Australian Alpine News

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MT BULLER MAKES EARLY SNOW

MT BAW BAW NEW SNOW FACTORY

PYEONGCHANG 2018 WINTER OLYMPICS

+ $26M DAVENPORT CENTRAL DEVELOPMENT FOR HOTHAM + FALLS CREEK NEW EAGLE LIFT

PLUS:

+ 2018 SNOW AWARDS + MT BULLER SNOW GURANTEE + INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

| SNOW CALENDAR | TEN REASONS TO VISIT THE SNOW | SNOW ON A BUDGET

Sign up for digital editions at Alpine nemedia.pressreader.com News Winter Planner - 2018 - 1

MOUNT HOTHAM’S VIBRANT NEW DEVELOPMENT

Victoria’s iconic Mount Hotham snowfields will be opened up for wider year-round use, with a $26 million development.

The new development, Davenport Central, will be undertaken

by Mider, a Melbourne based development group owned by Mr. Anton Wilson in a joint venture with Davenport Central Pty Ltd representing Asgaard Ski Club Inc. The project will replace and dramatically expand the 42-year-old Asgaard Ski Lodge, built by a group of University of Melbourne students. With the 40-bed building in need of repair, lodge members decided 8 years ago to replace it with an extended, commercialized development, set to broaden the mountain’s appeal.

The 6-level structure will feature 80 undercover car parks as well as restaurants, bars and retail outlets all with sweeping Alpine views, as well as accommodation for mountain staff, tourists and lodge members.

A feature of the development will be four dedicated all-access apartments which will cater for disabled visitors, who are a key target in expanding the visitor market, through winter and summer.

Four penthouses will add a luxury accommodation option along with 6 two bedroom apartments.

Around 80 jobs will be created during the construction phase.

“This will add a great deal of momentum for builders in the state’s north-east region” Mr Wilson explained.

Work begins in October and will be done in between snow-seasons, with completion in May 2020.

Mider and Davenport Central Directors available for interview.

– Anton Wilson 0408 999 011 – Ron Mason 0412 172 593 – Peter Malone 0438 428 368

The project has a 75-year Crown lease, as well as the highest bushfire rating BAL40.

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 2

Contents COVER PHOTO: Enjoying making snow angles in fresh snow at Mt Buller. Photo courtesy of Mt Buller / Andrew Railton

Page 11

Page 12

Page 14

Page 19

Page 20

Page 24 -31

PUBLISHER Hartley Higgins North East Media Pty Ltd, ACN 006 238 277 EDITOR Steve Cuff ADVERTISING MANAGER Steve Cuff Ph 0418 620 651 alpinenews@nemedia.com.au DESIGN NEM Creative Service Department NORTH EAST MEDIA Suite 2262, 442 Auburn Rd Hawthorn VIC 3122 Ph: 03 9810 3262 www.nemedia.com.au No material, artwork or photos may be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher. Alpine News takes care in compiling content but cannot accept responsibility for any errors.

NEXT EDITION The 2018 2nd Winter Edition is currently in production and will be on the stands from mid July. Ad booking deadline is May 23. If you would like to advertise and reach up to 25,000 people per edition contact Steve Cuff now on 0418 620 651.

Inside PAGE 5 Davenport Central is a huge $26 million development at Hotham

PAGE 12 Mount Baw Baw purchase new snow factory for 2018 season

PAGE 7 Falls Creek will unveil their new $9 million Eagle Express chairlift

PAGE 19 Dinner Plain to celebrate 25th anniversary for Sled Dog race

PAGES 9-11 Mt Buller introduce SNOWsat along with their snow guarantee

PAGES 24-27 Australians win medals at 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeonchang

Our Say Welcome to a refreshed looking Alpine News for 2018 and one we plan to continue to grow for the Victorian Snowsports and alpine resorts with new editor Steve Cuff at the helm.

It’s been a busy competition year with Australia’s Winter Olympics athletes achieving great results. Steve Cuff travelled to PyeongChang and covered our Olympic team up close and personal. His coverage and photos are featured in this edition.

It’s also been a busy off season with Falls Creek constructing their new Eagle Express chairlift and Mt Baw Baw receiving a new snow factory.

Hotham has a great new $26 million

development, Davenport Central and Mt Buller continues to offer their guests a snow guarantee.

Along with these developments we cover the latest news and a plethora of other interesting stories on the sport, and Victoria’s exciting winter alpine experiences.

Over summer the Victorian Government announced changes in resorts management and board structures with its aims of ‘improving efficiency and transparency’.

Victoria’s Alpine Resorts’ State Gross Product contributes an estimated $911 million to regional communities,

including 7900 jobs in Winter and 1200 jobs over Summer.

However the VSA representing ratepayers, remains concerned about the ‘constant financial drain on ski clubs and resort ratepayers’ and will no doubt maintain its campaign for more equitable rates and service charges.

In March the minister announced three new board members at each major resort, and a panel of four board members who will be common to the resorts. We cover these changes in more detail and the new board members appointed.

Enjoy the read and season ahead.

Hartley Higgins - Publisher

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 3

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The Mount Buffalo chalet. Photo Adam Kerry/Parks Victoria.

Feasibility study for Mt Buffalo THE VICTORIAN State Government is bankrolling a $185,000 feasibility study on Mount Buffalo, with Alpine Shire Council awarding Pricewaterhouse Coopers the contract to undertake the Mount Buffalo Business Case Assessment and Activation project.

The study will commence soon to investigate community driven tourism concepts to re-invigorate Mount Buffalo and its iconic 108 year old chalet which has been closed since 2007.

Mount Buffalo Destination Advisory Group have a ‘Vision for Mount Buffalo’ to revive and restore the chalet and reopen it for accommodation and as a day lodge facility, along with other attractions to generate more economic growth through tourism.

Under the plan, 90 to 95 per cent of the chalet complex footprint would be retained and

reactivated and a proposed redevelopment of the chalet’s south wing to include “high end suites”. The chalet’s A and B blocks would be transformed into the “Mount Buffalo Hostel”, with economical accommodation aimed at school and other groups.

Other concepts include a glass-bottomed “sky-walk” above the Mount Buffalo Gorge - similar to the Grand Canyon Skywalk in the United States and a new 47-room Mount Buffalo Spa Hotel near the chalet.

The creation of a “Mount Buffalo Village” behind the chalet with a bar and function centre, retail outlets, a performance stage and an ice and roller skating rink are also ideas.

A mountain gateway with visitor information centre and virtual reality cinema, day lodge, café and an outdoor and environmental training centre would see the area revamped as a nature-based activities region.

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Alpine resort tourism is a major driver of the regional economy.

Photo Steve Cuff

Board appointments follows new governance model THE Victorian Government has announced new appointments to the Falls Creek, Mt Hotham and Mt Buller Alpine Resorts Management Resorts Boards following its decision late last year to implement a new alpine resorts governance model.

It has restructured the Northern Alpine Resorts Management Boards (ARB’s) which will comprise three new unique new members, while four common members will be appointed to each of the boards.

In welcoming the long-awaited announcements, John Aird President of the Victorian Snowsports Association (VSA) said the restructure would allow the ARB’s to establish some certainty for the future.

“However, it is important to note that this is just the first step in creating a stable and productive environment for Alpine Resort stakeholders”, he said.

“We are pleased to see that both “ties to the local alpine communities and stakeholder engagement” are now highlighted as desirable skills for representation on Alpine Resort Management Boards in future”.

“It is essential going forward that there is effective and functional consultation with all stakeholders”.

The Alpine Resorts’ State Gross Product contribution to Victoria’s regional communities is estimated at $911 million with 7900 jobs in Winter and 1200 jobs over Summer.

Mr. Arid said plans must utilise the strengths of regional communities to better focus on regional economic and employment opportunities.

“There is a constant financial drain on our members due to government directives to fund community service obligations beyond the normal operations of the resorts,” he said.

“These extra costs have eroded the

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 4

Victorian resorts’ competitiveness, driving many visitors to use better value overseas resorts or other alternative leisure activities.”

The VSA has expressed concerns with DELWP’s role in resort management and considers that there is scope for greater involvement by local government and Tourism Victoria.

Victorian Snowsports Association (VSA) comprises members from the Mt. Buller Ratepayers Association, Mt. Hotham Ski Association, Mt Baw Baw Stakeholders Association and the Falls Creek Alpine Association, together representing over 24,000 individuals, 200 clubs, apartment owners and commercial lessees.

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Victorian Snowsports Association (VSA) President John Aird.

NEW BOARDS FALLS CREEK BOARD

MT BULLER & MT STIRLING BOARD

Jo Shannon (Chair) Lindy Allen (Deputy Chair) Jason Alexandra

Jacqui Jennings (Chair) Richard Leder (Deputy Chair) Michael Monester

MT HOTHAM BOARD Maxine Morand (Chair) Andrew Skewes (Deputy Chair) Anthea Packer

BOARD MEMBER ALL 3 BOARDS Michelle Coughan Susan Lebish Helen Moran Peter Valerio

MT HOTHAM

$26M Davenport Central development MOUNT HOTHAM will see a brand new $26 million ‘Davenport Central’ development start at season’s end, when Asgaard Ski Lodge is knocked down and replaced with the new six level structure.

The new 7200 square metre building will span two blocks of land, Asgaard and Tantani. Located near the General Store it will feature restaurants and bars, conference facilities, ski hire, potential supermarket and accommodation for mountain staff, tourists and lodge members.

Announced in March by Danielle Green, Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, Major Events and Regional Victoria, the new investment is a show of confidence in not only the winter snow season, but for year-round tourism in Victoria’s High Country.

Asgaard Ski Club treasurer Peter Malone said, “It will be open 365 days a year, it’ll promote more business and change the face of the mountain consistent with the master plan.”

The 42 year old ski club was originally built by a group of University of Melbourne chemical

HOW SNOW CHAINS GRIP

In order for wheel chains to work effectively, and to provide the maximum amount of traction and braking, chains must penetrate into a compacted snow on the road surface.

Wheel lock up can occur when the snow chains are used on a ‘black road’. This occurs when the icy surface begins to break up or melts and the vehicle can slide on the wheel chains under hard braking.

Please refer to the snow chain section of your vehicle owner’s manual for further explanation.

Wheel chains fitted to summer tyres on the front wheels will increase traction for take off, for driving and for braking but cannot assist with vehicle’s lateral stability.

Because of the inadequate grip of summer tyres on the rear the vehicle it will oversteer and when braking the ABS system can be activated, further increasing the stopping distance.

The problems are always worse when driving downhill than uphill.

Wheel chains fitted to summer tyres on the rear wheels will increase traction for take off and driving but cannot assist with steering, braking or lateral stability.

Because of inadequate grip of summer tyres on the front of the vehicle it will not ‘turn in’ and will understeer.

When braking the ABS system can be activated, further increasing the stopping distance.

Again, the problems are always worse when driving downhill than uphill.

engineering students in the early seventies.

The current 40 bed building is now beyond its life and the 69 club members decided eight years ago to expand the new premises. They will now look forward to a brand-new club lodge once the project is completed.

“This is the biggest development on the mountain in 20 years,” club member Ron Mason said.

“It’ll be the biggest single private development ever at Mount Hotham.”

The accommodation will consist of six twobedroom apartments plus feature four 125 square metre penthouses which are expected to sell for in excess of $800,000 each.

Four dedicated all-access apartments will be purpose built for disabled visitors where they can drive straight in from the Great Alpine Road into the carpark and virtually their front door. The car park will have spaces for 80 cars.

Asgaard Ski Club will have 11 apartments for club members plus additional staff accommodation quarters will be available for up to 80 mountain staff.

The Davenport area at Hotham is also

WINTER DRIVING

Please read the winter driving section of your vehicle owner’s manual for further explanation.

There are issues even when diamond pattern snow chain system is used on high performance 2WD or AWD “summer” tyres.

On summer tyres snow chains will grip to the compacted snow/ice but the tyre can slip or spin within the chain even when chains are correctly fitted to the tyre.

The problem is compounded by the camber of the road, the weight and torque of the vehicle and the amount of tread on the tyre.

The problem is worse when the vehicle has been parked at the resort because of the low ambient temperature makes the tyres harder and therefore has even less grip to the chain.

CHECKING THE GRIP OF YOUR TYRES ON SNOW

When it is safe to do so, at a safe speed, and, make sure that no one is close behind you, apply the brakes firmly until the wheels lock up and the ABS is activated.

Keep the brake pedal pressed down until the vehicle stops completely. This will give you a clear indication of the grip available at that particular point in time.

You can repeat this test to continually monitor grip in different conditions.

