Mt Hotham Falls Creek News by Provincial Press Group

JUNE ISSUE, 2021

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P3 BIG CHANGES Cobungra Platter to offer the best of both worlds

ENJOYING VILLAGE LIFE

Dinner Plain locals Clare Fenton and daughter Elise were rapt to see good snowfalls arrive at the resort just prior to opening weekend and are hopeful of a big season. PHOTO: Nathan Fenton

SNOWSPORT JOY P10 Past and present champions recognised at Aussie awards

It’s great to be back By JEFF ZEUSCHNER

WORLD GLORY P15 Aussie snow athletes shone on the world stage in tough season

index RESORT CHANGES

KANGAROO HOPPET P11

THERE is much to look forward to as we kick off one of arguably the most anticipated ski seasons in recent memory. While Melbourne’s recent COVID-19 outbreak and the subsequent lockdown and restrictions will have some impact on opening weekend festivities and visitation, there is still plenty of fun to be had. And plans are well underway for upcoming June/July school holidays and heaps of activities throughout this winter across Mt

Hotham, Falls Creek and of course Dinner Plain. The disappointment and heartache of last year’s premature end to the ski season due to pandemic restrictions has only heightened expectations - and there are some very positive early signs. Weather wise, conditions over recent weeks have been ideal for snowmaking, and guns at both Falls Creek and Mt Hotham have been busy pumping out a great base cover on various runs. The fact Vail Resorts has spent several million dollars expanding its snowmaking capabilities at

both Mt Hotham and Falls Creek has been an early godsend, and is certain to continue to help deliver throughout the season. In recent days even Mother Nature has been delivering good early natural snowfalls to help get the season started. Falls Creek Resort Management CEO, Stuart Smythe, speaks for everyone when he says they can’t wait for season 2021. “2020 was an extremely challenging time for everyone, but particularly so for our business operators and the Falls Creek community,” he said.

“There is much anticipation for the season ahead, with all our businesses keen to bounce back from 2020 and welcome our guests back to Australia’s premier winter village.” Director of marketing and communications, Sarah Watt, urged guests to purchase their resort entry vehicle permit online and in advance of arriving at the resort. “Things are a little different this year and we ask all visitors to plan ahead and purchase their resort entry permit, lift tickets and book accommodation in advance to ensure they have a more seamless visit to the resort,” Ms Watt said.

PAGE 2 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021

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Prepare kids for the snow By GINA WOODWARD

SO, how do you make sure kids have fun and leave with a smile when there are so many factors to consider? Prepare in advance - all these layers and foreign pieces of clothing can be a new experience for kids. Play snow dress-ups at home. Wear snow clothes, mittens, goggles and helmets around the house. Taking little kids and you already have their skis? Put on their boots and encourage them to walk around on the carpet with their boots and even their skis on. Then when they arrive at the snow, all of that will be familiar so you’ve done the hard part already. Warm bodies - dress them in appropriate clothing and remember layers are king. Use warm and breathable fabrics such as wool. Don’t wear cotton, once it’s wet it stays wet. If you don’t own thermals, you can wear ﬂannelette PJ bottoms under ski pants. They work just ﬁne. Warm socks and waterproof boots are key too - start from the bottom up for the ticket to success. Think about what you are wearing too and consider your number of layers when dressing your child. Toasty hands - gloves or mittens are key. Kids love to throw snow balls, make snowmen

CRUISING: Happy ski kids equals happy snow holiday. PHOTO: Steve Cuff

MOUNT HOTHAM CORRESPONDENT/ WRITER Mt Hotham Falls Creek News has a vacancy for a correspondent/writer living on Mt Hotham to cover stories and take photos on a casual basis for the 2021 snow season.

FALLS CREEK CORRESPONDENT/ WRITER Mt Hotham Falls Creek News has a vacancy for a correspondent/writer living in Falls Creek to cover stories and take photos on a casual basis for the 2021 snow season. Applicants who can demonstrate the following skills, experience and personal characteristics will be strongly considered: t 4PMJE LOPXMFEHF PG 'BMMT $SFFL PS .U )PUIBN acquired through living or regularly visiting the mountain t (PPE XSJUJOH TLJMMT JODMVEJOH HSBNNBS BOE spelling t "CJMJUZ UP UBLF QIPUPT t "DDFTT UP B DPNQVUFS GPS mMJOH TUPSJFT BOE QIPUPT .U )PUIBN 'BMMT $SFFL /FXT XJMM CF QVCMJTIFE monthly during the snow season. The salary will be based on a word rate and photos contributed. Written applications, including resume and a referee should be emailed to: +FGG ;FVTDIOFS (SPVQ &EJUPS &NBJM K[FVTDIOFS!OFNFEJB DPN BV

