your windscreen washing fluid to prevent it freezing on the windscreen when driving. s )F YOU DRIVE A DIESEL VEHICLE

ensure you use fuel formulated for use in cold conditions -diesel ‘waxes’ at low temperature which blocks the fuel system and may immobilise the vehicle. s #ARRY APPROPRIATE SNOW

chains and fit them to your vehicle if required. s !VOID DRIVING IN HEAVY RAIN

snow and high winds if you don’t have to. Delay your trip if you can. s )F YOU DO HAVE TO DRIVE AL low plenty of time and drive carefully. s ,EAVE YOUR HEADLIGHTS ON n not only do they help you see, they help others see you. s 2OAD CONDITIONS CAN change extremely quickly so be aware of the road and its surroundings. s !LLOW PLENTY OF SPACE BE tween you and the vehicle in front of you – sometimes drivers can brake suddenly and in wet and icy conditions you will take longer to come to a stop.

More information on snow alerts and road closures can be obtained from local radio reports, VicRoads website at www.vicroads.vic.gov.au, VicTraffic App and VicRoads Facebook and Twitter pages.

Keep up to date with ENJOY OUR OPEN FIRE. Mt Hotham Falls Creek News digital editions CHEESE

Call in on your way past to or from the slopes for a meal or our gourmet produce. ✔ Award Winning Cheeses ✔ Breakfast and Lunch Menus ✔ Traditional Artisan Bread ✔ Regional Preserves JOIN US FOR THE ANNUAL

fully integrated with social media which enables readers to quickly and easily share content through popular social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter.�

A key benefit for advertisers and readers is that advertisements are linked directly back to an advertiser’s website which enables readers to get further information and complete transactions.

To get started either visit nemedia.newspaperdirect. com or search for the North East Media at the Apple, 'OOGLE 0LAY OR 7INDOWS App Stores.

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ward Higgins said that technology advances have meant Mt Hotham Falls Creek News is more accessible than it ever has been before. “Digital editions are already proving popular with readers who are keen to keep up to date with all the latest news on Mt Hotham or Falls Creek but who are not always able to pick up a physical copy of the newspaper,� Edward said. “Registered readers receive email alerts every time a new edition comes out which ensures they never miss a thing. “The digital editions are

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NORTH East Media, publisher of the Mt Hotham Falls Creek News, last year launched digital editions and apps access to Mt Hotham Falls Creek News.

It also includes its sister SNOW TITLES OF -T "ULLER News and Alpine News.

This free service enables readers to access full-content editions in a format they are familiar with – on their smartphone, tablet or desktop device.

Once downloaded, the publications can then be read anywhere, anytime, even if you are offline.

North East Media CEO Ed-

PAGE 6 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015

www.nemedia.com.au

$5 million projects completed

By VANESSA BURGESS

Are you ready for the snow season? hospitality equipment

Do you need any items for your bar, kitchen or dining room delivered to Falls Creek, Hotham or Dinner Plain?

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At High Country Motor Inn we have 32 spacious and wellappointed units to suit your needs.

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Greg Golding from Caterworld travels to the mountains regularly and can bring any items you may need including glassware, crockery, cutlery, kitchen, refrigeration, ware washing equipment and kitchen sundries.

THE Falls Creek Resort Management Board (FCRMB) has continued to improve resort infrastructure, with $5 million worth of capital projects completed.

FCRMB CEO Stuart Smythe said the resort had been busy over the green season and in the lead up to winter, with new dual use signs installed among many other projects.

The dual use signage is an innovative design and is considered state-of-the-art with inter-

changeable panels that cater for the green and snow seasons.

The project team consisted of FCRMB personnel, production specialist Screenmakers and the team from Nature Tourism Services.

Some of the signs were installed just before the opening weekend of the season and have been positioned well above the snow line in winter.

“We have new signage within the resort and the operations team have been busy getting them organised,” Mr Smythe said.

“With the changing seasons we needed signs that didn’t have to be screwed off and new ones screwed on, so the concept of dual signage came up.

“When the green season comes, we simply have to tilt the signs and then when winter comes we can just tilt them back again.”

