Australian Alpine News by Provincial Press Group

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Australian Alpine News 2012 3

Alpine News 2012

contents Regulars 12 16 22 24 26 31 34 36 37 38

Resorts Snowboarding Alpine property Equipment Overseas Interschools Calendar Associations Cross country Driving

The Australian Winter Youth Olympics team, pictured here with flagbearer Greta Small, exceeded all expectations. Story page 5. Photo: Olympics.com.au/AOC

Feature stories 5 The future of the snow industry What next for Australian ski fields?

5 Youth Winter Olympics Wrap of all the action

16 Terrain park guide What to find in 2012

29 Hakuba, Japan Visitors have so many options on this ski holiday

COVER PHOTO: Courtesy of Thredbo Resort

Our say

PUBLISHER Hartley Higgins

The northern winter again saw some great results from Australia’s snow sports athletes and many were saluted at the annual Ski & Snowboard Australia Awards in May. Read about their results and the winners in this issue, including an interview with Brittney Cox who won Australia’s ﬁrst ever women’s World Cup moguls medal in Salt Lake City. Another annual event was the industry’s Snow Australia seminar held in Sydney earlier this year which considered the future of Australian ski resorts. Alpine News looks at the outcomes of the conference and where the ski industry goes from here. Also included in this issue is an overview of the Youth Winter Olympics where Australian athletes exceeded all expectations. Congratulations go to Nate Johnstone who was awarded the Snowsports Athlete of the Year by Ski and Snowboard Australia. Regular features include the resort guide, terrain park guide, equipment overview, alpine property, cross country and interschools round-up. Our Overseas Ski Feature looks at Hakuba, Japan and North American resorts of Park City, Whistler and Big White. As we go to print, south eastern Australia has experienced cold and wet weather with snow falls at most resorts and with Perisher Blue already opening a week earlier than planned. All is in readiness for a great snow season so why not make the most of it and book your ski trip. Alpine News is brought to you courtesy of advertising placed by industry suppliers. We ask that you support them when next choosing your ski destination and snow sports requirements. We hope you enjoy reading Alpine News - feedback and suggestions on this year’s coverage are most welcome.

Jeff Zeuschner JOURNALIST Allison Cox alpinenews@nenews.com.au ADVERTISING MANAGER Liz Reardon lreardon@nenews.com.au DESIGN NEN Creative Service Department CONTRIBUTORS: Vanessa Bacon-Hill, Steve Cuff, Toni Hume, Finn Marsland, Rebecca Masterton, Rob Osborne, Wendy Pinkerton. PUBLISHED by Hartley Higgins for Reliance Press, a division of North East Newspapers Pty Ltd, CAN 006 238 277. RELIANCE PRESS: Suite 103, 486 Whitehorse Road, Surrey Hills, Victoria 3127. PO Box 1523, Surrey Hills North, Victoria 3127. Phone 9888 4822. No material, artwork or photos may be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher. Alpine News takes care in compiling specifications but cannot accept responsibility for any errors.

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Hartley Higgins - Publisher

EDITOR

on the slopes

4 Australian Alpine News 2012

Johnstone wins athlete of the year SNOWBOARD World Champion, Nate Johnstone, was named as Australia’s Suzuki Snowsports Athlete of the Year for a second successive year. Last year Johnstone shared the honor, but this year it is his alone after another stellar season on the halfpipe World Cup circuit. Johnstone was presented with his award by the Federal Minister of Sport, Senator Kate Lundy, at a gala function in Melbourne on April 26. The 22 year-old Olympic Winter Institute scholarship holder finished the 2012 season ranked second in the world, down just one place from his ranking at the end of the 2011 season. The highlight of Johnstone’s year was winning the World Cup at Stoneham in Canada. Finalists for the award were Britt Cox, the first Australian woman to win a World Cup moguls medal when she finished third at Deer Valley, USA, rising aerials

star and World Cup winner Laura Peel, and two medallists from the X Games, Anna Segal from slopestyle and Jenny Owens from ski cross. Ski and Snowboard Australia CEO, Michael Kennedy, said Johnstone had another exceptional year and remains one of Australia’s real medal hopes with the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games less than two years away. “The standard of competition in World Cup half pipe continues to rise every year, and Nate continues to improve as well and he remains as one of the sport’s absolute elite,” he said. “He’s only young and it’s only over the past two years that he is getting the benefit of some consistent training after an injury set-back just before the Vancouver Games. “We are very confident that his best is still ahead of him and that he should be in great shape by the time Sochi comes around in February 2014.”

…and the winners were: Suzuki Snowsport Athlete of the Year: Nate Johnstone

Junior Snowsport Athlete of the Year:

(Snowboard halfpipe)

Britt Cox (Freestyle moguls)

Suzuki Outstanding Achievement award:

Snowsport Rising Star award: Jarryd

Development Coach of the Year:

Laura Peel (Freestyle aerials)

Hughes (Snowboard Cross)

Jon Casson (Snowboard Cross)

Snowsport Rising Star award: Jarryd Hughes with Colin Hackworth from Snow Australia. PHOTO: Nick Parkinson

Coach of the Year: Cord Spero (Freestyle aerials)

Snowsports Athlete of the Year, Nate Johnstone at the awards ceremony in April. PHOTO: Nick Parkinson and SSA

What’s in store for Britteny? Winner of the 2012 Junior Snowsport Athlete of the Year, Britteny Cox, is the ﬁrst Australian woman to win a World Cup moguls medal when she ﬁnished third at Deer Valley, US, earlier this year. AAN asked her about her achievements, priorities and goals. AAN: Congratulations on the SSA award. What does it mean to you? BC: For me, the award was a big encouragement. I had a number of personal bests over the season and it’s very encouraging to have the support at home and to be recognised for them.

Britteny Cox – Junior Athlete of the Year. PHOTO: Nick Parkinson and SSA

AAN: What would you say are your best achievements? BC: The Olympics in 2010 was one, I definitely did not think I would be there and in Deer Valley this year I didn’t expect to

get a podium finish. Those achievements showed me that I can push my boundaries further. AAN: What are your priorities/ambitions? BC: My major goal is to be the best freestyle mogul skier I can be and I like to set smaller goals along to way to help me achieve this.I try to set the bar higher for myself so I can maximise my potential for every jump, run and season that I ski. I am doing year 12 at the moment by distance education. I am doing it

over two years and this year I am doing maths, biology and PE. Next year will be English and business studies. PE is definitely my favorite subject. Before Vancouver, my goal was to make it to the 2014 Winter Olympics and I am still aiming for that. I am working on my jumps and speed at the moment to improve and qualify for the Olympics in 2014 where I hope to do better than in 2010. AAN: What does your training involve? BC: Training is one of my favorite things. I love

the competition, but when I improve and get things right in training, it is one of my favorite feelings. I do a lot of cross training; BMX riding, diving, surfing and cycling. I love to surf and it keeps my cardio fitness up. AAN: Where will you be this winter? BC: First I will spend some time at home in Falls Creek and then I will be in Park City training with water jumps. I will come back to Perisher and then make two trips to Mt Buller for competition.

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on the slopes

Australian Alpine News 2012 5

The future of the ski industry By ALLISON COX

THE Australian ski industry faces challenges, but has a viable future according to an industry conference in Sydney in April this year. The conference, organised by Snow Australia, discussed the status and future of the snow industry, listening to presentations that covered trends and

patronage at the resorts. It was attended by a large number of those in the industry. “The industry has not been together for some time and it was great to have everyone in the same room,” said CEO of Snow Australia, Colin Hackworth. Trends indicate the level of visitors to the snow has stayed relatively stable, but that those who do visit are spending more.

The importance of the industry to the economy was discussed as both an employer of people and a driver to regional development. “The industry is worth $1.7 billion in economic value to Australia,” said Mr Hackworth, adding that it also generates 17,000 jobs. But he acknowledged that continued work is needed to develop the industry.

Funded by the ski resorts, Tourism Victoria, with the support of the resort management boards, and Destination NSW, Snow Australia’s objective is to increase the number of visitors to the snow so that the industry can grow. “The main goal is to introduce new people to the sport, or leisure activity offered by the snow,” said Mr Hackworth.

A marketing campaign has been developed based around notion “you never forget your first time”. “You have to continue to bring new people in,” said Mr Hackworth. He is optimistic about the challenge ahead. “I believe that we can grow participation in the industry and that is part of the Snow Australia mission,” he said. “Our snow making

is the best you’ll find or equivalent to the best anywhere in the world. “Our lift infrastructure, grooming and terrain parks are also very good.” The conference heard statistics and trends based on surveys from Australian ski resorts that addressed characteristics of visitors, length of stay and the extent to which visitors were satisfied by their snow experience.

Aussie success at first youth winter Olympics By ANDREW REID, AOC

PRESIDENT of the International Olympic Committee Jacques Rogge said the first Winter Youth Olympic Games held from 13 to 22 January this year ‘exceeded all expectations’. The same can be said for the 2012 Australian Winter Youth Olympic Team. Bronze medals to snowboarder Alex Fitch and ice hockey player Sharnita Crompton were Australia’s outstanding performances, backed up by an additional six top-ten finishes across five disciplines. All 13 athletes represented Australia with distinction and gave

their all against the world’s best winter junior specialists. In her ﬁrst role as Chef de Mission of an Australian Team, Alisa Camplin was thrilled with what was achieved. “We worked so hard before and during the Youth Olympics to ensure these athletes had all the tools and support they needed to achieve a best performance – and we succeeded,” Camplin, a dual Olympic aerial skiing medallist said. “The athletes always came ﬁrst in every decision we made. “We had younger coaches and support staff from the national federations and the Australian Olympic Committee who brought

huge energy and an impressive level of professionalism to the team. “Hearing our athletes comment on the quality of our team culture really made me smile. “Our focus on excellence, learning and growing was the perfect complement to their deep desire to succeed and obvious passion for their sport and country.” I look forward to seeing some of these athletes at Sochi in 2014 and many in PyeongChang in 2018.” Alex Fitch then represented the Australian Team in the Closing Ceremony as ﬂagbearer to top off a wonderful 10 days where she also ﬁnished fourth in the halfpipe.

The 2012 Australian Winter Youth Olympic Team exceeded expectations at Innsbruck. PHOTO: AOC/Olympics.com.au

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on the slopes

6 Australian Alpine News 2012

Three golds, one silver for Harris By ALLISON COX

SINCE she was four years old, Nicole Harris has loved to ski and in March this year she won three gold medals and one silver at the INAS (International Federation for sport for para-athletes with an intellectual disability) Alpine Skiing World Championships in Turkey. She won gold in the slalom, GS and the super combined and silver in the Super-G. Asked which discipline is her favorite, Nicole responds “I like Super-G because I like going fast.” In the early years, Nicole skied at Thredboland and with the Thredbo ski school. Now 19, Nicole, who has an intellectual disability, sees skiing as a family affair. “My whole family skis, my grandparents were skiing back in the 60s,” she said. “It’s something all our family can do.” Representing Australia at international competition

Nicole Harris with her four medal haul from Turkey. PHOTO: Richard Ross

is a highlight for Nicole. In May she was selected in the ﬁrst Australian team to compete in Alpine skiing at the Special Olympics World Winter Games to be held PyeongChang Korea in January and February 2013. This winter you will ﬁnd Nicole back at the slopes of Thredbo with the family.

“I will be training for Korea and free skiing with the family,” she said. “I just love being out there and being able to explore new things.” While she continues to prepare for upcoming competition, Nicole is not sure what the future holds, but is sure of at least one thing: “I’ll keep skiing.”

New indoor ski centre in Cheltenham IF you live in Melbourne you are now able to learn to ski before you actually get to the snow at a new indoor operation in Cheltenham called SkiCity. “We are trying to attract new participants of all ages to the winter sports market, along with existing active participants and those that may not have participated for some time for some reason or another,” said SkiCity operations director and VSA secretary, Ben Wilet. “We are basically trying to make skiing and snowboarding accessible to all by cutting through the barriers to participation.” SkiCity has three slopes, the option of ten different gradients and offers lessons from qualified ski instructors. Astro turf covers the slopes and is rotated by an electric motor. Water is added to simulate snow conditions. Ski lessons are one hour long and consist of three ten-minute sessions on the slopes and broken by three 10 minute rests. It is a good idea to book a lesson before you arrive as the sessions can be very popular. “In the last ten months we have run over ten thousand lessons,” said Ben. “It’s been very popular with kids through our after schools / holiday programs, and birthday parties. “We are seeing a lot of adults returning to the sport, after not skiing or snowboarding for years.”

Practice your technique without even visiting the snow at SkiCity.

Two people are on the slope at one time, so with a group of four, two will be skiing while the others rest and watch. All equipment is supplied and included in the lesson price. You can, however, bring your own boots. “Professional athletes and school ski teams are finding it a great way to get a head start in their preseason training for competitions on mountain or as part of their ongoing training routine. “We are also seeing a lot of ski and snowboard instructors using our ski / snowboard club sessions as a way to keep their teaching and skiing skills sharp for their seasonal on mountain roles.

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on the slopes

8 Australian Alpine News 2012

Chicks with Stix now has snowboard program too CHICKS with Stix, a snow sports program designed exclusively for girls, returns to the Australian snowfields in 2012 with a snowboarding division. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chicks with Stix (CwS) aims to encourage girls to participate in freestyle skiing and snowboarding, two areas that Australians are having a lot of international success with right now,â&#x20AC;? says co-founder and head coach, Zoe Jaboor. The CwS coaches boast multiple national and international awards. With the Winter Olympics less than two years away, Zoe says thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no reason the CwS participants canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t aim high. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think that with Sochi around the corner, Australian athletes are getting ready because we will be showcasing our amazing sport to the rest of Australia. â&#x20AC;&#x153;CwS offers girls a chance to ski and board with the best athletes in Australia, progress their skills and get an insight into what our sport has to offer.â&#x20AC;? All-day workshops aim

The picturesque Lake Crackenback Resort and Spa will host the celebrity chef event. CwS coaches (from left) Nicole Lewis, Katie Blamey, Zoe Jaboor, Anna Segal and Katya Crema. PHOTO: Nicole Lewis

to help female skiers and boarders progress their skills, get comfortable in a competitive environment and add some new tricks to their repertoire. Coaches include XGames medallist and slopestyle world champion Anna Segal, Olympic skier cross racer Katya Crema, and freeskiing world tour winner Natalie Segal. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great to have the Chicks with Stix coaches back from their international successes and I know theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all excited to be part of the coaching team,â&#x20AC;? said co-founder and marketing director Lorraine Lock. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Last season we had over 200 girls through our

CwS sessions and this year weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re aiming higher. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Girls are different to boys, but big mountains, mogul bumps, the halfpipe, aerial kickers and ski x burns and jumps donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t differentiate. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Seeing the dedication, hard work and results of our coaches is inspiring,â&#x20AC;? Lorraine said. Workshops are offered at no cost thanks to the coaches, who give their time freely and sponsorship from Roxy and Armada skis. For dates of the program at Buller, Mt Hotham, Perisher, Thredbo, Mt Baw Baw and Falls Creek, visit www. chickswithstix.com.au.