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An artists impression of the new Davenport Central complex.

home to a plethora of other club lodges and commercial accommodation and is only 200m to the Bid D beginners and kids ski slopes.

The project required a 75 year government lease for the Crown land site, as well as the highest bushfire rating. Work begins in October and will be done in between snowseasons, with completion in May 2020.

Anton Wilson from Melbourne developing company Mider, said around 80 jobs will be created during the construction phase.

“This will add a great deal of momentum for builders in the state’s north east region,” said Mr Wilson.

Mider are also in a joint venture with Davenport Central Pty Ltd. The building phase will see rigorous safety standards including multiple geotechnic engineers who will assess the build at various stages of development. Once footings and

concrete are poured, a prefabricated structure will be trucked into the site.

Hotham is blessed with being on the Great Alpine Road and one of the most scenic places in Australia.

During winter skiers can access the slopes by skiing down to the lifts from their lodges and accommodation and have some of the best alpine scenery.

In summer months there is a growing tourist trade that includes mountain biking, plus the road being one of the most travelled in the alpine region. Motor bikes love its winding roads and sight seeing hikers and walkers are realising it is a perfect getaway.

The Davenport Central development will be looking at all these areas to maximise potential for their investment. Property is also being sold off the plan by Zirky’s Real Estate agent Rob Ford.

.RQLJ VHOI WHQVLRQLQJ GLDPRQG SDWWHUQ VQRZ FKDLQbͤWWHG to Nokian 3PMSF winter tyre.

SNOW CHAIN WARRANTY

Failure to follow the snow chain fitting instructions in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or the snow chain fitting instructions will void the snow chain manufacturer’s warranty.

Manufacturer’s warranty does not cover any snow chain, purchased or hired that are used on a vehicle that is fitted with wheels, tyres or a wheel/tyre combination, that are not approved to be fitted snow chains by the vehicle manufacturer.

Before installing and using these snow chains, you must read & follow your vehicle’s owner’s manual snow chain fitting information and the snow chain fitting instructions that have been supplied with the chains you have purchased or hired.

Any snow chains that are used on a wheel/ tyre combination that are not approved by the vehicle manufacturer may be damaged, dislodge or break from use.

Roof Carrier Systems P/L will not be responsible for any damage to the snow chains you have purchased or hired, damage to vehicle, property and/or people, caused by improper use of snow chains, or for fitment that does not comply with the snow chain fitting instructions in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or the snow chain fitting instructions.

Call Roof Carrier Systems, 03 9822 9539, for details of the new VicRoads snow chain fitting regulations coming for Victoria

ROOF CARRIER SYSTEMS Melbourne’s most experienced snow chain, roof rack and snow tyre specialist. Since 1985. www.roofcarriersystems.com.au 469 Burke Rd (near Toorak Rd) Camberwell.

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KONIG THULE RHINO WHISPBAR YAKIMA RUD NOKIAN Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 5

FA L L S C R E E K

Dining upgrades for Falls Creek

MOUNTAIN dining is getting a major overhaul at Falls Creek, with popular eateries being revamped for the 2018 ski season. Traverse Alpine Group, the company behind the resort’s award-winning Astra Lodge, has taken over popular dining spots Cloud 9 and Frying Pan. Both venues are being given a new lease on life and makeover, with Cloud 9 being turned into an upmarket bistro and Frying Pan being transformed into a barbecue and brewery.

The Cloud 9 makeover includes new food and beverage stations where skiers will be able to order woodfired pizzas and grab a coffee or hot chocolate without having to endure long queues. Hospitality Consultant Bruno Da Motta says the bistro set-up will reduce waiting times and help people get back onto the slopes quicker.

“People who know what they’re getting can actually just go straight to that station,” says Da Motta.

Visitors who enjoy long mountain lunches will still feel at home at Cloud 9, with new wood panelling, lighting and furniture creating a warm cosy atmosphere.

Frying Pan is also undergoing major changes.

The pub-like venue is being converted into a barbecue restaurant and brewery where skiers can rest weary legs while enjoying the best craft beer from Victorian Alps brewers. The kitchen has also been opened up, so diners can watch the chefs in action as they cook a range of beef and lamb dishes over a woodfired grill.

The menu at Frying Pan will change daily, ensuring holidaymakers don’t get bored when eating on the slopes, while in three years’ time, the building will be knocked down for a fresh rebuild and brewing will start on-site.

In addition, Maggies will have a new menu with a focus on Asian fusion bowl food (think curries, laksa’s etc), and Dickie Knees will transform into a Taqueria this season.

The team behind Easy Eats have transformed Gateway into the new Brewhouse and will also have a new snack shack set up in Slalom Plaza.

URBAN SLOPESTYLE Season 2018 will see a series of firsts including hosting the first Urban Slopestyle Invitational event through picturesque Falls

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DINING: Cloud 9 will be one of many dining upgrades this winter. PHOTO: Charlie Brown

Creek village in late August. Attracting some of the stars of the Winter Olympics and other crowd favourites, this event is sure to be a huge spectacle.

Falls Creek will also be launching a Ski & Snowboard Australia Slopestyle Futures Camp for up and coming freestylers mid-August.

With the popularity of this discipline with the younger brigade, it will assist developing the next generation of slopestyle freestyle skiers and boarders.

SKI PROGRAMS There are a range of tailored program on the calendar this season including favourite Mim’s Women’s 3-5 day ski programs designed especially for women.

In late August two Canadian hall of fame instructors from SilverStar Mountain Resort, Norm Kreutz and Guy Paulson will return again to run high performance clinics.

For masters’ skiers, Falls Creek have partnered with Rossignol and will offer three day masters classes with the SilverStar legends for skiers over 50.

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LEGENDS: Norm Kreutz leads a ski clinic and will be back again in 2018.

PHOTO: Falls Creek / Chris Hocking

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TASTY: Changes to restaurant ownership will be welcomed at Falls Creek this season.

PHOTO: Astra Lodge.

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Mr Steve Rider, Atsra Lodge co-owner Ms Rosy Seaton and Astra Lodge General Manager Mr Tom Simpson accepting the Australia’s Best Ski Boutique Hotel 2017 at the World Ski Awards.

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ASTRA LODGE, in the Victorian resort of Falls Creek has been named Australia’s Best Ski Boutique Hotel 2017 at the World Ski Awards in Austria. It is the second time the fivestar property has taken out the prestigious award, having received the honour in 2016.

The winners were announced at a special event at one of Europe’s most famous Austrian resorts, Kitzbuhel.

“Personally, we felt incredibly proud to accept the award on behalf of all the Astra team who have worked tirelessly to achieve a remarkable standard in the ski industry, not only in Australia but within the international ski industry community,” said Astra Lodge proprietor Rosy Seaton.

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 6

FA L L S C R E E K

New Eagle Express

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NEW: Construction on the new $9 million Eagle Express quad chair at Falls Creek.

VISITORS to Falls Creek will be excited for the 2018 season with the new $9 million Eagle Express chairlift set to debut for the opening June weekend.

The new high speed Leitner-Poma detachable quad chair has replaced the old Eagle triple chair in the Village Bowl precinct and will increase capacity to 2,400 skiers per hour. The new chair also comes equipped with automatic self-locking safety bars for enhanced security.

The new work commenced in November with a flurry of activity over the summer months, and keen snow enthusiasts would have been watching the live “Eagle Express Cam” throughout the summer.

Helicopters were employed during the construction for most of the heavy lifting and staff are applying the finishing touches

with the chair expected to be completed in May. The new chair is also expected to remove some congestion in Slalom Plaza, and management have indicated they are also launching a transport solution at the top of the hill to take beginners from Eagle Express across to Cloud 9 for their lessons.

Utilising a Sherpa snow mobile and sixseater trailer, they will be able to transport a whole lesson across to their renowned Snowsports School.

The original Eagle chair installed in 1979 has always been popular for Falls Creek guests with chairs from the old lift available for sale at a 2017 end of season auction.

The resort has also spent an additional $1 million on a Park Pro grooming machine, the only one of its kind in Australia.

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CHARACTER: Sponge Bob Square Pants will make an appearance again in 2018.

Kids fun and games IN a world first, season 2018 will see kids’ entertainment powerhouse Nickelodeon partner with Falls Creek to sponsor the children’s ski and snowboard programs.

Injecting more fun and excitement for families, kids 3-5 years of age can play with the Paw Patrol Puppies in Snow Club, those 6-12 years will be able to ‘hang’ with Sponge Bob, and for teens, TMNT take over the Ride Tribe.

This builds on the school holiday program from September last year where Sponge Bob came to visit, and at the start of July school holidays this season the kids will be excited as Paw Patrol puppies visit Falls Creek.

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Backcountry safety measures MORE backcountry enthusiasts are enticed to venture beyond the boundary lines every year. But do you know what you are doing, and more importantly understand all the risks involved.

Big or even small snowfalls combined with blizzard conditions means cornices and a huge weight of snow. If not careful, this could put you in danger if you do not consider your options and have knowledge.

Alpine News asked Dave Herring from Alpine Access Australia what he thought about conditions in our winter.

Q. WHAT SHOULD BACK COUNTRY SKIERS BE THINKING OF? A. There is great backcountry touring right through until beyond October and good weather windows are the best. Watch the weather to evaluate whether the snow will be icy, slushy or somewhere in between.

Snow can often start off icy after any overnight freeze, especially in spring, then softens to a beautiful ‘corn’ consistency, before starting to freeze again in the late afternoon. That midday period is the time to hit the best slopes and it is advisable to watch for thawing creeks, holes in the snowpack, and bushes/rocks starting to appear.

Q. WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON FAULTS INEXPERIENCED PEOPLE CONTINUE TO DO? A. People who are new at backcountry make quite a few rookie mistakes: You should be flexible with your plan, and even if you have a limited window for your tour, be prepared to cancel if the weather and conditions are going to compromise your safety, or at least have a plan B. Think about and plan what you will do if something goes wrong - if there is an injury, if unexpected bad weather comes in. People tend to underestimate the challenges and the consequences.

You need to ease into backcountry touring, go with a guide or other experienced person the first time, don’t go too far, try out your equipment and practise your navigation skills.

Q. IT IS EXCITING TO VENTURE OUT THERE, BUT IS IT FOR EVERYONE? A. Not at all, a surprising number of people we take out for the first time will never go back. People need to be prepared for the harshness of the conditions as not every day is the beautiful bluebird day. The snow conditions are often variable, and it can be very physically demanding.

Q. WHEN YOU TEACH YOUR COURSES, YOU WOULD SEE PLENTY OF PEOPLE WITH VARYING KNOWLEDGE? A. Most people who do our avalanche safety training have had a little bit of backcountry experience and have some realistic expectations of what it’s like to go backcountry touring. However, they are universally amazed at how much they DON’T know about safety in the backcountry. With our backcountry skills tours, we try to ensure that people realise what going into the backcountry involves, and tailor the tour to their skill and fitness levels.

Q. WE DO HAVE SOME STEEP TERRAIN IN AUSTRALIA, HOW OFTEN DO YOU SEE IT SLIDE? A. We don’t see it slide often in Australia, but there are some documented cases of people getting caught in avalanches here.

There were a few slides last season in 2017.

Apart from particularly steep slopes, our risks here tend to be cornices collapsing due to the effect of sun or rain, or new unbonded snow sliding on an ice layer below from a previous melt freeze.

The risk is increased on slopes over 25 degrees. Our Australian snowpack does tend to become stable a short time after

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EXPLORE: Touring in the backcountry.

PHOTO: Main Range Backcountry.

Alpine Access Australia are conducting Avalanche Canada AST1 courses and backcountry skills days in both Victoria and NSW this winter. Some courses are already scheduled but also available on demand. Visit the website for more details on any course or to enrol. www.alpineaccess.com.au

the storm. Spring is a nice stable time for the snowpack, the thing to watch out for is during a particularly warm or rainy period when the snowpack starts to melt and becomes saturated before a ‘wet slide’ occurs. Once again, steeper gradients are where the risk increases.

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Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 8

MT BULLER

Early shifts for Mt Buller factory

By Steve Cuff RESORTS need to have insurance these days, it just comes in the way of snowmaking.

Last year Mt Buller took that one step further when they purchased their $1.6 million ‘Snow Factory’.

The Snow Factory compliments their existing snowmaking guns. When the temperatures are cold all guns in the arsenal will be pumping snow, but if the weather warms they rely on the front line of artillery, courtesy of the Snow Factory.

Mother Nature is always welcome to any snow party, but Mt Buller’s Snow Factory can make snow at any temperature and the snow is already starting to pile up under sunny 2018 skies on Mt Buller’s Bourke Street run.

