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Scotty James at Thredbo

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Features

PAGES 12-13

Scotty James

James will host the Mooki’s Mini Pipe Cup in August at Thredbo.

PAGES 14-15

New Desert Skis

An entrepreneurial couple makes their new Desert Skis in Jindabyne.

PAGE 18

Thredboland Mascots

Kids will love interacting with the mascots during the July Kids Festival.

PAGES 26-27

New Mt Perisher 6

Perisher guests will be eager to ride the MT P 6 chair during their snow visit.

PAGE 33

Ski Etiquette

Everyone should understand and abide by the Alpine Responsibility Code.

PAGES 40-43

Winter Olympic Preview

What Australian athletes will compete at the Milano-Cortina 2026 games?

Contents

Inside

PAGE 8

Bowlo Makeover

The Jindabyne Bowling Club has undergone a full interior refurbishment.

PAGES 10-11

Instructor Insight

An insight into what instructors think during the busy July school holidays.

PAGE 19

Thredbo Snow Factory

Thredbo welcomes a new addition to their Friday Flat snowmaking system.

PAGE 23

Cider House Opens

The Apple Thief Cider House is now open for business in Batlow.

PAGE 28

Peak Snow Day

Perisher Resort offers guests information for those extra busy snow days.

PAGES 30-31

Navigate Perisher

Will your thought process change regarding navigation this season at Perisher?

PAGE 34

Try Cross Country

Cross-country skiing is becoming more popular, and you can learn this season.

PAGES 46-51

Dining Guide

Peruse the highlights of all the best restaurants to dine at this winter season.

MANAGING EDITOR

Steve Cuff

DESIGN & ARTWORK

NEM Creative team.

CONTRIBUTORS

Cori Isele, Charles Davis, Georgina Pembroke, Boen Ferguson, Lucas Wilkinson, Isaac Podmore.

ADVERTISING SALES

Steve Cuff

Ph: 0418 620 651 E: stevecuff@snowymagazine.com.au

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Snowy Mountains Magazine is a free publication published 7 times per year and distributed to over 170 locations.

2025 July Edition

15,500 printed copies

1500 Sydney

2000 Canberra

12,000 Snowy Mountains region and surrounding areas.

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Free E-Editions available online at www.snowymagazine.com.au.

PUBLISHER

Snowy Mountains Media

Hartley Higgins and Steve Cuff

SNOWY MOUNTAINS MAGAZINE

PO Box 406 Jindabyne NSW 2627

Admin: Wangaratta Ph: (03 5723 0100)

DISCLAIMER

No material, artwork or photos may be reproduced in whole or in part without the permission of the publisher.

Snowy Mountains Magazine takes care in compiling content but cannot accept responsibility for any errors. Every effort is made to confirm events and calendar dates however dates can often change and errors may occur.

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COVER PHOTO

BOOST: Scotty James launches at the 2024 Mooki’s Mini Pipe Cup at Thredbo.

PHOTO: Thredbo Resort / Isaac Podmore

The First Word

WOW, what a start to the opening weekend we had. Has this storm set up the season from day one? Time will tell, as always. Ask me in October, as the saying goes.

But who doesn’t like a 50cm plus snowfall to open another snow season? Cold nights in June, combined with lighter snowfalls during the month, allowed the resorts to open more terrain. With plenty of commentary and socalled expert opinions about the opening, we thought a very brief explanation of mountain operations might be useful. Some people don’t understand the intricacies that resorts face.

The simple fact is that managing lifts and terrain is a complex operation. When you consider that accumulated snowfall packs down to about 30 to 40 percent of that total, or less, that throws a whole new light on the conversation.

Certain areas of every resort require much more snow to open. Some slopes are summer groomed more than others, in simple terms, meaning they are smoother to start with and only need a decent layer to open.

The most productive winter storms for Australian resorts arrive with strong

winds. Blizzards may not be to everyone’s liking, but from a mountain logistics perspective, that’s what we need. Blizzards are our friend.

When snow is blowing, it fills holes, snow fences catch snow, which is then pushed to other much-needed sections or to create access to areas. Once a base is started, we then need more snow. Nothing is instant, it all takes time. Countless snowcat hours are devoted to pushing snow, building up loading and unloading areas of chairs and T-bars, and shaping groomed runs for your enjoyment.

That is the simple version, and we hope that it enlightens you more as we ponder the winter ahead.

We hope you find this edition interesting. We have a great mix of stories and information for your winter holiday, plus we preview the Winter Olympics for Milano-Cortina 2026 in Italy.

Here’s to much more snow, great turns, and an enjoyable 2025 snow season.

Steve Cuff MANAGING EDITOR

◼ SWEET: Toni Hodkinson relishing early-season powder turns during the opening weekend.

PHOTO: Perisher Resort / Lucas Wilkinson

Refurbishment Bowls Patrons Over

JINDABYNE Bowling Club has created a wow factor for guests with a complete refurbishment of its interior, creating a far more intimate setting for its patrons.

The main bar, previously one large, bland room, has now been divided into sections, making it not only more pleasing visually, but each area has been defined by its themed setting and furniture.

The bar now comprises a series of chairlift booths, which are very comfortable and perfect for six people to dine and socialise. Smaller tables in the bar have armchair-style chairs.

By the window with an aspect overlooking the bowling green and towards Lake Jindabyne, tables and chairs offer a more relaxing environment.

The sports bar area has been transformed, now offering a pleasant and comfortable setting to watch sports on multiple large TVs, and more secluded from the main bar by a stylish dividing wall that allows privacy.

The bistro area has been reconfigured, including new booths by the windows with great views, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing new space.

Winter visitors will also notice a revised food ordering and pickup area to

streamline

the kitchen. With an updated menu from new chef Michael, guests are encouraged to view for themselves this great makeover.

With a reinvigorated entrance area, the club has extra appeal when guests first arrive.

◼ STYLE: The Jindabyne Bowling Club has undergone an extensive interior refurbishment.

◼ The new sports bar area.

The Big Chairlift Finds Jindabyne Home

THE Big Chairlift has been installed in Jindabyne’s Banjo Paterson Park, ready for winter visitors to spread the news across the Instagram world.

Adding to Australia’s Big Things, The Big Chairlift was entered into the Lake Light Sculpture at Easter by Jindabyne artist Darragh Walsh. Designed as a 400 per cent replica of the double chairs found in snow resorts, the response garnered an immediate response from the community, who all loved the chair.

When the Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce organised a fundraising page, the community rallied and contributed to raise the $25,000 to purchase the chair.

Local artist Darragh Walsh has been a regular contributor at Lake Light Sculpture, having previously won awards for his creations. The Big Chairlift has now elevated him to a new status among the community.

“To be honest, to have something as a permanent fixture in a public place is ultimately what I’ve always dreamed of doing since I started doing sculptures. But to do this one is I think extra special,” said Darragh.

“I just like the shape of the double chair, a lot of the older ones had the timber on them, so it was important it looked like an old one,” he said, referring to the wood panels on the chair.

The chair is visible as you first enter the town and see Lake Jindabyne, the structure now a permanent fixture on the corner of Banjo Paterson Park. The attraction is sure to gain a huge following among visitors and residents.

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◼ NEW: The Big Chairlift by Lake Jindabyne in Banjo Paterson Park. PHOTO: Steve Cuff

Youth Meets Experience On The Slopes

This winter the Snowy Mountains Magazine recalls the experiences of Georgina Pembroke, a former ski instructor at Thredbo. During our four winter editions, Georgina will reflect on what each month brings for an instructor on the mountain.

By GEORGINA PEMBROKE

WE all know school holidays are busy during the snow season, and often the only time families can visit the snow during winter. A family snow holiday is a big investment, and everyone at the resorts is aware of that.

Snowsports schools and their instructors understand all the nuances of the July school holidays and are central to helping your family navigate the week, whatever resort you visit.

Being responsible for teaching people

◼ AUTHOR: Georgina Pembroke reflects back on her time as an instructor.

to improve their skills and technique, safety, confidence, and knowledge on the mountain is no small feat. For children learning to ski or snowboard during the school holidays, they will often spend more time with their instructor during the day than

◼ FUN: KIds enjoying their time on the slopes at Thredbo.

with their parents. They also get to know their instructor well. Instructors understand that children

have specific needs, and for weekly group lessons, they will have their plan pencilled in from the first lesson.

Over 25 Years living and working in the mountains…

PHOTO: Thredbo Resort

Building confidence and creating a fun-filled environment are the first priority, and once the kids are having fun, learning new skills usually occurs much more easily for everyone involved.

Once groups hit the slopes, the instructor has their hands full watching, teaching, and ensuring everyone receives the attention and tuition to make turns, improve, and enjoy themselves on the slopes. Indeed, there is plenty of pressure to ensure a child’s skills develop.

The instructor must also exhibit diplomatic skills, as parents will be eager to know how their little heroes have fared on the mountain. Did they improve? Can they now make a parallel turn? And on occasions, parents may grill the instructor as to why their child is not carving like a World Cup racer.

From my experience, I believe parents need to be patient with instructors and their child’s progress, as children each learn and improve at a different pace. Every child is different. Often, if pushed too hard, a fear factor can set in, which has a negative impact, reducing their ability to learn. We also want to avoid accidents, as they can be a further setback.

On the other side of the ledger, children need to be well-behaved, respect instructors for their expertise, and trust them to be their leaders on the mountain. Ski instructors are kind-hearted people and work hard for positive outcomes. They strive to improve one’s knowledge of skiing or snowboarding technique, which in turn makes holidays more enjoyable.

That’s the main objective. But as with all jobs, some days a lesson may not go to script.

At week’s end, when parents pick up their children from their final lesson, you can rest assured the instructor has devoted a huge effort with knowledge, energy, and understanding of everyone’s needs within the group.

Snowsports instructing is a rewarding job. A key reason why instructors return each year is that they love to see people improve, have fun, and become lifelong subscribers to a snow holiday with a new skill for life.

Enjoy your holiday…

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Snowy Mountains Magazine - 2025

By STEVE CUFF

Soaring In Elite Atmosphere

AUSTRALIA’S Scotty James will go down as one of the sport’s greatest ever snowboarders, having already won two Winter Olympic Games halfpipe medals and, earlier this year, claimed a fourth World Championship gold medal and his fourth straight X Games gold medals.

James’ four World Championship gold medals make him the most successful snowboard halfpipe rider in history.

Visit GADEN TROUT HATCHERY

Additionally, he has the highest number of World Championship wins among Australian winter sports athletes.

In the final run at the World Championships in St Moritz, James improved his execution and landings to score a huge 95 points. His run included a switch McTwist Japan grab, cab double cork 1080 with grab, frontside double cork 1260 with grab, backside double cork 1080 with grab, and switch backside double cork 1260 with grab. A foreign language to many, but an impressive array of tricks in the snowboard world.

He said the week was such a challenge, with the weather and riding at this high level.

“Halfpipe is a scary sport, and it gets even scary when conditions are tough, I’m really pumped and felt like I had to be resilient today, so I’m stoked,” said the 30-year-old from Warrandyte in Victoria after his win.

“The 2023 World Championships was not a good day for me, I was pretty disappointed with my outcome and I wanted to make a statement for myself personally, that I wanted to come back and finish at the top, to have won four world titles, again, I’m pinching myself.”

James has had a stellar season, also becoming the only man to win four straight X Games halfpipe gold medals, after winning his seventh career X Games gold medal in January in Aspen, USA. He surpassed the legendary snowboarder, Shaun White.

“Just winning a gold medal is amazing here at X-Games, and to do four in a row, I am absolutely speechless,” said the

30-year-old after the event.

“The triple cork is the one, it’s the trick I feel you have to have in the mix to have any intention of making any damage on the podium, so to put it in my run and do it switch and try and put in my own flare at the start to feels good for the soul.”

He has now won an incredible ten career medals in the prestigious invitation-only X Games event featuring the world’s best halfpipe riders, equalling White’s halfpipe total.

In February 2026, James will contest the Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina, and nothing short of a gold medal will be on his mind.

He is a four-time Olympian, the flag bearer for the 2018 games in Seoul, where he won a bronze medal, and won a silver medal in Beijing in 2022.

He commenced his Olympic journey as a 15-year-old in Vancouver, Canada, in 2010.

James has been in contention for the gold, and the level of riding is so high that you need to execute everything perfectly to claim the top step of the podium.

All eyes will be on Livigno, the small Italian village where the snowboarding and freestyle skiing events will be staged. There will be a contingent of Aussies in

◼ LARGE: James wins his fourth straight X Games gold in Aspen. PHOTO: X Games

◼ Scotty James wins silver at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. PHOTO: Tim Clayton

the crowd, as well as fellow athletes, all striving for their glory.

James will be 31 at the next Winter Olympics, and should he claim gold, it will cap off what has been an absolute stellar career.

MOOKI’S MINI PIPE CUP

Last year, James made a huge contribution to the sport in Australia when he donated a 13ft cutter to shape the Thredbo mini halfpipe, plus he started his new event, the Mooki’s Mini Pipe Cup.

He was king of the kids, walking the pipe and interacting with 150 participants in what was a great day for junior sport.

Hitting the mini pipe himself (see cover shot by Isaac Podmore), James performed several tricks while also offering tips and advice throughout the day. The initiative of the Mooki event aimed to help the next generation of riders.

“These little mini pipes are such a good opportunity to get really good fundamentals, so as much as it’s mini, it’s actually a good opportunity to learn lots of things. Honestly, all round a fun day,” said James after the 2024 Thredbo event.

“Back when I started, it was a bit of an inspiration for this, I was able to ride a little halfpipe in Australia, and we haven’t had one in a while. So donating the cutter here was so important for the next generation.”

“Going into a 22-foot halfpipe, which is the Olympic discipline, is rather daunting, so if you can start in a pipe like this, learn some fundamentals and then hopefully the trajectory is to go into the big pipes. I was lucky when I was young to be able to be exposed to little pipes, so I think it’s really important now to have this one here at Thredbo, it will help shape the future.”

In 2024 James announced two riders, Hayden Jacobs and Airish George, were the recipients of the inaugural Mooki’s Mission Grant, each receiving $1250 prize money, a Thredbo season pass each plus a bag of products.

“I came up with this initiative that is called Mooki’s Mission Grant, which is about supporting those who are starting their snowboarding journey, and it’s been amazing watching everyone ride today and I’ve loved seeing all of you,” said James.

Thredbo Resort brand and marketing director Richie Carroll said, “It’s a good partnership to have with an athlete when they want to give back to the community”.

“Having Scotty donate his money and time to the resort and to provide us with the mini pipe cutter. It’s allowed us to do so much up here for the kids,” said Carroll at last year’s event.

“Scotty’s generously giving his time to all these kids, probably one of the best snowboarders in the world. It’s great for the future of the sport. It’s great for the resort, and it’s great for the community in general.”