mt hotham fallsnews creek Incorporating Dinner Plain & The Great Alpine Road

Plenty of school holiday fun ahead THE June school holidays are always a celebration, and when most families head to the alps for the Australian snow season. This year it’s likely to feel that extra bit special as it means a return to the season after having 2020 cut short. This in mind, Dinner Plain is preparing a party worth coming back for with a huge outdoor snow disco and fireworks display on the first weekend of the holidays. The town’s roundabout area will be party central come Saturday, June 26 as DJ Eddy hosts a special outdoor dance party for visitors. DJ Eddy needs no introduction - when it comes to partying at the snow there’s no better resume in the business. And with DJ Eddy serving up a family-friendly set with loads of party classics, there’s sure to be more than a few snow dances happening to appease the snow gods! The party commences at 6pm with music running through until the evening’s climactic fireworks display at 8pm.

MUSIC TIME: DJ Eddy will liven up Dinner Plain at the village's dance party on June 26.

Afterwards, the party is set to continue with local favourites Hotel High Plains, the Dinner Plain Hotel and Club Wyndham sure to be at capacity with dinner bookings. With Dinner Plain set to launch their ground-breaking multi-use slope setup (skiing in the morning and tobogganing in the afternoon) there’s plenty of reasons to make Dinner Plain

your school holiday getaway - with two dedicated toboggan runs (including the longest in Australia) are joined by all-ages skiing and snowboard lift, sled dog tours, cross country ski trails and a huge playground set amongst the snow. The village is one of the only snowy places in the country where dogs are welcome and there’s no entry fee to speak of.

Mt Hotham Falls Creek News Est. 1997

Serious about targeting the ski industry this Winter?

and lie around in the snow, snow angel competition anyone? And wet hands lead to tears quickly. Mittens are warmer, waterproof is important, and for little kids, look for those with Velcro openings to make putting them on even easier. Disposable handwarmers are also a handy backup and can reduce tears on cold days. Sunscreen - sun can be harsh in winter environments with rays reflecting off the snow. Sunglasses or goggles are essential to prevent damage to eyes. Food and water - feed your kids breakfast (especially if you are dropping them off to ski school!) and keep snacks on hand. Jelly snakes are handy pocket fare and can bring an instant smile when energy fades on the hill. Stay hydrated too. Whilst we may not feel thirsty, the dry environment of the mountains means you need more water than you think. Fun - this is what you are aiming for! Encourage your kids to explore and enjoy this wonderful natural environment. Play in the snow, learn to ski, check out the snowgum trees. Get out when there is snow falling too not just in the sunshine. Stick that tongue out and taste a snowflake for the first time! It’s a magical experience that should be fun for kids of all ages, adults included.

JULY ISSUE, 2020

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inside

DINNER PLAIN JOY P3 Enjoy Australia’s longest tobogganing run on Cobungra Flat Slope

A WELCOMED WINTER: Scarlett Gavin, 7, Camilla Perry, 4, and Leo Gavin, 3, enjoy a day in the snow at Falls Creek on an unusually quiet Queen’s Birthday weekend. PHOTO: Chris Hocking

OLYMPIC DREAMS P4 Brianna doing the hard yards pursuing cross country skiing

SEASON SAVIOUR P11 Falls Creek lodge comes to rescue for stranded Zimbabwean cricketer

index

Fitness tips

Shuttle service

We’ve got our season THE ski season that almost never was is ﬁnally here but those revelling in our local winter wonderlands will have to do things a little differently in the wake of the coronavirus crisis. For Mount Hotham and Falls Creek, the 2019 season marked the start of a new era with an exciting $179 million deal that saw the mountains taken under the wing of Vail Resorts. But the 2020 season is sure to write its own chapter in the history book for being the one where it only just survived a global pandemic.