The beauty of this investment is they can offer a snow guarantee for their guests, which certainly does ease the mind when you are

Ŷ

START: The snow factory was in operation from April this year.

booking an early season holiday.

It is also a boom for the opening weekend, as visitors know there will be snow to enjoy a slide, so they can book well in advance knowing they have backup plan B. From an accommodation point of view, a snow guarantee is a big commitment, but one that Mt Buller guests now can use if it is required.

In 2017 there were people making ski turns in March, which is unbelievable. Albeit it was only a small area, but it showed the Snow Factory investment was a winner.

Fast forward to 2018 and Mt Buller has fired up the ‘factory’ in April and began stockpiling snow, 50 days before the official opening long weekend. It sure would have increased web cam traffic as snow gazers keep their eye on the prize.

Buller Ski Lifts General Manager Laurie Blampied was delighted with the snowmaking operations at the time stating, “Snow is the key to our winter and the Snow Factory’s ability to make snow well ahead of the season is great news for all snow lovers. This technology was new to Australia last winter and skiers and snowboarders now understand how it’s changed the game. We can now look to the opening of the season with confidence and guaranteed snow on the ground.”

Ŷ Ŷ

INSURANCE: Mt Buller’s snow factory, just part of their snowmaking system.

SCENIC: (Inset) Skiing on a picturesque Mt Buller day. Photos: Mt Buller / Andre Railton

Mt Buller Mt Stirling Resort CEO Mark Bennetts added, “Snow is a magical and special experience and seeing the Snow Factory in action this morning is an exciting reminder the winter season is just around the corner. The village is already buzzing with preparations and we look forward to getting on the snow for those first turns of the winter in early June.”

THE FINER POINTS Naturally there are terms and conditions and they can all be found on the Mt Buller website, but here is the basics.

The Snow Guarantee is provided by Buller Ski Lifts and participating Mt Buller accommodation providers to give confidence when booking a snow holiday. It’s

a money-back guarantee on all prepaid accommodation, lift ticket, rental and lesson packages and applies if insufficient snow cover means ‘Snow Guarantee’ lift/s are not operating for skiing/snowboarding in the two (2) days before your arrival.

If the Snow Guarantee lifts (see website for table) aren’t operating in the two (2) days before you arrive, you can contact your booking agent to change your booking to a later date or cancel your booking and get your money back.

There are more explicit details on the website but note, the Snow Guarantee only applies if the lifts aren’t operating due to insufficient snow cover.

You can find all details of Snow Guarantee and to book your Buller holiday at www.mtbuller.com.au.

GRIMUS SKI & SNOWBOARD CENTRE Mt Buller, Victoria

THE HOME OF DUAL WINTER OLYMPIAN ANTON GRIMUS HIRE ON MOUNTAIN FOR HASSLE FREE CONVENIENCE &RPSHWLWLYH 5DWHV +XJH 5DQJH RI ([FHOOHQW (TXLSPHQW /RQJ 2SHQLQJ +RXUV ([SHULHQFHG DQG $WWHQWLYH 6WDII (IILFLHQW DQG 6SHHG\ )LWWLQJ 6NL 'HSRW :LWK +HDWHG (TXLSPHQW 6WRUDJH /RFNHUV $FFHVVRU\ %RXWLTXH :LQWHUVWHLJHU 7XQLQJ &HQWUH *UHDW /RFDWLRQ QHDU $ERP &KDLUOLIW 6NL 6FKRRO &RQYHQLHQW )UHH 9LOODJH %XV 6WRS DW 'RRU )DPLO\ 2ZQHG 2SHUDWHG VLQFH

6DYH 7LPH DQG %RRN RQOLQH DW ZZZ JULPXVVNLFHQWUH FRP (PDLO UHQW#JULPXVVNLFHQWUH FRP %UHDWKWDNHU 5RDG RU v/51d03483/2017

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 9

MT BULLER

Ŷ

SNOW: Mt Buller has terrain to suit everyone, including great powder skiing.

Photos courtesy Mt Buller / Andrew Railton.

Best of Buller guide There are lots of things that are great about Mt Buller but hands down you can’t beat it for accessibility. Getting out of Melbourne and onto the snow is doable in 3 hours although it might get longer if you make a few winery stops in the Yarra Valley or coffee breaks at some of the great little towns on the way like Yea, Yarck and of course Mansfield.

‘Bourke Street’ run is where lots of Victorians have their first experience on skis and because this big, wide beginner-friendly run sweeps right into the village centre you could be forgiven for thinking Mt Buller is all about green runs.

In fact, 45% of the resort is blue and 35% is advanced so there is plenty of vertical and challenge for everyone once they’ve moved on from pizza and French fries in Ski & Snowboard School.

Mt Buller is a true mountain, which has some significant benefits. Not least, you get a cracking view of the peak dramatically rising out of the rolling farms around Mansfield as you head up the Buller Road. On a clear day you’ll see cars pulling over at Buttercup Road, just half an hour before they roll into the

Ŷ

resort, to get an awesome photo.

Being a mountain with northern and southern slopes is also handy for chasing (or dodging) weather. You can shelter from wind or weather or, as many locals do, follow the sun around the hill. It’s great to start the day with a warm up on Shakey Knees in the sunshine and get your legs moving on a few groomers as you work anti-clockwise around the mountain. As the sun gets higher the summit delivers ripping lines and then it’s on to Little Buller, Wombat and over to the more challenging and shaded southern slopes.

The sweeping, wide runs like Little Buller Spur (2.5kms of leg burning carving top to bottom), Dam Run and Summit deliver consistently fun turns, but Buller has plenty of out of the way little tree runs, side tracks and fun spots where you feel like you are the only person on the hill.

Some favourite tucked away corners are the tree runs that weave in and out beneath Bonza chair and around Boggy Creek where you’ll often find fresh stashes on even the busiest weekend.

If we’re honest a big part of any snow day is the eating and drinking, especially the all-important

HOO HAH: When the sun goes down the Kooroora Hotel lights up.

après. Buller carved out a big party reputation back in the 80s and it’s a resort that loves a drink and a bit of dancefloor shenanigans.

Traditions like the 3am close at the Kooroora Hotel (Hoo Hah as the locals affectionately call it) when “That’s Amore” plays and lets everyone know it’s time to go are part of the fabric. A midmorning E&B (that’s an egg and bacon and it’s served on local Bertalli sourdough) at Tirol has kept many a skier going through a winter’s day as have the huge bowls of pasta.

There’s nothing quite like sitting on the deck and looking over to Mt Stirling while inhaling a few delicious carbs and feeling confident you have earned all those calories.

BC bar in the bottom of the Chalet is standing room only most afternoons when happy hour kicks in from 4pm, just one of the many popular après venues that spring to life every afternoon.

Sometimes it is the simple pleasures, the donut man being the most popular guy on the mountain and as you walk through the village and get a waft of sugar and cinnamon, it’s hard to resist a bag of mini donuts for the walk back to the lodge.

Twilight Sessions are a cool addition to midwinter with skiing under lights on weekends from mid-July through August and tobogganing until 8.30pm also under lights on the village slope. The fire-pits in the village are a win with kids and the resort hands out yummy marshmallows for toasting over the flames.

It’s deceptive just how much accommodation there is at Mt Buller with the most on-mountain beds of any resort in Australia (over 8000 at last count). The winding roads and snowgum lined paths around the village hide lots of lodges, apartments and of course a few iconic hotels like Chalet, Pension Grimus, Breathtaker and Arlberg that make it easy to stay the night.

Being able to stay in the snow adds to the whole winter experience and means you can fit more into your visit. There’s nothing quite like hearing

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 10

Ŷ

JOURNEY: All roads lead to Mt Buller.

Ŷ

SLIDE: Learn to snowboard or ski on the gentle Bourke St run.

Ŷ

APRES: Cocktails are always a staple diet of the snow scene.

the snowmaking guns cranking at night as you nod off to sleep or seeing the sunrise out your window and knowing the lifts are just a short walk away.

Now you have the inside guide, what are you waiting for, be sure to head up to Mt Buller this winter.

MT BULLER

Grooming goes High Tech at Mount Buller

MT BULLER will lead the way in latest snow technology with the introduction of SNOWsat technology to the grooming fleet.

In an Australian first, some of Mt Buller’s Piston Bully grooming machines will have the new equipment installed this winter to assist their grooming team to know the exact depth and where more snow is required.

SNOWsat uses satellite-guided positioning to continually measure the depth of the snow, to within a few centimetres, so the operator can precisely move snow to where it’s needed and ensure consistent depth and quality of cover for guests.

It allows snow to be used more efficiently, spread further and at uniform depth to maintain quality of cover.

For skiers and snowboarders SNOWsat will deliver better quality grooming across the resort. The high-tech IT platform works with the Piston Bully groomer to help the

grooming team make the best use of available snow and ensure an even and widespread cover on the runs.

Some of Mt Buller’s new Pisten Bully groomers will be linked to the SNOWsat platform to collect invaluable data each night as the slopes are prepared for the next day’s skiing.

Buller Ski Lifts General Manager Laurie Blampied explains, “Snow is a critical asset for a ski resort and SNOWsat helps us make use of all the snow available to ensure skiers and boarders can enjoy the best possible cover.”

“Grooming the snow to that ‘just right’ depth is a real art-form and this technology helps our groomers strike the ideal balance of enough depth to preserve the snow and ensure a quality cover, without ‘wasting’ snow by having a stockpile when it could be moved to open up more terrain.”

Mountain Manager Nick Reeves welcomes

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STUNNING: A sunset greets a snow groomer at Mt Buller.

Photo courtesy of Mt Buller / Andrew Railton

the high-tech tool, “This gives us a new level of information so we can better manage the snowpack with confidence. We can optimise the grooming and only move the snow when we need to. As a skier I like knowing the cover will be more predictable and as a mountain manager I love that it saves my team time and helps us reduce water and energy use.”

How it works The current position of the snow groomer is continually plotted to an accuracy of a few centimetres. The SNOWsat base station calculates these figures (altitude/elevation) using GPS, GLONASS and GALILEO satellite signals. The correction signals are sent to the snow groomers.

In the snow groomer the GNSS receiver and the on-board computer continually calculate

Guaranteed snow from Queen’s Birthday weekend Saturday, 9 June 2018

Book now at

mtbuller.com.au

Early season savings on lift passes and accommodation

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 11

position, snow depth and other vehicle data, record it and present it on the touchscreen in the driver’s cab.

When the vehicle is within range of a SNOWsat WiFi access point the data is automatically transmitted to the SNOWsat server and stored.

In addition to displaying snow depths, slope edges, snowmaking facilities, roads and paths, the system also warns drivers of danger zones and alerts them to the presence of other snow groomers and their winch ropes, if these vehicles are equipped with SNOWsat systems.

SNOWsat boasts it also saves 8% on fuel and 5% less operating time due to understanding the exact depth of snow and saving often several passes by the groomer.

MT BAW BAW

Guaranteed snow for Mt Baw Baw EXCITING news for Mt Baw Baw in 2018 with the introduction of a brand new Snow Factory that will not only be a game changer, but enable the resort to guarantee snow.

Mt Baw Baw has partnered with TechnoAlpin to bring the first ever Snow Factory to their mountain, great news for snow enthusiasts as well as providing a huge boost for tourism in the Latrobe Valley.

The snow factory 100 R717 is set to rewrite the script for the traditional Queen’s Birthday long weekend season launch, by delivering fresh snow in ski areas in and around the bowl and guarantee that lifts will be operational all-season long.

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PLAY: Rowdy the local dingo enjoys the first snow out of the Snow Factory.

The machine has the ability to produce 110 cubic metres of snow per day with production commencing in early May for stockpiling for the start of the season in June. It will also ensure the season is off to a snowy start.

Mt Baw Baw General Manager, John Fascio shared his excitement for the mountain’s first, encouraging snow goers to get in early and book now to ensure a spot in the snow.

“Being one of the few alpine resorts in Victoria with a snow factory, we’re convinced this will be our best season yet in attracting visitors from all over, whether it be Australian families or tourists seeing snow for the first time,” Fascio said.

“With the capability to produce snow 24 hours, 7 days a week, we are encouraging everyone to come up opening weekend and throughout the snow season to experience our toboggan parks, runs and other snow activities like never before,” he added.

In addition to the new Snow Factory, Mt Baw Baw also has a number of other new initiatives for the 2018 snow season including the Dingo Resource Centre and a Magic Carpet Lift in the Toboggan Park.