Mooki’s Mini Pipe Cup Register for the August 23 event via the Thredbo website. www.thredbo.com.au/events/2025/mookis-mini-pipe-cup/

◼ FUN: The group of kids at the 2024 Mooki’s Mini Pipe Cup. PHOTOS: Steve Cuff

◼ MASCOT: At the mini pipe at Thredbo with Mooki.

New Ski Brand As Unique As Aussie Echidna

By GEORGINA PEMBROKE

A new ski brand as unique as an ‘Echidna’ is launching in the Snowy Mountains this winter. Born in the desert and brought to the mountains, Desert Skis are handmade skis using native Australian timbers and geared towards all-mountain skiing, off-piste skiing, and ski touring.

Founded by Jonathan Paige from the US State of Oklahoma and his wife Steph, from the coastal Victorian town of Mallacoota, the skis are built to be functional, durable, and unique, with the overall intention of making skiing fun. The idea to make skis from Australian timbers was born during the pandemic. The couple were isolated in Western Australia and looking for a place to live when they began designing wooden skis in a shed. From pressing the first ski in 2022 to relocating and finding their Leesville workshop and establishing themselves in the Jindabyne community, it’s been a journey for the founders.

This winter, they will offer a full range of demo Desert Skis, both with resort-style alpine bindings and touring bindings with skins. They will also take pre-orders for the Northern Hemisphere

winter and the 2026 Southern Hemisphere winter.

Historically, the snow industry has seen skis made from wood before, with JP stating, “You either have a wood core or polyurethane foam core, these are the two main types for skis.”

“Wood provides characteristics that are more desirable than foam, but foam is cheaper which you may find in lower end rental skis,” explains JP.

Typically, European timbers such as poplars, beech, and maple are used, but JP and Steph went searching for timbers with similar mechanical properties that they had access to here in Australia.

“The border closures (of the pandemic) eliminated the possibility of skiing. My whole life and many of my friends were centred around the ski industry. Then you find yourself in a place so far removed from skiing. I needed something. That was the push,” said JP on founding Desert Skis.

Desert Skis are proudly an Australian product, and the founders are sourcing everything they can locally to build the skis. In their generously sized workshop in Leesville, Jindabyne, a fine selection of wooden skis hangs high on the walls.

“Our skis are made with a composite wood core and Paulownia, often used in surfboards”, explains JP as he points at the smooth surface of timber. “Mountain ash and Victorian ash are the timbers we use the most, with mountain ash possibly superior as it is readily available with

good flex qualities and density.”

A striking feature of Desert Skis is the Jarrah sidewalls. Growing only in a small region in south-west Western Australia, Jarrah has proven to create sidewalls that are water resistant and durable. Top this off with silver wattle, Victorian ash, and red gum as the various veneers for the top sheets, and you have a beauty of a ski.

The company will offer three different ski shapes in various lengths, starting from 157cm up to 187cm. The three ski models are called the TOS 104 and TOS 110, the RAZ 99, and the SAG 95. Designed a little narrower, the SAG 95 is a good Australian option. The TOS has two wider profiles, with the 110 being well suited to Japan. The RAZ is a good middle ground at 99 underfoot with moderate tip and tail rocker, making it a playful ski. All the skis feel lively and quick.

“They feel shorter than their lengths so are easier to turn and pivot. They are also softer and absorbing and don’t vibrate because they don’t have carbon fibre in them,” says JP. The price guide for the skis is set to start at around AUD $1800. For testing the skis, JP and Steph have drawn on various friends and professionals around the world. Ryan Taylor, a ski mountaineer in Hokkaido,

◼ STYLE: The new Desert Ski range is available this season.

Japan, has been prototyping Desert Skis. He is a strong supporter of the ski shapes and has enjoyed testing them in the powder. “Everyone I pass on the slopes compliments me and asks what they are,” said Ryan.

American boot fitter Robbie Forbes has also had the pleasure of testing the skis in his home resort of Taos, New Mexico. “I was instantly amazed and captivated by the simple beauty of the skis,” Robbie remarked. Having tested the TOS model in the challenging terrain of Taos, he was pleased with how they rode. “What I liked about it was how natural the skis felt underfoot. It was like I was skiing on water”.

Creating skis is not for the fainthearted. Starting with building the logs and cores, getting them into the press, cutting and sawing the skis to size, sanding the sides, and removing the resin, it’s a long process.

The duo has built a strong network of supporters, including Zali Offord at the ‘On The Tune’ shop in Thredbo, Geoff, the Montana representative, and Mitch Harrison at Harro’s Snowsports at Lake Crackenback Resort, who have all been supportive.

“They are legends, I will 100% back them,” says Mitch Harrison.

◼

The use of an echidna as the Desert Skis logo is fitting. “We wanted to use something Australian, and the echidna lives everywhere, it’s in the desert, it’s in the snow, it’s all over the place,” said Steph.

“It’s cool to be able to do an Australian product in Australia. I think that’s our trademark.”

The long hours and late nights the couple endure to build Desert Skis is no easy feat, but it’s a great feeling when running testing days with friends on the slopes and seeing the skis in action. “That’s when it hits you and makes it all worthwhile,” says JP.

POW: The skis are wider and suited to off-piste and powder skiing.

JP and Steph welcome customers to their factory by appointment and will happily set up a demo pair of Desert Skis. Visit the website for contact information. www.desertskis.com

◼ FAMILY: Jonathan Paige, wife Steph, and new baby boy Raymond in Jindabyne.

Kosciuszko Deserving Name For Tallest Peak

RECENTLY, I experienced a mindset challenge when reading “Kosciuszko” by Anthony Sharwood. Initial scepticism of a hagiography to a privileged white European dispersed quickly as I realised the fundamental significance of this story and what Sharwood is asking us to think about.

Presenting Kościuszko as the epitome of equality and justice, he explains why he is a deserving namesake to our mainland’s tallest peak, then weaves some unconventional parallels between Kościuszko’s life and the Australian spirit. Illuminating complex associations of culture and identity, as much about the impressive Polish humanist as the significance and immense value of our region’s Aboriginal community and their deep connection to the highest peak.

Sharwood eloquently presents Kosciuszko as “the best European symbol of the values Australians have”. Kosciuszko is indeed a true legend, he was

a military engineer with enlightenment ideals, valiantly fighting for freedom and democracy during the American War of Independence and the uprising to defend Poland’s independence against Russia. Sometime in the 1780’s Kosciuszko actually willed his substantial American

earnings to be used to free, educate, and rehome enslaved people. A bold gesture that transcends his time. Sharwood delves into the black lives matter movement and brings an enlightened view of the Polish community with the decision to leave the graffiti slogan on the statue of Kosciuszko in Washington, DC, as Kosciuszko would have agreed wholeheartedly that indeed black lives matter.

Sharwood interviewed local elders who shared dreamtime stories with him. These stories are wonderful, and I’m hopeful we can discover many more. Learning true names, old stories and traditions enrich us. Kunama Namadgi is one of the original Ngarigu names believed to mean snow and mountain, or mother of snow. Ku- ‘snow’, -nama ‘making and having the quality of snow’, nama- for ‘breasts’, -dgi ‘having’. Suggesting a reference to how important both snow and water are to the land. Although differing views exist within the Ngarigo community. Jagungal, Jar-gan-gil, means “Table Top Mountain”. Tar Gan Gil means “bogong moth” and is also the starting point of the Bundian Way.

He connects Kościuszko’s legacy to a question growing in popularity… Should Kosciuszko have an indigenous name, as many other mountains and places named

by Europeans have been dual-named or completely changed?

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures are widely recognised as the oldest continuous living cultures in the world, at least 65,000 years and 20,000 years here in the Monaro. Mount Kosciuszko sits in Ngarigo country. The traditional custodians, Ngarigo and Walgal people, were the Snowy Mountains’ more permanent residents; however, many other tribes travelled the Bundian Way from the sea to the peaks every summer to feast on bogong moths and connect through corroborees, marriages, and trade. Passing down cultural traditions, lore, and respecting ties.

There are at least six different Indigenous groups that should be consulted. There are competing interests requiring a due diligence process to be demonstrated before the Geographical Names Board decides to make any changes. So watching this space.

Scan this QR code to see Her Alpine View live

◼ Kosciuszko by Anthony Sharwood is a great read.

< MORE DETAILS: THREDBO.COM.AU/EVENTS >

Meet Thredboland Legends During Kids Festival

By STEVE CUFF

THREDBO visitors in their twenties and thirties who’ve had lessons as kids should vividly remember their interactions with the Thredboland animal mascots.

Syd Koala, Pygmy Possum, Rocky Cocky, Ruby Roo, Extreme Rat, Erich Echidna and Wally Wombat have been synonymous with Thredbo and have entertained a generation of kids.

In the recent ‘History of Thredbo Ski Instructing’ talk by former Snowsports Director Brad Spalding, he highlighted the value and importance that Thredboland, and the influence the lovable animals have on the Snowsports School.

“One of the biggest leaps forward for the school was Thredboland. A purpose-built zone for children to fall in love with snow sports,” said Brad.

“To make it magical.”

“The Thredboland characters really

played an important role.”

Commenting on the Faces of Thredbo, a hall of fame of people instrumental in the development of Thredbo, Brad said, “We should put forward Syd Koala as a Face of Thredbo”.

Generations of skiers who have gone through Thredbo would know Syd as well as other key people in the resort.

The animal mascots present a progression in ski school and skill levels, making learning feel like an adventure.

When you register your kids for the 2025 July Kids Snow Festival, they have the chance to meet the animal mascots during the week, plus enjoy exploring the slopes of Thredbo.

The Festival runs for the duration of the school holiday period and offers more than just skiing and snowboarding lessons. Extra events are scheduled in conjunction, including Project Shred on 12 July, and a youth development backcountry tour on 6 July.

During the Festival, kids can participate in The Amazing Race, solving clues around the mountain to progress to the next level, and the final clue will allow you the chance to enter and win an unforgettable summer holiday.

Thursday family fun nights are not to be missed, with Lindt chocolate S’mores, music, games, and prizes, plus the chance to meet the Thredboland animal mascots from 4.30pm at Friday Flat.

The family flare run is the most popular event, where hundreds of parents and kids

ski down the Friday Flat slope at dusk with their illuminated LED flares. Once at the bottom, a spectacular fireworks display lights up the sky. The Thursday night flare run and fireworks runs every Thursday until 18 September.

Weekend visitors can also watch the Saturday night fireworks at 6pm from the village.

The Thredbo July Kids Snow Festival runs from Thursday, 3 July to Sunday, 20 July 2025.

Parents can show their kids the video of the animal mascots on the ‘Once Upon a Time in Thredboland’ video on the website. https://www.thredbo.com.au/events/2025/july-kids-snow-festival/

◼ LEARN: Enrolling the kids in lessons will fast-track their technique.

◼ BRIGHT: The Thursday night fireworks and family flare run at Friday Flat.

◼ LEGENDS: Kids love the Thredboland animal mascots. PHOTOS: Thredbo Resort

New Dawn for Friday Flat

By STEVE CUFF

THREDBO has added to its snowmaking capacity and technology, with its new KTI - Demac Lenko, SnowPRO 260 snow factory machine to be operational on Friday Flat this season.

The innovative all-weather snow system is designed to produce 260m³ or 120 tons of snow per day. The real beauty, though, is that the system can produce snow from minus 5 degrees up to plus 20 degrees.

The KTI company has the most established product on the market, is active in snowmaking at plus temperatures, and is the inventor and manufacturer of containerized allweather snowmaking systems.

The innovative systems are permanently installed in containers, enabling uncomplicated installation and rapid commissioning according to the “plug & play” principle. The turnkey snowmaking systems focus on resource efficiency and sustainability, meet the highest quality standards, and are the only products of their kind manufactured entirely in Europe.

Thredbo will have the large 260

model for maximum daily production volumes.

Friday Flat is the perfect slope for beginners, and a key part of the Thredbo learning terrain. Snowmaking has been a huge factor already this season, not only at Friday Flat, but also adding to the overall mountain snow cover in other main areas.

Add the new snow factory’s capacity, and the resort expects it to be a gamechanger at Friday Flat. Once they have assessed this season, they will look to add more machines.

Thredbo Resort General Manager, Stuart Diver said the resort will run the new machine 24 hours per day, seven days per week.

“The aim is to get Friday Flat all the way through to the end of the season. Regardless of what season it is, we will just see how much snow we can make on Friday Flat, and that will be our proof of concept to then roll out more,” said Mr Diver.

The ideal plan is to add a second machine on Friday Flat, potentially at Cruiser on the Walkabout run, with the goal then of expanding them across the resort. ◼

holiday accommodation

COLD: Snowmaking at Friday Flat in June.

◼ STUNNING: Friday Flat at sunrise in early June 2025. PHOTOS: Thredbo Resort

An artist’s impression of what the snow machine looks like. At the time of going to print, the new machine was in transit.

Thredbo’s Winter Adventure

THREDBO is Australia’s premier snow resort, but there is much more than skiing and snowboarding during your visit. For snow lovers seeking the atmosphere and experience of the resort, there are several options. Guests can purchase the Winter Adventure Pass, which offers a great mixture of attractions.

ALPINE COASTER

The Alpine Coaster is one of the most popular attractions, and the thrill of riding through the trees and around the sweeping bends of the coaster is liked by all visitors, including non-skiers.

Boarding the 1.5km Alpine Coaster at the mountain base, you have a bird’s-eye view of the track as you are transported on the coaster to the start of the run. The elevated track can be seen weaving in and out of the eucalypt forest.

There’s an instant rush as you descend, speed increasing at the same rate as the adrenaline. You can control your speed on the joystick by applying the braking

system, which is demonstrated by the attendant when you load. Ease off on the brake, and you can instantly feel the coaster accelerate as you dive into the corners and lean to offset the G-forces.

The Alpine Coaster can reach speeds of 40kmh, but for those who may be shy of gravity taking control, apply the brake as you please to set the pace accordingly.

The mixture of uphill and downhill tracks featuring a tunnel, bridges, and circles, traverses the lower section of the mountain as you weave in and out of the trees for a thrilling ride.

Open all year round, the Alpine Coaster is suitable for all ages. Younger children can double up

with responsible persons over the age of 15, and kids over 8 years are allowed to ride solo.

MERRITTS GONDOLA

The Merritts Gondola is ideal for foot passengers and families who want to ride into the higher alpine region of Thredbo.

The ride offers great views across the mountain and down into Thredbo Village, plus you can see people skiing and snowboarding on several of the runs below. At the top of the gondola, the Merritts Mountain House Restaurant has great food and beverages, and you can sit at tables on the large deck area.

THREDBO LEISURE CENTRE

Fun times start when you arrive at the Thredbo Leisure Centre, and during school holidays, it’s a popular place in the late afternoon.

