JUNE ISSUE, 2021
www.nemedia.com.au
inside
P3 BIG CHANGES Cobungra Platter to offer the best of both worlds
ENJOYING VILLAGE LIFE
Dinner Plain locals Clare Fenton and daughter Elise were rapt to see good snowfalls arrive at the resort just prior to opening weekend and are hopeful of a big season. PHOTO: Nathan Fenton
SNOWSPORT JOY P10 Past and present champions recognised at Aussie awards
It’s great to be back By JEFF ZEUSCHNER
WORLD GLORY P15 Aussie snow athletes shone on the world stage in tough season
index RESORT CHANGES
P6
KANGAROO HOPPET P11
THERE is much to look forward to as we kick off one of arguably the most anticipated ski seasons in recent memory. While Melbourne’s recent COVID-19 outbreak and the subsequent lockdown and restrictions will have some impact on opening weekend festivities and visitation, there is still plenty of fun to be had. And plans are well underway for upcoming June/July school holidays and heaps of activities throughout this winter across Mt
Hotham, Falls Creek and of course Dinner Plain. The disappointment and heartache of last year’s premature end to the ski season due to pandemic restrictions has only heightened expectations - and there are some very positive early signs. Weather wise, conditions over recent weeks have been ideal for snowmaking, and guns at both Falls Creek and Mt Hotham have been busy pumping out a great base cover on various runs. The fact Vail Resorts has spent several million dollars expanding its snowmaking capabilities at
both Mt Hotham and Falls Creek has been an early godsend, and is certain to continue to help deliver throughout the season. In recent days even Mother Nature has been delivering good early natural snowfalls to help get the season started. Falls Creek Resort Management CEO, Stuart Smythe, speaks for everyone when he says they can’t wait for season 2021. “2020 was an extremely challenging time for everyone, but particularly so for our business operators and the Falls Creek community,” he said.
“There is much anticipation for the season ahead, with all our businesses keen to bounce back from 2020 and welcome our guests back to Australia’s premier winter village.” Director of marketing and communications, Sarah Watt, urged guests to purchase their resort entry vehicle permit online and in advance of arriving at the resort. “Things are a little different this year and we ask all visitors to plan ahead and purchase their resort entry permit, lift tickets and book accommodation in advance to ensure they have a more seamless visit to the resort,” Ms Watt said.