The Dingo Resource Centre includes an

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ECSTATIC: The kids will love making a snowman. Photo courtesy of Mount Baw Baw.

enclosure that is home to Mt Baw Baw’s resident Alpine Dingoes, Rowdy and Warragul. The dingoes are an environmental ambassador at Mt Baw Baw and together will work to educate the public on the unique alpine environment and the local wildlife that live within it. You can see the dingoes as they are walked through the village every day. Visitors to the mountain are welcome to meet them and learn more about the unique alpine flora and fauna.

The Magic Carpet on the Frosti Frog Toboggan Park is set to significantly improve the toboggan park experience with parents no longer having to spend the day dragging toboggans up the hill. The carpet will be open every day between 9am and 5pm. It will be free to use with a lift pass or $10 per day per person on its own.

Ŷ

FUN: The new Magic Carpet toboggan lift will be great this season.

Perfect beginner mountain STARTING your first snow experience is made easier at Mount Baw Baw which is the perfect mountain to learn how to ski, combining numerous beginner friendly runs and ground tows to practice on before progressing to the more challenging slopes.

The ease of access from the village also makes it very appealing for families and beginners, with the slopes and accommodation all within an easy walk.

To assist you on your new-found snow adventures, the snow sports school is located in the heart of the village, with lessons available for all levels.

It is highly recommended to have first timer lessons if you are there for the weekend, which will see you up and sliding across the mountain and enjoying all the terrain.

Professional instructors are eager to help you schuss the slopes and will offer a wealth of tips and knowledge to get you started.

Kids can learn how to ski or snowboard board with a three hour lesson and lunch, and if parents want to enjoy a day by themselves on the slopes, book the kids in for an all-day lesson.

There are several deals this year to

encourage people to experience the enjoyment of visiting the snow. If you are looking for an affordable option for the family, Mt Baw Baw have mid week packages available via their website which provide great value for money.

This year Mount Baw Baw will be running a kids activity centre each weekend from June until August. Here you can join in and enjoy music, dancing, magic and craft fun.

Mount Baw Baw also offers great experiences for people wanting to experience the fun of the snow without taking part in skiing. The mountain is home to the Howling Husky Sled Dog Tours where you can enjoy the exhilaration and beautiful views behind a sled of eight huskies.

For those seeking a more leisurely snow venture, there are easy snow show trails where you can walk among the gum trees as well as throw an occasional snow ball. All hire gear is available for any of your advebtures.

Just 150km’s from Melbourne, Mount Baw Baw is the ideal place for you, your family and friends to create great snow memories.

For all the latest deals and information, visit their website at www.mountbawbaw.com.au.

Ŷ

SLIDE: (Left) Learning to ski is so much easier on Mount Baw Baw’s gentle terrain.

All photos courtesy of Mount Baw Baw.

Free Friday with weekend pass To entice you even more, not only do you have the new TechnoAlpin Snow Factory guaranteeing you snow on the beginners’ area, but anyone wanting to enjoy a weekend at Mount Baw Baw can now enjoy an extra day with Friday included free with your weekend lift pass booking. So that is three days skiing for the price of two.

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 12

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RUN: Take an exhilarating Howling Husky Sled Dog Tour.

Guaranteed snow with our new snow factory Great family snow packages available all season Perfect mountain to learn to ski and board with downhill terrain to suit all abilities Brand new terrain park open all season

MAKE MEMORIES AT

facebook.com/MountBawBaw %RRN QRZ DWbPRXQWEDZEDZ FRP DX b_

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 13

Ten reasons to visit the snow

By Gina Woodward THINKING about booking a snow holiday, and the magical allure of white fluffy snowflakes alone hasn’t been enough to make you do it?

Here are ten reasons why you simply can’t wait another winter without going to the snow.

1. IT’S FUN Even if you’re still learning how to ski or snowboard and falling over a lot, you’ll be laughing and having fun with other people doing the exact same thing. Once you experience the exhilaration of zipping down a snowy mountain, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t tried this whole snowsports thing a whole lot sooner.

2. YOU’LL LEARN SOMETHING NEW Not only will you be able to tell all your friends about the cute snowsports instructor you spent the weekend with, you’ll have a new skill to add to your repertoire; to talk about with friends and dream about as winter approaches each year. Better yet – you’ll be able to make educated comments from your couch about the Winter Olympics.

3. IT’S A GREAT WAY TO RECONNECT WITH LOVED ONES With the quaint atmosphere of a ski village surrounding you, beautiful scenery to wake up to and the thrill of trying something new to look forward to, it’s the perfect opportunity to rekindle and reconnect. Plus – the whole family can do it so put the kids in ski school and revel in the joy on their rosy-cheeked faces.

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SNOWY: A perfect winter setting with a snow laden Mt Buller resort.

Photo courtesy Mt Buller / Andrew Railton.

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RELAX: A snow holiday is not all about the snow, there is ample time for relaxing.

Photo courtesy Mt Buller / Andrew Railton.

4. YOU’LL MAKE NEW FRIENDS There’s no better place to strike up a friendly conversation with a stranger than on the chairlift. Nowhere else is it ok to yell ‘Single’ at the top of your voice and look around to see who answers in the affirmative.

You could make a lifelong friend who you’ll meet in fabulous locations around the world for snow holidays. Aspen, anyone?

5. THE SCENERY AND MOUNTAIN AIR Busy, noise-polluted traffic-everywhere, city? Or serene, white-capped mountains, with cool, minty-fresh air filling your lungs?

The choice is yours. Breathe and take it all in.

Ŷ PICTURESQUE: Skiing among the tress on a fresh snow day at Falls Creek.

Photo courtesy of Falls Creek / Chris Hocking

6. THE COFFEE/HOT CHOCOLATE/WINE BREAKS What if the fast-paced, adrenaline junkie snowsports lifestyle is just not your thing?

That’s ok. Watch your friends, family and fearless children hurl themselves down a mountain while you take lots and lots of rest stops for coffee and hot chocolate. Call it a day after lunch and settle in with a glass of wine and a good book.

7. APRÈS SKI One word. Schnapps.

8. HOT TUBS AND OPEN FIRES Being in the snow is romantic. Soak your ski-boot feet and soothe your weary muscles in a hot jacuzzi, then cuddle up in front of an open fire with a glass of mulled wine. Perfect.

9. SNOW FASHION Where else can you get away with wearing faux fur and your favourite daggy Christmas jumper that only comes out from the bottom of the drawer for fancy-dress parties? Not to mention moon boots, beanies, mittens and thermal underwear!

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 14

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FUN: A fresh snowfall brings out a level of excitement for everyone.

Photo courtesy of Mount Baw Baw.

10. BRAGGING RIGHTS If your work colleagues haven’t already seen all of your Insta-worthy posts by the time you get in to work, is there a better response to that Monday morning office kitchen question: “What did you do this weekend?” than: “I spent a few days in the mountains, frolicking in the snow, breathing in the fresh air, doing a bit of skiing, relaxing in a hot tub and drinking hot chocolate with marshmallows. You?”

Snow on a budget offer flexible lift passes that allow you to pick and choose the days you want to ski or ride – so if you want, you can wait for the snow and the weather gods to dictate your plans.

By Gina Woodward WANT to take a trip to the snow but just can’t get past the perception that it’s too expensive? Don’t throw the idea in the bin just yet – there are many ways you can save money and hit the slopes for less.

BUNDLE YOUR LIFT PASSES WITH HIRE GEAR AND LESSONS If you don’t own your own equipment and want to improve your skills with lessons when you’re on the mountain, your best bet is to hire your gear and pay for your lessons in a bundle with your advance purchase lift passes. Get it all sorted up front, at the same time, and save in the long run.

TAKE THE COACH OR CARPOOL When you drive yourself to the snow, you have to worry about the cost of petrol and National Park entry, not to mention purchasing or hiring chains if you don’t already own some. Save money and stress less by jumping on a coach and let someone else do the driving and chain fitting.

If you want your own space, and enjoy the comfort of your own vehicle, get together with your snow buddies to share a car, the driving and the costs.

STAY IN A CLUB LODGE Staying in a ski-in/ski-out luxury chalet will probably cut into your savings. But what about an on-mountain club lodge? All you need is a warm place to sleep at night and club lodges can actually be the most fun way to enjoy a winter break as you enjoy meal times with other lodgies and chat about the best spots to get fresh tracks. Or stay off-mountain and save more. Some of the towns close to the resorts offer great deals, check out travel websites and get onto the local Facebook pages too.

BUY YOUR LIFT PASSES EARLY Every ski resort in Australia offers a discount for being organised and buying your lift passes in advance. Do your research into the different ticket options available before the snow starts to fall and make your winter holiday all that more affordable by getting organised early. Some ski resorts

BRING YOUR OWN FOOD Eating out can be expensive no matter where you are. Save your dollars by bringing some food with you and eat in – Aussie staples go a long way for a day on the slopes: Vegemite on toast and porridge for breakfast sounds pretty good and you’ll find some ski lodges will have your milk and butter sorted for you. Pack your lunch and bring a water bottle – which also saves time for more skiing!

PICK YOUR TIMING It’s much cheaper to ski during shoulder season than it is during peak season. Avoid the crowds and queues of July school holidays and August and get your snow fix early in June. There may be less terrain open but with snowmaking investments across the resorts, it’s only getting more reliable each year. And it is a great time to learn. Or, increase your chances of bluebird skies and warmer weather by waiting for some fun spring skiing in September. It’s often the best time to get your snow fix; the sun is shining, the skiing and snowboarding is cheaper and it’s also a lot of fun with less people on the mountain and happy sun-loving crowds in the bar for après beer and schnapps!

RESORT

Day ($)

EQUIPMENT HIRE *

Falls Creek

adult

child

adult

child

6-17yr

63

49

174

139

75

61

58

45

400

6-16yr

53

35

103

80

58

43

35

25

1499

749

Yr 12

69

52

156

121

69

52

46

41

1647

992

6-17yr

79

61

218

173

79

61

56

43

adult

child

133

74

n/a

565

317

1647

992

n/a

n/a

550

from

from

133

RESORT Nearest town

74

Mt Baw Baw

n/a

261 - 517 149 -263

n/a

565

Mt Buller

317

Falls Creek

Jacket & Pants 1 Day ($)

child

child

from

Skis/Boots/Poles Snowboard/Boots 5 Day ($) 1 Day ($)

adult

adult

from

Skis/Boots/Poles 1 Day ($)

child

family

45/38 200/135

CHILD AGE

adult

child

64 - 133 41 - 70

Mt Hotham

SEASON ($)

adult

Mt Baw Baw # 80/53 Mt Buller

5 Day ($)

Lake Mountain

Mt Stirling

Mt Hotham

Mt Buffalo

Warragul

Mansfield

Mount Beauty

Marysville

Mansfield

Harrietville

Bright

Distance from town

61km

46km

35km

22km

41km

34km

42km

On-mtn car spaces

700

4800

1800

1600

320

1500

n/a

1564m

1600m

1600m

1383m

1240m

1750m

1360m

$52

$47

$49.50

$56

$45

$51

Free

Day entry charge

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SCENIC: A snowy Mt Buller could be your next snow holiday.

PHOTO: Mt Buller / Andrew Railton

Skiing and Snowboard Lessons: There are many types of lessons and packages available for beginners, intermediates and advanced. All resort websites have the best deals online for your duration of stay where you can bundle your lift ticket and lesson together. ¶ Lift Tickets: Guide for peak season only. All resorts have great online prices where you can save money by purchasing online and in advance.

Check your resort for possible discounted tickets for children under 5 years, students and seniors. Ask your

Cross-country trails

10km

9km

65km

37km

60km

35km

14km

Downhill skiable area

33ha

300ha

450ha

n/a

n/a

320ha

-

Longest run

680m

2.5km

3km

2km

varies

2.5km

Varies

accommodation venue for details on the best lift ticket deals. Check resort websites during the snow season for special deals. * Equipment Hire: These prices are on mountain indicative prices. You can hire all equipment and clothing from numerous reputable snow shops in the city and the resorts, or the many snow shops along the route to the snow. # Denotes weekend and mid-week: different pricing The snow season is from June long weekend to the end of September.

GETTING THERE

MT BUFFALO - visitmountbuffalo.com.au

FALLS CREEK - fallscreek.com.au

Drive: 3.5 hours from Melbourne. Take the Hume Highway to Wangaratta then turn off to Bright.

Drive: 4.5 hours from Melbourne, 7.5 hours from Sydney.

Chains must be carried Drive and bus: Park your car at Mt Beauty at the base of Falls Creek and travel up to the resort in a bus. Train and bus: From Sydney or Melbourne, catch a train to Albury and connect with coaches. Bus: Coaches from Melbourne, Albury or Mount Beauty. Fly: Fly From Sydney or Melbourne to Albury Airport then by coach to Falls Creek. Private flights are available to Dinner Plain, near Mt Hotham.