Snowy Mountains celebrity chef event SNOWY Mountain regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest winter produce will be matched by wines from the Margaret Riverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Voyager Estate at a celebrity chef event in early July. Chef, author and judge from My Kitchen Rules Pete Evans (pictured left) will co-host a dinner on Saturday, July 7 with executive chef of Cuisine Restaurant Greg Pieper at Lake Crackenback Resort and Spa. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a perfect

match of epicurean proportions - celebrity chef, local talent and exquisite Snowy Mountains produce - the taste of the Snowies,â&#x20AC;? said Tourism Snowy Mountains CEO, Peter Sheppard. Bookings for the dinner are essential. Tickets are $140 per person and can be booked online at www. lakecrackenback.com. au or by calling (02) 6451 3000.

Bumps moves into a new home AFTER 30 years of trading on the corner of Glenhuntly Road and Beavis Street in Elsternwick, Bumps has a brand new home, just five doors up the road. Four years of planning have culminated in Bumps founders Peter and Glenda Haley creating a new winter boutique showcasing the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best brands. Founded with 2 shop fronts in 1982, then growing over the years to 4 shop fronts the new Bumps at 481 Glenhuntly Rd is nearly double the size again.

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resorts guide

10 Australian Alpine News 2012

2012 RESORTS GUIDE LIFT TICKETS

LIFT/LESSONS

Day

Half day

5 day

Season

adult child family

adult child

Child age

EQUIPMENT HIRE*

Day

5 day

adult child

skis, boots, skis, boots, board, boots, parka pants poles 1 day poles 5 days 1 day 1 day adult child

adult child

NSW Charlotte Pass 95

n/a

435

261

n/a

U14

145

572

391

159 103

Perisher

112

n/a

368

204

1449

848

to yr 12

124

529

373

157

Selwyn

n/a

332

182

630

349

U16

112

422

330

105

Thredbo

110

n/a

362

209

1399

799

5 - 18

158

128

421

281

166

Falls Creek

106

n/a

424

212

1449

818

6 - 14

160

109

611

431

170 120

Mt Baw Baw

223

n/a

750

500

5 - 15

135

125

n/a

100

Mt Buller

108

301

n/a

454

249

1500

750

Yr 12

160

141

n/a

141 121

Mt Hotham

106

n/a

424

212

1449

818

6 - 14

160

141

611

512

177 126

VICTORIA

*on mountain indicative prices only NB: Prices above are high season but many resorts offer a range of discounted tickets eg for children under 5 years, students and seniors. At some resorts children U5 and seniors 70 and over can ski free.

Charlotte Pass

Perisher

Selwyn

Thredbo

Mt Baw Baw Mt Buller

Falls Creek

Lake Mountain Mt Stirling

Mt Hotham

Nearest town

Jindabyne

Adaminaby

Jindabyne

Warragul

Mansfield

Mount Beauty

Marysville

Mansfield Harrietville

Distance from

On-mtn car spaces

n/a

1840

512

2855

700

4800

1800

1600

320

1500

Village height

1765m

1720m

1550m

1365m

1564m

1600m

1383m

1240m

1750m

Day entry charge

$27

$37

$39.50

$40

$37

$39.50

Cross-country trails

varies

100km

45km

varies

10km

9km

65km

37km

60km

35km

Downhill skiable area

50ha

1245ha

45ha

480ha

33ha

263ha

450ha

458ha

1500ha

320ha

Longest run

3.5km

3km

800m

5.9km

680m

2.5km

3km

2km

varies

2.5km

Getting there Charlotte Pass Drive – About 6 hours from Sydney and 7 hours from Melbourne by car to Perisher. Skitube – The only way in to Charlotte Pass during the snow season. When you arrive at the Skitube Terminal at Perisher Valley, go to the Charlotte Pass Oversnow counter.

Falls Creek Drive - 4.5 hours from Melbourne, 1 day from Sydney. Chains must be car-ried. Drive and buss - Park your car at Mt Beauty at the base of Falls Creek and travel up to the resort in a bus.

Train and bus – From Sydney or Melbourne, catch a train to Albury and connect with coaches. Bus - Coaches from Melbourne, Albury or Mount Beauty. Fly - Fly - From Sydney or Melbourne to Albury Airport then by coach to FallsCreek. Private flights are available to Dinner Plain, near Mt Hotham.

Coach - Melbourne Airport to Mt Buller with Mt Buller Ski Express 1800 800 905. Driive and coach - Daily return services from Mansfield and Mirimbah to Mt Buller, Mansfield-Mt Buller Bus Lines (03) 5777 6070. Fly – Helicopter flights from Melbourne to Buller (03) 9580 7177.

Lake Mountain

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

Mt Buffalo Drive – 2 hours from Melbourne. Take the Maroondah Highway through Healesville and turn off to Marysville. Bus – A shuttle service operates from Marysville.

Mt Bulller Driive – 3 hours from Melbourne, 9.5 hours from Adelaide, 10 hours from Sydney.

Mt Hottham Driive – 4.5 hours from Melbourne. Hume Highway to Wangaratta then Great Alpine Road via Bright and Harrietville. From Gippsland, Princes Highway to Bairnsdale and Great Alpine Road via

Omeo and Dinner Plain.

Perisher

Bus – Coaches depart daily from Melbourne’s Spencer Street Coach Terminal and Melbourne Airport. Train - The XPT between Melbourne and Sydney connects with coaches at Wangaratta. Fly - QantasLink has direct flights from Sydney to Hotham and private flights operate from Melbourne. There are also commercial flights from the capital cities to Albury where a bus service operates to Dinner Plain and Hotham.

Drive - 5.5 to 6 hours from Sydney; 7 hours from Melbourne. Chains must be carried. Bus– A year-round service operates from Canberra to Jindabyne. Weekend bus services operate from Sydney and Canberra. Daily coach services operate between Canberra and Cooma.Shuttle – A free shuttle service operates between Perisher Valley and Smiggin Holes. Fly - Canberra Airport is a 2.5 hour drive from Perisher and a 40 minute flight from Sydney. Several regional airlines operate regular services.

Mt Baw Baw Drive - 2.5 hours from Melbourne. Take the Princes Highway and turn off at Moe. Snow chains are compulsory.

Selwyn Drive - 1 hour from Cooma, 2 hours from Canberra, 500 km from Sydney and 550 km from Melbourne. Follow the

Hume Highway to Gundagai then turn off to Adaminaby.

Thredbo Drive - 2.5 hours from Canberra, 6 hours from Sydney and Melbourne. The roads are clear for most ofthe year, but when big snow-falls hit, chains may be required. Chains can be hired in Jindabyne and Khancoban. Bus - Daily coach services between Canberra and Cooma. A number of companies provide regular weekend services from Sydney and Canberra to the snowfields. Fly - Most major airlines service Canberra Airport from major Australian cities and there are shuttle transfers to and from the resort. Further details on transport services are available on resort websites, tourist bureaux in all major cities and from advertisements in Australian Alpine News.

32 well appointed suites Mt Buller’s only day spa Litya spa care range Signature restaurant BT Gourmet Pizzeria Web - www.breathaker.com.au

Loft Lounge & Bar Kids’ movie zone Kids’ playstation zone Kids’ playroom

Quinta Essentia the fifth element being the “best of the best” on Mt Buller.

email - reservations@breathtaker.com.au - phone : 03 5777 6377 j/51d00902/26-11

Ski Express

Coach Transfers Direct from Melbourne’s City and Tullamarine Airport. Ski Express is a fast and hassle free way for travel to and from Mt. Buller. Just, Sit back, Relax and Enjoy the ride with Ski Express.

Fares for 2012 Return $180.00 $140.00

Adult (15+) Child (3-14)

| | |

To Mt. Buller $110.00 $90.00

| | |

Ex Mt. Buller $100.00 $80.00

SCHEDULE FOR SCHEDULE FOR 2012 2011 Melbourne City to Mt. Buller

Departs 9:45am. From National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Rd Melbourne

Melbourne’s Tullamarine Airport to Mt. Buller

Departs 10:30am. Inner Roadway between Hilton Hotel and International Terminal (T2)

Mt. Buller to Tullamarine Airport & Melbourne City

Departs 3:00pm. From MMBL Bus Terminal – Mt. Buller Village Centre

ALL ABOVE SERVICES OPERATE WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY AND SUNDAY

Freecall 1800 800 905 | Ph: (03) 5775 2606 www.mmbl.com.au | email: enquiries@mmbl.com.au

Try our new online booking service

Mansfield – Mt. Buller Bus Lines Mansfield-Mt. Buller Bus Lines have been transporting people to and from Mt. Buller since 1964, offering several services to mountain visitors. t Daily return services from Mansfield to Mt. Buller (Park and Ride) t Daily return services from Mirimbah to Mt. Buller (Park and Ride) t Oversnow Shuttle transport from Mt. Buller car parks direct to your Lodge t Snow Limo Service from Tullamarine Airport and Melbourne direct to your lodge t 5 Star Coaches available for hire

Mansfield Office: (03) 5775 2606 | Mt. Buller Office: (03) 5777 6070 www.mmbl.com.au | email: enquiries@mmbl.com.au

Mirimbah Store and Ski Centre (Gateway to Mt. Buller and Mt. Stirling) Attention skiers and boarders you must read this before heading to the snow...

Do you want to know the secret to getting onto the slopes stress free and faster than ever…

t t t t

ALL NEW SKI & BOARD HIRE t FUEL with ALPINE DIESEL SNOW CHAIN HIRE t BUS TERMINAL CLOTHING & WALKING BOOT HIRE t BOUTIQUE CAFE – BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

YOU STILL WANT MORE…. SIMPLY BY VISITING www.mirimbah.com.au AND REGISTERING FOR OUR NEWSLETTER, YOU COULD WIN A FREE WEEKEND FAMILY SKI AND BOARD HIRE PACKAGE…. WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR GET ONLINE TODAY!

2012 SPECIALS

(if you mention this ad)

t For each family board or ski hire, we will throw in your chain hire for FREE. That’s right FREE… PLUS t If you hire your equipment from us more than once in the season, the next time you can call in advance and we will have your equipment ready for your arrival. Getting you on the slopes even Faster!!…..PLUS t Hire your equipment from us more than 5 times in the season and we will give you a 10% discount, and have everything ready for when you arrive.

Store Open – 7 days a week from 7:00am to 6:30pm Daily Ph: (03) 5777 5529 | www.mirimbah.com.au | email: info@mirimbah.com.au

P/51d01174/26-12

Well... Stopping at Mirimbah Store and Ski Hire is your answer We are the perfect ‘One Stop Shop’ for all your winter needs, we offer:

resorts

12 Australian Alpine News 2012

Super savings at Thredbo this year NEW to Thredbo this year are an expansion of the RFID access gates, new features on the MyThredbo pass and value offers to entice skiers to visit the resort. RFID access gates were introduced to Thredbo last year in selected locations. The system has now been expanded to every lift and t-bar across the mountain. The gates are designed to make things smoother and faster for skiers and boarders as they ride the lift system. There are still staff at every gate so they can quickly sort out problems should they arise. The MyThredbo pass has a new addition this winter, MyMoney. You can put money on your card then leave your wallet at home and use the stored credit at outlets throughout the resort. MyMoney can be used at all Thredbo Al-

pine Hotel outlets including Friday Flat Bistro, The Pub Bistro, Schuss Bar, Cascades and Segreto Restaurants, Lounge Bar and Keller Bar plus Thredbo Sports Retail and Hire and ticket outlets. Saver deals are a focus this season and Thredbo has introduced a scheme to save on lift passes when you purchase in advance. Buy your lift pass through the Thredbo eStore 28 days or more in advance and you can save 15 per cent. Buy seven or more days in advance and save 10 per cent. For those that like to get air, Mother Bagjump is back again this year; the 15m x 15m air filled cushion is placed behind a snow kicker, for intermediate and advanced riders to launch off and practice jumps, spins and flips with confidence and safety.

There is plenty to do at Mt Baw Baw this season POPULAR with beginners and boarders, Mt Baw Baw offers downhill and cross country skiing only 170km from Melbourne. Getting on to the slopes can now be faster as a new E-store enables visitors to get online before they leave home, buy their resort entry ticket, stick it on the dash and jump to the front of the line on arrival at the resort. Once on the mountain, three terrain parks across different abilities and the Burton Learn to Ride program make Mt Baw Baw a popular destination for boarders. Events through the season showcase snowboarding skills such as the Battle at Baw Baw and the “Flux” Jam. Popular and in its sixth year, the Battle at Baw Baw attracts an international Pro/Am field of competitors and will be held on July 28. The Flux Jam will be held under lights on a specially built venue in the village on August 24. Set up at the end of a two metre jump, Big Air Bag is back again this winter, a nine metre wide and 15 metre long cushion of air that provides intermediate and

Mountain mascots, Philly and Frosti, raise awareness of the endangered Baw Baw frog.

advanced skiers and snowboarders a soft landing when practising new tricks or perfecting old ones. But Mt Baw Baw is not just for snowboarders. It offers the cheapest lift tickets in the state and new in 2012 is the opportunity to ski free after 3pm on Friday if you have a weekend lift ticket. Secondary school students ski at a child’s price and skiers over 70 ski free, every day. Cross country skiing is

popular; the resort has over 10km of ski trails, from beginner to advanced. The cross country fee per day is $12 for adults and $7 for a child. Many families that visit the resort will be pleased that the toboggan fee has been abolished. Children will also enjoy meeting the new mountain mascot, Philly, seen around the resort with Frosti, raising awareness of the endangered Baw Baw frog.

