No Snow Doesn’t Stop The Opening Weekend Enjoyment Across Australia
With the opening weekend just a few days away, it seems that this year's focus will be more on entertainment and socialising rather than skiing and snowboarding. Unlike last year, when we had an exceptional amount of snow thanks to pre-season storms, the snow conditions this year are quite different. We did have a couple of decent snowstorms in May, but the warm weather that followed caused the snow to melt quickly. As a result, the natural snow cover is minimal, and the snowmaking areas have limited snow due to the unseasonably warm temperatures of the past two weeks.
Although there is a possibility of a cold change and some snowfall over the weekend, it remains uncertain whether there will be enough snow to open any lifts for skiing. Nevertheless, despite the patchy snow cover and limited skiable terrain, the June long weekend is typically a fun time. Here's a rundown of what you can expect at each resort during the opening weekend:
Piles of snow from the famed Mt Buller Snow Factory which will be pushed around for opening weekend. Credit: Mt Buller
Falls Creek:
Falls Creek will host a street party in the Village Bowl, a POW (Protect Our Winters) takeover in Slalom Plaza, and nighttime entertainment and dining at various venues throughout the village. Kids can enjoy the street party in the Village Bowl with activities such as fire pits, marshmallow roasting, games, face painting, and music. There will also be appearances by Pete the Snowdragon and a spectacular fireworks show in the Village Bowl on Saturday night.
Mt Baw Baw:
Mt Baw Baw has been making snow on Hut Run using their snow factory, ensuring that the beginners area and toboggan park will be open for on-snow fun. The resort will also feature the traditional Tug of War competition, tunes pumping from the Thumping Tent Shack, appearances by Baw Baw's mascot Frosti Frog, a Welcome to Country Smoking Ceremony, and a tropical Beach Party with live music from the Nicky Moffatt Band.
Hotham Alpine Resort:
Hotham's venues will be open on Friday, providing an opportunity to socialise and enjoy refreshments at various establishments. On Saturday, you can participate in the Playground Chair charity auction, which offers a chance to own a piece of Hotham history. Live music will be playing at The General in the evening. On Sunday, kids can enjoy free hot chocolate and marshmallow toasting while parents indulge in a free gluhwein. The resort will also showcase an opening weekend fireworks extravaganza and offer late-night entertainment at the General with DJ Eddy.
Mt Buller:
Thanks to its investment in snowmaking technology, Mt Buller's Bourke St and toboggan area will have enough snow cover to open this weekend. The resort guarantees skiing and boarding on Bourke St, along with beginners' lessons and the opportunity for snow play. Retail, restaurants, and bars will be open throughout the village, and the Kooroora Hotel will host a lively night with music.
Perisher:
While skiing and snowboarding may be limited, there will be live music across the weekend with the PEAK Music Festival at Smiggin Holes. The festival features a diverse lineup of artists performing on multiple stages throughout the resort. Additionally, there will be opportunities for snow play, and the program includes a Welcome to Country ceremony, providing a night of entertainment and music at Smiggins Hotel and The Man From Snowy River Hotel.
Thredbo:
Although skiing and snowboarding are unlikely during the opening weekend, Thredbo offers a party atmosphere with sightseeing rides on Kosciuszko chair and the Merritts gondola. Snow play is available at the top, and the village will be bustling with retail, restaurants, face painting, and an impressive ice sculpture. Live music performances by Kinder, a fireworks display, and various DJs will keep the energy high throughout the weekend. Thredbo's Alpine Bar will feature pop duo Kinder, while Mark Travers and H-Cee will provide lively tunes at the Thredbo Alpine Hotel Lounge Bar and the Schuss Bar, respectively. Sunday offers an annual long lunch followed by an afternoon session at the Alpine Bar with DJ Bailey spinning tunes.
Selwyn Snow Resort:
After the devastating bushfires of 2019/20, Selwyn Snow Resort has undergone extensive reconstruction, including a new Selwyn Centre, upgraded lifts, state-of-the-art snowmaking, and Australia's largest toboggan park. While the official reopening is scheduled for Saturday, June 10, the resort's true celebration will occur when lifts open for skiing and snowboarding. It's wonderful to see Selwyn back, better than ever, for the 2023 season.
Charlotte Pass:
Although skiing is not possible this weekend, Charlotte Pass, Australia's highest resort, offers breathtaking views that make it worth a visit. The historic Kosciuszko Chalet is open, and Stillwell café provides a great spot for a high country lunch. The weekend weather is ideal for a hike to Blue Lake or Mount Kosi.
Despite the varying snow conditions across the resorts, each offers a unique range of activities, entertainment, and festivities to ensure a memorable opening weekend experience. Whether it's enjoying street parties, fireworks shows, live music performances, or simply soaking in the stunning alpine views, there's something for everyone to enjoy during this festive time. So grab your friends and family and make the most of the opening weekend at your favourite resort!
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