MT HOTHAM - mthotham.com.au

Drive: 2 hours from Melbourne. Take the Maroondah Highway through Healesville and turn off to Marysville.

Bus: A shuttle service operates from Marysville.

Drive: 4.5 hours from Melbourne. Hume Highway to Wangaratta then Great Alpine Road via Bright and Harrietville. From Gippsland, Princes Highway to Bairnsdale and Great Alpine Road via Omeo and Dinner Plain.

Bus: Coaches depart daily from Melbourne’s Spencer Street Coach Terminal and Melbourne Airport.

Train: The XPT between Melbourne and Sydney connects with coaches at Wangaratta. Fly: Charter flights to Mt Hotham airport operate from Melbourne and Sydney.

There are also commercial flights from capital cities to Albury where a bus service operates to Hotham and Dinner Plain.

MT BULLLER - www.mtbuller.com.au

MT BAW BAW - mountbawbaw.com.au

Drive: 3 hours from Melbourne, 9.5 hours from Adelaide, 8 hours from Sydney. Coach: Melbourne Airport to Mt Buller with Mt Buller Ski Express 1800 800 905.

Drive and coach: Daily return services from Mansfield and Mirimbah to Mt Buller, Mansfield-Mt Buller Bus Lines (03) 5777 6070. Fly: Helicopter flights from Melbourne to Buller (03) 9580 7177.

Drive: 2.5 hours from Melbourne. Take the Princes Highway and turn off at Moe. Shuttle bus from Moe station.

LAKE MOUNTAIN - lakemountainresort.com.au Village height

CARVE: Is there anything better than carving up Hotham powder snow.

PHOTO: Hotham / Sarah Hatton

VISIT YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT WEBSITE FOR THE BEST ONLINE PRICING PACKAGES

2018 RESORTS GUIDE LIFT TICKETS ¶

Ŷ

MT STIRLING - mtstirling.com.au Drive: Drive: 3 hours from Melbourne to Mansfield.

Travel 30km along Mt Buller Road to Mirimbah, turn left into Stirling Road. Snow chains are compulsory.

Further details on transport services are available on resort websites, tourist bureaux in all major cities and from advertisements in Alpine News. Carry snow chains at all times.

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 15

Winter Planner Calendar 2018 Email your event to be included in the calendar: alpinenews@nemedia.com.au June

spectacular Village Bowl from 8pm Falls Creek XC 11am Snow Trek & Travel High Plains Tour (F) 2.5/5/10 contact Len Budge 0417 352 845 14 Sat Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm 14 Sat Mt Buller Snowracer GS event 13 Sat Falls Creek Rossignol Cup 14 Sat Falls Creek Cranky Charlie Cup 15 Sun Falls Creek King of the Mountain 15 Sun Falls Creek Myrtleford Ski Club Race 15 Sun Falls Creek XC 11am YMCA Howmans Gap Vic Relay Champs (C/F) 2.5/5 Len Budge 0417 352 845 16-20 Falls Creek South Australian Interschools 17 Tues Falls Creek Twilight Tuesday Pete the Snow Dragon 3.30-5.30pm 18 Wed Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm 18-19 Mt Buller South Australian Schools Snowsports 19 Thur Falls Creek Fireworks & Night show spectacular Village Bowl from 8pm 14 Sat

1 Fri

9-11

10 Sun

16-17 23 Sat 24 Sun

Falls Creek Ice Plunge locals take a winter plunge into Rocky Valley Dam to celebrate first day of winter.

Opening Weekend - Baw Baw Free entry Saturday 9th includes live music, face painting and magic carpet rides. Guaranteed manmade snow. Mt Buller have a weekend of celebrations. Falls Creek village celebrations.

Dinner Plain Giant Snow Dance Festival - Get your snow dancing boots ready and join DJ Eddy to dance on the Dinner Plain roundabout from 5.00pm with fireworks at 6.30pm, hot chocolates, gluhwein & strudel available, byo snow dance powers.

Baw Baw Pride weekend Mt Buller Banff Mountain Film Festival Lake Mountain XC Fast and Female email fastandfemaleaus@gmail.com

Falls Creek XC Snow, Trek & Travel mini series 1 (C) 0.5/1.5/2.5km Contact Lynn-Maree Cullen 0409 592 226

July 2-6 6 Fri 2-13 3 Tues 4 Wed 5 Thur 6-7 7 Sat 7 Sat 7 Sat 7-8 8 Sun 8 Sun

Mt Buller Yoplait Petit Miam Kids’ Week Mt Buller Mark Adams Ski & Golf Day Baw Baw Christmas in July across the QLD & VIC school holidays Falls Creek Twilight Tuesday Pete the Snow Dragon 3.30-5.30pm Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm Falls Creek Fireworks & Night show spectacular Village Bowl from 8pm Hotham SSA National Skills Assessment Falls Creek XC 10am Fast and Female email fastandfemaleaus@gmail.com Baw Baw Christmas in July Party Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm Falls Creek Snow Racer Series Mt Buller Snowracer GS event Falls Creek XC 10.30AM Birkebeiner Classic (C) 2.5/5/10km

Lake Mountain XC 10am Junior Sprint X contact Ray Malins 03 9728 1894 8 Sun Lake Mountain mini series 1 (F) 0.5/1.5/2.5km Ray Malins 03 9728 1894 9 Mon Falls Creek SSA National Skills Assessment 11-13 Mt Buller SSA National Skills Assessment 10 Tues Falls Creek Twilight Tuesday Pete the Snow Dragon 3.30-5.30pm 11 Wed Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm 12 Thur Falls Creek Fireworks & Night show 8 Sun

August 1 Wed 2 Thur 3-4 3 Fri 4 Sat 4 Sat 4 Sat 5 Sun

5 Sun 4 Sat 8 Wed 7 Tues 8 Wed 9 Thur

Falls Creek The Board Lounge Throwdown #1 Mt Buller Burton Cattleman’s Rail Jam Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm Falls Creek XC 9.30AM Vic Junior Sprint Champ’s (C) Falls Creek Ben Derrick 0400 110 046 21 Sat Perisher XC 9.30am AUS Open Sprint Champ’s (C) */** CC/FIS P Cunningham 0477 356 835 22 Sun Falls Creek XC 10am Vic Junior Distance Champ’s (F) 2.5/5/10km Ben Derrick 0400 110 046 22 Sun Perisher XC 10am AUS Open Champ’s 10/15 (F) */** CC/FIS M Peter Ward 0409 338 978 22 Sun Lake Mountain XC 11.00am Bullfight Charge (F) 3.5/8km Ray Malins 03 9728 1894 22 Sun Lake Mountain XC 11:00am Lake Mountain Mini Series 2 (F) 0.5/1.5/2.5km Ray Malins 03 9728 1894 22 Sun Falls Creek XC 11:00am Snow, Trek & Travel Mini Series 2 (F) 0.5/1.5/2.5 k Marion Baines 0400 111 486 23-25 Hotham 3 day program Women’s Ski Week - A specially designed female-only ski instruction program includes instruction from our top female coaches, video analysis, recovery massage treatments and more.

23-27 Hotham 5 day program Women’s Ski Week - A specially designed female-only ski instruction program includes instruction from our top female coaches, video analysis, recovery massage treatments and more.

24 Tues Falls Creek Twilight Tuesday Pete the Snow Dragon 3.30-5.30pm 25 Wed Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm 26 Thur Falls Creek Fireworks & Night show spectacular Village Bowl from 8pm 26-28 Mt Buller Vic Uni Games 28 Sat Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm 28 Sat Perisher XC 9:30am AUS Junior Championships Sprint (F) Peter Ward 0409 338 978 28 Sat Falls Creek Wombats Rambler Night Race 29 Sun Perisher XC 10:00am AUS Junior Championships Distance (C) P Cunningham 0477 356 835 29 Sun Lake Mountain XC 11:00am Mini Series 3A (C) 0.5/1.5/2.5km Ray Malins 03 9728 1894 29 Sun Lake Mountain XC 1:00pm Mini Series 3B (F) 20 Fri 21 Sat 21 Sat 21 Sat

24 Sun

0.5/1.5/2.5km Ray Malins 03 9728 1894 30-2nd Falls Creek Australian Police Winter Games 31 Tues Falls Creek Twilight Tuesday Pete the Snow Dragon 3.30-5.30pm

11 Sat 11 Sat 11 Sat 11 Sat 11 Sat

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Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm Falls Creek Fireworks & Night show spectacular Village Bowl from 8pm Falls Creek Sled Dog Classic Falls Creek The Board Lounge Throwdown #2 Hotham XC 11:00am Hotham to Dinner Plain (F) 12km Mick Sinclair 0408 127 325 Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm Falls Creek Club Riverina and AAC Club ski race Falls Creek XC 11:00am Snow, Trek & Travel Mini Series 3 (C) 0.5/1.5/2.5 k Lynn-Maree Cullen 0409 592 226 Mt Buller 9:00am Vic Interschool XC Championships David Speirs 1300 853 633 Mt Buller Junior National Mogul Championships Perisher KAC X-C Classic 10.30am (C/F) 8.5km M Perisher Sue Clark 02 9411 5974 Falls Creek Twilight Tuesday Pete the Snow Dragon 3.30-5.30pm Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm Falls Creek Fireworks & Night show spectacular Village Bowl from 8pm Baw Baw Battle@Baw Baw event Mt Buller Slopestyle Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm Falls Creek Albury Ski Club race Falls Creek XC 10:00am Ski de Femme (F) Fun Race 1, 2.5 & 5km Ronice Goebel 03 5754 4910 Dinner Plain 25th Anniversary Altitude 5000 Dinner Plain Sled Dog Challenge

25 Sat

9:50am 25 Sat

25 Sat 25-26 28 Tue 28 Tues 28-1st 29 Wed 29 Wed 30 Thur

September 1 Sat

1 Sat 1 Sat 1 Sat 1 Sat 1-2 5 Wed 5-9 8 Sat

12 Sun 12 Sun 14 Tues 15 Wed 16 Thur 16 Thur 17 Fri 18 Sat 18 Sat 18 Sat 18 Sat 18 Sat 19 Sun 20-26 20 Mon 21 Tue 21 Tues 22 Wed 22 Wed 23 Thur 23 Thur 23 Thu

Falls Creek XC 10:30am Rocky Valley Rush/ Sun Val Ramble (15/7.5km) (F) Baw Baw XC 10:30am Tallacouty/St Phillack Cup (F) 5/8km Paul Proctor 0417 352 052 Falls Creek Twilight Tuesday Pete the Snow Dragon 3.30-5.30pm Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm Falls Creek ANC Skier Cross Falls Creek Fireworks & Night show spectacular Village Bowl from 8pm Falls Creek ANC Skier Cross Mt Buller FreeBOM Falls Creek ANC FIS Slalom Falls Creek Storm the Castle Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm Falls Creek XC 9:30am AUS Open Sprint Champ’s (F) */** CC/FIS Falls Creek Falls Creek XC10:00am AUS Open Champ’s 5/10 (C) */** CC/FIS Falls Creek Mt Buller Subaru Victorian State Interschools Championships GS/SX Hotham ANC Cup GS Hotham ANC Cup GS Falls Creek Twilight Tuesday Pete the Snow Dragon 3.30-5.30pm Hotham ANC Cup SL Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm Hotham ANC Cup SL Falls Creek Fireworks & Night show spectacular Village Bowl from 8pm Falls Creek XC 6.00pm Falls Creek Invitation Night Sprints Race Secretary 03 5754 1045

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 16

Falls Creek XC 9:30am Kangaroo Hoppet (F) 42km CC/FIS, 9:40am Australian Birkebeiner (F) 21km Joey Hoppet (F) 7km Race Secretary 03 5754 1045 Hotham Banked Slalom - The Hotham Banked Slalom makes its triumphant return in 2018 to celebrate 30 years of snowboarding in Australia and the oldest snowboarding club in the country, Hotham Boardriders.

Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm Baw Baw Bollywood@ Baw Baw weekend Perisher Australian National Moguls Championships Falls Creek Twilight Tuesday Pete the Snow Dragon 3.30-5.30pm Mt Buller Australian Snow Uni Games Perisher Australian National Moguls Championships Falls Creek Night Skiing 6-9pm Falls Creek Fireworks & Night show spectacular Village Bowl from 8pm

Falls Creek XC 11:00am Snow, Trek & Travel Mini Series 4 (F) 0.5/1.5/2.5 k Lynn-Maree Cullen 0409 592 226 Falls Creek Bandwagon Banked Slalom Mt Buller ABOM Mogul Challenge Falls Creek Bigfoot Trail Run Falls Creek Light the Night Baw Baw Dog sled dash weekend event Perisher XC 9:00am Australian Interschool XC Champ Perisher Subaru Australian Interschools Championships Mt Buller Eighties Day

8 Sat 8 Sat 10 Mon 10 Mon 11 Tue 11 Tue 12 Wed 12 Wed 13 Thur 14 Fri 14-16

Baw Baw Rail Jam Falls Creek The Dreamer Slopestyle Perisher SSA FIS Nationals GS Thredbo SSA Childrens Carnival GS Perisher SSA FIS Nationals GS Thredbo SSA Childrens Carnival SL Perisher SSA FIS Nationals SL Thredbo SSA Childrens Carnival SX Perisher SSA FIS Nationals SL Perisher SSA FIS Nationals weather day Hotham Chicks with Stix Australia’s top female skiers and snowboarders get girls feeling confident on the snow and learning new skills.

15-16 9 - 13

Baw Baw Japan Weekend and Snow Battle.

Hotham Australia Gay Ski Week - Rainbow colours of pride take over Hotham for a week of skiing, snowboarding, parties and fun.

Hotham Retro Day and Sunset Party - Gear up in your most outrageous retro gear for a day of prizes and summit sunset party vibes.

Mt Buller Pond Skim National Championships

15 Sat

22 Sat

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Harry Laidlaw hits the gate in a 2016 GS FIS race.

Photo by Steve Cuff

Australian Alpine Racing Review

AUSTRALIAN alpine and skier cross athletes will have a revised pathway through the ranks to the elite level after a comprehensive evaluation and recommendation by new Ski & Snowboard (SSA) Alpine Director Mick Branch.

Mr Branch said the main purpose was to undertake a complete review of the Australian Alpine system for the development of athletes and re-examine the goals of alpine. Part of the equation was to look at best practice from around the world and in other sports and make a series of recommendations for future implementation.

After being appointed to the position in July

2017, Branch has set about understanding why Australia have not produced more elite skiers, especially in the alpine discipline.

We have strong athletes in skier cross as was highlighted by Sami Kennedy-Sim at the Winter Olympics.

Part of the process was communicating with the racing community, race clubs and coaches, key resort personnel, Australian Institute of Sport and Australian Sports Commission.

Head Olympic Winter Institute Skier Cross Coach Shawn Fleming was involved in the review with Mr Branch.

In a 17-page report submitted at the end of

last winter and accepted by the SSA board and other key parties, the changes will largely come into effect this 2018 Australian season.

There is a new defined athlete pathway and one of the many changes will see removal of early season SSA children’s races from the racing calendar. This will allow junior racers to concentrate more on skills development. There will still be the usual resort scheduled races.

Mr Branch said this will see SSA work closely not only with the Australian race club programs, but also resort ski schools to shift the emphasis towards an increased focus on skill acquisition from a young age.

“Additionally, the focus on athletic development shifts from pure physical benchmarking to increased physical literacy with education and exposure to best practices at age appropriate phases,” said Branch.

“These changes are informed by evidencebased research and are supported by the AIS.” The last Australian Alpine Review by Mark Sharp in 2008 identified aspects that needed to be addressed, and although a series of recommendations were addressed by SSA, the ability to truly align the culture with best practice at every phase in the pathway has not been achieved.

Historically there has been an unwillingness to take ownership towards long term outcomes from the club level of the sport.

Coupled with community and clubs shared short term focus rather than long term development, this has hindered the need for

a cultural shift within the sport.

On completion of the 2017 review the main recommendations were to create an SSA Children’s Development Watchlist (not publicly published) to identify potential athletes rather than selecting a SSA national children’s team or squad.

By removing the national children’s squad, it will take away the emphasis on race results rather than developing long term skill. A revision of the national alpine ski team selection will also take place to reflect aspirational milestones and realistic benchmarks.

A restructure of the early season races to allow for more skill development rather than more races. The SSA children’s series has now been scheduled in September at Thredbo for 2018 as the SSA Children’s Carnival. The FIS races for older racers will happen across the same dates at Perisher this year.

This will also alleviate costs for families associated with attending multiple races across the resorts during winter and allow more on snow training for athletes.

SSA will introduce a club recognition scheme to ensure all clubs are working in line with the national vision and best practices.

Education will also be implemented with coaches of young athletes and parents to show the long-term success of skills development.

Now that the Australian Alpine Vision has a structured pathway, let’s hope with support for alpine and ski cross athletes they can develop more champion skiers.

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2018 Australian Ski and Snowboard Awards AUSTRALIA’S elite ski and snowboard athletes gathered in Melbourne in May to recognise the best achievements from the 2017-2018 season.

Australia’s top performers at the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games were recognised for their outstanding results during the season.

Among the winners were Olympic silver medallists Matt Graham and Jarryd Hughes who jointly took home the prestigious Athlete of the Year Award. Paralympic gold and bronze medallist Simon Patmore received the Paralympic Athlete of the Year award.

Ski and Snowboard Australia CEO Michael Kennedy said the 2017-2018 season was a standout for Australia’s top snow sport athletes, with many worthy nominees and winners.

“The athletes along with their coaches and support teams, have done a fantastic job across the domestic and international season, capped off with the amazing performances in PyeongChang.

“The multi medal performances at both the Olympic and Paralympic Games combined with the outstanding way our athletes presented themselves in the media is a credit to them and their programs. The Australian public are becoming increasingly aware of how competitive we are as a nation on the international stage. There is an increasing expectation of success which can only be a good thing.

“The performances recognised at the Australian Ski and Snowboard awards symbolise both our current success and the fantastic prospects we have into the future,” he said.

Ceremony as the flag bearer. In 2014, Hughes was awarded Boardercross Athlete of the Year.

SNOWSPORT PARALYMPIC ATHLETE OF THE YEAR Winner: Simon Patmore

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for the future. Earlier in the year at the Deer Valley World Cup, Jakara made her first 6-skier Super Final and secured fifth place overall.

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Paralympic athlete of the year Simon Patmore with teammates.

Following his bronze medal in athletics at the 2012 Paralympic Summer Games, Patmore became the sixth Australian to compete at the Summer and Winter Paralympic Games. In his first Paralympic Winter Games, Simon Patmore stole the show to break Australia’s 16-year gold medal drought when he won the snowboard cross at the PyeongChang Winter Paralympic Games. He backed up his gold medal performance with a bronze medal in the banked slalom. Patmore has previously WON Para-Snowboard Athlete of the Year in 2016.

AWARD WINNERS SNOWSPORT ATHLETE OF THE YEAR Winners: Matt Graham and Jarryd Hughes Matt Graham: Dual Olympian and New South Wales Institute of Sport athlete, Graham improved on his seventh place in the men’s moguls at Sochi 2014 with a silver medal at PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Games. On top of his 2018 Olympics success, Graham also consistently reached the podium on the World Cup Circuit placing third on three occasions and second once. Graham has previously won this award in 2016.

Jarryd Hughes: Dual Olympian and New South Wales Institute of Sport athlete, Hughes delivered an impressive performance in the Snowboard Cross final at the 2018 Winter Olympics to claim a silver medal. His inspirational medal performance also saw him lead the Australian team out in the Closing

Joint athletes of the year Matt Graham and Jarryd Hughes.

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Junior athlete of the year Jakara Anthony (right) with fellow mogul skier Madii Himbury.

JUNIOR SNOWSPORT ATHLETE OF THE YEAR Winner: Jakara Anthony Making her Olympic Games debut at 19-yearsold, Jakara Anthony had an outstanding first outing in the Olympics arena and claimed fourth position in the women’s moguls. It was an impressive first Olympic Games for the youngster, who has shown she is one to watch

RISING STAR Winner: Valentino Guseli It was another impressive season for junior Valentino Guseli, he has confirmed he is a name to watch out for in the future. At the US Open men’s halfpipe qualifying within the top 30 of the senior men’s competition where he placed 22nd in the field of 30 as a 12-year-old.

At the same event, Valentino competed in the Junior Jam category and placed second overall.

For the fourth year in a row Valentino was first overall in his age group, in the 12/13 category this season at the USA SA Nationals with two gold, two silver and a bronze medal.

COACH OF THE YEAR Winner: Steve Desovich Steve Desovich was instrumental in Matt Graham’s silver medal performance at PyeongChang 2018 and was key in the mogul program medalling six times in the 2018 season. This is Desovich’s eighth time he has won Coach of the Year.

COACH OF THE YEAR (PARALYMPIC DISCIPLINES) Winner: Lukas Prem As Head Coach of the 2018 Paralympic Para-Snowboard team, Prem contributed to Simon Patmore’s gold and bronze medal performance as well as Ben Tudhope and Sean Pollard’s PyeongChang Paralympic Games.

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Development coach of the year Peter McNiel (right) with Ed Fortey.

DEVELOPMENT COACH OF THE YEAR Winner: Peter McNiel Peter is responsible for training the 2018 Junior Snowsport Athlete of the Year award winner Jakara Anthony to fourth place in women’s moguls at PyeongChang2018 as well as her fifth place in the Deer Valley World Cup event. This is the third time McNiel has won Development Coach of the Year, last winning it in 2015.

SCHOOL OF THE YEAR Winner: Canberra Grammar School

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Peter Forras (middle) from XTM and athletes with their XTM sponsorship cheques.

Australian Olympic and Paralympic athletes.

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 18

MT HOTHAM

25th Anniversary for Sled Dog Challenge

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EXPEREINCE: The snow dome accommodation and tepee site near Mount Hotham.

Eco snow dome ALPINE enthusiasts looking for a new outdoor adventure this winter should join Alpine Nature Experience for an overnight snow dome adventure at Mount Hotham.

This is glamping in style, where you can either cross country ski or snowshoe to the remote site and then relax under the stars in the eco village snow domes. The company describes their new accommodation as, “Think of it as an Igloo, but dry, with a view, warmer and with a comfortable bed and plush blanket.”

In what is a first for the Australian alpine, the eco-village is set up in the wilderness near Hotham and completely off the grid, with everything carried in and out via man power.

Guests must first book for the sunset ‘snowshoe to fondue’ tour where they walk through the snow gum alpine environment to reach the camp. On arrival you are greeted with warm Glühwein by the fire.

Once inside the main tepee you will taste the delicacies of a three-course dinner, with mouth-watering French fondue and cheese imported for the occasion from French alpine farms.

If you are only undertaking the fondue dinner tour you will walk back via torchlight to the carpark once the evening is finished.

For overnight guests they have the pleasure of sleeping under the stars, as the snowdomes have a skylight roof, so you can admire the Southern Cross and other star constellations as you indulge in the remote alpine serenity.

As an addition guests can add on extra portions to their trip such as skidoo tours of Hotham the following morning or relax in a Dinner Plain Onsen.

The idea came from Frenchman JeanFrancois Rupp who relocated to Australia in 2014. Jean-Francois hopes to attract first timers to the snow, families, seminars and school groups.

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

Tours run from Wednesday to Sunday from 4.30pm in June and July and 5.00pm in August and September. You can find all details and book at www.alpinenatureexperience.com.au.

ONE of the most exciting events on the alpine calendar for both man and his best friend will happen at Dinner Plain Alpine Village on August 11-12.

The Altitude 5000 Dinner Plain Sled Dog Challenge will celebrate its 25th running where over 350 dogs will be yelping loudly to be allowed to run. A mixture of Siberian huskies, Alaskan malamutes and even kelpies will combine to tear up the snow in this boutique quaint setting near Mount Hotham.

The event is the longest running dog sled race in the snow, and the picturesque Dinner Plain Alpine Village is the perfect venue for watching the race and cheering on the dogs as they strive to be the fastest.

There will be over 70 mushers (drivers) with different categories from two, three, four, six and eight dog sleds and they run up to a 10km race starting and finishing in the heart of Dinner Plain.

Competitors in the past have travelled from Canada, USA and New Zealand making it a truly international competition.

With crowds lining the course the weekend is a great spectacle.

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It is also one of the busiest weekends at Dinner Plain, so booking in advance is recommended and only competing dogs allowed, so leave your pets at home.

Race organiser and experienced musher, Rob Stevens comments, “More than any other race it tests the depth of the relationship between the musher and their dogs. In this particular environment one is totally dependent on their dogs, particularly lead dogs, they need to be both fast and responsive to voice commands, while also able to guide the team out of difficulty.”

Races start at 9am each day with teams negotiating the gum tree lined trails and all the winter elements should it be snowing.

Visitors should rug up for the cold and arrive early to gain a great vantage point.

For more information on the race visit www.sleddogchallenge.com.

Visitors to Dinner Plain can also have sled dog rides during the winter with Howling Husky Sled Dogs and can find more information at www.howlinghuskys.com.au.