Along with the dual signage project, Mr Smythe said the resort had made a large investment into the mountain bike trails within the resort.

“We have created many new mountain bike trails and

have also invested in new cars, equipment and all up we’ve spent around $5 million on capital projects within the resort,” he said.

With winter well under way, Mr Smythe said the resort was in full swing and snow makers had been busy.

“The runs are open and full of snow and all guns are blazing,” he said.

“We are definitely hoping for a good season and if we could get two metres or more of natural snow on the ground, it would be fantastic.”

GREAT VIEWS: Mt Hotham Alpine Resort has recently unveiled a Roundshot camera, the first at a snow resort in Australia. The state-ofthe-art, 360-degree camera is situated on the top of the Skiers Bridge on Road Runner and captures views of the Village, Mt Hotham Summit, Heavenly Valley and across to Mt Feathertop and Golden Point. It takes a high-resolution image every 30 minutes so you can view realtime conditions throughout the day. You can also see archival images, create a custom timelapse, share with your friends on Facebook or download a panorama for endless day dreaming.

You can find the Roundshot camera in the Snow Cams page www.mthotham.com.au or at Hotham Roundshot website www.mthotham.roundshot. com.

Ask us about our great snow season deals

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TWO of the world’s best biathlon coaches will head to Mt Hotham this winter for a number of training camps with national and international biathletes.

Sweden’s Kari Korpela, an experienced World Cup level competitor, coach and member of the International Biathlon Union’s (IBU) prestigious technical committee will be at Hotham along with 2015 IBU Youth/Junior World Championships coach Luca Bormolini of Italy.

Korpela will be in charge of the first-ever IBU-IOC Oceania Region Camp from July 3-12, which Australian Biathlon (AB) was awarded the right to hold following the 2014 visit to Mt Hotham by Ubaldo Prucker the former vice-president of development for IBU. The purpose of the camp is to develop athletes from the Oceania Region aged 15-23 as well as Oceania Region coaches which AB sees as a vital part of the long term development of the sport in Australia.

In total there will be four coaches along with 11 athletes, seven from Australia, three from New Zealand and one from Sweden.

Bormolini will be here for seven weeks and will lead the largest contingent of international biathletes and coaches in the country for many years.

He will guide athletes from Canada, Italy, Russia, Sweden and Switzerland who are keen to participate in the Australian winter during the European offseason ahead of the Winter Youth Olympic Games in Lillehammer next year.

The Australian athletes will also continue their relationship with Bormolini, a number of local biathletes have trained with him in Livigno over the past few years and will now get the opportunity to do so here.

Along with the camps, Hotham will host the Victorian Biathlon Championships on July 25-26, and the Australian Biathlon Championships on August 15.

www.nemedia.com.au

MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015 — PAGE 7

Plenty of action this snow season LAST year’s epic snow season saw Mt Hotham welcome thousands of skiers and boarders to the resort and this year there’s plenty of action to be had on the mountain.

Visitors in 2014, were a combination of those trying snow sports for the first time and then there were those who were looking to enhance their skills on some of the mountains

more challenging terrain.

This year Hotham will be challenging even more skiers and boarders to reach their personal peak, including Australia’s Best Boarder Course, where thrill seekers can test their skills on the same stage as world class skiers and boarders.

Only 20 per cent of Hotham is considered to be suitable for beginners, 40 per cent suitable for intermediate

levels and 40 per cent suitable for advanced skiers and boarders, and to help make the terrain more accessible, Mt Hotham has a world-class Snowsports Centre, which caters for beginners to experts across all age groups.

Those who are just learning to ski or board can take advantage of Hotham’s easy walk-on slopes for both adults and children on the Summit and Big D Kids Snow

Zone, which will ensure beginners feel completely comfortable on their first trip on the mountain.

Mt Hotham will be holding a Learn to Ski and Snowboard Week, September 12 – 18, which has a program of specially crafted events which will allow skiers and snowboarders to connect with others who are new to the snow.

More advanced skiers and

boarders can take advantage of the snow school’s new master class program, which will allow even the most advanced skiers and boarders to get outside their comfort zones and perfect their skills.