The centre has a swimming pool for those looking to swim, or the more serious doing laps. The Mission Inflatable entertains the kids for hours if needed, and the waterslide is fun for the whole family as you exit the slide with an excited splash into the pool.

Bring your swimmers and a towel and enjoy everything that Thredbo has on offer.

Guests can save up to

on the

when they book in advance and online. For all details of the Winter Adventure Pass, visit the Thredbo website and Plan & Buy. www.thredbo.com.au

◼ TEST: The Mission Inflatable will test your balance.

◼ SPLASH: Family fun on the waterslide.

◼ VIEW: The Merritts Gondola takes you to the Merritts Mountain House Restaurant.

◼ FUN: Take a ride on the thrilling Alpine Coaster. PHOTOS: Thredbo Resort

30%

Winter Adventure Pass

A Memorable Experience

YOUR Thredbo holiday deserves an extra experience, one that the family will truly remember beyond your 2025 snow visit.

Embarking on a Thredbo Alpine Experience elevates your winter getaway to new heights. To secure your evening, book now as several nights and events have already sold out.

KAREELA SUPER CLUB

The Kareela Supper Club takes your Saturday night to a whole new level, where guests enjoy a Merritts Gondola ride and then a passenger snowcat adventure across the mountain to Kareela, one of Thredbo’s great restaurant venues.

Enjoy a Pommery Champagne on arrival, and a two-hour canapé and beverage package as your attention turns to the spectacular fireworks and Thredbo’s famous flare run down the Supertrail.

Then, enjoy a ride back to the village via the passenger snowcat in what is a memorable evening.

Kareela Supper Club will run on select Saturdays from 12 July to 30 August.

MERRITTS MOUNTAIN HAUS FEAST

The Merritts Mountain Haus Feast is a Bavarian-inspired feast at the top of the Merritts Gondola.

Ride the Gondola on Wednesday and Friday nights before embarking on a delicious feast for dinner and soaking up the magic of the alpine at night.

The event is family-friendly, includes hearty meals, and stunning views of Thredbo Village on the ascent and return ride back to the village.

Merritts Mountain Haus Feasts will run on select Wednesdays and Fridays from 27 June to 29 August.

For all Alpine Experiences,

O ering DEC/JAN/APRIL training programs in British Columbia, Canada.

O ering DEC/JAN/APRIL training programs in British Columbia, Canada.

O ering DEC/JAN/APRIL training programs in British Columbia, Canada.

ALPINE RACE & SKICROSS MOGULS

ALPINE RACE & SKICROSS

ALPINE RACE & SKICROSS

O ering DEC/JAN/APRIL training programs in British Columbia, Canada.

MOGULS

TECHNICAL & ALL-TERRAIN DEVELOPMENT

MOGULS

ALPINE RACE & SKICROSS

SNOWBOARD RACE & SNOWBOARD CROSS

MOGULS

TECHNICAL & ALL-TERRAIN DEVELOPMENT

TECHNICAL & ALL-TERRAIN DEVELOPMENT

visit: snowpro.com.au

SNOWBOARD RACE & SNOWBOARD CROSS

SNOWBOARD RACE & SNOWBOARD CROSS

TECHNICAL & ALL-TERRAIN DEVELOPMENT

visit: snowpro.com.au

contact: Sue George or Geo Walker email: geo @snowpro.com.au

visit: snowpro.com.au

SNOWBOARD RACE & SNOWBOARD CROSS

contact: Sue George or Geo Walker email: geo @snowpro.com.au

visit: snowpro.com.au

DEC/JAN/APRIL contact:

contact: Sue George or Geo Walker email: geo @snowpro.com.au

contact: Sue George or Geo Walker email: geo @snowpro.com.au RACE & DEVELOPMENT

◼ EXCITE: Sit down to a Bavarian-themed evening at Merritts Mountains House.

PHOTO: Thredbo Resort

Visitor Information

Snowy Mountains Magazine snowymagazine.com.au

Snowy Mountains snowymountains.com.au

Adaminaby visitadaminaby.com.au

Berridale www.snowymagazine.com.au /berridale-dalgety

Bombala www.snowymagazine.com.au /bombala-delegate

Charlotte Pass charlottepass.com.au

Delegate delegate.nsw.au

Cooma visitcooma.com.au 1800 636 525

Corryong towong.vic.gov.au

Dalgety www.snowymagazine.com.au /berridale-dalgety

Jindabyne

Snowy Region Visitor Centre nationalparks.nsw.gov.au 02 6450 5600 destinationjindabyne.org.au

Khancoban (NPWS) 02 6070 8400 visitsnowyvalleys.au

Lake Crackenback Resort lakecrackenback.com.au

Perisher perisher.com.au

Thredbo thredbo.com.au 1300 020 589

Tumbarumba 02 6948 3333 visitsnowyvalleys.au

Tumut Region

NPWS Visitor Centre 02 6947 7025 visitsnowyvalleys.au

ROADS AND RESCUE

Emergency 000

Cooma Police 02 6452 0099

Jindabyne Police 02 6456 2244 RTA Road conditions 132 701

LAOKO Wildlife Rescue 02 6456 1313

Cider House Opens At Batlow

By STEVE CUFF

THE town of Batlow has welcomed the opening of The Apple Thief Cider House, a brand-new tourist attraction championing the region’s apple industry.

The Apple Thief Cider House is more than just a venue – it is a destination.

The immersive experience showcases the apple’s journey from the orchard, transported in timber apple bins and transformed into flavoursome cider.

Patrons will not only be impressed by the expansive exterior of the building, welcoming grounds, and impressive entrance, but they will be astonished once they set foot inside the venue.

Stunning Alpine Ash, reclaimed from the 2019/2020 bushfires, beautifully links the high ceilings, spacious restaurant and indoor bar, which flows through to the outdoor cider garden and timber deck. A series of feature windows provides comforting views over the orchard and enhances the warmth of the space.

“People love the immersive experience of parking in the orchard, walking through the apple trees, up into the building, and feeling like you are in a big apple bin,” said owner Dave Purcell.

He commented that everyone loves the quiet and aesthetically calming space. “A lot of comments about the alpine ash, and the timber, it’s been a real feature.”

The Cider House offers a casual dining menu that complements its produce, and

patrons can sample ice-cold hand-crafted cider directly from the tap.

“Pizzas in particular have been well received, Italian style, thin-based,” said Dave when describing the popular menu.

“Craig (chef) in the kitchen has been doing a really good job. He’s been with us from when we had the original roadside stall, he’s got a really good following, and the food’s been a standout.”

“People just love the whole experience, and it’s been really well supported by the locals. It’s such a buzz, it’s a big thing, new life in the town, five years on from the fires, it’s really positive to see new things and people have been well supportive.”

Every aspect of the new building has intrigued guests, down to the colourful

apple-themed bathroom décor, which has been a talking point among some patrons.

To complete the visit, guests can peruse the Cider House gift shop for apple-related produce, cider, and condiments.

“We’ve got a Worcestershire sauce made out of Granny Smith apples, we did a collaboration with Hold Fast Distillery for cherry vodka, which has been popular, and our award-winning ciders, our Kingston Black that’s on tap has been selling well.”

The Apple Thief has won numerous awards for their cider, including gold at the Royal Easter Show for their Kingston Black and Lemon Myrtle, plus the Kingston Black winning the varietal cider at the Australian Cider Awards.

Work on the new building began in mid-2024 and has supported economic recovery, job creation, and local business stimulation. Funding for The Apple Thief Batlow Cider House development was achieved from a successful Bushfire Local Economic Recovery (BLER) Fund application by The Apple Thief. The BLER Fund, established after the 2019/2020 bushfires that tore through the Snowy Valleys and notably the town of Batlow

is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments.

The grant program required matched funding, which Dave Purcell, founder of The Apple Thief Cider, invested in the project and backed himself to ensure the success of the business. Alongside his wife Mel, and two children, Jack and Sam, this small family business had a vision for Batlow, and the initiative turned a negative experience into a positive one.

“The impact of the bushfires will always be with me, my family, and with this community, but through this venture, we have tried to support the resilience of Batlow by creating this new business, which will bring visitors to our town and encourage the recovery of our region.”

Whether you’re a cider enthusiast or simply exploring the region, the Cider House is a must-visit highlight of Batlow. Steal a taste of your favourite Apple Thief Cider at 4066 Batlow Road.

◼ FAMILY: Dave and Mel Purcell enjoy their new venue with sons Jack and Sam.

◼ STYLE: The Cider House interior is lined with reclaimed Alpine Ash. PHOTOS: The Apple Thief / Grant Hardwick.

◼ ARRIVE: Guests enter via the apple orchard.

◼ STOCK: An array of products available from The Apple Thief.

National Snowsports Training Centre

THE National Snowsports Training Centre (NSTC) in Jindabyne is quietly driving athlete development in Australia’s snow sports scene. From Olympic hopefuls to local clubs, the NSTC’s airbag and indoor acro centre offer year-round access to world-class training tools.

While programs like the Snow Australia Coach Academy and Emerging Talent Program camps have recently brought top-tier athletes and coaches through the doors, the centre is just as committed to the community.

The NSTC hosts community Airbag and Acro sessions alongside local schools and club programs, which regularly book private sessions, making the NSTC a space where everyone can progress, regardless of their level.

Whether you’re chasing podiums or looking to build skills with your local group, the NSTC is helping

◼ SKILL: The Emerging Talent Program camp athletes. PHOTO: Snow Australia

shape the future of snow sports in the Snowy Mountains.

To enquire about or view more information on the Airbag and NSTC, visit the website.

https://www.snow.org.au/NSTC

SNOW AUSTRALIA’S EMERGING TALENT PROGRAM LAUNCHES FOR 2025

The 2025 cohort from Snow Australia’s Emerging Talent Program (ETP) came together at the National Snowsports

Training Centre (NSTC) for the season launch camp.

In late May, 55 athletes from ten different disciplines participated over three days, with support from more than twenty coaches.

“The ETP Launch Camp was an all immersive weekend of engagement to launch the 2025 season,” said Ben Bond, Snow Australia Performance Health and Talent Manager.

“It was great to see 55 athletes from 10 disciplines, and about 25 of our pathway and high performance coaches at the

NSTC. I think one of the big highlights has been seeing the progression of the group of the past five or so years.”

“We’re also noticing there’s a real difference in terms of how the kids are engaging with each other, their highperformance behaviours, and they’re all presenting physically really well.

“It’s been really nice to monitor their progress over the past five years, and it’s nice to see the way that they’re thinking about their sports is just a little bit different to what they have previously.”

◼ BIG: The NSTC Airbag offers athletes excellent training facilities. PHOTO: Snow Australia

Ski Tips On Hiring and Buying

Mitch Harrison from Harro’s Snowpsorts offers his tips and sound advice to give you a head start this winter on renting and buying new skis.

WHETHER buying or hiring skis and boots, understanding key criteria will stand you in good stead and help you select the right gear.

HIRING SKIS

As most people arrive at similar times, usually Friday, Saturday or Sunday, it’s a great idea to start your process by booking online in advance. This will help save you time in the shop and receive online discounts.

Include details about your ability, height, weight, foot size, and your estimated time of arrival, and shops can then prepare your gear. Once you arrive, you check that everything fits correctly, and you are done.

Beginners need shorter skis, usually below chin height. Intermediates might have a slightly longer ski between chin and nose, and if you are advanced, you probably know what length ski you’ve rented before. All shops have great knowledge of all level skiers, and their staff can make recommendations based on your details.

If you need outerwear clothing, most ski shops offer jackets, pants, and helmets for hire. For hygiene reasons, hire shops don’t rent gloves or goggles. You will need to purchase these yourself.

PERFORMANCE HIRE SKIS

If you have skied for many years, you may prefer performance rental skis. They cost slightly more, but you often have options of different brands, makes, and models.

These skis are generally suited for higher intermediate and advanced skiers and have different characteristics from standard rental skis.

HOW TO DRESS

You are in the snow, and it will be cold. Everyone reacts differently, but it’s advisable to have layers to keep you warm. A thermal underwear underneath your ski pants, and a thermal layer, then fleece, and a jacket will keep you toasty warm all day. Watch weather forecasts each day to assess for yourself what you should wear. It’s no good having all your warm gear in

the lodge when it’s a blizzard on the mountain.

BUYING NEW SKIS

The number one tip I always recommend is to demo before you buy.

Every company makes great skis, but that does not mean they all suit you. As an example, if you tried four different skis, there would be one that stands out from the others. But there is no way you would know that if you didn’t try before you buy.

how the ski performs for you.

If you read ski testing reports, you will see that every tester has a different opinion on the same ski. Everyone skis differently. Some are smooth and fluent, others more aggressive, and we all have different techniques, heights, and weights, which can make a difference to

You soon know when trying a ski whether it suits you. Turning feels really easy, you feel comfortable, and most importantly, you are in ‘total’ command of the ski. Not the ski dictating terms. If you are fighting a ski from the start, take it straight back to the shop and try another one. It’s a given you won’t like it, no matter how long you ski it.

Happy skiing.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GO TO THE SNOW…..

HIRE Ski and snowboard hire for all ages and abilities, including poles and snowboard bindings. We also rent helmets, jackets, pants, après boots, backcountry skis, avalanche safety equipment and snow chains.

SKIS Full Range of New Skis to suit all levels of skier.

KÄSTLE - Head - Elan - Völkl - Blizzard - ID One - Black Crows

BOOTS Dedicated Boot Fitting Area. Full Range of boots to suit all skier levels. Experienced boot fitting staff.

TUNING Renowned reputation with over 35 years’ experience. We offer full-service tuning, including waxing, edging, and base grinds. All skis and snowboards are hand-finished.

before you buy

◼ Mitch Harrison has a wealth of knowledge on skiing.

New $26 Million Mt P 6 Chair Open

By STEVE CUFF

PERISHER guests will be in their element this winter, with the new $26 million Mt Perisher 6 high-speed detachable chair now open for business.

For seasoned patrons, this will have been in their dreams for many a year, and now that it’s arrived, you can expect Mt Perisher to see skiers and snowboarders arcing extra turns down the newly named Legends’ run (formerly Towers).

The build spanned two summers, removal of the old double and triple chairs, and more importantly, the lift

rises much higher, offering extra benefits and easy access to Eyre.

The highest lifted point in Australia has now shifted to Mt Perisher at 2042 metres.

Affording fantastic views across to Guthega and the Main Range, the 90-degree unload to the south allows full access to the Eyre Bowl from the very top of the ridge line. Traversing towards Eyre opens up magnificent views towards Mt Kosciuszko.

One aspect of the new chair that will be appreciated is the width of the Legends’ run top section. By extending the lift further up the hill and removing all the top stations, it will seem like a highway compared to previous years.

the early 2000s, with planning details starting in 2018.