It’s different, but still mountains of fun to enjoy BY ASHLEIGH PILES apiles@ nemedia.com.au

Ski mountains are special places and usually, at this time of year there would be thousands of visitors making themselves at home, but a shortened season and heightened social distancing restrictions will limit numbers and activities - but not the fun. The start of the

coronavirus pandemic had almost everyone in the Alpine Shire sweating the start of the pending ski season and as months went by, it looked more and more unlikely to happen. The mercury plummeted at the start of May and as a wintry blast surged through the Alps, locals and those watching from afar felt a new sense of worry. Mount Hotham received a once-in-a-decade autumn

dump of more than 80cm of fresh snow, with some of the snowdrifts over a metre deep by May 1. The mercury dropped to a low of -4.2C on the mountain on the Sunday morning, almost 4C below average. More than 30cm of snow fell on Dinner Plain while Mount Buffalo turned into a white sea with 16cm of fresh snow falling on the empty mountain. But with the Mount

Buffalo and Alpine National parks still closed due to COVID-19 restrictions, people could only enjoy views of the snow-capped peaks from afar. Closer to Bright, with snowfall as low as 900 metres, locals took the opportunity to admire a snow-capped Mount Porepunkah up close unsure of when the chance to get up to Falls and Hotham would arrive.

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Don't miss out on being part of the next edition of Mt. Hotham/Falls Creek News. If you wish to promote your business or service please contact:

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PHOTO: Karl Gray Media

With almost every accommodation being a free-standing chalet with driveway parking, it’s the snow holiday that breaks the mould for comfort and convenience. Bookings are still available and there are lots of options from two-share up to multi-family holiday homes. Find out more at www.visitdinnerplain.com.au

NEXT EDITION: July 2021 Booking deadline: June 10, 2021 GROUP EDITOR: Jeff Zeuschner ADVERTISING: Jenny Zamperoni EDITORIAL: Jeff Zeuschner ADVERTISING SALES EMAIL: jking@nemedia.com.au Telephone 0427 495 309 EDITORIAL EMAIL: JZeuschner@nemedia.com.au Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd at the registered office, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta, 3677. Printed web offset by North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta, 3677. PRODUCTION: North East Media P/L, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta, 3677. Telephone: (03) 5723 0100 YOUR NEWS: Contributed articles, news, artwork and color photographs from readers are most welcome. Please email material to Jeff Zeuschner at jzeuschner@nemedia.com.au or phone (03) 57230 107. Photos courtesy of Mt Hotham Ski Company & Falls Creek Resort Management.

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021 — PAGE 3

Delivering more snowmaking at Falls Creek... and Mt Hotham AN almost $2 million investment in snowmaking and snow grooming machines is expected to pay off big time for Falls Creek visitors this season. Vail Resorts has spent $1.88 million to help upgrade both snowmaking operations at Falls Creek, the biggest investment in a decade at the resort. You’ll ﬁnd shiny new snow guns along Wombats Ramble, Main Street and at the base of Drovers. These automated TechnoAlpin Snow Guns have been ﬁring out tons of snow in the lead up to opening weekend, with mountains more expected to follow. In addition to this, the company has added a

PistenBully 400 Winch and a PistenBully 400 Park grooming machine to the team to help provide even more ﬂawless groomed runs to enjoy than ever before throughout the season. The huge investment is helping get snow on the ground quicker across the perfect family friendly terrain, ensuring the best possible snow conditions all season long. Falls Creek slope operations manager, Danny Lucas, said it’s really great to see the improvement this investment has made on the snowmaking system in Falls Creek. “We will be making snow at every opportunity,” he said.

HELPING HAND: An almost $2 million investment has helped bolster snowmaking at Falls Creek this season. PHOTO: Nic Wilke

MT HOTHAM’S snowmaking has also been beefed up, with Vail Resorts investing in eight new, state-ofthe-art mobile snow guns - five TechnoAlpin T40 and three TR 10 mobile fan guns to be precise. The beauty of Hotham’s newly expanded snowmaking fleet is in their flexibility. The mountain team can manoeuvre the guns around the resort like master chess players to deliver the best results. What does this all mean for Hotham guests? It will see the runs you love open sooner and offer the best possible snow conditions all season long. From the Summit and Sun Run, to Imagine, Snake Gully and more, the resort’s snow making team has it covered.