Improvements at Selwyn NEW children’s lesson options and expanded toboggan areas are in store for visitors to Selwyn Snowfields. Children between the ages of 7 and 15 will also have the opportunity to participate in half day and full day lesson options in 2012. The new half day and full day programs will run for all levels of ability in skiing and snowboarding, depending on availability, and will mimic the times of the Snow World Programs.

Those doing the full day program will break for lunch between noon and 1pm, with the afternoon session beginning at 1pm and finishing 3 hours later at 4pm. Morning and afternoon tea is provided. Construction of stage one of the picnic and toboggan facilities has commenced which will comprise of a shelter containing electric barbecues, first aid equipment, vending machines and a telephone.

resorts

Australian Alpine News 2012 13

New investment to bolster Perisher MORE than $3 million has been invested to upgrade Perisher for 2012. The MyRide Dashboard has new functionality allowing guests to track the areas of the mountain skied; vertical metres skied and share this information with family and friends. More MyRide gates installed on the Sun Valley,

Wentworth and Hume lifts help more accurately record MyRide Dashboard statistics that show skiers’ and snowboarders’ time at Perisher and new MyRide Dashboard competitions will be run. A new Demo Store located on the lower level of the Perisher Centre will enable guests to try ski and board-

ing equipment before they buy. Guests can test a range of the latest products from top brands Burton, K2, Salomon and Volkl which will be available to test drive and change skis or snowboards throughout the day until they find the equipment that best suits them. In addition, more than

$400,000 has been spent replacing ski and snowboard equipment for the various Perisher Snowsports Hire outlets. A new ‘Sunkid Rotondo Carousel’ learning aid will be installed in Perisher, to improve children’s programs and to add to Perisher’s Snowsports School facilities.

The Smiggin Holes Ticket Office has been refurbished which will speed up the purchasing process and a new retail outlet will offer a fresh selection of the latest snow product brands. New features and improvements to the Perisher iPhone app and mobile website will allow guests to get up to date on snow con-

ditions, lift status, events and special deals. The snow conditions may be even better due to the purchase of three additional groomers bringing the fleet number to 21, and improved snowmaking on Roller Coaster at Blue Cow designed to enhance the quality of coverage with better energy efficiency.

Skiers get a lift at Mt Stirling

On top of the world at Mt Buller. Photo: Nathan Richter

Bonza chairlift a new addition to Mt Buller in 2012 THIS season Mt Buller will open its new Bonza chair lift which will provide better access to the north side of the mountain. "The Bonza lift is a terrific addition for skiers and boarders at Mt Buller, particularly day visitors who will be able to access this popular ski terrain directly from Horse Hill," said general manager of Buller Ski Lifts, Laurie Blampied. The new quad chair lift will service the area between the Burnt Hut Spur and the Summit and its installation has also led to changes in the beginner carpets on the Burnt Hut beginner area. The new chair lift is located in the trees, which means that there are no lift towers left on Burnt Hut Spur ski run, giving beginner skiers and boarders more room to move. It is not just beginners that will benefit from the new chair lift as it will provide new access to terrain among the trees. “The whole northside is going to feel and operate differently this winter,” said communications manager Buller Ski Lifts, Rhylla Morgan. “Most of the terrain through the northside is blue, gladed tree runs and Bonza will open that all up. “This is the third chair lift to be added to Mt Buller in the last seven years and we are pretty excited about that.” The new Doppelmayr chairlift replaces the Burnt Hut Chairlift lost to lightning damage in early 2010. Construction of the lift started back in January and the Bonza Chair is ready for the opening weekend. The new chairlift spans 530 metres and comes equipped with safety footrests and has a vertical rise of 135 metres. In support of the new lift, snowmaking operations on the Burnt Hut Spur have been expanded and new 200m long trail with fully automated snowmaking machines was installed over summer.

Children enjoy the variety of terrain at Falls Creek.

PHOTO: Charlie Brown Photography

Value offers at Falls FALLS Creek have reduced costs this season to entice families and those who have never been to the snow to visit the resort. “New for this winter is the reduction in the cost of many Falls Creek multi day and weekend lift tickets,” said marketing manager Falls Creek Ski Lifts, Nick Noble. “Three day or greater lift, lift and lesson or lift, lesson and rental packages are now cheaper than they were in 2011.” The range of different value offers include the Snowtime package, designed for newcomers to the snow, includes

three night lodge-style accommodation, three days' lift pass, three group lessons, three days' ski or board rental and ski pants and a jacket and costs $499 per adult, $331 per child. A first time ticket is $74 (child 6-14 years) $49 including a two hour beginner class lesson all day use of Falls Creek's beginner ski lifts. The snowsports instructors at the resort are ready and able to help first time visitors to the snow have a positive experience. All kids 14 and under are provided a free helmet at virtually every snow hire outlet at Falls Creek.

Falls Creek has a mixture of terrain for all levels of skier or boarder. It has the longest beginner run in Australia, in Wombat's Ramble, with snow making along its entire length. It is a popular run for beginners and the venue for night skiing. Some of the resort's ski lodges, hotels and apartments are packages that include free accommodation and free meals for children. The resort offers many after snow activities, including snow tubing, snow mobile tours, snow shoe tours, groomer tours and snow bikes.

NEW for 2012 is the Mt Stirling Snow Rider Transport service which gives skiers a lift to the upper slopes when the snowline doesn’t extend down the hillside. “This is a fantastic new service that will be such a great addition for cross country skiers and snowplayers at Mt Stirling,” said marketing and communication assistant manager, Gillian Dobson. “The Snow Rider Service will transport skiers and snowplayers to the upper slopes when the snowline doesn’t extend right to Telephone Box Junction, which will be welcome news to ski legs that have sometimes needed to walk 1-2km to reach sufficient snow. “As well as saving skiers from having to walk to the snowline, the Snow Rider will also give tobogganers a thrill as they head up to Alby’s Drop and King Saddle toboggan slopes.” Skiers will also see the results of trail work over the summer months. “There has been a lot of trail work over the summer to widen trail and increase the number of practice slopes,” said director of Stirling Experience, Craig Jones. “These changes will make it a bit easier for beginner skiers and there are two new toboggan areas, Alby’s Drop and King Saddle.” Changes have been made to the Lyrebird, Fork Creek and Wombat trails, extending the beginner sections to create easier loops across the mountain on both the lower and upper trail network. Mt Stirling has more than 68 km of maintained cross country trails that wind through the woodlands of Alpine Ash and Snow Gums.

60 years of lifts on Mt Hotham

Things have come a long way at Mt Hotham in 60 years. Photo: www.mthotham.com.au

THE 2012 Australian Ski Season marks the 60th anniversary of the first commercial ski lift at Mt Hotham. Established in 1952 and constructed by Ski Tows Limited, the Blue Ribbon Nutcracker Rope Tow provided Hotham with the longest ski lift on the Australian snow fields. The original tow transported up to 12 skiers per load and over 1500 bodies per hour, vastly improving access to Hotham’s terrain and cutting a once 40 minute uphill walk down to a four minute ride. At a cost of 3000 pounds, the 560 metre tow commenced operation in the win-

ter of 1952 and gave many years of service until 1965 effectively servicing the Drag, Blue Ribbon and the Wood Run downhill descents. Today, Hotham has 13 ski lifts which provide visitors with access to 320 hectares of skiable terrain. This season Hotham, in conjunction with Falls Creek, is operating a new electronic point of sale and ticketing system. Lift tickets, lessons and equipment hire can be prepurchased through the online eStore allowing guests to move more quickly onto the slopes and spend more time skiing and boarding. A variety of deals and savings are also on offer at

Hotham this season. Visitors can save on multiday lift passes, with savings on three and five day passes for both adults and children in peak and value season. Weekend deals are also available. Deals during Hotham’s Value Season between June 9-22 and September 17-30 can offer guests packages including lift passes, equipment hire and lessons with savings. Kids ski free during Value Season when accompanied by a paying adult and prebooked with a 3 night or more accommodation package. Children under 5 years old ski free every day of the season.

! ! ! " # ! ! $ ! #

resorts

Australian Alpine News 2012 15

Alpine resorts plan open for public comment

www.aaldc.com.au CPE, CPD AND CLE POINTS AVAILABLE

AUSTRALIAN ACCOUNTANTS, LAWYERS

& DIRECTORS CONFERENCE

Proudly co-ordinated by

AALDC

HAVE YOUR SAY - Alpine resorts plan open for public comment THE alpine resort community, industry and visitors are invited to have their say on the future of Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s six alpine resorts* as part of a review by the Alpine Resorts Co-ordinating Council (ARCC) of the Alpine Resorts 2020 Strategy. The ARCC, which is the peak government body charged with facilitating the development and management of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s alpine resorts, is required under The Alpine Resorts (Management) Act 1997 to conduct a review of its strategic plan, every five years. Chairperson of the ARCC, Des Powell, said the Alpine Resorts 2020 Strategy is vital to ensuring the resorts are being managed and developed in the best interests of Victoria. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With this in mind, the strategy review and the resulting consultation draft are focused on financial viability, equitable access, cultural heritage and reducing the ecological footprint on our alpine resorts,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s alpine resorts are unique tourism destinations, visited by more than 1.2 million people annually. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They generate over $610 million in gross state product and around 6200 jobs in winter alone,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over the last decade, the resorts have been able to achieve growth in visitor numbers, despite a decline in tourism generally in Victoria. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One factor contributing to this has been more snow-making capacity, which has brought greater stability for visitation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The review has also identified areas where we can do better. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We need to pay more attention to long term financial viability and to focus on the competitive strengths of individual resorts.

2013 7 - 14 January 2013

ASPEN COLORADO USA

Alpine resorts are unique tourist destinations.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Winter is the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;economic engineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of the resorts so we need to be more targeted in our approach to green season products. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will be looking to build stronger partnerships with local government, regional tourism bodies, indigenous communities and other land managers to maximise benefits to the resorts and the Victorian community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Better co-ordination and integration of public and private investment and promotion opportunities are also key. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This would be aided by consistent master planning conducted by each resort. The consultation draft will be available for review from June 12 to July 16, 2012. Public workshops will also be held to encourage community consultation. For information on the plan and workshops visit: arcc.vic.gov.au.

PREFERRED INTERNATIONAL AIRLINE

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Chasing powder around the world By ALLISON COX EVER spent money on a holiday to ski powder, only to find there is none when you get to the resort? The Powder Bible author Richard Ross has skied the world and worked as a professional ski instructor in Australia and the USA. He has written this book to help powderhounds find what they need on their travels. The book explains how research through the internet, online forums and

social media can all help in the search for powder. Flexibility and the ability to stay mobile can give you more options; the snow may not be perfect where you are, but great conditions may only be a car ride away. The book shows how statistics and data can compare past snowfalls at different resorts which can be useful in choosing a future destination and then profiles selected resorts in North America, Canada, Europe and Japan.

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Ski fitness, powder techniques, equipment and avalanche danger are covered in the final section of the book. The Powder Bible is a great read and can help to plan your next ski trip â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or next few. PowderBible is available on-line at http:// powderbible.com; on Appleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iBook Store via iTunes http://itunes.apple. com/book/the-powderbible/id492479717?mt=11; and on Kindle from April 2012 at just US $9.99.

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16 Australian Alpine News 2012

at terrain parks BY VANESSA BACON-HALL

FOR THE keen snowboarder and skier, terrain parks offer a host of features to test out those wishing to take their 'riding' and skiing to a whole new level. The mountain resorts feature terrain parks of varying sizes and all have unique attractions suitable for all levels of skier and boarder. The Alpine News has taken the hassle out of where to go, with our quick and easy reference guide to this winter's parks and attractions.

terrain park guide

Australian Alpine News 2012 17

alpineproperty.com.au Selling Mount Hotham “WHITE CRYSTAL” 217/9 Great Alpine Road

$224,000

Grandiose views engulf White Crystal 217. From the lounge, balcony & upstairs bedroom and from the kitchen side, the beautiful Dargo High Plains and Mt Buller - Priceless. Ski in, ski out position. As magniﬁcent as the sparking vista spread out before it, this one bedroom, one bathroom apartment indicates high level prestige and quality throughout. The living area resides under a high slanting ceiling, working with the sizeable doors and windows to frame both spacious living and views which the glossy, white kitchen also enjoys. The deluxe bathroom contains a luxurious indoor spa for snow goers.

“LAWLERS” 20/8 Lawlers Court

$259,000

Lawlers apartment 20 is centrally located opposite the main car parking area of Mount Hotham with views overlooking The High Plains, Australia Drift & Summit ski runs. Only a minutes walk to the Village ski run. Modern interior design, oozing style and comfort with quality furnishings, ﬁxtures and appliances. Two bedrooms accommodates 4 to 6 people comfortably, with a fresh feel to the apartments bathroom. Separate toilet and drying room with a built-in laundry.

“CHALET HOTHAM” 18/12 Higgi Drive

$298,000

Location and luxury are standard with this two storey, one bedroom apartment, presented to provide a level of accommodation for the discerning owner, or to the investor looking to accommodate the high end accommodation market. Chalet Hotham offers a wonderful lifestyle opportunity and is an astute investment.

“CHALET HOTHAM” 13/12 Higgi Drive

$315,000

Chalet Hotham features 5 star luxury, in the highest site of Alpine Australia that is freehold. The chalet includes a spacious lounged entry/foyer to meet guests with reception check in/ out desk and ski in/out option. Downstairs, the entry level includes a kitchen with shining Miele stainless steel appliances, dining room and living area which look out over the balcony to Mt Feathertop and beyond. Includes drying cupboard & laundry. This charming apartment is the perfect romantic getaway with one generous, stylish bedroom & extravagant bathroom, featuring its chic glass shower & rejuvenating spa, as well as an almost ‘his and her’ size vanity.

“APRE CHALET” Davenport Drive

$389,000

This is a rare opportunity to buy a freestanding chalet in prime position right next to the Big D ski run. Newly refurbished with six bedrooms, two bathrooms with separate toilets, large entry foyer and ski storage areas. This chalet has high ceilings and spacious kitchen, living and dining areas. Ready to rent or live in yourself. Perfect for families, couples or a group wanting to own their own lodge.