“It is incredibly quiet, incredibly quick. And when people get to the top and see the amount of infrastructure that’s been cleared and the opportunities that it opens up, they will certainly really, really enjoy the significant investment that we’ve made over in that area,” said Nathan Butterworth, Perisher Vice President and General Manager.

The chair has been in the pipeline since

The Doppelmayr crew and Perisher Resort staff have done an exceptional job of completing the lift on a very tight building schedule. Favourable summer weather allowed them to work every available day to stay on schedule.

Driving into the resort, the top station at the very top of Mt Perisher, and the new towers are noticeable, adding to your excitement before you ride the chair.

“I would say in quite a nice moment that I’ve been pushing the concept of pride and passion with the Perisher team, and the importance of those emotions taken

underpinning everything we do, and nothing epitomises that like the Mount P 6 build. I think that that’s going to shine through when you see something that’s truly world class,” said Mr Butterworth.

The new Doppelmayr chair provides the company’s latest D-line lift technology, which has all the bells and whistles you could expect from the world’s leading lift manufacturer.

“What’s going in here will be reliable, efficient. It’s the newest technology that we can deliver,” said Shaun Turner, Doppelmayr Australia General Manager. The new lift incorporates direct drive,

◼ RIDE: The new Mt Perisher 6 seater chairlift in mid June before it opened.

◼ HISTORY: One last look at what Mt Perisher was before the new chair.

meaning no gearbox. This results in greater energy saving, quieter for guests and staff, and is more thermally efficient. Once the nasty weather arrives, we will see if the chairlift’s wind performance is its greatest asset.

The 6-seater chairs have been designed with the weight of an eight-seat chair. Multiple safety features and sensors are factored into the design for virtually everything. A key feature is the detection of any slight rope deviation from the centre of the sheave, which produces a signal to the operator. It’s also automated to slow the lift, allowing the rope to realign to its preferred position.

Before the new chair, there were a combined 27 lift towers. Hence the name Towers. Now there are only 10 towers, and the positioning of towers one, nine,

and ten means guests will only encounter seven on the run.

When discussing the new chair and terrain, Mr Butterworth said, “It’s about balancing the lifting that we have in each of the precincts with the downhill capacity so that we can optimise the experience that all of our guests enjoy. And we

certainly hope to see an opportunity to host more people and provide better experiences”.

The new chair will be popular and, with continued snowfall, will be the place to be this winter. After all, who doesn’t like a brand-new chair?

Mt Perisher 6-seater Facts

• Highest lifted point in Australia at 2042 metres

• Replaces the old Mt P Triple and Mt P Double chairlifts

• 5.6-minute ride time to the summit of Mt Perisher (previously 10 minutes)

• 60% increase in chairlift capacity on Mt Perisher

• 22% increase in overall lifted capacity in the Mt Perisher precinct

• Doppelmayr D-line technology

• Maximum speed 4,5 metres per second

• Inclined length 1.294m

◼ STUNNING: Patrons will find the views exceptional from Australia’s highest lifted point at 2042 metres. (photo 2024 season)

◼ NEW: The first chair ride on the MT P 6 was for selected kids who celebrated their birthdays on June 27.

Perisher Ski Tuning Guru

By STEVE CUFF

ONE of Perisher’s true legends, Adi Mayer, the ski tuning maestro at Perisher for 47 years, passed away before winter, and tributes have since flowed remembering him as a true gentleman.

In 2019, this masthead interviewed Adi when he showcased his new Montana state-of-the-art tuning machine. It was a vast upgrade from his original days, of which he reflected upon at the time.

When Adi first arrived in Australia, it was for six months before returning to Austria.

“I worked for Strolz ski boot manufacturer, and they needed somebody to foam boots, and I only originally came out for six months, four months work and a few months holiday in Australia,” said Adi in 2019.

Adi said he started at Perisher working for the company in the 1970’s in boot and ski hire. “They would get their boots and then go to the next building outside of the number 1 T-bar (now Mitchell T-Bar) for their skis.”

“The good old days where we were in the pit, with people stepping on your fingers when they were stepping into their skis.”

“They talked me into staying in the

summer and tune all their hire skis.”

“1972 I started with just hand filing and a little sand grinding machine, that’s all I had. In 1977, I approached the company and they realised they needed a tuning place and they agreed, so I am still here, I am still doing it,” he stated in 2019.

Since the mid-1980s Adi continued

to upgrade his machines, which he called “robots”, but said he has never looked back from arriving in the Snowy Mountains.

“I went from a go go mobile to a Rolls Royce,” said Adi.

His home region, Villach in Austria,

◼ Putting the finishing touches to a ski tune as customers watch on.

has an excellent ski pedigree, including the legendary Franz Klammer and Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic downhill champion Matthias Mayer residing in the same small town, Afritz am See. Adi grew up with Matthias’ grandparents.

For decades, his routine was firmly entrenched, working at his business in

◼ Adi Mayer in the 1980’s tuning skis at Perisher.

PHOTO: Adi Mayer Collection

the Perisher Centre during winter, living in Jindabyne, and attending daily meetings at “the office”, a reference to a gathering of friends who frequented the Brumby Bar during that era.

In 2019 he estimated he had tuned over two hundred thousand pairs of skis at his shop, then called Adi’s Waxatorium. He was proud of his machines and the quality of his tunes. And for Perisher visitors, it was a great service. Leave your skis and snowboards at the end of the day, and they were ready when you arrived the next morning.

◼ Adi in 2019 before he sold the business. PHOTO: Steve Cuff

Peak Snow Days

DURING the Perisher snow season, the resort advises guests of its Peak Snow Days, providing additional information on days that are considered busier than normal.

In 2021 due to ailing health, Adi sold the business to Nathan Clough, who had worked for Adi for 20 winter seasons. Nathan’s dad, Mick, had worked with Adi for 28 seasons.

When Nathan posted the news of Adi’s passing on social media, the Perisher faithful, who Adi served for decades, responded with praise and tributes. It was as if Adi was everyone’s friend who had graced his presence.

“What he started with and what he left when he finished were light years apart,”

said Nathan, referring to the equipment.

“When stone grinding came out in 1981 in the European season, and our first season after that, he had one. He actually rang up the Montana rep, and said, I want a stone grinder, I don’t know what that is, don’t worry, just order it, I will buy it.”

“He was a gentleman, a tough guy, and work ethic second to none, and a great leader. Someone to follow,” said Nathan.

“He was a guru.”

Adi’s Tuning Centre shop still has a big photo of Adi tuning back in the 1980s.

The communications provide updates to guests on periods when visitation is expected to be high, due to snow conditions or the busier school holiday periods, or when the weather conditions may affect resort operations.

It’s a signal for even seasoned guests to reconsider how they travel to the resort and a reminder to watch for extra communications from the resort offering alternative on-mountain suggestions during times of long lift lines.

Several factors can create Peak Snow Days, and the resort is being proactive

as situations change to keep guests informed.

Blizzards and strong winds can affect lift operations, and often these same blizzard days create additional snow on the roads, resulting in slower than normal travel to the resort. On such days, Skitube is recommended to access the resort and is a faster alternative to reach the slopes.

Guests can subscribe to daily snow report emails, view the snow report and conditions, and it’s advisable to look for the latest road conditions.

All information on visiting Perisher can be found by visiting the website, following Perisher’s social media, or viewing the Perisher app. www.perisher.com.au

MEET YOU ON THE SLOPES

Navigational Changes At Perisher

By STEVE CUFF

PERISHER has extensive terrain across four resort areas, a bonus for exploring if you are a patron of Australia’s biggest resort. There are choices galore, no matter your ability level, and the biggest decision to make is often what time do you visit certain areas to maximise your time on snow.

This season, that question will be asked more than once.

For decades people have religiously stuck to their tried and tested routines. Ski here in the morning, then go there, and finish here. But not this year, that all changes.

With the new Mt Perisher 6 high-speed chairlift entering the equation, how will that affect traffic and crowds across the resort.

There is no doubt everyone will be riding the “6” at some stage of their visit, but what then happens to the rest of the mountain. The savvy people will be taking advantage that’s for sure.

Perisher’s Resort Services Director, Andrew King will also be watching the data noting the new shiny lift will be a major attraction.

“Of course, there’s going to be excitement when we first open, but I think after that, it’s going to settle down. I don’t think with a with a six-seater, we’re going to see much congestion,” said Mr King commenting on the new chair.

The resort will be monitoring the impact the new chair has on people movements and while he admitted it’s

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still an unknown, he believes people will also spread out. “It’s probably what a lot of skiers are thinking. People will decide where to go.”

GUTHEGA FREEDOM

When the Freedom Chair first arrived, it was inundated with people to the point you often kept travelling down to the Calf T-bar. That was not always wise as we all think alike on snow days.

Guthega is still busy at certain times, but it can have a revolving pattern.

After all, you can’t beat those views, the terrain is friendly and offers up groomed and off-piste. It’s just an enjoyable area.

The question is, will Guthega be less busy that previous years now there is a new shiny “toy” on Mt Perisher seeking all the attention.

GET INTERCEPTED AT NORTH P

The terrain under the Interceptor Chair and around the North Perisher T-bar

is sensational. It’s often overlooked as it may not always be groomed or is too difficult for some guests.

Hence why some visitors prefer it more as an access chair to Blue Cow rather than a chair to lap for hours.

Powder poachers know different, and they also know when they are on a good thing. Spend a few hours here on the best mornings of the season and you will have après tales to recite for years to come.

GO THE COW

Once you have worked at Blue Cow, it will always be your favourite and for good reason.

The best terrain in the whole resort is around and under the Ridge Chair.

The groomed Excelerator run is long and interesting, offering up terrain changes that includes steep pitches, especially at the bottom. On a powder day, blasting down Rock Garden or Chance, and then straight into the often-deserted

◼ CRUISE: A lonely day on Excelerator at Blue Cow.

◼ VIEW: The scenic runs at Guthega are an attraction.

PHOTOS: Perisher Resort

Yarrandoo run is the ultimate Perisher powder day.

On busy days, particularly weekends, the downside has always been the lift line which grows from about 10.30 am on weekends. If you have been caught (we all have), you will soon learn to avoid this chair at all costs, as it can ruin your morning.

The consensus is everyone migrates from Perisher, via Interceptor and the top of the quad chair and ski all the way down Roller Coaster to a dead end. But maybe not this year. Will everyone now migrate to Mt Perisher instead.

If so, the Ridge Chair will be in its element as the jewel in the crown.

THE KINGDOM OF SMIGGS

We love the new title Perisher has bestowed on Smiggin Holes, and while it may not be the biggest area, or a Kingdom, don’t discriminate against this smaller brother, it has great terrain, just shorter.

Lapping the duplex and taking sneaky powder runs via the Link T-bar has always been a Smiggs favourite. Often, it’s just you and your mate relishing the hidden Kingdom stashes.

For beginners there is no better place than the J-bar before progressing to the Kaaten Triple Chair where you are away

from Front Valley crowds. This season with added snowmaking, the snow cover will be fantastic.

PERISH

THE THOUGHT

The argument to go straight to Mt Perisher and stay there is compelling in 2025.

Patrons have waited decades for the new chair. And what a beauty it is. A fast six-seat, high-speed comfortable quiet chair that you will hardly have time to tell old double chair stories before you reach the top.

Besides the new views to the Main Range, and signature turns down Legends (formerly Towers) with hardly any lift towers, Mt P is where many people have always felt at home.

◼ BLISS: Our cover from June at Interceptor warrants another look.

PHOTO: Perisher Resort / Lucas Wilkinson

The terrain options are plentiful, and now you can slide straight out to the Eyre Bowl ridgeline and find an extra few turns that were not accessible prior.

At a guess, you would say there will be a lift line, but with 6 people being whisked to Australia’s highest lifted point

constantly, you will reach the front of the line quickly, even on a busy day. How will traffic be on the actual runs now that more people are being elevated faster than ever before. That question will be answered this season. But will it deter you to seek turns elsewhere, or do you

enjoy the pleasure of this new $26 million gem of a chairlift.

THE CHOICES ARE ALL YOURS.

Just put your navigational brain on autopilot and make good decisions to get more snow time.

By CORI ISELE

Ski And Snowboard Etiquette

MOST people will agree that skiing and snowboarding could be the most fun you can have standing up. Until well … someone knocks you over… When on snow, staying unhurt is my number one goal, a goal shared by all my friends. Unfortunately, not always attainable…

Several friends have had cruciate ligaments torn when they are simply standing in a lift line and someone uses them to stop. Can you imagine it? Months of incapacitation through no fault of their own.

Luckily, in 30 years of skiing, I’ve only endured two mishaps, both of which caught me by total surprise, and yes, from behind. “10 pin bowled” in the first incident and apparently “squeezed out” in the second.

On the first occasion, 20 years ago, a (much larger than me) adolescent lost control on a run that was above his ability and literally bowled me over like a pin in a bowling alley. No amount of awareness could have saved

me. I left the ‘pin pit’ in a big bucket of embarrassment, albeit with eternal gratitude to the ski patrol.

Having learnt an important lesson and just shy of being PTSD, I managed 20 years before the next incident, where an older experienced skier misjudged the speed he needed, aiming to slip through the closing gap between my carve turn and the edge of the run. Clearly more of an assassin than a physics expert, his calculations failed, and he clipped my ski, and that’s all it took to send us both careening down the hill.

The poor adolescent in the first incident copped a dressing down from management at the time. When friends enquired as to my choice of words in

Your Alpine Responsibility Code

1. Stay in control and avoid other people and hazards.

2. Use appropriate protective equipment, especially helmets, to minimise the risk of injury.

3. You must have the ability to use each lift safely. If in doubt ask the lift attendant.

4. Obey all signs and warnings, and keep off closed trails and areas.

5. It is your responsibility to avoid and give way to people below and beside you.

6. Do not stop where you are not visible from above or where you obstruct a trail.

7. Before starting downhill, or merging into a trail, look uphill and give way to others.

8. Use care to prevent runaway snowboards.

9. If you are involved in or see an accident, alert and identify yourself to Resort Staff.

10. Be aware that it is dangerous to ski, board or ride lifts if your ability is impaired by drugs or alcohol. Know The Code. It’s Your Responsibility.

confronting the perpetrator of the second incident, the friend I was skiing with admitted no words were really needed. The look I gave him when he handed my ski back pretty much said it all. I did, however, say pointedly that despite years of Covid practice, people still seem unable to respect each other’s space on snow.

Why are people incapable of reading closing distances?

Why do people ski and snowboard at speeds beyond their ability?

These views are shared by many people. I mean, how simple is it to give way to those in front? It matters little if they are practising making their piece of pizza or carving full, rounded turns that might frustratingly take up the entire width of the run. It doesn’t matter that you can ski or board faster and will soon

be in front… it matters that you are able to pull up if, or more likely when, the distance closes and you are “squeezed out”.