EXCITING: The dogs love to run in the Dinner Plain Sled Dog Challenge.

PHOTO: Karl Gray

family Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 19

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LAUGH: Who doesn’t enjoy a slide on the snow tubes.

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CHAMPAGNE: Float through some of the lightest powder snow.

FUN: Big White is perfect for a family snow holiday.

THRILL: Mushing through the forest with the huskies is a Canadian tradition.

STAY: Your perfect ski in-ski out location.

Canada’s Favourite Family Resort It’s the snow, “Okanagan Champagne Powder” to be precise, and an average annual snowfall of 7.5 meters of ‘Mother Nature’s’ finest that draws people to Big White.

Deep powder bowls, world renowned snow ghosts and long cruising slopes offer everything any snow enthusiast could wish for. Plus, the mountain is expansive with over 118 runs, five powder bowls and a resort area of 3052 ha.

Voted ‘Best Weather’ by Ski Canada Magazine, with an average daytime temperature of -5 Celsius and plenty of sunshine it’s no surprise that Big White is Canada’s Favourite Family Resort.

Big White takes pride in being a top winter destination for families worldwide, after all it is Canadian family owned and operated since 1963.

While the skiing is superb with enough terrain to suit all levels, it is all the extras that define Big White as a must visit destination.

Like being Canada’s largest ski in – ski out resort village with over 17,000 on-mountain beds where there’s something to suit every taste and budget and all with the delightful boutique village at your front door.

Choose from full service hotels, luxury

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self-catering apartments, modern vacation homes to themed classic log cabins with most accommodations offering private outdoor hot tubs to take in the mountain vistas after a great day on the slopes.

For skiers, snowboarders and outdoor enthusiasts there’s so much to do to make your visit to the Okanagan region a truly memorable holiday.

Add to your mountain experience with an authentic Canadian dog sledding adventure.

Here you experience the thrill of mushing through the forest with the huskie dogs who are just as excited as you to be out for an adventure.

For a romantic evening or something unique for the family, climb aboard your own personal sleigh ride where you can take in the ambience of the wilderness as you meander through the snow covered pine trees.

You can also conquer the 60ft ice climbing tower, test your skill on the outdoor ice skating rink and the kids can never have enough of sliding fun on the snow tubing.

There is adventure snowmobiling or take in a live “Kelowna Rockets” ice hockey game…. an Australian favourite.

For those who want to advance their skills

and be one with the mountain, a lesson from the pros is the perfect option. The Big White Ski & Board School is made up of an international staff consisting of some of the best coaches and instructors in the world who call Big White their winter home.

From kids lessons to advanced skiers and boarders, you will be carving the mountain better than ever after some expert tuition.

Big White is proud to also be the home of Olympian Kelsey Serwa, GOLD medallist in ladies ski cross at the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang.

To Get There

Fly from Australia to Vancouver then onto Kelowna.

Big White is situated on the edge of the Monashee mountain range. Big White’s preferred carrier travelling from Australia is Air Canada which operates a state of the art Boeing 777 daily from Sydney to Vancouver. A very popular 787 Dreamliner daily from Brisbane to Vancouver and recently added a non-stop from Melbourne.

All three routes arrive in Vancouver early in

New for 2018/19 season is $10 Million in various resort upgrades and construction of the $3.9 million Powder Chair. This new lift will increase upload capacity by 1,900 passengers per hour allowing more skier and snowboarders to access and enjoy the amazing terrain.

A new PistenBully groomer has been added to the family to keep the winter runs perfectly groomed. The skier tunnel on the Hummingbird run will expand from its current width of 25 feet to 60 feet accommodating increased skier and foot passenger traffic.

the morning allowing a seamless 45 minute Airbus 320 jet connection to Kelowna.

Many Australians prefer to fly their national airline. If that is your preference, Qantas offers non-stop service from Sydney to Vancouver December-February.

From Vancouver it’s a short 45m connection on code share partner WestJet to Kelowna.

For further information or to book, go to www.bigwhite.com.

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Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 21

Snow Travel

By Steve Cuff PREPARING for an overseas snow holiday can be daunting or easy, depending on which way you attack the task. Personally, I would prefer to leave it to the travel agent, especially if I was travelling to a new resort.

That could be different if you are returning to the same resort each year, but let’s be honest here, there are so many fantastic resorts to visit in a lifetime, so why keep being a repeat customer when the snow world awaits.

Felicity Moss at Mogul Ski World knows a thing or twenty about all snow resorts, having been in the business of snow holidays now for 37 years. When we quiz her, it is interesting to see what the current trends are and where people are travelling to.

It also helps to know that Mogul staff do travel to the resorts to gain first-hand experience, so you know when you are talking to staff they know all the tricks to make your holiday run smoothly.

While you spend most time on the slopes, you will want a nice apartment with Felicity saying, “We send staff to all different resorts to experience the resorts first hand. Not only do they ski or board the resort, but they spend many hours doing inspections of the hotels, chalets and apartments, keeping up to date with new buildings and those that are being constantly updated or those that are no longer suitable for our clients.”

“We have about 70 resorts from all around the northern hemisphere in our brochure and someone in our office would have been to nearly all of them.”

So knowledgeable staff is a great starting point and they also know all the latest deals of what is happening at each resort. That could influence some of your decision making just as the latest deals on great lift pass packages could sway your decisions.

Naturally the bigger resorts have great appeal, boasting big mountains and vast terrain, but that can also mean busier slopes, so discount little brother resorts.

WHISTLER BLACKCOMB Whistler Blackcomb is always popular and under the Vail Resorts banner where the Epic Pass helps you save. Direct flights to Vancouver and a comfortable three-hour coach ride from plane departure to village hotel will see you carving up the slopes in no time.

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Revelstoke is part of the Ikon Pass.

PHOTO: Royce Sihlis / Revelstoke.

There is only one word to describe Whistler and that is BIG. It has everything you would ever dream of in a snow holiday from open bowls, steep couloirs, very long cruising blue and green groomed runs and a village atmosphere to match. Mogul Ski World has amazing Whistler specials, but they do fill quickly.

ASPEN SNOWMASS Aspen Snowmass in Colorado has always been an Australian favourite, and with four mountains to choose from and the beautiful town of Aspen for après, restaurants and nightlife, it has it all. They have exceptional skiing and terrain, plus when you have a dedicated après ski page on your website, you know they like to party.

Après ski in Aspen and Snowmass Village is treated as more than just something to do after a day of skiing and riding - it’s considered a lifestyle.

It does not always mean the bigger resorts are better and what is sometimes classed as a ‘smaller resort’ is far from it when it comes to on mountain options. All these resorts have great hotels and apartments, good restaurants, shopping and lots of other activities. Apart from all of this they are at a better price point.

SUN PEAKS Sun Peaks in Canada has been a regular fixture on Australian radars and is also perfect for families. With a quaint village and a quieter atmosphere, it has plenty of positives to entice you.

There is a great mix of terrain for all levels that can you see you blasting top to bottom on perfect corduroy or whisking through the pine trees on a great powder day. And I must say I am partial to the occasional soft bump runs

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Telluride has grown in reputation for Australians.

PHOTO: Ben Eng / Telluride

after a snow storm and have experienced some of the best here at the top of Sun Peaks.

Sun Peaks has also announced $60m in resort developments including a new quad chair. This is a great news for one of the best ski in ski out villages.

TELLURIDE Telluride is somewhat off the main route which is one of its great strengths. Those lucky enough to have visited this historic town all vouch for sensational skiing and a town that has a different vibe to others.

This year Telluride has aligned with the

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Whistler offers huge terrain and Epic Pass benefits. Photo Paul Morrison / Whistler

Epic Pass, with holders receiving seven days of skiing or snowboarding with no blackout dates at Telluride and 50 percent off lift tickets after the seven days have been redeemed.

BANFF Banff in Canada offers a great all-round experience to skiers particularly the younger market. Although it is not ski in ski out, the town is very vibrant with lots of restaurants,

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Jackson Hole is a favourite of the advanced skiers and is on the Ikon list.

PHOTO: Jackson Hole

bars, nightlife and some great shopping. You can ski at nearby Norquay, or catch transport to Sunshine Village and Lake Louise, the latter a huge resort and all with some of the best scenery in Canada.

Australians have a strong affiliation with Japanese resorts and everyone has heard about the legendary powder snow. If you have visited you can attest to those stories being real and not snow tales, the powder is sensational.

NISEKO Niseko is continuing to grow and still is the most popular with the Australian market for resorts in Japan, even though a lot of smaller resorts are now on the radar. Skiers are finding these boutique areas very interesting with more Japanese culture and a little less crowded.

While Europe is further travelling, the tradition of skiing the Alps should lure you in and it is always popular. Val d’Isere, in the Savoie area of France is a big drawcard where you have huge terrain options that will see you skiing for hours one way before your return to the charming village.

There has been a move back to Lech and St. Anton in Austria, where you will find tradition is part of the furniture here. Two Mogul Ski staff visited these resorts this year so they are up to date with everything new.

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 22

SUPER PASSES The snow business is very competitive and the big winner in the pass war is certainly the consumer. The big three choices are the new Ikon Pass, the Epic Pass and Australian Epic Pass that includes Perisher and the Mountain Collective. In the Mogul Ski brochure this year they explain in more detail, but here is a snippet of what resorts the passes offer.

IKON PASS The newest pass on the market, the Ikon Pass has a top pedigree of the best resorts in North America. There are different option passes that have some restrictions, but you would need years to ski them all.

Resorts like Aspen Snowmass, Alta and Snowbird, Deer Valley Resort, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Big Sky Resort, Killington Resort, Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Sugarbush Resort and Canadas SkiBig3: Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise, Mt. Norquay.

Add to that Steamboat, Winter Park Resort, Copper Mountain Resort, Eldora Mountain Resort, Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, Mammoth Mountain, Big Bear Mountain Resort, June Mountain, Stratton, Snowshoe Mountain, Tremblant, Blue Mountain, Sunday River, Sugarloaf and Loon Mountain.

EPIC PASS Vail Resorts’ Epic Pass is one of the best on offer, and if you buy the Australian version you can ski at Perisher all season and then the best of North America. Choose from this list of high profile resorts the Australian Epic Pass or Epic Pass allows access. Depending on exact pass, some may have restrictions in holiday periods.

Epic list includes Whistler Blackcomb, Vail and Beaver Creek, Park City, Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood, Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin and Stowe. Hakuba Valley in Japan and Telluride are aligned with the pass.

MOUNTAIN COLLECTIVE The Mountain Collective offers a pass with two free days at each resort, bonus third day at a resort of choice and then 50% discount on additional days. Resorts include Alta, Aspen Snowmass, Banff Sunshine, Big Sky, Jackson Hole, Lake Louise, Mammoth, Revelstoke, Snowbasin, Snowbird, Square Valley Alpine Meadows, Sugarbush, Sun Valley, Taos, Thredbo and Coronet Peak.

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Four medals for paralympians AUSTRALIA capped off a great Winter Paralympic competition in PyeongChang with Simon Patmore winning gold and bronze and Melissa Perrine capturing two bronze medals.

Competing in snowboard cross, Patmore showed he is the best in his discipline with a historic display. The 30-year-old won Australia’s ďŹ rst gold medal at a Winter Paralympics since Michael Milton and Bart Bunting won at the 2002 Salt Lake City Games.

Gliding down the Jeongseon Alpine Centre snowboard cross course Patmore also became the ďŹ rst man in Australian sporting history to win a medal at both the Summer and Winter Games. Patmore claimed bronze in the 200m T46 ďŹ nal at the London 2012 Paralympic Games. “When you guys say ďŹ rst gold for a while and ďŹ rst male athlete for Summer and Winter, I’m really proud,â€? Patmore said. “I really want to show everyone that it can be done and all you have to do is put in the effort and put in the time and trust the process.â€?

There waiting for him was his two Australian snowboard teammates Sean Pollard (9th in

the same disability class as Patmore) and Ben Tudhope (10th in his lower limb disability class). They broke through security guards and raced out onto the snow for an impromptu celebration with Patmore. Pollard and Tudhope jumped all over him as he let the tears of joy ow. “In the quarter-ďŹ nals, semis and through to the ďŹ nal I was just holding back the tears and the emotions,â€? Patmore said. “Man my goggles fogged up as soon as I crossed the line. I had to collapse on the ground or I would have run straight into everyone.â€?

Patmore backed up the brilliant gold medal to claim bronze in the banked slalom event. “I had no expectations going into banked slalom,â€? the 30 year old from Brisbane said. “I deďŹ nitely did have a little conďŹ dence boost after the gold medal. I knew the boards were running fast so when I came down the course the ďŹ rst time and put down a good time, I thought ‘Well it’s game on!’ “I got some good advice from my coach (Lukas Prem) and each run I was able to put down a faster time.â€?