Jo 0408 990 828 | jenglisch@me.com

Shelley 0408 136 352 | sholah@me.com

Trish 0429 642 418 | trishsimmons@me.com

j/51d01198/26-12

Paul 0419 379 388 | penglisch@me.com

18 Australian Alpine News 2012

alpineproperty.com.au Selling Mount Hotham

“ARLBERG” 520/18A Great Alpine Road

$105,000

This studio apartment will sleep 5 people. On the ﬁfth ﬂoor with easy access from Higgi Drive. New bathroom with large shower and unique ski storage. Built in cupboards including lockable owners cupboard and a separate hot water service. Great value for such a good location and nothing to spend.

“ARLBERG” 114/18A Great Alpine Road

$119,000

Arlberg 114 sleeps two people with the opportunity for a fold out couch. Renovated to cater for all tastes, its guests will receive a modern and fresh atmosphere upon entry. New carpet and stainless steel appliances plus stonework bench tops, guests feel the ultimate mountain comfort. The Arlberg offers all of its guests access to an indoor heated pool, supermarket, ski hire, bar and restaurant, without even leaving the building.

“ARLBERG” 005/18D Great Alpine Road

$149,500

This one bedroom, one bathroom walk through apartment has been kept in excellent condition. In a quiet position it sleeps up to 6 people, there are excellent views from the lounge and balcony. The unit comes fully furnished with good quality furniture.

“ARLBERG” 121/18D Great Alpine Road

$158,000

Arlberg apartment 121 enjoys the beneﬁts of an in ground swimming pool and an excellent location - the quiet, entry level of the building so there is no need for elevator usage. This one bedroom, one bathroom walk-through apartment will actually sleep up to six people with a queen and bunk bed in the bedroom and a spare double bed in the next room. Arlberg 121 has been fully renovated to new condition and is the ideal apartment for snow-a-holics with its front facing position and balcony which looks out to Hotham village and the untamed ski runs of the mountain.

“SCHNAPPS” 7/C7 Great Alpine Road

$575,000

The top ﬂoor has unparalleled views of Mt Hotham, Mt Feathertop and Swindlers Valley. The unique Schnapps 7 features ski in/out access, a north facing living area showcasing family living and entertainment options from the open plan, to high ceilings and magniﬁcent balcony. Both bedrooms are extra large, sleeping six people in total with their own adjoining ensuites and indoor spa, and if more bed space is needed the sofa bed can be utilised. This is a rare opportunity to purchase one of the very few penthouse apartments in Mt Hotham with prime position and high rental returns.

Shelley 0408 136 352 | sholah@me.com Trish 0429 642 418 | trishsimmons@me.com

j/51d01199/26-12

Paul 0419 379 388 | penglisch@me.com Jo 0408 990 828 | jenglisch@me.com

Australian Alpine News 2012 19

alpineproperty.com.au Selling Dinner Plain “SNOWGUMS” 13/19 Big Muster Drive

$255,000

The Snowgums Apartments are one of very few buildings in Dinner Plain built from concrete and brick. Its location is ideal being positioned within 50 metres to most facilities and restaurants means you can easily access everything on foot. Park your vehicle right out the front in the designated car space and explore this spacious apartment containing larger than average bedrooms and living areas. Currently conﬁgured to comfortably sleep 6 people with room for guests on the two day beds and fold out lounge. In original condition, the high ceilings continue the spacious feel to the apartment with the addition of a balcony overlooking the famous snowgums and ski trails.

“NUMTIJAH” 2/51 Scrubbers End

$398,000

This freestanding chalet has been totally renovated inside and out to a new modern design. With high quality fixtures and fittings the feeling is airy and light filled. Located near the corner of Big Muster Drive and Halter Lane, there is ski out access to the Dinner Plain ski run. The north facing decking, dining, lounge and kitchen keeps the chalet warm all day.

“SNOWBOUND” 3/4 Big Muster Drive

$424,000

The location of this brand new luxury apartment allows you to walk to all of Dinner Plain’s restaurants & cafes within 3 minutes. Over two levels and built with love, there are two bedrooms, two bathrooms, powder room (3 toilets), spa bath overlooking the snowgums, spacious open plan kitchen living lounge, balcony with views of garden courtyard area, high quality furniture, fixtures/fittings and a movie star car space. There are unique features to this property that you would not normally find in Dinner Plain, like; extra wide hallway & stairwell, separate full size laundry & drying room, sunny aspect, high ceilings & a large balcony with commanding views.

“ALPINE STAR” 62/5 Big Muster Drive

$448,000

Alpine Star is not sparing in land space & has a relaxed welcoming presence. The classic ‘A’ frame style has an extremely large loft, allowing for several extra beds. The living, dining and kitchen areas are warm in both colour & temperature due to the open ﬁre place, reverse cycle air conditioning & north-face positioning. Timber ceilings supported by beautiful tree trunks are complimented with stonework. A large deck faces out to the reserve & receives continual sunlight. Alpine star is comprised of four bedrooms, two of which have stunning half-moon windows, & two bathrooms, one with an indoor spa.

“COLORADO” 52/25 Halter Lane

$479,000

As you enter Colorado the foyer is big enough for 10 people to take off their ski gear at the same time. The drying room can accommodate large families comfortably. All three bedrooms are as large as master bedrooms in this chalet. Two bathrooms and a separate laundry are also on the ground ﬂoor. The top ﬂoor has panoramic views around the resort and is one of the largest living area’s on offer in Dinner Plain. The outdoor balcony is north facing and there is parking for three cars.

Shelley 0408 136 352 | sholah@me.com Trish 0429 642 418 | trishsimmons@me.com

j/51d01200/26-12

Paul 0419 379 388 | penglisch@me.com Jo 0408 990 828 | jenglisch@me.com

20 Australian Alpine News 2012

alpineproperty.com.au Selling Dinner Plain

“MOUNTAIN T HOUSE” 99/3 Halter Lane

$498,000

Close to bus stop and Dinner Plain’s beginners ski run. Recently renovated with dual occupancy, Mountain House is perfect for large families and groups. First impression shows the strong structural mountain design provided by the exposed timber trunks and natural stone work on the exterior. Containing multiple living area’s and high ceilings, space has not been spared. An open plan kitchen joining the dining area adjacent to an outdoor deck, makes entertaining a delight. Currently conﬁgured as 5 bed rooms including master rooms as well as bunk rooms, 14 people will be comfortable. Plenty of room for children top play and direct access for snow play.

“VERTICAL L LIMIT” 19/90 Big Muster Drive

$545,000

The first thing that you notice when you walk into this spectacular property is the sensation of being on top of a mountain surrounded by alpine foliage. This chalet has a larger than average drying room, solid timber & glass doors & white gloss timber lining. Contains 2 bathrooms, 1 is an ensuite, and the other complete with an indoor 3-person spa bath. The lower floor has 2 Queen sized bedrooms, children’s bunk room, 4th bedroom - the family room. The family room has built-in single bed timber bunks, 2 large day beds & a sofa bed couch. Perfect for those unexpected guests, a children’s play room or for a family. Upstairs has wood fire heating & open plan living area & doors open to large corner style balcony for fresh alpine air or simply utilise the barbecue.

“MY 3 BOYS” 91/8 Slippery Dip

$565,000

Designed and built with 5 star finishings and featuring a spacious foyer, walk-in heated drying room and hidden laundry behind sliding doors. With two modern queen sized master bedrooms and one coupled with an elegant ensuite, with heated flooring in all bathrooms and including a sizeable indoor spa bath, “My Three Boys” is sure to impress. For the children there is a twin bunk room catering for four guests. Modern dining currently is set for 6 guests with a generous living area complete with a 6-seat corner lounge, day bed, convection electric heating and large flat screen TV. Married to the dining area is a larger than average balcony where guests can pull out the electric barbecue and relax in the alpine air.

“COOL L CHANGE” 33/5 JB Crook

$725,000

Located in a quiet court behind the Onsen Retreat and Spa and access to the shuttle bus service, this brand new chalet has all the five star furnishings and fittings. Cool Change has a lock up garage for a car and snowmobile with internal entry, two master bedrooms with it’s own large ensuite, spa bath, double showers and walk-in robes. It also has a sunken lounge, Jarrah flooring and Tasmanian Oak timber lined ceilings, and French doors open onto a deck over looking the village. The third level is a children’s retreat with space to fit four single bunk beds, along with bedside furnishings and has a built-in robe. This loft style room is the size of two large bedrooms finished off with Tasmanian oak timber lined ceiling.

V CANT LAND FROM $100,000 VA

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alpine property

22 Australian Alpine News 2012

Owning property in the Australian Alps By DAN FLYNN, Partner â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Property, TressCox Lawyers

THERE are various types of property available in the alpine resorts, the most common being private apartments, managed apartments and club memberships. Methods of ownership can vary significantly from resort to resort and site to site. With a few exceptions, the common theme is long term crown leases. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;leaseâ&#x20AC;? is the stakeholderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s title to the land, and the stakeholder is fully responsible for the building and improvements on the land. Buildings and improvements may be a single lodge or multiple apartments. A common form of ownership is for the stakeholder to be a company with a shareholding arrangement where ownership of shares is linked with a sub-lease of an apartment. As a shareholder you

There are a number of different types of property available at alpine resorts.

are a member of the lessee company with rights of involvement in the management and caretaking of the buildings and improvements. The share and sublease is your â&#x20AC;&#x153;titleâ&#x20AC;? to ownership of the apartment and in many cases, you may register that interest at the relevant Office of Titles. Historically, the banks have been reluctant, but with the more modern arrangements comprising registration of interests, there are lenders prepared to provide finance on the security of a mortgage over your lease, sub-lease and/

or shares. It is important to seek advice early in your negotiations to determine a lenderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s minimum requirements â&#x20AC;&#x201C; such as term remaining on the lease and an ability to register. What to look out for Permitted use and length remaining under Head Lease; The standard and condition of the building and what will be required to have the lease renewed; Outgoings; Restrictions on personal use, known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;hot bedsâ&#x20AC;? policies, Rental returns.

! " ! # ! $ # !!! % ! & %$ ' () * +

,-./ 01- 2,/

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A $2.5 million renovation has the Arlberg on Mt Buller looking in mint condition with all the amenities.

Alpine property guide By VANESSA BACON-HALL

that business really is booming in the mountain resorts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At the moment, it really is a buyers market and we have so much for sale at the moment,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;An interesting trend, is that many of the buyers are buying with cash and many are purchasing with their self managed super funds.â&#x20AC;? It appears that many people are now realising the year round potential and beauty that comes with living in the mountain resorts and also the investment potential. Mr English said that many buyers were coming to stay year round and living life in picturesque surrounds. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It really is a fantastic place to be, up here in the mountains and this is a good time to buy for the investors, as rentals have stayed the same but at the moment, the purchase price has gone down.â&#x20AC;? Mr Adams also backed up the claim that at the moment the climate was optimum for buyers and investors. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is no doubt that the market has been â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;challengingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for sellers and agents, but for buyers, there really hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been many better times to buy,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Buller market is ideal for young families, especially for those who have children in weekend activities and I estimate there is about 500 of them and those children are in programs for many years.â&#x20AC;? For those looking, now is the time to take advantage of this perfect buying climate and all mountain agents have properties for all budgets and are always more than happy to show potential buyers and investors their piece of mountain living.

NOW is most certainly the time to buy and for the savvy investor and snow enthusiast, a winter escape is definitely attainable. All of the Australian mountain resorts have property available to suit most budgets and Mt Buller real estate agent Mark Adams even has property starting at the entry level price range. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At the moment there is terrific buying in the Arlberg Hotel, because outgoings are extremely low and income is continually high and the two match up to be a good investment,â&#x20AC;? Mr Adams said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have some properties as low as $270,000 and some may be lower soon and with something like the Arlberg there is year round potential for letting with summer business increasing with weddings and functions.â&#x20AC;? Mountain agents have noticed a growing trend with families who envisage many years of children in weekend snow sports activities taking advantage of the option to buy rather than waste money on seasonal rentals. Mt Hotham agent, Paul English, said that the demographic in his area also included fly in and out workers from Western Australia and the Hotham airport most certainly was a huge selling 'plus'. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the same time it can take to drive from Melbourne to Hotham, people can fly over from Perth to Sydney and then jump on a Qantas link to Hotham and be in a completely different environment,â&#x20AC;? Mr English said. Mr English further backed up the claim

TRESSCOX IS A LEADING ALPINE LAW PRACTICE IN AUSTRALIA

For all your alpine transactions in Australia and Japan... Our Property and Alpine team advise developers, business operators, government authorities and individual investors on all alpine legal matters. Contact Dan Flynn â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Property Partner and Alpine Team Leader to discuss your alpine transactions. j/51d01242/26-12

www.tresscox.com.au

Phone (03) 9602 9465 Fax (03) 9642 0382

Dan_Flynn@tresscox.com.au

THE WORK IS THERE ALL YEAR. â&#x20AC;&#x2122; THE SNOW ISN T.

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Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face it. You already feel like every day is the same. Imagine how youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feel come winter. So why not start planning your getaway now? With peak season weekend adult lift passes just $185 and kids weekend passes $93, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no excuse not to.

j/51d01194/26-12

equipment

24 Australian Alpine News 2012

What’s new in gear this season?

New season means new Goggles gear. We check out some Giro Amulet of the latest equipment with help from Auski.