Most people I ski with consider who is around them when starting a run or picking a line, because that’s the alpine code. One of my favourite ski buddies, a talented high school teacher, believes the Alpine Responsibility Code needs to be made simpler. Every point listed in the code is important, but maybe, as she has suggested, emphasis on three easyto-remember basic rules would help. Because the number of experienced skiers and boarders not following the code is unconscionable. Is it too complicated to remember?

Let’s just start with these.

1… Give everyone a 3-metre radius.

2… Give way, stay in control and always look about.

3… Never stop in the middle of a run. After these are firmly implanted in the heads of all snowsports enthusiasts, we could harp on about people needing more lessons and improving their skills. It’s not drag racing in a straight line. The art of skiing and snowboarding is about making turns in control.

Try Cross Country Skiing

THIS year, try cross-country skiing, a sport with skinnier skis, no lift pass required, and the chance to explore the scenic trails around Perisher Valley with your friends.

The Come & Try XC Skiing day on Saturday, 5 July, is just one opportunity to learn the basics of classic crosscountry skiing and start your new snow journey. This event is run jointly by the Snow Australia NSW/ACT Cross Country Committee and Perisher X-Country.

The day includes a two-hour classic cross-country lesson from 9am to 11am with professional ski instructors, a sausage sandwich, and a tour of the trails after lunch.

Participants must rent their own classic XC skis from either Wilderness Sports in Perisher or Jindabyne, or Rhythm Sports at Smiggin Holes or Cooma.

All participants must have a SnowID to register. A SnowID is linked to an active membership of Snow Australia and is free. (www.snow.org.au/membership/).

Contact Wendy Olsen via email for all inquiries and to register at wolsen@snow.org.au.

If you can’t make the Come and Try

day, K7 Ski School offers expert crosscountry ski lessons from beginner level to advanced if you want to improve your technique.

School owner Jane Scheer will have you skating around in no time once you have mastered a few of the key basic skills. Lessons are a great idea and will ensure you feel comfortable on your skis and get the most enjoyment from your ski adventure.

Perisher Valley trails are world-class. Many trails are groomed daily, giving participants a choice of trails to ski on. Depending on snow conditions, you can have up to 50 km of groomed trails to explore between Perisher, Charlotte Pass, and Smiggins.

A special mention to Ralph and Camille Zollinger, and the Hans Oversnow team, who have groomed the Perisher crosscountry trails for 15 years.

Their contract has ended, and the trails will now be groomed by the 4Site team, operators of the freight shed and transport within Perisher Valley.

In a letter sent to Perisher X-Country, Hans Oversnow said it had been a privilege to provide grooming services.

“We would like to sincerely thank the

entire cross-country community, the many dedicated winter managers who have operated the Nordic Shelter, and NPWS for their support over the years. Your encouragement and collaboration have meant a great deal to us,” said Hans Oversnow.

“While we won’t be behind the wheel this season, we do hope that the cross-

country community continue to receive the dedicated commitment and finish to the trails which we provided over the years. We will definitely be checking out the trailsthis time on skis, enjoying weekends off for the first time in a long time.”

You can find all trail details on the Perisher X-Country website. www.perisherxcountry.org

Wintersport Australia needs your help for Adaptive Snowsport Programs

Positions available at Perisher, Thredbo, Mt Hotham, Falls Creek and Mt Buller. DWA is a registered charity who have been helping people find freedom on the snow since 1978 and can’t operate without volunteers.

If you are an intermediate to advanced skier or snowboarder who would like to help deliver adaptive snow sports and life changing experiences to people living with disability, please contact us now.

• Full training provided by qualified DWA staff

• Satisfaction in helping people enjoy the snow • Complimentary lift tickets

Check out our short film ‘Finding Freedom on the Snow’ www.disabledwintersport.com.au/about/

◼ STYLE: Learn cross-country skiing this season with a lesson from K7 Ski School.

You Can Assist With Adaptive Pathway

THE pathway for disabled participants to enjoy time on snow may be the best it’s been in years. But by no means does that make that pathway easy.

Regular snow enthusiasts understand the contingencies involved in accessing snow resorts, then dealing with boots, skis, and snowboards, and the intricacies of snow and ice sections even before they reach the lifts.

Disabled skiers and snowboarders require essential assistance from the community in the initial phase. Depending on the disability, just arriving on snow can be a difficult journey.

“Disabled Wintersport Australia couldn’t do what we do without the support of our amazing volunteers and local community in NSW, especially the amazing support we receive from both Perisher and Thredbo, who continue to embrace DWA and our activities into their operations and plans,” said Rick Hastie, Disabled Wintersport Australia CEO.

“During the off-season, there has been work at both the Thredbo DWA Hub and the DWA Hub at Smiggin Holes to improve the experiences our members have.”

At Perisher’s double chair auction last season, DWA received a generous grant to improve the facilities at Smiggins,

providing a warm and convenient space for DWA members and volunteers to utilise.

This season will see DWA working closer than ever with Snow Australia and Paralympics Australia in the lead-up to the Milan 2026 Paralympic Winter Games. Para sport has never had more investment from both federal and state governments.

“Although DWA’s focus is predominantly at the community level as opposed to high performance, any awareness regarding disability snow sports is a positive for our sports and operations, and the extra support is great.”

Snow Australia Para Team Manager and Alpine Coach, Ali Bombardier, said DWA is an important part of the Paralympic athlete pathway, and they work with them as much as possible, sharing information and assisting at camps.

“As one of the key first steps in the pathway, DWA are our eyes on the ground when introducing new participants to snowsports and play an essential role in encouraging participants to continue and try more of the sports,” said Ms Bombardier.

The combined effort of enticing people

to try snowsports, and events such as interschools multiclass competitions that cater for adaptive snowsport athletes is encouraging more participation.

This year, there are additional camps, including Blind Sport NSW and Special Olympics.

But the organisations still require help from the public.

“We will continue to provide as many opportunities as possible for people with a disability to access the snow from a one-off experience, or for someone who wants to go do a competitive pathway, we’re aiming to provide as much support as possible,” said Mr Hastie.

In all cases, though, DWA couldn’t operate without the support and dedication of its volunteers.

“We are always on the lookout for more volunteers to get involved and help make our members’ experiences as memorable as possible.”

Volunteer with DWA

To help adaptive participants on snow, contact DWA via phone or email. Details are listed on the advert on the lower left page.

◼ A multiclass group with their volunteers at Perisher. PHOTO: Snow Australia.

Celebrating 30 Years Of Excellence

IN 2025, Snowy Mountains Grammar School proudly celebrates 30 years of shaping young lives with purpose, passion, and possibility. What began as a community-driven response to the absence of a local high school has grown into one of the region’s most dynamic and respected educational institutions.

Opening its doors in 1996 with just 11 students, the school has since evolved into a thriving K–12 day and boarding school, now home to just under 500 students. Its unique location in the heart of the Snowy Mountains offers more than stunning views - it provides a daily classroom for adventure, resilience, and inspiration.

From humble beginnings in repurposed Snowy Hydro buildings and pioneering distance education for elite athletes, to its current state-of-the-art facilities, Snowy Mountains Grammar School has consistently embraced innovation while remaining deeply connected to its community. The school’s alumni and families continue to shape both local and global communities.

This 30-year milestone is not just a celebration of the past, but a bold look to the future - grounded in the belief that every student deserves an education that nurtures

◼ Snowy Mountains Grammar School Alumna (Class of 2000) Kate Booker was the guest speaker at the June Foundation Day Assembly. Kate was one of SMGS first-ever students when the school commenced operations in 1996 and went on to complete a BSc from the University of Newcastle and then a PhD in Chemistry. Kate now works on the Snowy 2.0 project.

the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. Students have commented, “It’s not just a school. It’s a second home,” and “The school shaped who I am.”

REACH NEW HEIGHTS

At the school, students are encouraged to explore their passions and strive for excellence through its exceptional academies in aviation, equestrian,

mountain biking, and snowsports. These unique programs are designed to inspire personal growth, build confidence, and nurture a lifelong love for each discipline - all within one of Australia’s most invigorating alpine environments. With expert coaching, tailored training schedules, and strong academic support, students are empowered to pursue their goals both on and off the field. Many current students and alumni are now flying, riding, and racing professionally across Australia and on the international stage, achieving remarkable success. At Snowy Mountains Grammar School, the Academy journey is more than a program - it’s a pathway to possibility.

ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

Snowy Mountains Grammar School proudly upholds a strong tradition of academic excellence, consistently ranking as the top-performing school in the Snowy Monaro region and is among the leading regional schools across all of NSW. This sustained success is underpinned by a school culture that values perseverance, goal-setting, and a growth mindset. Students are encouraged to set ambitious long-term goals and to embrace challenges as an integral part of their learning journey. This approach fosters resilience, camaraderie, and a collective determination to strive for personal and academic success across a broad range of subjects.

Open Day – You’re Invited!

Date: Thursday, 23 October 2025

Location: Snowy Mountains Grammar School, Jindabyne Time: 9:30am -12:30pm

Who Should Attend:

• Prospective families (K–12)

• Anyone interested in exploring the Snowy Mountains Grammar community

What to Expect:

• Guided campus tours

• Meet the Principal and teaching staff

• Student-led Q&A sessions

• Discover academic, co-curricular and outdoor programs

• Explore boarding and day student options

• Enjoy light refreshments and a relaxed community atmosphere

Enquiries & Registration: Visit www.smgs.nsw.edu.au

Email enrolments@smgs.nsw.edu.au or call 6457 1022

◼ A montage poster celebrating 30 years of the school.

Brown Thornbill

Acanthiza pusilla

IN the middle of a heavy snowstorm, a tiny brown thornbill landed on a eucalyptus leaf. All around it, the landscape was white, covered in deep snow and whipped by icy wind. A single snowflake drifted down beside the bird as it looked on, wide-eyed and alert. In that quiet moment, the bird showed something simple but powerful: it was still here, surviving.

Brown thornbills are small, fast-moving birds found across much of Australia. They’re usually spotted in forests and scrubland, darting between branches or digging through leaf litter for insects. They have soft brown feathers and a pale, buffcoloured rump that makes them easy to identify if you get a good look. But it’s rare

to see them in snow like this, especially in the high country during winter.

This thornbill didn’t just happen to be there. It had to work to stay alive. These birds feed by searching under leaves and in the bark of trees, even when everything is frozen. They don’t migrate far, so when the snow comes, they stay. They’ve adapted to keep going even when food is harder to find and the cold bites harder than usual.

This photo shows more than just a bird in the snow. It shows determination in tough conditions. The thornbill’s journey isn’t dramatic - it doesn’t fly thousands of kilometres or build giant nests. But it survives, every day, through heat, wind, and snow. That’s its story.

In harsh conditions, the strength of small creatures can be easy to miss. However, the brown thornbill reminds us that toughness can also come in quiet forms. Even in a blizzard, it carries on - one leaf, one branch, one snowflake at a time.

Ph: 6456 1551 Shop 1, Snowline Center, 6532 Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne. Near the Thredbo turnoff. www.lakesidelures.com.au

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If you need help with your banking, call Melissa Stonestreet, Business Development Manager on 0412 418 384 or search Bendigo Bank Tumbarumba.

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The story behind the picture

Powering To Winter Olympics

Steve Cuff starts a Winter Olympic preview in this edition, highlighting select Australian Winter Olympic, and Paralympic athletes who are likely to compete in the Milano-Cortina 2026 Games. Next month, the previews will continue.

By STEVE CUFF

THE women’s aerial team has been a powerhouse for Australia in winter sports, and the production line of winners has continually taken to the skies.

As one skier retires, others rise to the occasion, and the succession plan seems endless. Credit must go to the Australian Winter Olympic Institute of Sport and Snow Australia, with backing from the government.

When the aerial team arrives at the

Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games next February, Australian sports lovers will watch on with excitement and hope that the Winter Olympic medals are bestowed on our athletes.

The women’s team of Laura Peel, Danielle Scott, Abbey Willcox, and Airleigh Frigo, and lone male skier Reilly Flanagan will themselves expect to perform well, each with their lofty expectations. Laura Peel and Danielle Scott are now veterans on the World Cup circuit, and it’s likely to be their last chance at Olympic glory.

Laura Peel, current World Cup Crystal Globe overall champion, threatens podium positions at every event.

Peel won the final World Cup of the season at Livigno in the test event for the Winter Olympics. It was her fifth victory of the season, and the 14th of her impressive career. The win enabled her to claim her third FIS World Cup Crystal Globe as the number one ranked athlete at the end of the World Cup circuit.

Interior designer

In the super-final, Peel upped her degree of difficulty, scoring an impressive 112.90 points for her spectacular full-full-full triple twisting triple back somersault in one of her best jumps of the season. It will be a great feeling next February, arriving at the Olympic venue.

“I am so stoked, honestly I couldn’t be happier, it’s globe number three, I don’t think it gets any easier,” said the 35-yearold Peel from Canberra.

“That’s day four on this site now. I’ve got

to say I really like it. It’s been working well for me, I’ve been jumping well. That’s a relief and I’m so excited to come back here for the Olympics.”

Peel finished fifth at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, fifth at the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics, and seventh at Sochi 2014.

Australian female aerial skiers have now amassed a total of 14 Crystal Globes over the past 33 years. Peel now has the secondhighest total among Australians with three, trailing only the legendary Jacqui Cooper, who has five. Other winners include Kirstie Marshall, Alisa Camplin, Lydia Lassila, and Danielle Scott.

Geoff Lipshut, Chief Executive Officer of the Olympic Winter Institute of Australia (OWIA), has proudly seen the progression of all these athletes.

When asked why the succession plan develops new champion skiers, Lipshut noted that the women who are succeeding are great role models for the younger athletes.

“Whenever we do have an athlete that is successful, I think the other athletes

Snowy

◼ TEST: Laura Peel at the Winter Olympic venue of Livigno.

◼ SUCCESS: Laura Peel with the Crystal Globe as overall World Cup winner in 2025.

PHOTOS: Chris Hocking

who get to train with that person, they actually get to learn. Learn what it takes,” said Lipshut.

He acknowledged that aerialists need to have strong gymnastic skills to start and then be in a good space to learn.

“All of this takes a lot of hard work. I think if you look at all aerial skiers, they’re just really hard working athletes, and they push themselves. They demand excellence of themselves more than anybody else. And I think once a younger athlete understands what it takes, once they’re able to see it, they can then be it.”

Danielle Scott will start the northern season with eyes firmly on the Winter Olympics. Scott claimed a bronze medal on the final day of competition at the 2025 World Championships in St Moritz,

Switzerland, performing well in tricky conditions at the iconic Swiss resort. Plus, she finished the World Cup season in third place overall.

The medal performance is Scott’s fourth World Championship podium over her decorated career, the pocket rocket skier not fazed by the big occasions.

She would like to land her best jumps in February and improve on her 10th at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, 12th at the 2018 PyeongChang games, and ninth at Sochi 2014.