Avid snowboarders will love the all-new Shred Like a Local master class, which are advanced sessions that crank up boarders’ riding style and show off some local secrets guided by experienced snow-

board coaches.

Hotham’s much-loved Women’s Week program will make a return this season, with both three and five-day ski and snowboard options available for like-minded ladies to enhance their skills led by world-class female instructors.

For more information visit www.mthotham.com.au and www.hothamholidays.com. au.

Don’t pay a fortune to eat out while staying on the mountain, pick up authentic Italian take home meals from Lupo’s Kiln Café on the way!

Just 3km’s out of Myrtleford on the right, experience the all new Lupo’s Kiln Café.

We have sensational eat in and take home options: s (OME MADE FRESH PASTAS s ,ASAGNE s !UTHENTIC )TALIAN SAUCES s (OMEMADE 'NOCCHI & Ravioli s !NTIPASTI PLATTERS s (OMEMADE CAKES GOODIES

Forces put to the test

MT Hotham will host 80 defence force members when they take part in the longest and largest gathering of biathlon participants in Australia in August.

Exercise Coolshot will see soldiers, sailors and flyers leave their homes around Australia, and in some cases overseas to undertake an intensive fortnight of training and competition in Nordic Sport.

The training will take place around Whiskey Flat at Mt Hotham, the only biathlon range in Australia.

The three services battle it out to see who will be the 2015 hotshots, and this year the Navy team will be out in force to defend their 2014 title, and in fact try for the trifecta, having won the competition in 2013.

A number of biathlon members will also attend

Exercise Coolshot to support the extremely successful exercise, especially in the vital tasks of coaching and officiating.

The Australian Defence Force’s Nordic and Biathlon Association (ADFNBA) has 240 members and is a vital supporter of the sport of biathlon in Australia.

Since the sport of biathlon started in Australia in the 1970s, many Defence Force

members have represented Australia internationally at World Cup and IBU Cup events.

There are several recent Masters Gold Medallists among its membership, and ADFNBA participants regularly attend training and competition overseas, with British Championships at Ruhpolding, GER being a key and very popular competition.

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The experts in safe reliable COACH CHARTER to the Victorian Snowfields

PAGE 8 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015

www.nemedia.com.au

Don’t forget about sun protection VISITORS to alpine resorts are being encouraged to use sun protection on the slopes this winter.

SunSmart and the Bureau of Meteorology have teamed up to remind snow enthusiasts to slip, slop, slap while on the mountains. “Most people think of packing sunscreen, hats and sunglasses when they’re planning a trip to the beach, but it’s not always top of mind when

they’re headed to Victoria’s snowfields,� SunSmart manager Sue Heward said. “It’s easy to be fooled by the snowy chill, as you can’t see or feel ultraviolet (UV) radiation. “However, UV levels are extreme at the snow and will damage your skin and eyes if they are not properly protected.�

Bureau of Meteorology senior forecaster Terry Ryan said fresh snowfalls meant Victorians would be vulnerable to a

double dose of UV radiation. “The higher in elevation you go, the higher the UV levels,� he said. “Add to that the UV rays that are reflected off the snow and you can see why visitors and locals in alpine regions are at a high risk of sun damage. “When you check the forecast for your snow trip, don’t just look at the temperature. “Check the sun protection times, as well as visibility and

snowfall. “These forecasts will help you be as prepared as possible to have a safe and fun day out.�

Snow visitors can avoid snow burn by using a combination of steps: s 3LIP ON CLOTHING THAT COV ers as much skin as possible – jackets with collars, scarves and gloves. s 3LOP ON 30& OR HIGHER

broad-spectrum, water-resist-

ant sunscreen and lipbalm; s 3LAP ON A BEANIE WITH ear flaps or ski helmet that protects your face, neck and ears; s 3LIDE ON GOGGLES OR SUN glasses with protection – look for a tag marked with the Australian Standard AS/ .:3 Ms Heward said people who are heading out for a full day in the snow should take sunSCREEN AND 30& LIP BALM ALONG

with them. “You can top up your sunscreen application every two hours.