Cobungra Platter slope now offers the best of both worlds

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS: Dinner Plain’s Cobungra Platter slope will operate as a ski slope in the morning and a dedicated toboggan run (inset) in the afternoon throughout the 2021 season. PHOTOS: Karl Gray Media

THERE’S a little-known secret to making the perfect family snow holiday, some of the best fun comes from the simplest means. That’s where Dinner Plain shines. This gem of the high country is ready to launch what many would consider to be the most complete snowplay package on offer this season, the perfect mix of lift-accessed skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing fun. Dinner Plain has reshaped 2021 operations on its ski run to bring bigger thrills and a higher quality of product to its overall snowplay offering. From the June 12 opening weekend the Cobungra Platter slope will start operating as a lift-accessed ski slope in the mornings from 9am to 1pm, changing to a dedicated toboggan run in the afternoons, from 1.30pm to 4.30pm. Nathan Fenton, Dinner Plain marketing and events manager, believes it’s a “best

of both worlds scenario, which is sure to be popular with snow-goers this winter”. “Tobogganing is the classic activity, one that is enjoyed by all but dedicated by just a few destinations,” he said. “In opening up their ski terrain to afternoon sliding, Dinner Plain now offers a slope that measures almost 100 metres long, making it the country’s longest and steepest toboggan run and supported by full snowmaking and grooming operations. “Dinner Plain now boasts two dedicated toboggan runs, daily lift-accessed skiing and snowboarding and 35kms of groomed cross country ski trails. “Unlike other resorts, we don’t charge for entry either.” With options for winter holidays limited to travel in-bounds, destinations like Dinner Plain have become the perfect alternative to an overseas family holiday.

“Dinner Plain bridges the gap between luxury and convenience,” Mr Fenton said. “Sitting just beyond Mount Hotham Alpine Resort, the village’s 200 or so free-standing holiday homes are set amongst snowgumlined streets where the stunning architecture is as constant a talking point as the snowy setting. “Gone are the inconveniences of ski resort living, here you can drive to your door, park outside and enjoy all the comforts of home. “You can even ﬁnd accommodation where dogs are welcome too. “Once the temperatures start to drop you can expect the snow guns to start ﬁring to build a snow base for the fun to begin. “You don’t want to miss out, this season is shaping up as one more eagerly anticipated than any before. “To secure a spot for your perfect time this winter, head to visitdinnerplain.com.au and start planning today.”

PAGE 4 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021

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MUCH TO EXPLORE: Guided backcountry tours will continue to open up Hotham’s stunning untracked terrain this season, with options for everyone from intermediate and advanced skiers who haven’t been game to try backcountry, to experienced backcountry riders who want a customised guided tour.

Excitement is high for Hotham’s 2021 season

WITH consistently good natural snowfall, complemented by hightech snowmaking capacity, and vast uncrowded runs with stunning natural vistas set in Victoria’s highest alpine village, a winter holiday at Mt Hotham is looking better than ever. And in 2021, visitors can look forward to more exhilarating fun on the world-class slopes and terrain parks, fabulous dining options, and a range of unique alpine activities. Mt Hotham marketing and communications manager, Katie Bowker, is thrilled to be welcoming guests back to the resort, particularly after the challenges faced in the 2020 season. “Early snowfalls are a great indicator for a bumper season and Mt Hotham’s easy drive-in, ski-out access means guests can be on the runs for fresh turns without any hassle,” she said.

Ms Bowker recommends guests head to the Mt Hotham website mthotham.com.au - to plan and book their holiday well in advance. “We’re expecting a busy season with guests returning to their muchloved mountain,” she said. “To avoid disappointment we suggest visitors consider mid-week and off peak dates. “Spring is the perfect time to visit, with blue skies, and great snow.”

Off-piste action - explore Australia’s best alpine backcountry In 2019, Mt Hotham expanded its backcountry offering, formalising what experienced skiers and boarders have always known - Hotham reigns supreme in providing access to stunning alpine backcountry experiences. In 2021, guided backcountry tours will continue to open up Hotham’s stunning untracked terrain, with options for everyone from intermedi-

ate and advanced skiers who haven’t been game to try backcountry, to experienced backcountry riders who want a customised guided tour. Mt Hotham will also again be hosting Australia’s only Backcountry Festival in September, celebrating human-powered winter sports including cross country skiing, snowshoeing, telemark and alpine touring and split boarding. There will be an extensive program of tours and workshops, an outdoor ski-in bar, a speakers’ program, ﬁlm night, a demo village and other social events. Hotham’s equipment hire operators including Hoys, Snow Monkey, Tirol Sports and One Tree Sports are ready to kit out keen adventurers with the latest backcountry touring technology from around the world. Stay and play Visitors looking for a truly unique outdoor experience can try the ﬁrst