After the World Championships, Scott said, “Bring it on, I am so excited for the next 12 months, it’s been a bit of a rough run for me, I did barely any training heading into this season, due to a couple of personal

reasons, but my Dad’s fighting, he’s doing well now, I dedicate this medal to him.”

Abbey Willcox came through the gymnastics ranks and made her international debut in 2016, and her first World Cup in 2019. Willcox had a breakthrough 2019-2020 World Cup season, highlighted by the first World Cup podium of her career under lights in Deer Valley, UT, USA, taking bronze in February 2020.

After a layoff for injury, Willcox missed the Beijing 2022 qualification and did not compete in 2023, electing to train at the Geoff Henke Olympic Winter Training Centre in Brisbane.

Recently, she has shown consistent form, including two bronze medal performances this past World Cup season and has reached her highest ranking of fifth.

Airleigh Frigo will make up the women’s team, another recruited from gymnastics who has been in the aerial system since 2019.

The sport takes time to evolve, and the difficulty of jumps is not attempted immediately. Hence, you often see girls compete for years before they reach their peak jumps.

Airleigh has had solid performances in

the past few years at the World Cup and has just recently achieved her highest ranking of tenth.

The lone male aerial skier at present is Reilly Flanagan, who, after several years on the Nor-Am and Europa circuits, this past season competed on the World Cup. His individual performances are still improving, but he is a valued member of the team event, where he helped Laura Peel and Danielle Scott reach a podium third position in January, plus two other strong team results during the season.

While athletes mentioned on the following pages are expected to compete at the Winter Olympics, no athlete is guaranteed a spot in any discipline. The Australian team will be announced in mid-January 2026.

◼ TOP: Laura Peel and Danielle Scott, ranked one and three in the world this season.

◼ TEAM: (L to R) Abbey Willcox, Danielle Scott, Laura Peel, and Airleigh Frigo at the Snow Australia awards. PHOTO: Jay Town.

◼ BRIGHT: Danielle Scott competing at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. PHOTO: Tim Clayton

Strong Hopes for Paralympic Success

AUSTRALIA’S continued success in Paralympic Winter Games should continue in 2026, the squad attending the games will arrive with a mix of experience, expectation, and great potential.

Leading the charge will be snowboarder Ben Tudhope, who will compete at his fourth Paralympic Games. Ben became the youngest ever Winter Paralympian when he competed at the Sochi 2014 games at the age of 14.

The highlight of Ben’s Winter Paralympics was a sensational bronze medal in the Men’s Para-Snowboard Cross SB-LL2 category at the Beijing 2022 Games, where he was co-captain of the team.

Ben was born with hemiplegic cerebral palsy, affecting coordination and muscle movement on the left side of his body. On his website, he states, ‘I’m not disabled, simply a kid with a disability.’

In 2023, Ben won the snowboard cross World Championships, has been a threetime Snow Australia Athlete, and won the World Cup Crystal Globe six times. In the past northern hemisphere season, he podiumed in seven Para Snow World Cup events and placed third at the Para Snowboard World Championships in Big White.

Sit skier Josh Hanlon is another contender for a Paralympic medal. Since joining the team in 2019, he has gained experience and competed in the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games in LW122 sitting class.

The past season, Josh achieved his best-ever results, placing third twice in Para Alpine World Cup Slalom races in Germany. Now ranked sixth overall on World Cup standings, he will return from an injury after missing the last five races of the season.

Sean Pollard competes in Para SBX and banked slalom and competed in the

PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games, placing fifth in the banked slalom. Returning from injury to compete in the 24/25 season, Sean placed tenth at the Para Snowboard World Championships in Big White.

Amanda Reid started her athletic career as a Para swimmer before switching to Para cycling and now balances both Para cycling and Para snowboarding.

Amanda competed in the 2012 Summer Paralympics as a swimmer and 2016, 2020, and 2024 Summer Paralympic Games as a cyclist.

Competing in Para SBX and banked slalom in SB-LL1, Amanda has placed first in Para SBX and third in Dual banked SL at the 2023 FIS Para Snowboard World Championships in La Molina, and won the Continental Cup in Landgraaf last season.

Aaron McCarthy first tried snowboarding in 2022, and the 24/25 season was his first competing overseas in Para SBX and banked slalom in SB-LL1. He captured three podiums in the Continental Cup, including a win, and placed second overall for the Europa Cup season.

Georgia Gunew, with guide Ethan Jackson, competes as an alpine visually impaired skier. Georgia works as a veterinary assistant and studies at the

University of Queensland, and before she lost her vision, was a keen horse rider and field hockey player.

The 24/25 season was Georgia’s second season following the Alpine Para World Cup circuit, with her best results being two bronze medals in World Cup races, one in Slalom and the other in GS.

Sam Tait’s family owns the Corroboree Lodge in Perisher, where Sam spends plenty of time on the slopes fine-tuning his sit skiing technique. Sam started sit skiing in 2014 and became a member of the Australian Para-alpine skiing development squad.

Competing at the PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games, he finished 11th in the men’s downhill and 17th in the

men’s giant slalom. At the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games, he finished 22nd in the men’s giant slalom.

Sam became the first paraplegic person to climb Mount Kosciuszko, an adventure captured in the inspiring documentary “All The Way Up.” This season, he will open a new business in Jindabyne called Revive. “We’re excited to offer services like float tanks, infrared saunas, hot/cold therapy, and more to help you rejuvenate and thrive,” said Sam.

Australia has also earned two quota spots for Para Nordic in Para CrossCountry and Para Biathlon. The athlete group is small, and they are only commencing their competitive journey, having been in the Para snow-based system for the past few years.

Sit skiers David Miln and Matthew Brumby, and visually impaired skier Taryn Dickens, will be vying for the available positions.

◼ Ben Tudhope, Georgia Gunew and Ethan Jackson at the Snow Australia awards in May 2025. PHOTO: Jay Town

◼ Josh Hanlon competing in the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Games.

PHOTO: Simon Bruty for OIS

◼ Sam Tait finding air during the downhill at the 2022 Paralympic Games.

PHOTO: Simon Bruty for OIS

◼ Ben Tudhope proudly showing his bronze medal at the 2022 Paralympic Games.

PHOTO: Thomas Lovelock for OIS

Alpine Skiers Eye Off Positions

ALPINE skiers aiming to attend the 2026 Winter Olympics must contend with several contingencies, as Australia is only allocated a limited number of positions in the alpine starting list.

In mid-January 2026 Australia will know their exact numbers, but currently (June 2025) there are two positions for women’s alpine, one for men’s alpine, and one spot for women’s ski cross. There is a chance the men could gain an additional spot.

There is no guarantee which athlete will secure those positions until much closer to the games. But suffice to say, there are opportunities for several skiers to put their hand up.

“It’s purely going to be based on who we believe is going to get the best results for Australia in those disciplines at that time,” said Shawn Fleming, Snow Australia Alpine Director, commenting on who will attend the games.

“I would encourage all athletes to keep the foot on gas pedal, because it’s anyone’s game for those spots.”

Fleming explained the eligibility and criteria for Australia to gain starting positions, which are quite complicated and can change depending on future results. There are six giant slalom and six slalom

Play Golf

races in the Australia and New Zealand Cup series this southern winter between Mt Hutt, Thredbo, and Coronet Peak that could assist Australian games positions if we achieve exceptional results.

The famed Italian resort of Bormio will host the men’s alpine events at the 2026 Winter Olympics, and the Australian men are expected to compete in giant slalom and slalom.

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The current A team consists of Louis Muhlen-Schulte and Harry Laidlaw, although Laidlaw has not skied recently and will be returning from a back injury.

The B team consists of Tom Hoffman, Henry Heaydon, Hugh McAdam, Connor Leggett, and Harry Hoffman.

The women will compete at Cortina, potentially in the downhill, super-G, giant slalom, and slalom. Our A team members are Greta Small and Maddi Hoffman, the B

team members are Sammie Gaul, Phoebe Heaydon, and Sophie Mahon.

Greta Small is our most recognised current Winter Olympic skier, having competed in three prior Olympics in Sochi 2014, PyeongChang 2018, and Beijing 2022. Her best result was a 13th in the combined at Beijing.

Greta suffered a serious knee injury at the World Championships in February and will not ski this southern winter.

Maddi Hoffman missed out on the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics through injury. Her luck has not continued, and she will return from a double knee injury this August, but will not race the southern season, having undergone surgery before Christmas 2024.

It’s not an ideal situation leading into the Winter Olympic cycle for either woman, who will return to competing at some point in the early northern winter, but with limited time to gain valuable race time.

Australia’s sole ski cross position is currently for one woman. The leading contender to fill this spot is Kyra Wheatley, whose best World Cup results in her young career came last season, where she placed 13th and 14th at Val di Fassa in Italy.

coolamatonggolf

Backcountry

Snowy Mountains Magazine - 2025 - 43

◼ Greta Small competing in the women’s downhill at PyeongChang 2018.

PHOTO: Steve Cuff

JINDABYNE - BERRIDALE DINING

STACKS PIZZA

1 Kosciuszko Road

Jindabyne Ph 6456 2439

Winter and pizza go together, and Stacks Pizza is your snow season choice for dine-in and take-away

up with pepperoni perfection, or choose the chorizo with caramelised onions. The specialty boscaiola with forest mushrooms, scamorza, and leg ham is a favourite. Their signature cesarino has a decadent blend of flavours, the chicken pizza with poached chicken and green sauce is

OPEN DAILY

From 5pm to late night Town Centre Jindabyne

SNOWY MOUNTAINS

COUNTRY CLUB

RESTAURANT

Town Club

74 Jindabyne Road, Berridale Ph 0478 512 342

Great reviews and delicious food will see this Berridale restaurant busy for another winter. Choose from sticky Asian pork ribs,

creamy garlic prawns, or the honey, lemon garlic wings for entree. The wild mushroom risotto with creamy arborio rice, rocket, shaved parmesan and hazelnuts is tasty. Be tempted by the tender 250-gram sirloin steak served with broccolini, creamy mash and your choice of sauce, or the juicy chicken breast supreme with roasted

HORIZONS LAKE JINDABYNE

10 Kosciuszko Road Jindabyne Ph 6456 2562

Great dining choices at Horizons include Squires Cocktail Bar or, for more intimate dining, Embers Restaurant. At Squires, the Moroccan fried cauliflower bites or chicken wings are perfect starters, and the bourbon BBQ ribs and slow-cooked marinated peri peri chicken are both delicious mains. The premium Embers Fireside Restaurant presents a relaxed

environment and superb food. For entrée, the scallops with leek and potato, chive oil, and bacon are perfect to start. The sesame-crusted duck leg with bok choy and dumplings is a hero main dish or try the chili garlic prawn pasta. Steak lovers will relish the juicy, tender fillet mignon with gratin, roast tomatoes, and red wine jus.

OPEN Bar + Dinner

Squires Bar open 2pm Daily Embers Restaurant

July & August – 7 days a week

September – Tues - Sat Squires Bistro Open 7 days June Long weekend to October

www.horizonslakejindabyne.com.au/eat-drink/

Bus Service Winter 2025

SNOW lovers looking for transport options to visit the resorts of Perisher and Thredbo will welcome the return of the Snowy Mountains bus service for winter 2025. In recent years, the service expanded to include a morning service from Cooma via Berridale to Jindabyne, returning in the afternoon. Visitors and residents can also access the park and ride shuttle bus on select services from East Jindabyne, Tyrolean Village, and The Station to link with the resorts in Jindabyne.

especially on days when road conditions are impacted by ice and snow.

For bus service information visit: www.snowymountainsbus.com.au

kipfler potatoes, sautéed spinach and zesty gremolata sauce. Kids have a dedicated menu and the caramalised white chocolate cheesecake for dessert is a winner. Dine in and takeaway available, including online ordering.

RESTAURANT OPEN Dinner

5.30 - 8.30pm Wed – Saturday

Ticket holders for the bus receive free all-day car parking at The Station Resort and free travel on the Park & Shuttle Bus to the Snowy Region Visitor Centre in Jindabyne. The bus service allows motorists, who might not be experienced in driving in alpine conditions, an alternative to ensure their families make it safely to the snow fields,

SMS Road Alerts

Transport for NSW offers a subscription-based SMS service that sends alerts when Kosciuszko Road or Alpine Way needs to close due to resorts reaching parking capacity. Customers who subscribe will receive three text messages to alert them of road closures, before, during, and after the closures are in place.

For more information or to subscribe to the SMS road alerts visit: www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/plan-your-trip/ holiday-driving/driving-snow

Great desserts, including tams tiramisu. Their secret base recipe ensures all pizzas will be stacks hot, stacks good.

BACCO

Shop 10 Nuggets Crossing

Restaurant 6456 1420

Pizzeria 6457 1080

A favourite Jindabyne à la carte restaurant, Bacco is the perfect venue for in-house dining or takeaway pizza and pasta. The garlic prawns are a delicious entrée, followed by the spaghetti tutto mare with Moreton Bay bug, king prawn, mussels, and squid. The veal scallopine with creamy wild mushroom sauce is a main favourite, and the lamb shanks are a

big contender for the patron’s favourite dish. The Bacco flavoursome pizzas are renowned, the capricciossa with basil, ham, and mushroom, or the roast vegetable, both delightful. For takeaway pizza, choose from great gourmet and traditional options. The pepperoni with Spanish onions and kalamata olives is a great choice. An extensive wine list will complement the evening.

OPEN 6 Days - Lunch – Dinner

(Closed Monday)

Lunch 12pm – 2pm

Dinner 5.30pm – 9pm

www.baccojindabyne.com

BIRCHWOOD CAFÉ

3/3 Gippsland Street Jindabyne Ph 6456 1880

Every foodie’s winter favourite, Birchwood guests relish this trendy venue with a vibrant atmosphere and fresh wholesome food. The soft-boiled dippy eggs with fried zucchini are a perfect way to start your day, or try the chilli scrambled eggs. The popular avocado on three mills sourdough toast with dukkha and poached eggs is available all day. The Portuguese-style

chicken fillet “spicy bird” with sweet and spicy pineapple relish is delicious, and the Japanese cabbage pancake with shallots and ginger is a great option for something different. Specialty coffee by Single O is very popular and perfect with the tasty house-made muffins or scrumptious chocolate croissant. Birchwood is licensed with great cocktails, plus it has a sister venue, Birchy Kiosk at Leesville Estate.

OPEN Breakfast + Lunch 7am to 2pm Daily

www.facebook.com/birchwoodjindabyne

JINDABYNE DINING

www.banjopatersoninn.com.au

BANJO PATERSON INN

1 Kosciuszko Road

Jindabyne

Ph 6456 2372

Jindabyne’s most popular venue for dining and entertainment, the Banjo offers multiple eateries and bar choices for family groups, friends, or special occasions. At Clancy’s Brasserie, the pork belly bites or salt and pepper squid are ideal starters. The Thai pork and vermicelli noodle salad or Clancy’s classic Caesar are delicious, plus add your favourite protein.