Better still, hit the slopes early in the morning or late in the afternoon – you’ll avoid lift queues, as well as the middle part of the day when UV levels peak,� she said. &OR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT sun protection and UV levels at the snow visit www.sunsmart. com.au.

Join the best ski club on Mt Hotham

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Event aims to boost numbers 4(% ANNUAL &AST AND &EMALE EVENT IS SET TO RETURN TO &ALLS Creek this weekend.

0ROMOTING FUN FITNESS AND girl power on the snow the event is led by Australia’s best female cross country skiers.

Taking place on Sunday, July

&AST AND &EMALE IS AIMED AT girls aged between eight and 19, but there’s also a special over 19 group for ladies who want to improve their skiing AND BE PART OF THE @0INK ON 0ISTE EXPERIENCE &AST AND &EMALE AMBASSA dors including three-time Winter Olympian Esther Bottomley and Sochi team-mate Aimee Watson, will teach a range of ski skills through dynamic and engaging sports based events.

Structured around skillbased stations, the program includes development of confidence in downhill techniques, laser biathlon, going fast and having fun on skis. &AST AND &EMALE AMBASSA dor Esther Bottomley said she was thrilled to give back to a

sport that has been good to her and wants to share her experiences with young girls in the hopes it will inspire them. h"EING A &AST AND &EMALE Ambassador is my chance to put back into a sport that has given me so much,� she said. “I have been very fortunate to have skiing as a large part of my life. h&OR YEARS SKI RACING AND training has taken me all over the world; to Europe, USA, Canada, Russia, Japan, China and New Zealand and I have competed in three Winter Olympics and six World Championships. “By helping to deliver these inspiring events and share my cross country ski story, my aim is to help young female skiers improve their athletic skills and motivate them to keep engaged in the sport, through their teenage years.�

Ms Bottomley said she felt it was important to offer females plenty of fun and social outlets within the sporting context.

“Cross country skiing has been so much more to me than just a sport – it has been my extended family, my community and my life,� she said. &AST AND &EMALE WAS FOUND ED IN BY #ANADIAN /LYM pic cross country skier, Chandra Crawford and her team mates in the hopes to increase the retention of girls in sport. &OLLOWING THE SUCCESS OF THE organisation in Canada, the United States and the inaugural !USTRALIAN EVENT IN &AST AND &EMALE !USTRALIA )NC WAS SET UP IN 4HE &AST AND &EMALE RUNS FROM AM n PM ON Sunday, July 5 and the event COSTS FOR GIRLS FOR plus early bird registration, or GIRLS PLUS ON THE day.

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GIRL POWER: The 2014 Fast and Female event was a huge success and organisers are hoping young girls and women will sign up for some snow sport fun at this year’s event.

MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015 — PAGE 9

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www.nemedia.com.au

PAGE 10 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015

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www.nemedia.com.au

MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015 — PAGE 11

Easier & Safer way to Stay Dry the number 1 waterproofing & aftercare products in Australia ACTION PACKED FUN: The team of Siberian Huskies are looking forward to taking you on a great adventure on the back trails at Mt Hotham this season.

Ready for competition THERE’S been a new addition to Mt Hotham this season of the four-legged variety which is sure to put a smile on your dial.

Mt Hotham has launched a Share the Snow campaign in a bid to alert skiers they will be sharing the snow with a team of Siberian Huskies.

Howling Husky Sled Dog Tours (HHSDT) is the new dogsled company operating full time on the mountain this season and they will be offering three different types of tours.

With a combined experience of 16 years in Australia and overseas, HHSDT owners Jake

Greaves and Kyla Seipp have been operating for six years at various Australian alpine resorts and have decided to permanently expand to Mt Hotham.

HHSDT have 38 Siberian Huskies on their team, 29 of which have been rescued or rehomed.

They will be operating five days a week from Thursday to Monday, and all tours venture onto the back country trails of Mt Hotham.

Nine dogs will be ready to take you on one of three different tours available including the Stumpy Tailed Trail which lasts one-and-a-half hours, Possum

Path and Polar Paws Express which is 45 minutes of fun.