and only igloo village in Australia, delivered by Alpine Nature Experience. Snowshoe through the snowgums, learn to prepare an authentic French cheese fondue, then curl up in a real snow igloo, comfortably furnished with a real bed and -8 degree rated sleeping bags. The iconic Joyce Brockhoff Hut in Heavenly Valley will be open for business again, providing great coffee, pastries from the Harrietville Bakery, and piping hot homemade soups - right on the slopes in a true ski in, ski out experience. Tobogganing will still be a popular family-friendly activity at Mt Hotham’s toboggan and snow play areas, and kids can hop on a snowmobile for a trip through the snow gum forest in Hotham’s Wire Plain area. Victoria’s most accessible resort All activities are easily accessed

on the free resort shuttle’s fleet of fully accessible buses with low floors and electric wheelchair ramps, making access easier for all visitors. To support the resort’s accessible ethos, Disabled Wintersports Australia will again offer their members a range of services, including volunteer guides, specialised adaptive equipment, discounted lift tickets and disability-specific information for visiting the mountain. These programs are run with significant community support, including RMB and Lift Co, and the Mt Hotham community. Whilst the program provides an incredible opportunity for differently-abled skiers and boarders, more help is always needed. Experienced skiers and boarders looking for a new way to explore the mountain, help others and make new friends are encouraged to consider being a volunteer guide, by contacting Philip Knight on 0412 270 764.

Omeo 147 Day Avenue

NOW DELIVERING TO MT HOTHAM & DINNER PLAIN! Delivery service available to Dinner plain 5 days a week Mt Hotham deliveries available on Tuesday & Friday only. Free delivery for purchases of $150 and over (Excluding cigarettes and alcohol). Minimum delivery fee of $8 to Dinner Plain and $10 to Mt Hotham for all other orders. Orders required by 8am for all deliveries. (Delivery prices may be negotiable) *Terms and Conditions apply*

TRADING HOURS Monday - Friday Sunday -

7:00am to 7:00pm 9:00am to 5:00pm

Orders can be placed by phone or email or fax. Store contact:

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Fax: 03 5159 1448 | Email: omeofoodworks@gmail.com

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021 — PAGE 5

NOBODY SELLS LIKE CASTR AN Just a few of our recent sales... John Castran | 0411 502 424 | john@castran.com.au

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PAGE 6 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021

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New owners and major facelift for Lakeside Falls Creek IT seems that no matter who you speak to in the Falls Creek community, everybody has a memory of working, living or staying at Lakeside Lodge. And if they don’t, they still have a story that features it. It is after all, a Falls Creek institution. And, it is on it’s way back. Recently changing hands, Lakeside Falls Creek is currently being rejuvenated to represent its former glory. Undergoing a major facelift ready for the upcoming season the new owners husband and wife team of Lyndon Mitchell and Michelle Lovell - are working around the clock to make Lakeside once again the “place to stay, and the place to play”. “It’s been pretty hectic since we bought the place and the moved up from Geelong earlier this year,” said Michelle. "Lyndon is a builder and has been doing most of the work himself, while my background is in hospitality and there has been much to do ahead of the season opening. “We’ve both been coming up to Falls Creek for 20 years and have been looking for this opportunity for several years...Falls is our happy place and we’re rapt to be living and working here as a family.” Lakeside Falls Creek has a lodge style atmosphere, with a huge lounge featuring a vintage brass shroud around it’s central fireplace and panoramic summit views. The brass detail, an original feature of the

lodge build, gives a late 1970s vibe that the renovations are embracing. Lakeside Bar and Eatery will open to both in-house guests and the public. “We are so excited to be welcoming our new chef, Sam Heritage, to the team,” said Michelle. “Having trained under some amazing mentors and heralding from the foodie paradise laneways of Melbourne’s CBD, we can’t wait to see what Sam can bring to Falls Creek.” Many people will remember the iconic bright blue carpet, and matching doors. As the outgoing operators said, it was ‘shagadellic baby’. The modernisation to guest rooms include new carpet, new toilets and vanities, fresh linen and installation of smart TV’s with free high speed wifi. “We want to make Lakeside as comfortable and convenient as possible,” said Michelle. “We want to be an affordable option for people to choose to stay without sacrificing the creature comforts.” With a variety of room configurations, Lakeside Falls Creek is the perfect option for families and groups of all sizes. Michelle said that in addition to the winter season, Lakeside Falls Creek will look to open during school holidays throughout the entire year. For more information or to make a booking visit www.lakesidefallscreek.com.au

NEW OWNERS: Michelle Lovell and Lyndon Mitchell and their son Grady are looking forward to their first season at Lakeside Falls Creek.