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CELEBRATION: Simon Patmore celebrates winning gold in the snowboard cross.

Patmoreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s teammate in the upper-limb disability category, Sean Pollard, had his best result of the week with a ďŹ fth placing after his ninth in the snowboard cross and Ben Tudhope ďŹ nished in 7th position.

Melissa Perrine produced some great skiing in the vision impaired class with her sighted guide Christian Geiger to win two Paralympic bronze in two days.

Competing in the alpine combined, the Perrine-Geiger team stormed home in the second slalom leg to win bronze after being placed sixth after the Super G component. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an understatement,â&#x20AC;? Perrine said, when asked to describe her emotions after waiting so long for Paralympic success. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Relief, I guess. Elation. Just so happy right now. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m stoked that it was enough to get on the podium and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m so excited for the next two races,â&#x20AC;? she said after the ďŹ rst medal.

The 30 year old from Mittagong in NSW competing in her third Winter Paralympic games then landed the bronze in the giant slalom the following day.

After winning the second medal, Perrine the woman who has won 35 World Cup medals and eight World Championships medals over the past eight years said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love this sport, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an amazing sport. I wanted to relax and have a lot of fun out there today and I managed to do that.â&#x20AC;?

Perrine came close to her third medal with a great fourth placing in the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision impaired Slalom. Perrine may have ďŹ nished 4th, just outside the medals, but her PyeongChang resume is positively glowing with ďŹ ve top-ďŹ ve ďŹ nishes from ďŹ ve events, including her bronze in the Super Combined and the Giant Slalom.

Perrine was also bestowed the honour of carrying the ďŹ&#x201A;ag in the closing ceremony at PyeongChang Olympic Stadium.

In a sad note for the team, ďŹ&#x201A;ag bearer and co-captain Joany Badenhorst dislocated her kneecap and tore ligaments in a crash during ofďŹ cial training and was ruled out of the games. It was a near identical injury to the one which saw 23 year old Badenhorst also miss

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 24

Ĺś

GLORY: Guide Christian Geiger with skier Melissa Perrine won two bronze medals in two days.

PHOTOS: Australian Paralympic Committee.

Ĺś

INJURY: Flag bearer and co-captain Joany Badenhorst before she injured herself.

out on competing in Sochi four years earlier.

Badenhorst was the number one ranked snowboard cross athlete and ranked three in banked slalom and could have added to the overall tally had she not injured herself. She had won the two IPC Para-snowboard World Cup races leading into PyeongChang.

Overall the Australian Paralympic Games campaign were considered a huge success, with four medals and a top 15 position in the overall medal tally.

The medal haul was double Sochi (two) from four years ago and Torino in 2006 (two), and one more than Vancouver (three) in 2010.

In fact, Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tally of four is the highest number of medals won since Salt Lake City in 2002 (seven).

Australian Medal Trifecta

By Steve Cuff AUSTRALIA continued to add to their overall Winter Olympic medal tally with a trifecta of medals at the PyeongChang 2018 games in South Korea.

Starting with Matt Graham winning a silver medal in the men’s moguls, Australia celebrated a whirlwind three days at the Phoenix Park venue with snowboarders Scotty James and Jarryd Hughes adding to the medal count.

Matt Graham started his second Olympic campaign strongly but lacked some of the finesse if he was to grace the podium. The steep difficult course was challenging for most of the skiers in training, except for the Canadian gold medal winner, Mikael Kingsbury, who skied brilliantly from the outset.

Graham qualified in 9th position with a score of 77.28, but with gradual improvement each day there was every hope he could deliver when required.

He upped the ante in his skiing to reach the super final, where the top six best skiers would ski for podium glory. When he crossed the line fist pumping he knew he had just skied the run of his life posting a score of 82.57. He would have to wait for three more skiers before he realised his dream of winning a Winter Olympic silver medal. Kingsbury easily won gold with 86.63 and Japan’s Daichi Hara won bronze with 82.19.

“I’m over the moon, it still hasn’t sunk in but I can’t wait to celebrate. It was amazing putting down that final run which was my best run of the night. I knew when I saw the score I was going to be on the podium,” said Graham.

“I came out today and, actually the first training session before the qualification session didn’t exactly go as I would’ve liked, maybe

Ŷ

Jarryd Hughes crosses the finish line and celebrates winning a silver medal in snowboard cross.

Photos: Steve Cuff & Sue Ward.

I just felt a little bit stiff and then went inside, took a breather and came out firing. I was just having fun and when I’m having fun I’m skiing the best.”

Australian flag bearer and triple Olympian Scotty James was always expected to podium in the men’s halfpipe, it was more what colour medal and how tough the battle would be with arch rivals Shaun White and Japan’s Ayumu Hirano. The three riders have dominated the sport setting up what people were describing as the greatest snowboard event in history.

James set a high qualifying score of 96.75 only to be edged out by White with 98.50 and Hirano in third position with 95.25. Australian Kent Callister also squeezed into the final in 12th position and would eventually finish 10th.

The scene was set for the highly anticipated final and Hirano set the early pace with a 95.25 in his second run. Riders have three runs to better their score and James had already set a 92.00 and would need to stomp it all in his final run to win.

James was looking good until he went down

on a frontside 1080 leaving him a guaranteed bronze. In an exciting finish White would nail his last run scoring 97.75, earn his third gold medal in four Olympics and add to his legendary status.

“It was an amazing day and I came out expecting a really good fight and that’s exactly what it was,” said James.

“I just wanted to come out and ride really well, I only get one time every four years to do so in front of my country and that’s what I did so I’m really grateful for that. I’ve had a crazy couple of seasons standing on a lot of podiums but this one is very sentimental, and I get to fly the Australian flag as high as I can.”

Australia had four competitors in the snowboard cross event and all had legitimate claims for podium success, but when the snow spray settled from a drama and action-packed day, dual Olympian Jarryd Hughes would stand proud on the podium to receive his silver medal.

All Aussie riders looked good in qualification, but it would be tough to progress through each heat and the pressure was on. Adam Lambert was eliminated early, but Cam Bolton, Alex Pullin and Hughes all looked fast and kept progressing through the rounds.

It was exciting times for Australia as all three riders eventually made the same semi finals.

Bolton would end up crashing and injuring his shoulder, but he returned for the small final and finished 10th.

In the final Pullin would crash from a big air onto a flat landing and finish 6th. Hughes would battle it out with Olympic defending champion, Frenchman Pierre Vaultier and capture his silver medal and was ecstatic as he crossed the line.

Hughes who has had five knee operations thanked his family and support crew and added, “I’ve been very fortunate to work with

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 25

Ŷ

Scotty James wins a bronze medal in snowboard halfpipe.

Ŷ

Matt Graham is ecstatic just after winning a silver medal in the men’s

a lot of great people around the Olympics and the last few days I’ve been sitting there chatting with Alyce Burnett who’s a kayaking Olympian and we’ve been able to chat about stuff and just kind of get my mind off it and not be too focussed so it’s been really cool.”

Hughes capped off a great games by attending most events to support other athletes and was chosen to carry the flag in the closing ceremony.

Ŷ

Ŷ

Ŷ Jakara Anthony proved the surprise package of the games for the Australians with a sensational 4th place in the ladies moguls.

Ŷ

Lydia Lassila placed 14th and retired from international competition after PyeongChang.

She represented Australia in five Winter Olympics winning gold in Vancouver 2010 and bronze in Sochi 2014.

Jarryd Hughes (silver) and Scotty James (bronze) get together to show off their respective medals.

Speed skater Deanna Lockett showed good pace in her heat, taking the lead at one point in the 1000m but eventually finished third and did not progress to final.

Ŷ Ŷ

Mt Buller’s Anton Grimus injured his shoulder in a seeding run crash, finished fourth in his round of 32 heat and missed out reaching the quarter finals.

Ŷ

Harry Laidlaw was skiing nicely in the giant slalom first run until he missed a gate near the finish and crashed out.

Ŷ

Alex Pullin (2nd from left) leads one the heats with Cameron Bolton far right. Pullin would make the final and finished 6th and Bolton 10th overall.

Ŷ

Britt Cox would make the super final top six but when she needed her best run it was not there, eventually finishing 5th in her third Winter Olympics.

Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 26

Ŷ

David Morris could well feel hard done by the judges scores on not reaching the second round of the final, but he accepted the decision gracefully and placed 10th.

Phil Bellingham rounds a downhill bend in the 15km free cross country event.

All photos by Steve Cuff

Ŷ

Olympic Moments

By Steve Cuff EMOTIONS and nerves are tested to the limit at Winter Olympic Games, there is pressure to succeed for yourself, your team and your country.

It is not only the glory moments that standout, but the achievements of those who were not expected to win, some who did succeed and those that may have fallen short of their own expectations.

The upset story of the games was without a doubt Czech skier and snowboarder Ester Ledecka. Not only did she come from the middle of the pack to create an upset victory in the Ladies Super G, she backed up and won her main event, the ladies snowboard parallel slalom. History is made that may never be repeated.

The heartache from that Super G race would have been Austria’s Anna Veith who

Ŷ

Belle Brockhoff showed great courage coming back from injury.

may have thought she had victory secured before Ester delivered a shock faster time.

There was some heartache and tears for our Australian team with Britt Cox disappointed in her final run in the moguls where she would place fifth. Realistically there was a good chance of a mogul medal for the likeable Aussie girl but not to be.

Snowboarder Belle Brockhoff made a momentous comeback from injury to reach the games and be competitive. In the end it was not to be, but it was a sensational effort and when it was all over tears rolled down Belle’s cheeks. It was a sad moment for her and no doubt had she not been injured she would have been right in the mix for glory. But there will be a next time.

Sami Kennedy-Sim in skier cross and Laura Peel in ladies’ aerial were both in the hunt for medals. Sami had a mishap in the start of the semi-final and could not make up ground to reach the final. Laura could not land her final jump cleanly which cost her a podium finish.

One of our most decorated Olympians, Lydia Lassila bid farewell to the Winter Olympics after five appearances. While Lydia did not reach the heights of her previous successes, she will always be remembered for that tough Australian determination to fight on no matter what setback she had.

Lydia has been a wonderful representative of our country and we wish her all the best in her retirement.

The downside of when things go wrong on this massive stage is that everyone is watching. There is nowhere to hide for instance when our speed skater Andy Jung crashed into the barrier after losing an edge.

Or the heartbreak when in your first games you crash in warm up for your event and your games is over through injury. Young slopestyle snowboarder Tess Coady was looking forward to pushing herself into the top ten, but in windy conditions missed a

Sami KennedySim shows her disappointment at the end of the semifinal.

Ŷ

Ester Ledecka would win both skiing and snowboard gold medals. Photo by Sue Ward

Ŷ

Ŷ

Tess Coady and Laura Peel prior to their respective events.

Andy Jung and a fellow racer hit the pads.

Photos by Steve Cuff

landing and her games done in an instance.

Even worse, the event that day was postponed as organisers thought in the end it was too dangerous. If Tess had taken it easier in the warm up who knows what the outcome could have been. Sport can be cruel sometimes.

There are countless memories from the games and our younger athletes just starting on their journey will now look forward to their next chapter of Winter Olympics in Beijing in 2022.

Stay tuned to Alpine News second edition this winter for more PyeongChang exploits.

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Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 27

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Mt Buller - Whistler 1A/1B/1C, 14 Chamois Road A Unique Enclave of 3 Apartments - Flexible Offering 3 Fully self-contained apartments available for sale located in the Whistler Tower with great access from the front of the complex. Facilities include an entrance with drying and ski storage, separate well fitted laundry room, spa room and a rooftop lookout tower with freestanding fireplace. With only 3 apartments in the tower only those three have exclusive use of the private facilities. 1B has an on-title car park included in the sale. 1A & 1C can apply for a drop off 4WD access permit.

Merrijig – Pinnacle View, 34 Purcell Drive 6 4.5 3 Pinnacle View – Large Home and Separate Studio Huge flexibility to occupy and/or holiday let. Excellent rental history over the last 9 years. Main house with 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and every conceivable mod con. Euro wood fire heater plus hydronic heating and air-con. Master Bedroom with magnificent views, large deck and large ensuite with spa bath. Second spacious 1 Bedroom Studio of 60sqm with private entrance. Flexible design can suit a family looking for retreat or permanent home plus extra income. Both properties well maintained and in excellent condition.

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Mark Adams 0419 858 007

www.markadams.com.au Alpine News Winter Planner - 2018 - 28

Price: $225,000

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j/91d01019/19-18