Ms Seipp said the team at Howling Husky can still run tours even if there’s no snow, as they have the option of using wheels.

“The dogs love to run regardless of the weather and so do we,” she said.

Both Ms Seipp and Mr Greaves have a deep affinity with Mt Hotham and being able to call Wire Plain home means their dogs have a great place to retire.

“With our dogs, once they become part of the pack they stay with us forever,” Mr

Greaves said.

“We do not put our retired dogs through that abandonment of being rehomed after their working life.

“Running at Hotham means our retired dogs get to stay home in the husky haven we have created for them, live their days out of the snow and in warm beds which is much better for their aging bodies.

“This also means we get to sleep in our own beds each night and since the announcement of Hotham we have expanded our family and rescued two goats, one miniature pony and a few beautiful hens.”

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PAGE 12 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015

www.nemedia.com.au

Remember: check your ski bindings SKI bindings need to be checked with your boots at least once or twice a season.

As we all know bindings don’t always release when you fall particularly when it’s at slower speeds.

There are several adjustments that should be checked Skiers and snowboarders alike need to check their bindings from time to time.

Ski bindings are subject to heaps of vibrations and as such you can find that some of the boot to binding adjustments can go out of whack, causing your bindings to either release prematurely or even not at when they should.

The din / release setting can move.

If you’ve changed boot length or your weight has varied since the last time you used your skis means it’s time to have your bindings checked and adjusted by a qualified ski tech.

The mounting screws of snowboard bindings can work loose too.

This can cause your bindings to move on your board when you least want it to.

There are so many other screws and nuts that can come loose.

The worst thing that can happen is a component failure while riding and you end up walking.

So check all those screws.

A great idea is to carry one of many pocket binding tools.

How long should ski bindings last?

In theory they should last for years and years but the binding manufacturers suggest that to useful life is from 8 to 10 years.

In fact every year they produce a list of bindings that they recommend can still be used safely and that technicians are permitted to adjust.

I don’t know how often I’ve had to suggest to a client who has pulled some older skis out of the storage cupboard to rent skis rather than use some bindings.

Snowboard bindings don’t have the safety issues as do ski bindings but the plastics they are made of do deteriorate due to UV exposure over time.

If there are signs of the plastic cracking or the surface goes powdery it’s time to replace them before they break entirely.

Happy riding.

Peter Haley, Bumps Snow Surf Skate.

IN FULL SWING: Snow making has been non-stop at Falls Creek (pictured) and Mt Hotham since early June and despite the lack of natural snow, runs are open with around 30cm of snow at both resorts. Hopes are high Mother Nature will come to the party and deliver some fluffy snow soon.

PHOTO: Chris Hocking

5 RANGERS MOUNT HOTHAM

$725,000

The Ultimate 4 Bed Snow Home Inc Double Garage Imagine: You check the snow cams & ITS DUMPING!!. So you load up for the road trip to Mount Hotham. On arrival you drive straight into your garage ,no ordinary garage, a Double garage ! no searching for a car park, lugging your gear through the snow or digging out your car ever again!

The Rangers Apts are the ultimate family sized homes at Mt Hotham, extremely sought after and rarely on the market.

Spread over 3 floors with an enormous entertaining area, open plan kitchen with quality appliances, dining area, balcony large enough for a BBQ with spectacular views across the ski fields, 4 bed & 4 bathrooms, Large drying room, various owner storage areas and all this without mentioning an enviable double garage with remote electric door, accessed via indoor stairs & a heated driveway.

These large homes can comfortably sleep up to 16 people and would suit a large family,

several families or even a group.

Location, well it just gets better, your just off the Great Alpine Road, adjacent to the bus stop at Jack Frost, there is a ski run immediately opposite, and at the rear you walk out of your door into the picturesque

Davenport village area, surrounded by Snowgums and the perfect place for the little ones to play safely.