The vegetable dhal pie and Paterson’s parmi are popular choices, or the Snowy Way beerbattered barra. From the grill, the best juicy rump and scotch fillet steaks in town will appeal to steak lovers, and the slow-cooked lamb shanks in beef broth are a crowd favourite. The Overflow bar offers casual family dining with tasty burgers and great gourmet pizzas, also ideal for takeaway. The tandoori chicken pizza, or BBQ chook

pizza are tasty choices, and the cider and chipotle braised pulled pork burger is delicious. The best winter and all-seasons après venue for drinks, music, and home to Kosi Pale Ale and Snowy Way craft beer straight from vat to tap.

OPEN lunch + Dinner + Bar From 10am

https://jindabynebowlingclub.com.au

Bay St Jindabyne Ph 6456 2133

With a new refurbished club this winter, plus a revitalised menu from new executive chef Michael, diners will be in their element for lunch and dinner this snow season. While still offering all the bowling club favourites (with changes), expect to see a revolving specials board for extra variety.

Lunch with lake views is perfect with the Moroccan lamb salad, the tasty Cajun chicken burger, or the classic steak sandwich. The honey soy pork belly bites and teriyaki beef skewers are great evening starters. The chicken schnitzel, rich beef lasagne, or the German-style slow-roasted pork hock with crispy crackling will tempt your taste buds. Steak aficionados will love the three choices of scotch fillet, porterhouse, or rump steak, plus, you can add

surf and turf to any steak. The barramundi fillet with garlic butter and fresh lemon will appeal to fish lovers. All main dishes are served with your choice of two sides. Families will love the kids’ menu and the kids’ play zone. Join as a member to receive discounts on food and beverages.

OPEN Lunch + Dinner + Bar

Lunch 12 noon to 3pm

Dinner 5pm to 9pm

JINDABYNE BOWLING CLUB

JINDABYNE DINING

JINDABYNE BREWING

5 Nettin Circuit

Jindabyne

Now open seven day, guests will find delicious food, craft beer and great atmosphere all contesting for hero status at Jindabyne Brewing. The tasty skewers are menu favourites. The lamb skewer

www.jindabynebrewing.com.au

HOLLY GO LIGHTLY

6 Thredbo Terrace Jindabyne

Winter après vibes, great food, and Jindy’s favourite beer garden ensure Hollys is a perfect venue for eats and drinks. Swing in for a beer, vino or one of their amazing cocktails such as the signature Hollys Mai tai, French martini, or classic range of margaritas!

The menu is full of crowd favourites, and it’s hard to pass on the crispy Korean chicken wings or Holly’s fries with spiced salt and chipotle aioli.

The lamb kofta, crispy squid, and the parmesan crumbed eggplant chips with miso cream go perfectly with a selection of draft beers. The burger selection caters to all tastes, the BBC with beef, bacon and cheddar and The Don, their katsu style chicken breast burger with Japanese sauce, will see you return for more. Craft beer on tap, plus a selection of great brews and an extensive cocktail menu, make Hollys a favourite with the locals.

OPEN Bar + Dinner

3-10pm Sunday to Thursday 3-11pm Friday + Saturday

www.instagram.com/hollygolightly_jindabyne/

The veal schnitzel with house salad, sauerkraut and chips goes well with an Alpine Red X beer. The wings in hot marinade, the mini pulled pork tacos, and the pork Kassler are all fantastic share plates for winter après and family outings. Be sure to check for weekend blackboard specials. The brewery is one of the

brew vats. Their beers add to the appeal, Island Bend Pilzner, Porcupine Rocks XPA, and the Black Diamond refer to local towns, places, and the snowfields.

OPEN Lunch + Dinner + Bar

7 Days - Mon – Fri 3-9pm Sat – Sun 12-9pm

Shop 14 Upstairs Town Centre

Jindabyne

Ph 0438 427 680

Winter brings many treats, balcony lunches, dinner views, après sessions, plus great dining choices, all served upstairs at Jindabyne Emporium. Their succulent burgers accompany the best comfort food

in the mountains, the tender, juicy, mouth-watering meats are slow-cooked in-house and pulled apart daily. Choose from cauliflower popcorn, the secret menu of chipotle corn ribs, pork belly nuggets and the salt and pepper squid tacos are ideal share plates. The farmyard burger will appease the hungry, with a local beef patty, JFC fillet, pulled pork and double

www.jindabyneemporium.com

rasher bacon in one burger. The pig mac pulled pork burger is a favourite, or the vegan jackfruit burger, plus a side of fries. Perfect relaxed family venue, check the in-house secret QR code specials, kitchen open all day from 12 noon and kids’ munchkin meals.

OPEN Lunch + Dinner + Bar

From 12 noon (closed Wednesday)

JB’s

31 Kosciuszko Road Town Centre Jindabyne

Kick back and enjoy the courtyard après at JB’s, a sister bar to Jindabyne Brewing. Great coffee, a delicious selection of toasted sandwiches and a slice of banana bread will start your day in fine style. For après and evenings, slide in for a brewski and add one of their tasty pulled pork and fish tacos, a great match with any beverage. Plus, if you grab a pizza slice from Stacks Pizza next door and

need an accompanying beer, all good. Cosy up to the bar for one of their four craft beers on tap, a glass of wine or sample the popular ciders. A full selection of top-shelf whisky and a great range of superb cocktails. Perfect for pre-dinner cocktails and beers if you are headed elsewhere. Easy to find, (formerly CBD), the first venue when you turn into the Jindabyne Town Centre.

OPEN B’fast + Lunch + Dinner + Bar

7am to 12pm 7 Days 5pm to late Friday & Saturday

https://www.facebook.com/coffeebeatsdrinks

JINDABYNE EMPORIUM

PERROTTA’S ITALIAN + BAR

at Lake Crackenback Ph 0416 042 062

An impressive new restaurant, Perrottas is a must-visit at Lake Crackenback Resort for their casual modern Italian cuisine. Winter visitors will find a relaxing environment for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The pizza bases are next level superb, the RIP Tony Sorprano pizza with hot soppressata, pork sausage, and bacon, or the sonnyboy pizza, both

sensational. The arancini quattro formaggi is a highlight for lunch or dinner and a great starter. The squid ink spaghetti with crab, confit tomato, chilli, and salmon roe will be a new favourite. The nonna’s eggplant parmigiana, the gnocchi lamb, or the buffalo mozzarella and peperonata pizza are all great dinner choices. A great winter dining venue with an extensive cocktail list, beers, Italian wine, or relax with a soothing coffee.

OPEN 7 days from 10am Brunch + Lunch + Dinner

www.facebook.com/Perrottas.SnowyMountains

BIRCHY’S KIOSK

7-9 Baggs Street, Leesville Estate Ph 6456 1880

A popular café in Leesville, Birchy’s Kiosk is a sister café to Birchwood Café Jindabyne and operates with the same philosophy of simple, fresh, and fast. All food is made from scratch and baked freshly every day, including fresh cookies, muffins, chocolate croissants, and Danishes. The delicious meat pies are a hearty lunch, and the Portuguese

tarts have become one of the big favourites. There are a variety of freshly made sandwiches, and the cold-pressed juices are created daily with three tasty options of morning glow, energiser, and ABC. The venue is spacious and new with a pleasant environment, perfect for breakfast, lunch, meetings on the go, or just for their favourite Simple O coffee.

OPEN Breakfast + Lunch

Monday to Friday 6.30am – 2pm

www.facebook.com/birchys.kiosk

JINDABYNE - CRACKENBACK DINING

https://wildbrumby.com

Alpine Way, Crackenback Ph 6457 1447

One of the finest establishments, the iconic Wildbrumby Distillery serves the most delicious food accompanied by a great atmosphere. Winter favourite

The ever-popular pan-fried crumbed veal schnitzel with sautéed kipfler potatoes is perfect with your draught beer, and the smoked pork sausages on sauerkraut and mash highly recommended. For local fare, try the Rockstock Deli offerings. Desserts are a must, the sticky date pudding or Austrian apple strudel

purchase award-winning gin, vodka, or schnapps for a later day. Free schnapps tastings every day.

OPEN Brunch + Lunch + Bar

Thur, Sun, Mon 10am to 5pm Fri & Sat 10am to 6pm

Bottle Shop Tues – Wed 10am to 5pm

BRUMBY BAR AND GRILL

Cnr Kosciuszko Rd + Kalkite St Jindabyne Ph 6456 2526

Delicious food and a vibrant winter bar, the Brumby Bar has been a snow lover’s favourite for decades and is perfect for family and friends, or snow après at the bar. The signature buttermilk popcorn chicken with black garlic aioli will

www.brumbybarandgrill.com

start your evening in style and is ideal to share. The pork dishes are the menu heroes, the succulent pork fillet with chips, slaw, and house BBQ, or the tender pork ribs, which fall off the bone and melt in your mouth, are served with tasty house slaw and chips. From the grill, several top choices include the Tasmanian grass-fed hangar angus steak, the scotch fillet steak with your choice of two sides. Pub classics include the ever-popular

chicken schnitzel with your choice of gravy sauces, or the house-made lasagna. Seafood lovers will delight in the beer-battered fish and chips, cooked superbly, and for dessert, the sticky date pudding should be on your list. A range of draught tap beer, wine list, and cocktail menu complement the evening.

OPEN DINNER + BAR

7 days from 4pm Dinner from 5pm

WILDBRUMBY DISTILLERY

PERISHER DINING

www.marritzsalzburg.com.au

MARRITZ HOTEL

Perisher Valley Ph 6457 5220

The Marritz is one of the most desired restaurants for lunch and dinner for those in the know. Based on the classic and stylish European hotels, the impressive venue is a short stroll from the slopes, where escaping the crowds for lunch is your first reward. The smoked trout served on a crispy potato rosit, or the pan-seared scallops served with crisp smokey are great entrees.

Everyone’s favourite will be the rack of lamb, coated in Dijon and fresh herb crumb, roasted medium rare and served with ratatouille and a rosemary scented red wine jus. The tender venison Bourguignon shoulder, slow braised in red wine with onion, bacon lardons and mushrooms, served with crushed roasted baby potatoes, will surely warm the winter soul. Finish the evening with

warm sticky date pudding covered with a luscious caramel toffee sauce and served with ice cream. The bar has an extensive wine list, a great selection of schnapps, beers, and a cosmopolitan list of cocktails.

OPEN Bar + Lunch + Dinner Call for bookings

www.themanfromsnowyriver.com.au

THE MAN FROM SNOWY RIVER HOTEL

Perisher Valley Ph 6457 5234

GUTHEGA INN

Guthega

Ph 6457 5383

Undoubtedly one of the most popular on-mountain dining venues at Perisher Resort, and not just for the epic mountain views, but exceptional food. On sunny days, book a table outside and absorb the full alpine atmosphere as you dine on steak burger, herb crumbed chicken, or veal schnitzel (superb) and the housemade pie. For a lighter lunch, the salmon caeser salad is a great choice. An obliging cold beer or a glass of

wine could be recommended to add to the occasion. For dinner, find a relaxing venue with an exquisite menu to match. The Mediterranean baked swordfish or the tender juicy fillet mignon served on a bed of mashed potato with seasonal greens is highly recommended. The Westholme wagyu tomahawk steaks are perfect for sharing, ranging from 1.1kg to 2.0kg, and are a sight to behold. Book a table in advance.

OPEN Bar + Lunch + Dinner

Bar 11.00am to 10.00pm

Lunch 12.00 pm to 3.00pm

Dinner 5.00pm to 9.00pm

www.guthegainn.au

SNOW GUMS RESTAURANT

Perisher Valley Hotel

Ph 6459 4755

Perisher Valley Hotel’s signature restaurant offers fabulous food with exceptional views of the Front Valley slopes. Cosy up to the fireplace for an exotic cocktail bar après beverage while you peruse the dinner menu. The crispy soft shell crab, the grilled lamb lollipops, and panfried gnocchi are all great starters.

For mains, you can’t go past the twice-cooked pork belly with potato rouille and broccolini, or the risotto with pumpkin, baby spinach, and mushroom compote. The O.P rib-eye steak with grilled prosciutto, mustard, onions, gherkins, and roasted chats is delicious. Great location with cosy atmosphere, call for bookings.

OPEN Bar + Dinner

Cocktail bar - afternoon

Lunch - see website for open times

Dinner bookings required

The pub bar is open for lunch, dinner, and drinks, and caters to takeaway orders. On sunny days, the outside setting is in high demand as guests absorb the views and atmosphere.

In the dining room, start the evening with a cocktail as you settle into the surrounds of the open stone fireplace. The Cowra

Snow enthusiasts have long known that the best place for lunch and dinner is the most popular bar in Perisher, “The Man Hotel”. This iconic venue has atmosphere in spades, and food to match. You can’t beat a tasty pizza, steak sandwich, or one of their famous burgers. All matched with an appropriate ale to soothe the snow aches.

lamb rump with burnt eggplant or the Riverina eye fillet of beef with pomme anna, mushroom and green pepper or seared duck breast are all delicious choices.

A perfect location away from the slopes.

OPEN Bar + Lunch + Dinner

Bar Lunch 12noon to 3pm

Bar Dinner 6pm to 9pm Restaurant bookings essential

www.perisher.com.au/perisher-valley-hotel/

MERRITTS

MOUNTAIN HOUSE

Top of Merritts Gondola

You will love the Merritts Gondola ride, and one of the rewards at the top is unwinding on the Merritts deck for lunch, snacks, or just a celebratory beverage and admiring the alpine scenery. The Merritts Mountain House has treats for everyone, including their famous deluxe hot chocolate. Always a winner with the kids. At

1660 metres above sea level, the restaurant has a traditional European feel, whether dining inside or alfresco. Choose from a variety of delicious burgers, wings and dipping sauce, fries, hearty meat pies, and much more. Coffee and cake, you can’t beat the location, and for a more substantial beverage, the deck is perfect for après beers and cocktails.

OPEN Breakfast + Lunch + Bar 7 days

www.thredbo.com.au

ALPINE PIZZERIA

Lower Thredbo Village

Snow holidays and Alpine Pizza are the perfect Thredbo combination for lunch or dinner. The menu is full of great choices, including the margy with tomato, bocconcini and basil, or something with a dose of kick, choose from the spicy pepperoni with salami and jalapeno or the tasty chilli prawn. Garlic bread, and garlic flatbread plus salads add variety to the evening, all

perfect with a bucket of Balter cerveza beers. The peri peri chicken with red onion, capsicum, jalapeno and peri mayo or the supreme with pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, ham and pineapple is always a house favourite. Fully licenced, and look for weekly specials and takeaway available.