Giro has been known for their fantastic helmets but they are now also making some amazing goggles. Their lenses are designed by Carl Zeiss, the guy that makes the camera lenses, so they are ultra clear with no distortion. The new Amulet for ladies comes with incredibly comfy foam, lots of great color ways and great peripheral vision. RRP $169

Ski boots

Boards Attack Banana by LIB tech > Carve, jumps and high speed, Do it all on this all terrain assassin. Dual camber, set back with a sintered base. Look out!! RRP $799

Salomon Quest 12 Salomon has come out with a new line up of boots called Quest. It was designed for the guy that is skiing in-bounds most of the time but every now and then wants to head out and explore. They are very light weight, come with a ski/walk mode and have the ability to change from a normal ski sole to a touring sole. The liners are very comfortable yet still provide great performance on groomed runs. The Quest 12 is designed for high intermediate to advanced skiers. RRP $799

Head Dream 80 Dream boots from Head are super comfy with a nice and cosy liner that will rap beautifully around most ladies’ feet. It is designed for the narrower foot but Head makes a wider range called Edge. The boots are quite upright in stance so you’re comfortable standing around, but have a very nice progressive flex to keep you balanced over the skis. The 80 model is designed for beginner to intermediate skiers. RRP $449

Scallywag by Forum Skate style stick, designed for rails, sweet air and wall rides. Centred stance, reverse camber and an easy fun flex. Jump jump!! RRP $549

Ruler by Burton This men’s speed lacing boot will not disappoint. Packed with bang for your buck, the ruler suits all riders of all levels all the time. Mid flex, speed lacing with a stream line look. RRP $349

This classy BOA boot by K2 features a heat molding intuition liner for maximum comfort and support, the BOA system for easy tight lacing and a sleek look that is sure to please any female freestyler. RRP $349

Head Rev 80Pro > Oakley Airbrake Oakley’s latest edition to the goggle world is called the Airbrake. This goggle comes with two changeable lenses so you’ll have perfect vision no matter what the weather. One great thing is you don’t have to put your fingers on the lenses to change them so won’t wear off or scratch the anti fog coating. The Airbrake will fit just about any helmet and three layers of comfy foam to rap perfectly around your face. RRP $279

This is the latest edition to the Head line for advanced skiers who enjoy the entire mountain but spend most time on piste. Head has added Rocker to its line up this year for an easy turn initiation and smoother ride over bumpy terrain. The Rev 80 Pro has a full wood core with two layers of titanium for maximum edge grip on any terrain. RRP $1249

Volkl < RTM 77 Volkl’s newest line of skis called Ride The Mountain have been designed with little or no camber. The 77 model has Rocker in the tip to make it easy to start your turns but it still has camber through the rest of the ski to help you finish off your turns. The RTM 77 has a softer flex for intermediate skiers ready to take it to the next level. RRP $999

Atomic Affinity Pure >

Boots

Sapera by K2

Skis

Velvet Guru by GNU > New for GNU this women’s smooth all terrain vandal. Reverse camber, fun poppy board for all level and with a Jungle inspired graphic. Sweet!! RRP $649

CONTACT DETAILS FOR AUSKI: auski.com.au, 03 9670 1412

Atomic’s new line up of ladies skis are designed for female skiers and have great graphics. The Pure comes with a wood core for maximum stability on hard pack snow or ice and a small amount of tip rocker to help you through some bumpy terrain. The rocker also helps you initiate your turns by providing a catch free transition. RRP $849

USA CANADA JAPAN KOREA EUROPE

W HY B O O K W ITH

M O G U L S KI WO R L D Firsthand knowledge of the resorts We care about your holiday experience We are passionate skiers & boarders We travel and ski with our kids

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Based on 7 nights twin share accommodation in a western room and a 7 day lift pass. Valid 3 Jan – 7 Feb.

Based on 7 nights accommodation in a studio room and a 6 day lift pass. Valid 2 Jan – 7 Feb.

Based on 7 nights twin share accommodation in a standard room and a 6 day lift pass. Valid 2 Jan – 31 Jan.

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overseas

26 Australian Alpine News 2012

Triple treat for snow lovers POWDER craving some Utah action Ski the best

snow on the planet 4 GREAT RESORTS FURANO - KAMUI - TOMAMU ASAHI DAKE - & THE SUPERB

TOKACHI MOUNTAINS

3 Backcountry 3 Resort

3 Guided or Independent 3 Private Guiding/Tours “John Morrell is the consumate pro, he’s been doing his Ski Japan thing for 30 years....... If the lightest, driest, deepest, powder snow in the world doesn’t leave you breathless, your simply not skiing hard enough.”

Mark Black. (Melb. Aust.) Ski Hokkaido

By STEVE CUFF

HAVING the choice of three world class resorts is one of the true luxuries of your holiday to Park City, Utah, USA. Deer Valley, Park City Mountain Resort and Canyons Resort are all located within 10km of each other and centre around the historic mining ski town of Park City. Boasting some of the most prestigious snow awards in the North American industry you will find huge terrain options, bustling night life and exquisite restaurants on Main Street and a free bus system allowing you to venture to all resorts easily. Deer Valley has been ranked number one ski area for the fifth straight year, mainly due to impeccable grooming and excellent customer service. But don’t think for a minute it is only corduroy heaven, there is a plethora of off piste runs that often go untouched leaving plenty of powder for the adventurous. Park City Mountain Resort is adjacent to the town and you can ski down to Main Street or take the town lift back to the slopes. You can challenge yourself across nine different bowls or ski the same runs the USA ski team train on. Park City was voted best family vacation by Ski Magazine editors for 2012. Canyons is the largest of the three resorts and stretches across nine mountain peaks. Float through the tree glades on Dreamscape or power down double

Scott Abraham from Mecca Travel blasting through Deer Valley powder. Photo: Steve Cuff/Skitracks

black powder runs on Ninety Nine Ninety. With vast terrain you will be entertained for weeks on end and for first ride each morning take the Orange Bubble Express and be treated with heated comfortable seats. Between all areas you have access to 9326 skiable acres, 58 lifts and vertical ranging between 914m and 1220m. On your days off you can ride the

four man bobsled in Olympic Park and you can be skiing the same day if you arrive on an early flight. Park City is a very short 40 minute drive from Salt Lake City international airport and one of the closest destinations in North America for Australian visitors. To visit Utah go to www.meccatravelco.com.au For more snow news www.skitracks.com.au

Intensive training options available

BACKCOUNTRY SKI HIRE The only backcountry ski hire in central Hokkaido. Ski the latest Black Diamond skis. Tele or AT available. Skis: megawatt - verdict - amperage - drift - aspect. Backcountry Safety: beacon - shovel - probe. Based in Furano. Delivery available to all central Hokkaido ski areas. Prebook in order not to miss out.

PH: (02) 62380503 www.journeyintojapan.com.au

EACH January, Big White hosts the Australian Snowsports Camps (ASC), specialist training camps for children aged 9-16. The camps offer intensive training for skiers in giant slalom on dedicated race courses, skiercross on a permanent FIS-rated course and in moguls on a purpose-built ‘bumps’ run. Boarders can choose between boardercross as well as giant slalom training or ‘slope-style’ in the huge terrain park. “Emphasis is also on cross-training and developing all-mountain technical skills,” said Geoff Walker, owner and program manager of Australian Snowsports Camps. “Some of the very best Canadian and Australian coaches are on offer, with competition experience themselves, many at Canadian national level. “Most importantly they develop great relationships with each participant and they work closely to improve skills and accelerate success. “With specialist coaches

Big White hosts the Australian Snowsports Camps.

overseeing each discipline and working with their team, the participants certainly have the best of opportunities to maximise their development.” Feedback has been positive, according to Geoff. Training programs include five days mid-week and weekends across each week of January, or combining these to suit your own schedule. “A unique and increasingly popular option of ASC is where staff fully escort children ex-Australia to Big White on an all-inclusive accommodation and training package and return them back home again after four weeks,” Geoff said.

“Another option for families holidaying together at Big White is to leave their children with ASC for a few more weeks of training, while they return home. “The importance of a resort such as Big White with an emphasis on unrivalled hospitality, total ski-in ski-out accommodation and a huge range of off snow activities compliment the ASC program.” The importance of a resort with an emphasis on unrivalled hospitality, total ski-in ski-out accommodation and a huge range of off snow activities compliment the ASC program, plus the ease of access from Kelowna

International Airport. “The growth on our camps is largely due to the top coaching and positive learning environment, that’s why kids enrol...but the brilliant features of Big White in Canada are the icing on the cake,” said Geoff. There are many extras to the ASC packages, with unlimited tubing and ice-skating, a trip to nearby Kelowna to watch a WHL ice-hockey match, complimentary welcome functions, mid-week gettogethers, and the much sought after ASC hoodies for every participant. For more information about the program, visit www.snowpro.com.au.

j/51d01216/26-12

FOR

THE PERFECT CURE

p: Eric Berger

13.9m

OF SNOW THIS WINTER. WHISTLER BLACKCOMB. WHERE THE SNOW IS.

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overseas

Australian Alpine News 2012 29

Hakuba – so many options By ALLISON COX

BEAUTIFUL snow, lovely people and interesting culture, these are three great reasons to visit Hakuba, Japan. High in the Japan Alps, Hakuba is on the island of Honshu. It is an easy and interesting train and bus journey from central Tokyo that includes the famous bullet train (Shinkansen) and takes less than three hours. The Hakuba Valley has a lot to offer any skier or boarder; a Hakuba Valley all mountain lift pass includes nine ski resorts: Sanosaka, Goryu, Hakuba 47, Happo One, Iwatake, Minekata, Tsugaike, Norikura and Cortina. Happo One is the largest resort and a great place to start. Ride the gondola from the base and you are deposited two-thirds up the mountain. From there you can choose to go further up for steeper, advanced runs or ski down on long, wide intermediate or beginner cruisers. Runs all over the mountain are wide so you can pick your own line down, or you can choose to search out some of the more narrow options. Hakuba 47 is great for boarders with a large, well-laid out terrain park that includes a half pipe, kickers and rails. It has its own lift with riders on the chair given a good view of what the action is like below.

Goryu can be accessed from Hakuba 47 by chairlift and it has some steep intermediate options at the top of the mountain, that link to a large, open mainly green area. This is a fantastic area to learn to ski, with green runs of different pitch and length. Six chairs service this area that is just above a bustling base centre where you can eat, shop or just warm up. Iwatake is an interesting mix of mainly green and black runs that snake down the mountain. Cortina is a little further away, about 30 minutes drive from Hakuba, is less busy, and reportedly gets more snow than other areas in the Hakuba Valley. A back country tour is a great way to really experience the deep powder on offer and Cortina was the starting point for mine. Evergreen Outdoor Centre offers backcountry tours with highly experienced, knowledgeable and professional guides that match the terrain to your skill level. You need to be at least an intermediate boarder or skier with experience in powder so consider a powder workshop if you want a bit more experience before a backcountry tour. The day before I set out on my backcountry adventure with Evergreen, led by Dave Enright, director and chief guide, I was

briefed about where we might go and set up with skis and poles. On the day I wore an avalanche beacon and carried a backpack that contained a probe and shovel. The morning was spent hiking out on deep, untracked powder among the trees behind Cortina in terrain that was quiet, still and beautiful. The afternoon was a fantastic mix of exhilaration and frustration as I attempted to ski the seemingly bottomless powder. My many falls in pillows of fluffy snow were the source of much laughter, but the moments when I got the skiing right felt fantastic and made me want to come back for more. The mid-January weather this year was kind at Hakuba, each night a light dusting of powder fell, making the snow soft and fresh for the next morning. The sun shone on most days, which meant we could enjoy the fabulous views of the valley. The Japanese people were so friendly, polite and helpful that the language barrier was easy to overcome. There are a number of different areas to stay in Hakuba and a wide variety of accommodation. Places to eat are also in abundance and the Japanese food is fantastic. Hakuba has everything you need for a fantastic ski holiday.

Dave Enright skiing in the backcountry in Hakuba. Photo: BILL GLUDE

Aspen’s affordable choice.

DOLOMITES

A European style lodge, located near the center of town and two blocks to the town shuttle.

The world’s largest ski region! 450 lifts, 45 ski resorts, 12 huge valleys… all on one, inexpensive Superski Pass! ✔ Stunning alpine scenery

✔ Traditional atmosphere

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Offering rooms with kitchenettes, standard lodge rooms and 1 & 2 bedroom condos. For the economy minded traveler we offer shared and private hostel’s with shared bathrooms.

The Dolomites Mountains of northern Italy are a revelation to Australians. Here, it is truly possible to ski as far as the eye can see! You and your friends or family can ski together, over long distances, and through many different ski resorts. It's the ski holiday of a lifetime. The variety of runs and challenges is almost daunting, with seemingly countless runs for every type of skier

Enjoy our pool, whirlpool, steam room,continental breakfast, ﬂat screen HDTV’s, free Wi-Fi, local and US long distance calls.

or boarder. You can ski 45–75km in a day without having to catch the same lift twice! And our guides always know the best places to ski, eat and see on any given day. The Dolomites offer a superb blend of skiing, food, culture and unspoiled alpine beauty. Best of all, it’s still undiscovered by Australians, and it’s all here in the unforgettable Dolomites.

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overseas

30 Australian Alpine News 2012 Stunning mountain views including the Peak 2 Peak gondola seen from Blackcomb Mountain on a sunny day. PHOTO: Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane

1530 metres, and at Blackcomb it is 1609 metres and the average snowfall is 10.42 metres per year. Eleven kilometres is the longest run on mountains, at Whistler you would need to ski Burnt Stew to Sidewinder, Upper and Lower Olympic and at Blackcomb, ski Green Road down Easy Out. Both mountains service all levels of skier: the level of terrain is rated 20 per cent beginner, 55 per cent intermediate and 25 per cent advanced at Whistler, while at Blackcomb the terrain is 15 per cent beginner, 55 per cent intermediate and 30 per cent advanced. The resort has two terrain parks at Whistler Mountain and three parks, one super pipe and one snow cross track at Blackcomb.

IN her final year of school last year, 17-year-old Louise Taffa decided to do an Australian Professional Ski Instructor Association (APSI) Level One alpine instructor’s course. Although she had grown up in the mountains her eyes were firmly set on university. Her parents encouraged her to look at different options and spend her first year out of school exploring the world, and snowsports instructing has turned out to be the key for Louise. “I was definitely sceptical about ski instructing and working overseas – I have always been focused on my future career, journalism. “Instead here I am working in the Canyons in Utah all summer – which has been amazing- and I have met so many new friends and learnt a whole new set of skills along the way, especially how to communicate and get along with people. “Having my APSI Level One has definitely benefited me. “I have been getting the higher level kids and teenage skiers which is great

Louise Taffa having a ball as a snow sports instructor in the Canyons Resort. because it is my first season. “I even had my first black class two days ago and my first private lesson three weeks ago.” A journalism degree is still in the mix for next year and then dreams of a graduate degree in New York, but for the moment it is meeting people, learning new skills... and skiing Utah powder. Go to www.apsi.net.au for further information. A minimum age of 16 years applies for all APSI courses.