This property is not currently in the rental pool and details of outgoings are available upon request.

j/51d02479/27-15

Robin Ford Ph 0430 749 701 www.zirkyrealestate.com.au

www.nemedia.com.au

MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015 — PAGE 13

Improvements on agenda at DPAC meeting

HOPEFUL FOR SNOW: Adventure Guides Australia’s David Chitty is looking forward to another snow dump at Mt Buffalo and is hopeful the season is as good as last year’s.

Plenty of holiday fun at Buffalo

DESPITE there currently being no snow on Mt Buffalo, Adventure Guides Australia and Mt Buffalo Ski School operator David Chitty said there’s still lots to do on the mountain these school holidays.

According to Mr Chitty, Mother Nature should provide some fluffy white stuff in time for the second week of the holidays. “The weather forecast looks like we should get a good dump

/$&+(1 %52&.2)) MT HOTHAM

for the second week of the Victorian school holidays, and when that arrives there will be lots of fun to be had,� he said. “Once the snow hits the ground there will be tobogganing, snowshoeing and cross country tours on the mountain, but until then we are still encouraging families to head up to Mt Buffalo and enjoy what the mountain offers. “There are some amazing bushwalks, waterfalls and the views

$625,000

are spectacular and well worth the drive.�

Mr Chitty said Adventure Guides Australia will be running abseiling and crevassing tours until the snow falls and Dingo Dell CafĂŠ is open for business.

Anyone heading up to Mt Buffalo is encouraged to check the Mt Buffalo Ski School Facebook page, or Parks Victoria website to see if chains need to be carried, or call David on 0419 280 614 or James on 0439 680 917.

Gross Income $42,800

THE Dinner Plain Advisory Committee (DPAC) met with Alpine Shire councillors to discuss recent infrastructure improvements and future development planning for the Dinner Plain village late last month.

In a further strengthening of relations between council and the Dinner Plain community, DPAC chairperson Leona Turra acknowledged the enormous effort that had gone into the development of the Snow Park facility and improvements for the Cobungra Platter ski run in the form of tubing, snow making, and lighting for night skiing and tubing.

Ms Turra referred to the close working relationship between council and the community as a major driver behind the success of the improvements and thanked councillors for their support.

The improvements are to be funded by state and federal government funding programs, a partnership funding arrangement with Mt Hotham Skiing Company, and Dinner Plain ratepayers.

Councillors showed a real interest in Dinner Plain despite it being the furthest outpost of the Alpine Shire region with questions asked about what was next for Dinner Plain.

Ms Turra highlighted the importance that marketing will now play

9(5$1'(5,1* DINNER PLAIN

in promoting the additions to the village for winter season tourists in particular but also stated that a renewed focus on Dinner Plain as a summer destination for nature loving visitors will form an important part of the region’s marketing strategy due to be finalised in the coming weeks.

Alpine Shire Mayor Jan Vonarx echoed the importance of a good working relationship between the council and all Alpine Shire communities and thanked the DPAC group for their dedication to the further development of the village and surrounding region.

Cr Vonarx stated that councillors were very interested in visiting Dinner Plain during the winter season to see the village in full swing and suggested councillors would like to attend the next DPAC meeting in August.

The Dinner Plain Advisory Committee is made up of village business and property owners as well as representatives from stakeholders Hotham Skiing Company, the Alpine School and the Chamber of Commerce.

Meetings are held at least quarterly and future planning and strategic direction recommendations are forwarded to council.

$465,000

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Robin Ford Ph 0430 749 701 www.zirkyrealestate.com.au

j/51d02371-v2/27-15

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PAGE 14 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015

www.nemedia.com.au

Plenty of fun for kids at the snow during holidays DINNER Plain has lots of fun things to do with the kids during the winter school holidays.

The addition of the Snow Tubing facility provides families with non-stop amusement.

Those with strong stomachs can launch themselves down one of two tubing lanes and the tow will pull all the tubes back up to the top again.

The tube lanes are elevated to an easy gradient which gathers speed for a fun ride to the bottom.

Children aged five years and up can ride the tube unaccompanied, and smaller youngsters can have fun riding with an adult.

The Snow Tubing is open daily during winter and on Wednesday and Saturday evenings under lights.