OPEN Lunch + Dinner

12pm – 9pm Sunday – Thursday 12pm – 10pm Friday & Saturday

www.thredbo.com.au/restaurants-bars/alpine-pizzeria/

CASCADES

Thredbo Alpine Hotel PH 6459 4270

ONE of Thredbo’s favourite venues, Cascades is perfect for a relaxing breakfast or dinner. The set price two-course or three-course dinner menu includes a featured glass of wine. Start with a pan-seared

www.thredbo.com.au/restaurants-bars/cascades/

mushrooms, celeriac puree, and celeriac fondant, or the crispy skin salmon fillet with tartare beurre blanc, mussels, and snow peas.

The 200-gram eye fillet steak au poivre, the duck confit with cauliflower puree, roasted fennel, and blackberry jus, or the spinach ricotta and gorgonzola ravioli are great choices. There are great

tasty desserts. Sunday night is roast night, and lunch is available Friday and Saturday.

OPEN Breakfast + Lunch +Dinner

Breakfast 7 days - 7am-11am

Lunch - Friday and Saturday

Dinner 5 days - Friday to Tuesday 5.30pm – 8.30pm

https://thedenman.com.au/

THE DENMAN

21 Diggings Terrace

Thredbo Village Ph 6457 6222

The Après Bar at The Denman needs no introduction, it’s the home of après, where winter afternoons evolve into evenings, the bar a perfect entrée before venturing to the upstairs Terrace Restaurant. At the Terrace, try the

ocean trout crudo, crab ravioli or the baked camembert for entrée.

The pork cutlet with rhubarb mustard, charred radicchio and muscat glaze is delicious.

The cumin roasted whole lamb shoulder is served with green tahini and house pickles, and will certainly be a winter favourite.

The beef cheek ragu fettuccini with olive tapenade, or the prawn tagliatelle with cherry tomato,

are great pasta options. The black angus flank tagliata with red wine jus and salsa verde can be accompanied by great side dishes, including sautéed broccolini. The appleshmarrn is perfect for dessert and one of the restaurant’s favourites.

OPEN Bar + Dinner

From 4pm Après Bar

From 6pm Terrace Restaurant

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

ACCOMODATION

Rainbow Pines Tourist Park

Accommodation on the shores of Lake Eucumbene

• Cabins + Pine Lodge

• En-Suite Camping Sites

• Powered & Unpowered Campsites

• 40 minutes to Selwyn Snowfields

• Lake Eucumbene Fishing At Your Doorstep

Phone: 02 6454 2317 Email: info@rainbowpines.com.au www.rainbowpines.com.au Lucas Rd, Old Adaminaby

UNDERGROUND UTILITY LOCATING

Accurately locating all underground utilities for water, sewer, power, gas and communications.

• Fully Certified DBYD (Dial Before You Dig) Locators - Telstra & Optus Accredited

• Radio Detection equipment

• Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

• Vacuum Excavation (non-destructive)

• A range of reporting options

• Servicing Snowy Mountains, ACT & South Coast.

Contact: Andrew 0429 899 777 Email: info@livelocates.com.au www.livelocates.com.au

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

Tumut Valley Kitchens

• Supplying the Snowy Mountains region with the Highest Quality custom built kitchens.

• Individual 3D computer aided kitchen design.

• Kitchens, Bathrooms, Stone benchtops, Farmers kitchens, Wardrobes, Vanities.

• Follow on Facebook & Instagram: Tumut Valley Kitchens

• Lic. 232913C

Ph: (02) 6947 3004 • 1/180 Adelong Road Tumut

Email: tvk05@bigpond.net.au tumutvalleykitchens.com

WATERPROOFING

CABIN ACCOMMODATION

Anglers Reach Lakeside Village On Lake Eucumbene

• 20 fully equipped self-contained cabins.

• Ideal location to stay all year round.

• Perfect for Selwyn Resort, trout fishing, mt biking, cycling, hiking.

• 4WDriving, bushwalking, wild brumbies spotting.

• Also suited for large groups, team building, school or family reunions. Contact Michael & Sal | Ph : 02 6454 2276 info@anglersreachcabins.com.au www.anglersreachcabins.com.au

KITCHENS – BATHROOMS – JOINERY

DLC Joinery

ELECTRICAL

Bevalec Electrical Contractor

Commercial - Industrial - Domestic COMPETITIVE RATES + QUOTES

SERVICING:

• Jindabyne, Berridale, Perisher, Thredbo

Highest Quality Kitchens and Joinery based in Jindabyne

• Custom Design & Built Kitchens, Wardrobes & Bathroom Vanities

• Solid Timber Woodwork

• Utilising World’s Number 1 Design Software and Computer-Controlled Machinery

• Fully Licensed all Work Guaranteed LIC 222989C Phone: Dean Linton 02 6456 1536 • Email: info@dlcjindabyne.com.au

• New Homes, Bathrooms and Mud-Rooms

• Renovations in Old Houses

PLAY GOLF

WE Specialise IN WATERPROOFING NEW HOMES, BATHROOMS, MUD-ROOMS, RENOVATIONS IN OLD HOUSES, PLUS: WATERPROOFING DECKS, RETAINING WALLS, NEGATIVE AND POSITIVE WATERPROOFING, AND CAN SUPPLY WATERPROOFING CERTIFICATES.

WE Specialise IN WATERPROOFING NEW HOMES, BATHROOMS, MUD-ROOMS, RENOVATIONS IN OLD HOUSES,PLUS: WATERPROOFING DECKS, RETAINING WALLS, NEGATIVE AND POSITIVE WATERPROOFING, AND CAN SUPPLY WATERPROOFING CERTIFICATES.

Snowy Mountains Golf

Play Golf Winter + Summer Coolamatong Golf Club

• Open 7 Days (After 12noon Wed + Sat) • 18 Hole Course - Grass Greens

• Clubs + Carts For Hire • Open Competitions Wednesday + Sunday

• 2km Berridale - 27km Jindabyne - 34km Cooma

• Waterproofing Decks & Retaining Walls

• Negative and Positive Waterproofing

• Can Supply Waterproofing Certificates

• Servicing Jindabyne, Berridale, Thredbo and Perisher

Contact Mark 0417 652 575 snowymonarowaterproofing@gmail.com

Ph: 0493 880 129 (preferred) or (02) 6456 3518 3583 Kosciuszko Road Berridale www.coolamatonggolfclub.com.au coolamatonggolf

Chris Bevan Ph 0401 039 240 Lic No. 156176C

3 Illawong Road, Anglers Reach NSW 2629

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

BLINDS AND WINDOW COVERINGS

Dr Yuli Ong BDSc (Hons) FRACDS

Snowy Mountains Dental offers comprehensive,

• Emergency Care • Comprehensive Examinations • Preventive Care

• General Dentistry • Orthodontics • Porcelain Restorations and Crowns

Office 5, 6 Park Road Jindabyne

Ph: 6456 1870

E: reception@snowydental.com.au www.snowydental.com.au

MEDICAL SERVICES

Jindabyne Medical Practice – 6457 1221

Provides a comprehensive range of medical services from experienced GPs and Registered Nurses

• Injury management

• Occupational and sports medicine

• Pregnancy care, child and baby health

• Women’s and Men’s Health

WELLNESS

We supply and install quality, custom-made window coverings across the Snowy Mountains.

• Roller Blinds

• Plantation Shutters

• Curtains

• Awnings

• Romans, Verticals,

• Venetians, Honeycomb

Free measure and quotes

Meagan Cutcliffe 0477 047 331 Email: jindabyneblindlady@gmail.com www.jindabyneblindlady.com.au

Open Monday to Saturday + Sundays in snow season

Online bookings via HotDoc or by calling our reception on 6457 1221. For urgent or unexpected problems please call for an appointment 5 Thredbo Terrace Jindabyne

RETREAT

Breathwork Classes

See the Magic in the Power of the Breath

Group Classes or 1:1 Sessions

Every Monday at 6.30pm

At the Alpine Yoga Studio

Ph Karin 0432 844 075

Book online at: www.alpineyoga.com.au

Snowy Retreat

Escape your busy schedule to nurture your body, mind & soul

• Meditation • yoga

• sound healing • breathwork

• shamanic healing • nutritious food

• bushwalks & waterfall

Ph: 0419 419 149 wwwsnowyretreats.com.au

PHYSIOTHERAPY

Peak Physio Plus

Bruce Wilson

M.Hlth.Sci.Spo.Phty

• Highly experienced Physiotherapist

• 20+ years in the Snowies

• New fully equipped premises in Berridale

• HICAPS instant health fund rebates

• No referral necessary

Opening hours to Monday-Thursday 9:00am -5:30pm

Phone: 02 6456 3993

1/72 Jindabyne Rd, Berridale

OPENING HOURS EVERY DAY 8AM TO 7PM

• All ePrescriptions Welcome!

• Full Service Compounding Pharmacy

• Support Braces: Knees, Wrists, Ankles

• PRE-ORDER OUR FAMOUS ALPINE PAIN GEL

• Nutraceuticals & Vitamins

• HARD TO FIND MEDICINES

• Largest range of LEGO in the Southern Hemisphere

Conveniently located Upstairs at Nuggets Crossing MOBILE/SMS 0426 829 530

Email your script to: jindabynerx@gmail.com

Phone: 6456 2977 Fax 6456 1095

OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR

• Sunscreen & Sunglasses

• Toiletries & Cosmetics

• Hand Sanitiser, Hand Wash + Masks

Located Upstairs in Skitube Centre

PHYSIOTHERAPY

Snowy Mountains Physiotherapy

• Sports Physiotherapy

• Back and Neck Pain

• Pre Operative Strengthening • Post Op Rehabilitation

• Hand Physiotherapy

• Dry Needling • Hydrotherapy

Jindabyne (Super Clinic) Address: 5 Thredbo Terrace | Phone: 6457 2627

Gym Programs

Ski Fit Assessments

Custom Made Splints

On-site Workplace Physiotherapy

Crutches, Walking Boots and Braces • Immediate Private Health

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Explore Yarrangobilly Caves

LOOKING for an exciting escapade in winter, then a visit to Yarrangobilly Caves will tick all your adventure boxes. Explore million-year-old caves, be immersed in nature, and take a swim in the 27-degree thermal pool.

SOUTH GLORY CAVE

Entering the self-guided South Glory cave, you are greeted by the magnificent Glory Arch. Explore at your own pace as you peruse the biggest cave at Yarrangobilly, first explored by Europeans in 1834. Self-activated sensor lights make viewing easy, and informative signage is provided outlining the cave’s history. Impressive features are the “lambs fleece” and “Judges Wig”.

JERSEY CAVE

The four-metre column of Cleopatra’s Needle is just one of the standout features, your guide explaining each feature and cave formations 1.5 million years in the making. Witness rare displays of black and grey flowstones and forests of stalactites and stalagmites.

JILLABENAN CAVE

The smallest but also the most accessible, your guide will showcase the outcome of 2 million years of creation as you view this 73-metre-long cave. Be astounded by the up-close and personal displays of impressive straws, shawls, cave coral, and helictites.

Cave temperatures hover at 10 to 13 degrees, so bring a fleece or jacket. And sturdy shoes are also recommended.

THERMAL POOL

The thermal pool has always been a main attraction, so pack your swimmers. Yes, even in winter. With a recent refurbishment making it more accessible, new walkways connecting the new toilet block and changeroom, plus new shelters around the pool, the pool area is ready for winter.

Fed by a naturally heated spring, the Yarrangobilly thermal pool is 27ºC yearround, perfect for a relaxing winter dip. The main pool overflows with a gentle cascade into a children’s wading pool, meaning it’s great for families. A new

ramp into the pool and seating allow people with different access needs to use the pool.

ACCOMMODATION

You can stay within the caves’ precinct, the onsite self-contained accommodation of the heritagelisted Caves House, the East and West Wings, and the more remote Lyrebird Cottage, all great secluded venues.

Yarrangobilly is not close to any major town, the picturesque Talbingo the nearest, so treat your visit like a full-day adventure from the outset and leave early from your current residence. Depending on winter road conditions, allow extra time to reach the caves.

Talbingo - 35 min

Adaminaby - 55 min

Tumut - 60 min

Cooma - 1hr 30 min

Tumbarumba - 1hr 40 min

Khancoban - 1hr 50 min

Jindabyne - 2hr 5 min

Kosciuszko Horse Numbers

By STEVE CUFF

THE NSW Government recently released its 2024 wild horse population survey, which shows a vast reduction in horse numbers within Kosciuszko National Park (KNP).

Using two different surveying methods and conducted in the same four survey blocks as previous surveys, Northern Block, Snowy Plains, Cabramurra Block, and Southern Block, the areas produced significantly fewer numbers in 2024.

The population of horses is estimated between 1,766 to 5,717.

As with previous surveys, they offer a range from a minimum to a maximum number of estimated horses due to the expected level of variability from surveying across such a large and variable landscape.

Over 9000 horses have been removed from the park in recent years via aerial shooting, trapping, or re-homing. The estimated numbers are now within range of the Kosciuszko National Park Wild Horse Heritage Management Plan. The government’s legal requirement is to reduce the wild horse population to 3,000 by 30 June 2027.

The 2023 survey generated a population estimate of 12,797 to 21,760 feral horses.

The number of horses has often been the centre of debate, particularly the wide range of numbers. The lower number of 12,797 in 2023 now appears to be the best estimate. If you factor the lower estimated numbers in the 2024 survey, the Management Plan 3000 target may have already been achieved.

Under the Management Plan, there are different goals for horse management in different parts of KNP. In designated removal areas, there is a requirement that the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service remove all horses.

In retention areas, horse populations are to be retained but maintained at reduced numbers. The target population size in all the retention areas combined is 3,000 horses by 30th June 2027.

The government said there are promising early signs of recovery in the park following the rapid reduction in horse numbers over the past 18 months. Specifically, there is reduced bare ground, increased vegetation coverage, and less pugging and trampling of stream banks around fragile sub-alpine waterways as well as broad-toothed rat habitat.

◼ DIP: Take a swim in the 27-degree thermal pool this winter. PHOTO: E. Sheargold / DCCEEW

Drive Times to Yarrangobilly Caves

Yarrangobilly Caves

EH2024/0280

Caves and tours

• South Glory Cave self guided tours

• Jersey Cave guided tours

• Jillabenan Cave guided tours

For caves and tours visit nswparks.info/toursyarrangobilly

Accommodation

• Yarrangobilly Caves House

• Lyrebird Cottage

For accommodation visit nswparks.info/yarrangobillystay

Activities

• Thermal pools

• Lookouts

• BBQs

• Visitor Centre

Kosciuszko National Park

Photo: Yarrangobilly Glory Caves (Murray Vanderveer/DCCEEW)

September 2024

Photo: Adam Klumper/DCCEEW

Photo: Boen Ferguson/DCCEEW

Photo: Murray Vanderveer/DCCEEW

THERE’S ‘FAMILY FRIENDLY’, THEN THERE’S