So you want to be an instructor? APSI snowsports instructor courses 2012

Level One course, assessment & certification:

To be held in NSW and Victoria during the 2012 snow season

$760 1. Includes three day course plus one day assessment 2. 2012 membership to APSI 3. APSI teaching manual

www.apsi.net.au ***Lift tickets, accommodation and meals not included

j/51d01206/26-12

facilities and housing. The Whistler Sliding Centre, Whistler Olympic Park, Cheakamus Crossing (formerly the Whistler Athletes Village) and Whistler Olympic Plaza all serve as an ongoing reminder to locals and visitors of the Winter Games hosted in Whistler. These legacies help to enrich Whistler’s vibrant community and guest experiences. Visitors and locals alike can experience the Nordic, biathlon, skeleton and bobsleigh public programs. The Whistler Olympic Plaza is an outdoor gathering space that houses a variety of events – and the Olympic Rings. There are 37 lifts across the resort. The vertical drop for Whistler is

n51D01253/2612

WHISTLER is nestled among the spectacular Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Canada, a scenic two-hour drive north of Vancouver along Sea to Sky Highway. Consistently ranked the number one mountain resort in North America, Whistler is distinguished by two impressive mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, which together make up the ski and snowboard area of 3307 hectares. There is an immense backcountry, vast powder-filled bowls to expertly groomed corduroy. Whistler Resort was also the proud host of the alpine, Nordic and sliding events for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The Games left a lasting legacy for Whistler, with new sport venues,

Adventure abroad opens opportunities

interschools

Australian Alpine News 2012 31

Participation, fun a key focus for events By ROB OSBORNE, general manager, School SnowSports Development Foundation

EACH year the Subaru Victorian Interschools SnowSports Championships (Interschools) attract thousands of young athletes and while many of Australia’s top junior skiers and snowboarders take part, many competitors are relative novices to the sports of skiing and snowboarding. The emphasis is on participation and enjoyment, with events designed to be suitable for school students of all ages and levels of ability. A major part of the Interschools is the carnival atmosphere, with thousands of students enjoying the opportunity to participate in this exciting sport, cheered on by their school friends and families. As well as the races there are opening and closing ceremonies (snow sports demonstrations and fireworks), nightly presentation ceremonies and other exciting activities. Parents are encouraged to be involved in all of these events with their children and if they wish there is the opportunity to volunteer as team managers or race officials. Competitors at the interschools have the opportunity to participate in any of the following disciplines: alpine, snowboard, freestyle, skiercross, snowboardcross and cross country. Students from all Victorian primary and secondary schools are eligible to participate in the interschools.

2012 INTERSCHOOLS CALENDAR NSW July 4 & 6 July 5 & 7 July 11 & 13 July 12 & 14 July 25-27 Aug 21 Aug 22 Aug 23-26 Sept 5-9

Thredbo Thredbo Perisher Perisher Perisher Perisher Thredbo Thredbo Perisher

Travelplan Ski Northern NSW Championships Westpac Northern NSW Championships Travelplan Ski Sydney Championships Westpac Sydney Championships Subaru ACT-Southern NSW Championships Westpac NSW & ACT Cross Country Championships Amelia McGuinness Memorial Time Trial Subaru NSW State Championships Subaru Australian Championships

VICTORIA July 7 & 8 July 8 July 14 & 15 July 21 & 22 July 22 July 22 July 28 & 29 Aug 12 Aug 26 - 31 Sept 5 – 9

Falls Creek Mt Buller Falls Creek Mt Hotham Lake Mountain Mt Buller Mt Hotham Mt Buller Mt Buller Perisher

Travelplan Ski Interschools Grand Prix Championships 2XU GP Travelplan Ski Interschools Grand Prix Championships Travelplan Ski Interschools Grand Prix Championships Interschools Classic (Cross Country) 2XU GP Travelplan Ski Interschools Grand Prix Championships Subaru Victorian Interschools Cross Country Championships Subaru Victorian Interschools SnowSports Championships Subaru Australian Interschools SnowSports Championships

Athletes are divided into the following divisions, based on school years: Division 1 years 11 and 12, Division 2 years 9 and 10, Division 3 years 7 and 8, Division 4 years 5 and 6, Division 5 prep to year 4. School teams vary in size enormously, from an individual competitor proudly representing their school, to a number of school teams who have in excess of 100 competitors. The average team size of the schools that took part last year was around 20 competitors. Some school teams are managed

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by teachers, while other schools snow sports teams are supported and managed by parent groups. The number of students from a school who are interested in participating in the interschools or their level of ability is not important. The competition provides the opportunity for entrants to participate for fun, friendship and fitness. For further information: School SnowSports Development Foundation: E: info@interschools.org.au W: www.interschools.org.au

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NSW Interschools is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2012 By WENDY PINKERTON, executive manager, NSW & ACT Interschools SnowSports

TX Direct® Wash-in waterproofing for technical wet weather clothing Alex Pullin (1) and Jarryd Hughes (32) racing at World Cup in Boardercross in Stoneham, Canada, in February this year.

snowsports and elite athletes today had their first competition with us and still compete for their school. Several interschools athletes saw success this past northern season. Jarryd Hughes competed in his first championships as an eight-year-old in year three at International Grammar School after a week of lessons. Skip forward this February and Jarryd qualified as the youngest Australian to compete at a World Cup in Boardercross at 16. At his debut at the Stoneham BX World Cup, Jarryd qualified for the finals and placed 10th overall signalling a bright future ahead. Six interschools athletes represented

Australia at the inaugural Winter Youth Olympic Games in Austria in January. This included Lachlan Porter (SMGS, Biathlon), Lucy Glanville (PLC, Cross Country), Claudia Leggett (St Aidans, Ski Cross), Jack Millar (Illawarra Grammar, Ski Cross), Thomas Waddell (Jindabyne Central, Ski Halfpipe) and Alex Fitch (Lakes Grammar, Snowboard). The competitors had a successful games with Alex Fitch receiving a bronze medal in the Snowboard slope style and 4th in the Halfpipe. For more information on the NSW Interschools Championships, visit www.interschools.org.au or find us on facebook.

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DURING the season, schools, volunteers and resort staff that have been involved since the beginning will be acknowledged. After the season there will be a celebration in Sydney on October 27. The Interschools Championships continue to grow, with the 2011 Travelplan Ski, Westpac and Subaru NSW and ACT Interschools Snowsports Championships attracting entries from 191 NSW and 25 ACT schools. Together with the Subaru Australian Championships, there were 9937 entries throughout the season. These entry numbers make Interschools Snowsports one of the single biggest sporting events in Australia at any level. Competitors can enter as school teams or individuals in seven event disciplines: alpine, snowboard giant slalom, snowboard cross, cross-country relay and freestyle, skiercross and freestyle moguls events. Many of the competitors at the Regional Championships are relatively new to the competition. The Interschools Championships is a fantastic introduction to competitive

interschools

32 Australian Alpine News 2012

Support for young snowsport athletes By ALLISON COX

There were around 360 participants in the Amelia McGuinness Memorial TimeTrial last year.

isher in August 2009 while there to participate in the NSW Interschools Snowsports Championships. The foundation was established as a tribute to Amelia There were 91 applications received by the Foundation last year. The scholarships help provide practical support such as equipment, training, and resources, to up-andcoming winter snowsports athletes aged 10 to 19 across all disciplines, including disabled snowsports. Applications for next year’s scholarships will open in September with

recipients announced again in December. The annual Amelia McGuinness Memorial Time-Trial will take place Wednesday, August 22 at Thredbo. This event attracts a high number of competitors, with around 360 entrants last year. Entrants will pay $30 for two runs. Visit the NSW Interschools website to register www.interschools.org.au. For more information about the Foundation, or to make a donation, please visit the Foundation section on the interschools website.

By ROB OSBORNE, general manager, School Snowsports Development Foundation

THE interschools competitions are the biggest snow sports events in the southern hemisphere, attracting thousands of participants from across Australia each year. It’s therefore no surprise that all the interest interschools generates throughout the southern winter flows through to the northern hemisphere winter where interschools also finds a home in Silver Star mountain resort, Canada. The highly successful Interschools Canada program is conducted by the School SnowSports Development Foundation, the same organisation responsible for the Victorian and Australian Interschools SnowSports Championships. Designed for children holidaying with their families, the Interschools Canada program caters for the needs of Australian

children aged 8 to 18 who participate in interschools competitions and are looking to improve their skills and performance while experiencing a unique and fun Canadian holiday. The Interschools Canada program differs from other overseas snow sports programs by providing high quality interschools specific training with hand picked coaches, custom built training facilities and unprecedented resort hospitality and support for the participants and their families, including dedicated full time Interschools Canada resort hosts. The Interschools Canada program provides ‘an opportunity to enjoy a fantastic overseas snow holiday with the added advantage an overseas interschools specific training program can give your child, leading into the 2013 Australian interschools season’, Further information on Interschools Canada: interschoolscanada.com. au.

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SCHOLARSHIPS to the total of $50,000 were awarded to 46 snowsport athletes aged between 10 and 19 in December last year by the Amelia McGuinness Australian Snowsports Development Foundation. Now in its second year of operation, the Foundation provided grants to young athletes in five disciplines: 16 alpine, 10 freestyle, 10 snowboard, eight cross country and two for disabled snowsport athletes. “We have now awarded $77,000 in scholarships in our two years of operation,” said Miff Page, co-founder of the Foundation and committee member. “The majority of the recipients have spent a couple of months overseas competing and training and they have used their scholarship to assist with the purchase of new equipment and training costs,” Miff said. “We have received wonderful DVDs from several of the athletes and letters thanking the Foundation for their initiative to support them. “This has given Amelia’s family a great deal of support while they still come to terms with the loss of their gorgeous girl.” Sixteen year-old Amelia McGuinness died in a skiing accident at Per-

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Australian Alpine News 2012 33

Shooting and skiing Easier & Safer combine for biathlon way to Stay Dry By TONI HULME, Director NSW Snowsports, President of NSW Biathlon

BIATHLON in Australia is “shooting ahead” with the sport now formally being offered in NSW via the formation of the newly constituted NSW Biathlon Association. The new association aims to encourage, promote, advance and administer the sport of Biathlon throughout NSW and is being supported in its endeavors by coaches Nick Almoukov (2010 Vancouver Olympic Coach) and Cameron Morton (2006 Australian Olympic Biathlete). Biathlon, which combines the two very challenging sports of cross country skiing and small bore rifle shooting, is really starting to grow and develop in Australia with winter racing being held in July and August at Australia’s only biathlon range at Mt Hotham in Victoria. Dry-land training has also been established during the summer months by NSW Biathlon at the Hornsby Rifle Range in Sydney’s north and Cooma in the Snowy Mountains at the Cooma Rifle Range. In Sydney, athletes have a dedicated three hour timeslot each Saturday af-

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Damon Morton, Lucy Glanville and Daniel Walker at 2012 Youth/Junior World Championships in Finland.

ternoon for biathlon training. During this time, the athletes are able to shoot on dedicated biathlon targets and use the facilities around the range to run and elevate their pulse levels simulating how they race on snow. During the Northern Hemisphere winter, a number of NSW and Australian Biathletes attended the youth/junior world championships and also the world championships held in Finland and Germany and

some very promising results were achieved. The NSW youth/junior representatives were Damon Morton, Daniel Walker and Lucy Glanville. At the World Championships Australia’s NSW World Cup athlete Alex Almoukov led the Australian contingent with Lucy Glanville and Victorian biathlete Dyllan Harmer joining him as part of the Australian Team. Dyllan also attended Youth/Junior World Championships.

This was the largest contingent of Australian biathletes ever to represent Australia at youth/junior and world championships and together with the growth of biathlon into NSW is a very exciting and positive move for the future of biathlon in Australia. Watch out for further biathlon successes as NSW and its small but focused group of athletes look to take Australian Biathlon all the way to Sochi in 2014.

Ride hard on the snow, but go easy on the environment THE NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) invites skiers, snowboarders and all other snow revellers to enjoy Kosciuszko National Park, but remember our mountain ecosystems are fragile and visitors must help protect them. NPWS manager resorts Andrew Harrigan says simple actions like binning cigarette butts, keeping out of restricted areas and reporting cat and fox sightings all contribute to environmental health in the mountains. “It is always great to see people enjoying a winter mountain experience, but if you see a ‘keep out’ sign, it is either there for your safety or to protect something vulnerable,” Mr Harrigan said. “For example, in Kosciuszko National Park we have a Mountain Pygmy-possum exclusion zone at their habitat at Mount Blue Cow. “A skier or boarder who ignores keep out signs can have a devastating effect on these endangered animals that rely on periods of hibernation over winter for their survival. “In mountain accommodation, visi-

Keep out signs on the mountain are often placed to protect habitats of endangered animals

tors sometimes see small mammals they mistake for introduced rats or mice but more often than not these are protected native species. “If you can’t abide by furry visitors, either use a humane catch-and-re-

lease trap or inform Parks and we will help or advise the best solution. “When you’re in the mountains, create as little waste as possible because rubbish attracts foxes and cats and helps these introduced predators thrive. “Litter, including cigarette butts, dropped while skiing or in a car park gets into the environment causing an eyesore and potentially harming native wildlife. “Be waterwise which means conserving your use but also not putting inappropriate materials into the sewer system. “Slow down on mountain roads to avoid hitting kangaroos, wombats, possums and other wildlife. “Finally, do your bit to keep winter cool by turning off lights and appliances at power points, carpooling, converting to alternate power sources and doing everything you can to reduce carbon emissions. “We hope to see you at the snow this winter but please help keep the mountains pristine and magnificent for all to share.”