Cross country skiing is also available at Dinner Plain and Mt Hotham and with a 35km network of regularly groomed trails the possibilities of exploration are huge.

Private cross country skiing lessons are available and anyone wanting more information can contact Hotham Snowsports Centre on 5759 4450.

A designated toboggan area at Dinner Plain provides a safe environment for the kids and adults to let their hair down and enjoy a slide down the hill.

The toboggan area is located next to the Cobungra Platter Lift and tobogganers are asked to obey all signage when tobogganing, as it can be dangerous.

Toboggans are available for hire at Pinnacle DP in Big Muster Drive.

The new snow play area in Dinner Plain offers smaller children, or kids wanting a time-out from major activities the chance to enjoy the snow in a calm environment.

The snow play area is located at Scrubbers End near the Cobungra Platter and is open daily during the winter season.

For more information visit www.visitdinnerplain.com.au.

WINTER RACING: Huskies and sleds will return to Dinner Plain for the annual Sled Dog Challenge this August.

Dog challenge back

k/15d12749/26-15

Dinner Plain

Australia’s Cheapest Family Lift Pass Family Lift Pass: 2 Adults + 2 Kids just $99

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THE Altitude 5000 Dinner Plain Sled Dog Challenge is back again this August and is set to be held over the weekend of the 8th and 9th.

Now in its 22nd year the event is Australia’s original and most prestigious sled dog race and will once again see upwards of 70 teams and more than 350 dogs battling for victory across the five main classes, in the two dog, three dog, four dog, six dog and eight dog sled events.

There will also be three touring classes for the less competitive and the skijoring class for those who don’t have a sled but want to be pulled around on their skis instead.

Dinner Plain Sled Dog Challenge trail boss Rob Stevens said there will again be entrants from all around Australia.

“We get competitors coming from all over the country, most are from Victoria and NSW, a few from South Australia and Queensland but our biggest contingent is probably from Perth,” he said.

“We have about 10 teams come from over there (Perth) each year and they all make a worthwhile go of it.

“There is a team of girls that have been coming over for the last six years, they travel over the Nullarbor and do the Falls Creek race first then Dinner Plain and

then head to Canberra.

“It’s a great weekend - if you want to see 400 huskies all in the one place it’s a great opportunity to come and have a look and if you do make sure you bring a camera.”

At this year’s event Mr Stevens said organisers hope to hold an enduro run on the Sunday afternoon with the hope of holding it permanently in the future.

“The enduro race will take competitors out the back of Dinner Plain, it won’t be on groomed trails and it will be very hilly but if we get a few having a go at that we might try and have it as a full event next year,” he said.

FALLS CREEK

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LIFT ONLY LIFT & FIRST TIME LESSON+ Weekend* Midweek Weekend* Monday

Visit Jerry’s Stall in the Slalom Plaza Hot Goulash soup, best gluhwine, Czech style sirloin roast and real hot chocolate.

The Stall is open from 11am till 4.30pm and during night skiing

www.www.fallscreekkarelia.com.au bookings: 1800 25 35 45 email: reservations@fallscreekkarelia.com.au

Learn to ski or snowboard on Dinner Plain’s beginner run and experience Victoria’s most aff ordable lift pass!

Just 10km down the Great Alpine Road from Hotham, there is no resort entry required, making it even cheaper to go skiing.

See Hotham Sports @ Dinner Plain for all lift passes, first time ski lessons & hire. For bookings & enquiries call 03 5159 6450.

Dinner Plain lift & ski lesson

HOT BOHEMIAN FOOD IN FALLS CREEK

www.nemedia.com.au

MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015 — PAGE 15

!"

RARE OPPORTUNITY - ZIRKY’S 10% DEPOSIT AND MOVE IN STRAIGHT AWAY SETTLE IN 6 MONTHS THE VIEW FROM APARTMENT

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1

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LEE ROUKE

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PAGE 16 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — July 2015

www.nemedia.com.au

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1800 335 724 reservations@mogulski.com.au mogulski.com.au IATA Accredited *conditions apply please contact Mogul Ski World for all details