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calendar

34 Australian Alpine News 2012

CROSS COUNTRY CALENDAR 2012 JUNE 24 Lake Mountain Sprint - X 30 Paddy Pallin Junior (F) JULY 1 Junior Joey Series 1 1 Cooma Clean Out the Cobwebs (F) 7 Come & Try XC Skiing open day 7 Birkbeeiner Classic 8 Ski de Femme (F) 8 Cooma Clean Out the Waxbox (C) 11 Paddy Pallin Junior Shield (C) 14 ACT Distance Champs (C) 14 Snowgum Wodonga High Plains Tour (F) 15 NSW Distance Champs (F) 15 YMCA Howmans Gap Victorian Relay Championships (C/F) 15 Junior Sprint X 15 Lake Mountain Mini Series 1 (F) 21 Vic Junior Sprint Champs (C) 21 Victorian Biathlon Championships - Sprint (F) 21 Cooma Open (F) 22 Vic Junior Distance Champs (F) 22 Victorian Biathlon Championships – Mass Start (F) 22 ACT Ski De Femme 22 Inter-Schools Classic (C) 22 Lake Mountain Mini Series 2 (F) 28 Aust Sprint Champ’s (F) Open/Jun*/** CC FIS 29 Aust Open/Jun 2.5/5/10 (C) */** CC/FIS 29 Junior Joey Series 2 29 Bullfight Charge (F) 29 Lake Mountain Mini Series 3 (F) AUGUST 4 Australian Biathlon Championships – Individual (F) 4 KCros Tour (C) 4 KCros Tour Juniors (C) 4 Hotham to Dinner Plain (F) 5 Australian Biathlon Championships - Sprint 5 Rocky Valley Rush/Sun Vall Ramble 5 City Tatts Nottage Int. Boonoona Open (C/F) 6 Charlotte Pass Open (C) 6 NSW Night Relays (F) M 8 KAC X-C Classic (C/F) 9 Sundeck Handicap Race (F) 11 Aust Open 15/30 km Champs (F) 11 Snowy Mountains Classic (F) 11 Justoyota Stirling Silver Hill Climb (F) 12 Tullicoutty/St Phillack Cup (F) 12 Vic Interschool XC Championships 18 Aust Sprint Champ’s (C) Open/Jnr */* CC/FIS 19 Aust Open/Jr 2.5/5/10/15 (F) */** CC/FIS 19 Junior Joey Series 3 21 NSW Interschools Races 23 Falls Creek Invitation Night Sprints 25 Kangaroo Hoppet (F) 42km CC/Fis# 25 Australian Birkebeiner (F) 21km# 25 Joey Hoppet (F) 28-30 Aust Secondary Schools Ski Team Champ’s SEPTEMBER 2 Canberra X-C Ski Club Kosciusko Tour (C) 2 Junior Joey Series 4 5 Subaru Australian Interschool XC Champ 15-16 Perisher Cup

ALPINE CALENDAR 2012 Lake Mtn Perisher Falls Creek Perisher Perisher Falls Creek Fallks Creek Perisher Charl Pass Perisher Falls Creek Perisher Falls Creek Lake Mtn Lake Mtn Falls Creek Hotham Perisher Falls Creek Hotham Perisher Lake Mtn Lake Mtn Perisher Perisher Falls Creek Lake Mtn Lake Mtn Hotham Smiggin Hole Smiggin Hole Hotham Hotham Falls Creek Perisher Charl Pass Perisher Perisher Perisher Perisher Perisher Mt Stirling Baw Baw Mt Buller Falls Creek Falls Creek Falls Creek Perisher Falls Creek Falls Creek Falls Creek Falls Creek Falls Creek Perisher Falls Creek Perisher Perisher

SNOWBOARD CALENDAR 2012 JULY 7 Bread & Butter Rail Jam -Open - RS 12 Burton Cattleman’s Rail Jam - Inv - Inv 14 Cheese & Crackered Rail Jam - Open - RS 17 Thredbo Freeride Series Rails - Open - SS 21 Playstation Night Slopestyle Series Part 1 - Open/Jun – SS 28 Pea Brand Soup Big Air - Open - BA 31 Thredbo Freeride Series - Rider Cross - Open - SBX AUGUST 3.5 Australian Junior Snowboard Series (2 Star TTR) + Analog Jam - Jun - HP. SS. 4.5 FIS ANC Boarder X Weekend -COC - SBX 6-7 Futures Hotham - FUT - SBX 10-11 Futures Buller - FUT - SBX 11 Hot Ham Banked Slalom - Open - BS 14-16 Thredbo Freeride Series - Rip Curl Australian Freeride Pro - Open 16 Thredbo Freeride Series - Rails - Open - RS 17 World Rookie Fest (3 Star TTR) - Jun- SS 18 Board ABC - In association with the McGrath Foundation - Open 18 Playstation Night Slopestyle Series Part 2 - Open/Jun – SS 22 Amelia McGuiness Memorial Snowboard GS - Int 26 Beer Battered Rider Cross - Open - SBX 27-29 Mile High Club - SS SEPTEMBER 1 Thredbo Freeride Series –Big Air Final - Inv - BA 2-5 Stylewars (4 Star TTR) - Inv - SS 8 Playstation Night Slopestyle Series - Open/Jun - SS 19 Spring Sessions Sorbet Slope Style - Open - SS

Hotham Mt Buller Hotham Thredbo Perisher Hotham Thredbo

Perisher Hotham Hotham Mt Buller Hotham Thredbo Thredbo Thredbo Thredbo Perisher Thredbo Hotham Thredbo Thredbo Falls Creek Perisher Hotham

JULY 3 5 6 7 7 8 9 10 12 12 13 14 14 14 15 21-22 21-22 21 22 26-27 28 29 28-30 31

Knox - Pymble Championship Westpac Northern NSW Intershcool’s Championships - Primary Travelplan Northern NSW Interschool’s Championships - Secondary/Primary Westpac Northern NSW Interschool’s Championship - Secondary Grand Prix #1 Grand Prix #2 Scots College Snowsports Championships Redlands Cup Grimmus - Pullin Cup Westpac Sydney Interschool’s Championships - Primary Travelplan Sydney Interschool’s Championships - Secondary/Primary Westpac Sydney Interschool’s Championships - Secondary Buller Cup Grand Prix #3 Grand Prix #4 NSW Children’s Race Series (TSRC Cup) VIC Children’s Race Series Grand Prix GS Training Day Grand Prix GS Race Subaru ACT & Southern NSW Interschool’s Championship Primary/Secondary Grand Prix Cross Training Grand Prix Cross Race National Squad Co-ordination Camp Tom Mathias Memorial

AUGUST 1 Tom Mathias Memorial 2-4 Australian New Zealand Cup 6 Australian National Championships 7 Australian National Junior Championships 8 Australian National Championships 9 Australian National Junior Championships 10 Australian National Championships 10-12 NSW Children’s Series (Blue Cow Cup 15-19 Australian New Zealand Cup 17-19 Australian Children’s Series 17-19 VIC Children’s Series 18-19 King of the Mountain 22 Amelia McGuiness Memorial Time Trial 23 Subaru NSW State Interschool’s Championships - Primary 25 Subaru NSW State Interschool’s Championships - Primary / Secondary 26 Subaru NSW State Interschool’s Championships - Secondary 26-31 Subaru VIC Interschools SnowSports Championships SEPTEMBER 1-4 Australian Children’s Series Finals 7 Subaru Australian Interschool’s Championships - Primary 8 Subaru Australian Interschool’s Championships - Primary / Secondary 9 Subaru Australian Interschool’s Championships - Secondary

Perisher Thredbo Thredbo Thredbo Falls Creek Falls Creek Perisher Thredbo Mt Buller Perisher Perisher Perisher Mt Buller Falls Creek Falls Creek Thredbo Falls Creek Hotham Hotham Perisher Hotham Hotham Mt Buller Mt Buller

Mt Buller Mt Buller Thredbo Thredbo Thredbo Thredbo Thredbo Perisher Hotham Mt Buller Mt Buller Mt Buller Thredbo Thredbo Thredbo Thredbo Mt Buller

Thredbo Perisher Perisher Perisher

FREESTYLE SKIING CALENDAR 2012 JUNE 16 JULY 4-7 11-14 17 21 25

Thredbo Freeride Series – Open - RS

Thredbo

Northern NSW Interschools - Int - MO Sydney Region NSW Interschools - Int - MO Thredbo Freeride Series – Open – SS Playstation Night Slopestyle Series -Open - SS Southern NSW/ACT Interschools - Int - MO

Perisher Thredbo Thredbo Perisher Perisher

AUGUST 4-15 Junior National Mogul Championships - Jnr 14-16 Rip Curl Pro - Open – BA. SS. 16-17 Australian Freestyle Mogul Championships - FIS CC 18 Playstation Night Slopestyle Series -Open - SS 23-26 NSW State Interschools - Int - MO 27-31 Victorian Interschools - Int - MO

Mt Buller Thredbo Perisher Perisher Perisher Mt Buller

SEPTEMBER 1 James Boags ABOM Mogul Challenge – Fis CC 7-11 Australian National Interschools Championships - Int - MO 8 Playstation Night Slopestyle Series -Open - SS

Mt Buller Perisher Perisher

Australian Alpine News 2012 35

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associations

36 Australian Alpine News 2012

State snowsports bodies’ news Snowsports ACT report By WENDY PINKERTON, executive officer

ACT received its first World Cup Gold Medal with Laura Peel winning the Aerial World Cup in Kreischberg, Austria in February. Competing in only her second year on the freestyle tour, Laura returned to competition in 2012 shaking up the aerials world with seven top 10 finishes from 10 world cup events, including a bronze medal in Canada and the gold in Austria. She finished the northern season with a world ranking of four. In other athlete news, Hamish Roberts was selected for the Australian Junior Cross County World Championship Team, held in Erzurum, Turkey. Henry Bessell qualified for the World Rookie Fest Championships in Ischgl Austria. Unfortunately Henry sustained an ankle injury in January training in the USA, but he travelled to Europe later in the season where he improved his riding and tricks for the upcoming Australian season. Australian Development Ski Team member, Samantha Biilmann, placed 15th at the junior World Championships in Valmalenco in Italy; along with three top 10 finishes in German FIS races earlier this year. Back home, World Cup Ski Cross athlete Sam Kennedy-Sim offered her coaching services for the SnowSports ACT pre season dry land training program. Two sessions were held each week in school term two at Radford College. The program was open to ACT registered athletes and interschools competitors to improve their strength and balance and get their fitness up before the Australian season. SnowSports ACT will be holding many events this season, including the “come and try” cross country skiing day July 7,

Nicole Harris competes in the slalom in Turkey, in March 2012. PHOTO: Richard Ross

Bronze medal winner Alex Fitch in action. PHOTO: AOC/Olympics.com.au

ACT Ski de Femme August 22, Subaru ACT-Southern NSW Interschools Champs July 25-27, Snowy Mountains Classic August 11, ACT Citizens Ski and Snowboard Race August 12, the Balmain Cup September 1 and ACT Schools Cup September 2. Visit our website at www. snowsportsact.com.au or find us on Facebook for more event and program information and athlete updates.

NSW Snowsports Report By REBECCA MASTERTON, executive officer

NSW Snowsports athletes have had a spectacular twelve months, with snowsports disciplines being represented by athletes from grassroots events through to the world stage. Six of our young NSW Snowsports athletes were selected for the 2012 Winter Youth Olympics in Innsbruck: Lucy Glanville (cross country), Claudia

Leggett (skier cross), Jack Millar (skier cross), Thomas Waddell (ski half-pipe), Alexandra Fitch (snowboard half-pipe) and Lachlan Porter (biathlon). I would like to congratulate all of these athletes, especially Alexandra Fitch who received a bronze medal, while Claudia Leggett placed fifth overall in the skier cross event. NSW Snowsports would also like to acknowledge and congratulate Nicole Harris who placed first in giant slalom, slalom and super combined and second in super G, at the 2012 INAS World Championship for athletes with an intellectual disability. Two special NSW Snowsports subcommittees made huge contributions in supporting children in snowsports competition: The 2011 Travelplan Ski, Westpac and Subaru All Wheel Drive NSW & ACT Interschools Snowsports Championships had another successful year attracting 9937 entries from 191 NSW schools. The Amelia McGuinness Australian Snowsports Development Foundation (AMASDF) received 90 applications for assistance from young athletes across Australia, with $50 000 in scholarships awarded. NSW Snowsports actively supports many of its high achieving athletes

Manning the stall at the Snow Expo were (from left) Deb Battern from Mt Buller Race Club with Jim Logan–Bell and Nicole Staveley from VSA.

who, with dedication and sacrifice, have their eyes firmly on qualification to the Sochi Olympics in 2014. The four discipline sub-committees of alpine, snowboard, freestyle and cross country are well positioned to support our elite member athletes and ensure that all levels of snowsports athletes and enthusiasts in NSW can participate in activities and events. NSW Snowsports aims to continue its programs of connecting to the NSW Snowsports community, via dry-land and on-snow training programs, and the various events, athlete pathways and snowsports development programs. NSW Snowsports launched a new website early this year, which offers information on many aspects of snowsports: www. nswsnowsports.com.au. Volunteers make up NSW Snowsports and there is a lot of hard work and dedication happening to ensure NSW Snowsports can support enthusiasts and athletes from grassroots to elite level. If you would like to become involved in snowsports programs, events and other projects as a volunteer or a participant, check the website for contact information. And don’t forget to thank a volunteer, at every opportunity.

Victorian Snowsports Association Report By Nicole Staveley, VSA president

AS the new snow season gets under way, the Victorian Snowsports Association (VSA) and its hard working committee have been busy on a number of fronts. I am pleased to have been given the opportunity to lead the VSA, having been elected VSA president at the AGM. My priorities have been to increase communication at all levels of the association’s operations including with athletes, disciplines, clubs, resorts and general public. New strategies and initiatives in place are aimed at opening up a positive dialogue with all sections of the Victorian sport and industry, developing membership and establishing a boarder support and sponsorship base. The Victorian Govern-

ment through the Department of Planning, Community and Development (Sport and Recreation) has been very supportive and is keen to see greater involvement in the sport by the broader community. The VSA is also currently engaged with all state associations in finalising the renewal of the Services Agreement with Ski and Snowboard Australia (SSA). This agreement established in 2006 provides a contractual basis for the states to work in partnership with SAA to service state disciplines and joint athlete development. My background in snow sports comes from being involved in the alpine environment for the last 20 plus years. Beginning in the 1980s as a regular recreational skier, today I am involved as a parent of three international competitive athlete children. I am excited to take over the president’s role and continue to support the development of snowsports at the grassroots level in Victoria. We are lucky to be blessed in this state with a diverse Alpine environment, which is mixed with a population of very active sporting clubs covering all our snow disciplines. I believe the VSA plays an important role in representing sports and ski clubs as the state’s official snowsports body by gaining vital funding from the State Government and other sources to help increase clubs’ capacity to provide more opportunities to the Victorian community to become involved in the alpine environment. The VSA Alpine Resorts Working Group has funded and submitted a consultant’s report to government on improving resort management and expect a favorable response shortly. The VSA recently launched its new logo at the Snow Expo. I was pleased to join active volunteer members of Victorian snowsports and ski clubs who manned the VSA booth to inform the public of the benefits of becoming a member of a club, or just getting up to the mountains to participate in one of the many of hundreds of club events held throughout the season at our resorts. The VSA has been around since 1956 and provides an important service as the state’s peak snowsports body.

cross country

Australian Alpine News 2012 37

Australian XC Team International Report by FINN MARSLAND Cross Country Skiing National Team Coach

Australian Team Notschrei German Cup

Phillip Bellingham in action at Falls Creek.

Bellingham focused after world cup debut By d’ARCY BAXTER

MT Beauty local Phillip Bellingham is no new-comer to cross-country skiing. The 2011 Australian season saw the 21-year-old take a major step up into the senior ranks, earning a place on the podium of three national championship events. Off the back of a successful season at home, Bellingham’s performance in the 2011/2012 northern hemisphere season saw his debut on the world cup circuit, contesting five of the events across Europe. Bellingham is a Falls Creek local, a former student of Mt Beauty Secondary College and right at home among the many successful skiers of the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club. Until recently, he was playing AFL at country level in the Ballarat Football League, but has chosen to focus on a skiing career. After a gap year training and working in 2009, Bellingham studies Sport and

Exercise Science at the University of Ballarat. In 2010 Bellingham represented Australia in the World Junior Championships in Hinterzarten, Germany, and in 2011 at the Winter Universiade in Erzurum, Turkey. In February this year, Bellingham returned to Erzurum to compete in the World Under 23 Championships, rating the event as a season highlight and achieving his best-ever FIS point result in the freestyle sprint.

The season showed Bellingham’s strength as a sprinter– he competed in World Cup sprint races in Estonia, Finland, Norway and Italy, where he joined team mate Callum Watson for the team sprint event in Milan City. Bellingham also achieved impressive results in several of the European distance race events and in the 15km Classic event in Erzurum. This northern season was Bellingham’s first out of the junior ranks, and despite expecting tough competition, he set his sights on qualifying to compete in world cup events. Bellingham said he was “pretty stoked” to have achieved that goal. With a successful European season under his belt, Bellingham is looking forward to the next one, training hard over the Australian season. He has eyes set on a win in the Australian Sprint Championships, and a top 10 place in the Kangaroo Hoppet 42km event.

Alasdair Tutt - Austrian Championships, Bad Ischl, Austria

pink banners, T-shirts, and all manner of merchandise. Fast & Female events in Australia will cater for women and girls of all ages. The Falls Creek event on Sunday, July 8 will involve free ski clinics, an optional freestyle race, and guest speaker former Canadian team athlete, Brooke Darlington. The Perisher event on Sunday, July 22 has all of the above except the race is exchanged for lunch at The Stables. Register on-line in advance and receive a Fast & Female Buff. Australian ambassadors include Winter Olympians Esther Bottomley and Clare Louise Brumley, and also other current and recent national team members. • July 8: Falls Creek Fast & Female / Ski de Femme • July 22: Perisher Valley Fast & Female / Ski de Femme

Alasdair’s first FIS international event in Europe and he attacked right at the start. Though he was not quite as springy by the end of the sprint course the result was good enough to qualify for the World Junior Championship in Turkey. This is the new team One-Way race suit ; matching poles are optional.

Esther Bottomley on Austrian TV

The locals were a little stunned when Esther Bottomley blitzed the field to win the time trial at the Austrian Sprint Championship by over three seconds, and Austrian ORF TV tried to find out the secret to her success. Esther took the silver in the sprint finals after making a slight tactical error mid-race.

“Mum I’m on the World Cup, I’ll call you later”

Phillip Bellingham qualified for World Cup and made his debut on the World Cup circuit. Here Phil is warming up for the city sprint in Milan, where snow was trucked in to create the course next to Castle Sforza, a short walk out of central Milan. In the Team Sprint , Phil and Callum Watson recorded Australia’s best World Cup Team Sprint result, finishing 10th in their semi-final only 14 seconds behind the winning team.

Fast & Female comes to Australia FOR many years female cross country skiers at Falls Creek and Perisher Valley have taken advantage of free skiing lessons as part of the Ski de Femme program that was established in1995. The program is still going strong - the 2011 Ski de Femme at Falls Creek had over 100 participants, many of whom also competed in the 1.0km, 2.5km and 5.0km skating races later in the afternoon. Now in 2012 the Ski de Femme events at both resorts are set to receive an injection of color in the form of Fast & Female. Fast & Female was established by 2006 Olympic Gold Medallist Chandra Crawford from Canada with the vision of empowering young women through sport. Fast & Female has two key features. First is the involvement of elite level athletes as ambassadors and role models for participants, and second is pink -

Ben Sim (left) made his international coaching debut this season, supporting athletes on German Cup and Swiss Cup and at the Winter Youth Olympic Games in Seefeld. At the Notschrei races the team was also supported by local German Fabian Mauz (second from left) who, with JC Legras, later coached the team at the World Junior/U23 Championship.

Mark van der Ploeg, Rybinsk World Cup

Mark van der Ploeg made his best impression of a mining fly-in-flyout worker this season. Taking two weeks off from work in Canberra he flew into Munich, trained in Austria for five days, raced the Austrian Championship, travelled to Russia, raced the World Cups in Moscow and Rybinsk, then flew home again. Here in Rybinsk it was another cold day, only warming up above the -20 race limit a couple of hours before the start - and still a crowd of over 20,000 turned up to cheer everyone on at a venue in the middle of nowhere.

For more pictures and reports from the Australian Team competing overseas, visit www.ausxc.com and click on National Team category.

driving

38 Australian Alpine News 2012 The Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive XV

New All-Wheel Drive SUBARU’S newest generation vehicle, the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive XV, is shaking the subcompact Sports Utility Vehicle market with a formidable fun-themed package built on quality, high technology, efficiency and sporty design. Subaru managing director, Nick Senior, said: “XV is a new addition to Subaru’s recreational range and offers incredible fuel economy and low emissions from the new third-generation four-cylinder 2.0 litre FB horizontallyopposed Boxer engine. “Its fantastic combination of class-leading low centre of gravity and high ride height make it a handling delight.” There’s the choice of a

new smooth and compact Lineartronic™ Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), or an efficient short-shift sixspeed manual. XV is the first Subaru – and the first in the Compact Sports Utility Vehicle class - to offer fuel-saving Auto Start Stop. The engine stops when the car is stationary, contributing to greater fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Also encouraging economical driving is the state-of-the-art MultiFunction Display (MFD) in the dashboard, from which drivers can gauge their efficiency. The information-packed MFD in every XV takes driver information to a whole new

level in a Subaru. XV’s ability includes advanced entertainment options, with Bluetooth® wireless technology compatibility* across the range and textured, soft-touch interior materials. XV is priced from $28,490 Manufacturer’s List Price (MLP)** for the XV 2.0i manual. “High level safety continues to be standard on Subaru – all XVs get a five-star rating for occupant safety from the respected Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP),” said Mr Senior. “Every model has seven airbags, including a driver’s knee SRS airbag, plus reversing camera.”

Some easy safety tips for snow driving BEFORE you hit the slopes, there’s the small matter of driving to them. NRMA Motoring & Services suggests the following tips can make your journey to the snow much smoother. Prepare your car so visit your mechanic/servicing dealer and inform them that you will be driving to the snow. The mechanic should check your tyres, brakes, battery, engine, windscreen and may drain and replace the coolant in your car’s engine with a stronger mix of antifreeze. For coolant (anti-freeze) and engine oil specifications, consult your owner’s manual. Get your battery checked as cold weather does contribute to battery failure. An assessment of your car’s charging system is also worth considering; give your alternator, battery terminals, and connections a check-up. Prevent your windscreen fogging up: Good vision from the car is paramount, so renew windscreen wipers in advance to allow them to bed-in. Check the air conditioning system (AC) is working properly and use it to demist the windscreen. Cool air flow to the face helps keep you alert when travelling in a warm car but do not use the AC to

extend your driving times beyond sensible rest periods; take a ten minute break every two hours. Put newspaper on the outside of your windscreen overnight, secured by the windscreen wipers, to prevent ice forming on the windscreen overnight. Use snow chains: When driving in snow affected areas, snow chains must be carried and authorities require snow chains to be fitted when conditions demand. Although 4WDs are exempt from using snow chains, the RMS (Roads and Maritime Services) recommends that 4WD owners (including sport utility vehicles, offroad vehicles, and all wheel drive vehicles – except those with vehicles equipped with winter tyres), carry chains and install them when directed. You only have to fit chains to two driving wheels: front wheel drive vehicles, fit to front wheels; rear wheel drive vehicles, fit to rear wheels; and four wheel drive vehicles if using chains, fit to front wheels. Slow down in the snow: Use gears instead of brakes to slow down and watch for icy patches on shady parts of the road, where ice may have formed over a thin layer of snow. Drive smoothly, with no sudden stops and starts or sudden turns.

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and mention Australian Alpine News

Australia's Only Urban Ski Training Centre For bookings and information please call 1300 SkiCity 4/148 Chesterville Road, Cheltenham VIC 3192 T 03 9077 7990 | M 0422 225 609 | E team@skicity.com.au skicity.com.au S/51d01299/an2612

GROW THE SNOW!

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Mark Adams Real Estate

Gran Sasso 3 :: $1,450,000 inspection will impress

N M LIST EW T B IN UL G LE R

Grimus Apartment 4 :: $1,300,000 Fully Furnished

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Alto Villas 501 :: $1,350,000 Bourke St & Furnished

- Leading The Way...

The one in Alto you have been waiting for!

Presentation plus in Grimus Apartments

One of the best at Buller - Top Floor - 180 degree north views

Z Magnificent

penthouse style, sweeping views & garage car parking Z Great living room with enormously high ceilings & expansive glass Z A total of 4 bedrooms with three having their own ensuite plus direct access to generous northerly terrace with slab heating

Z Garage

Army Alpine Lodge :: Only $525,000 All Inclusive

Alto Villas 204 & 304:: Select from two on Bourke St

ARMY LODGE-Offered for the very first time with lots of possibilities

Modern building in premium location- basement car parking and lift

Z Fantastic

B & B, club, multi-family, on-site parking-25 BED LICENSES Z 7 spacious bedrooms include manager’s room, ensuite & kitchenette Z New Mt Buller Resort Lease. Up to current fire and safety standards Z Includes drying room, skiers entry, ski storage and two other entries

Z Z Z

Apartment 204 which has large deck is priced at $715,000 Apartment 304 has a balcony and is priced at $760,000 Both have 3 bedrooms, two bathrooms, drying room and laundry Alto for 2012 has new entry foyer to Bourke St making access better

TH MO EN VE SE IN TT , LE

Chalet 609 :: Must Sell $349,000 Heavily Reduced

Renovated to the max on Bourke St - Mt Buller Z Owner

instructs agent to sell NOW, asking price heavily discounted rebuilt in every aspect from floor to ceiling -exquisite furniture Z Spacious layout master bedroom & deluxe bathroom. Great views Z Dream kitchen- combo Miele oven/microwave & integrated fridge Z Fully

Arlberg Bourke St Apartment 9 :: Only $795,000

O VER UT Y GO LO IN W GS

Arlberg Hotel Studio 205 & 206:: only $290,000 each

State of the art design, impeccable finishes & furnishings Spacious 16 sq - 3 large bedrooms, master ensuite & 2nd bathrm Open fireplace, floor to ceiling windows, balcony. Quality flooring Garage parking, lift, separate entry to large owners private ski room

UR SA GEN LE T

Snowflake 11 Mt Buller :: $495,000 Make An Offer

IN S A PEC M TI US O T N

M TB UL LE R

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car park located in prestigious Grimus Apartment building Z Internal access via security lift, connected to the Pension yet private Z 3 king size bedrooms with individual en-suites suits extended family Z Spacious living for entertaining, open fireplace, balcony & views

Perfect to redecorate at your leisure

Out with the old in with the new

Fantastic value apartment with all new facilities for 2012

Z Apartment

Z Recently

11 on an upper level has sundrenched Bourke St views Z 3 good bedrooms, spacious living and recently extended dining area Z Building outside been substantial renovated for the future Z Car parking available to all unit owners as ample parking on site

BA BU SE LL OF ER

“Alpenhorn” - Alpine Ridge :: $539,000 Furnished

PR IC FA NEW E R CA ED D UC E TIO N

Hima 2 - The Avenue, Mt Buller :: $395,000

completed luxury apartment with spectacular views great bedrooms, 8 beds, two bathrooms, Bourke St balcony Z Magnificent & best underground car parking on buller included Z Low outgoings, terrific rental opportunities, on site management Z 3

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The Christiana 5- Breathtaker Rd:: $570,000 negotiable

Facing north with loads of light and shakey knees views Fully furnished, kitchen, sleeps 4-5 and large ensuite Magnificent opportunity to occupy and rent out hassle free Great rental returns and underground parking can be purchased

Attractive modern building less than a minute to Bourke St

Long lease, long life and now it looks good

Delightful bluestone country property incl several antiques & established garden

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Z 360 degree views to Mt Buller & through Merrijig valley. Fantastic outdoor decks

Upstairs Two good size bedrooms and BIR plus family bathroom

Z Spacious main living & formal dining with impressive rock wall open fireplace

Downstairs living, kitchen, drying room and second toilet

Z Second family living, dining with large wood heater, 4 great bedrooms

4WD parking available to owners on equal basis

Z Beautiful private pool room including built-in bar and loads of unique collections

Ground floor apartment with easy access via the private entrance Terrific family apartment with 3 bedrooms and could even suit 2 families Main bedroom & ensuite plus a second bathroom for other two bedrooms Well designed open plan kitchen, dining and lounge, study nook

Mark Adams :: 03 9646 4230 :: 0419 858 007 15 Beach Street, Port Melbourne

www.markadams.com.au

Suzi Meltzer :: 03 5777 5288 :: 0419 144 884 Local Resident and Agent Representative

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Mark Adams

"Mt Buller + Base of Buller"