Governance changes for resorts State Government lauds new, centralised entity to replace management board at each resort VICTORIA’S ski industry is anxiously awaiting more details following the State Government’s announcement in March that it will abolish the current system of management boards at each alpine resort and place governance under a new, centralised entity. The government said Alpine Resorts Victoria is to start work by July 2022, and is the result of “government reforms to make alpine boards more efﬁcient”. Created by merging Victoria’s four alpine resort management boards, Alpine Resorts Victoria will govern Falls Creek, Mt Hotham, Mt Buller, Mt Stirling, Lake Mountain and Mt Baw Baw resorts. Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D’Ambrosio, said the change follows consultation with a range of stakeholders, including industry, local government and the resort management boards. “There is broad support for the creation of a single entity to ensure long term sustainability of the alpine

Key State Government commitments under Alpine Management Reforms are: z Government’s objective to create economic resilience and ensure long-term sustainable future of Victoria’s alpine resorts sector, recognising its importance to state’s visitor economy. z A key principle will be ensuring industry has a platform to directly communicate Alpine Resorts Victoria needs on strategic and operational directions for each resort. z Government recognises uniqueness of each of Victoria’s alpine resorts and relationships with visitors, local businesses, operators and traditional owners. Government to ensure a close connection remains between governance of the resorts and businesses and operators at each location. z A key principle will be ensuring local government and Alpine Resorts Victoria work together to enable regional local communities to flourish and enable unique opportunities to be developed. z Composition of Alpine Resorts Victoria board will ensure traditional owner voices are heard at the board table. z Government will maintain number of frontline operational roles across resorts and support staff to transition to new entity. Where possible, leadership continuity will be maintained at resorts during transition. z Next steps will be local government, traditional owners, industry and other key stakeholders participate in a stakeholder reference group to help shape new entity and identify issues and solutions during transition phase.

industry and tourism while making sure the resorts are operating in a ﬁnancially sustainable way,” Minister D’Ambrosio said. “Alpine Resorts Victoria will support the alpine industry to build economic resilience and navigate the challenges of climate change, and recovery from bushﬁres and the pandemic.” The government has said existing leases with Alpine Resort Management Boards will be transferred to the new Alpine Resorts Victoria with no

changes to their terms and conditions. The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning is to take on the strategic policy functions of the former Alpine Resorts Coordinating Council. Minister D’Ambrosio said a stakeholder reference group will also be established to “ensure key interests including industry representatives, Traditional Owners and local government have input in the transition to the new body”.

She said Traditional Owners and Aboriginal Victorians will be represented on the new Alpine Resorts Victoria board to ensure management decisions consider their signiﬁcant local knowledge and enduring connection to Country. The government said the alpine sector remains an important contributor to regional economies, with the resorts in winter alone collectively contributing nearly $1.1 billion to the Victorian economy, attracting

What do you think?

Mt Hotham/Falls Creek News is interested in your opinion about the government’s changes to alpine resort governance. Email your view, in 250 words or less, to jzeuschner@nemedia.com. au, including your contact details. one million visitors and sustaining nearly 10,000 jobs. While the government remains enthusiastic about its reforms, questions are being asked about the practical functionality and individual governance of competing resorts, with some pundits remembering, with little fondness, when a centralised entity – the Alpine Resorts Commission – governed the resorts, only to make way for the decentralised governance now being forsaken.

Falls Creek Medical Centre Winter Consultation Hours Daily 10 am to 12 noon and 2.00 to 5.00pm

Due to Infection Control recommendations, no-one will be allowed entry into the Medical Centre without liaising ﬁrst with the practice. Please phone 03 5758 3238 to organise your appointment.

Email enquiries@mbmc.com.au Web www.mbmc.com.au This is a private trauma clinic and general practice. Fee for service will apply. This practice is fully Accredited by Quality Practice Accreditation Pty Ltd and staffed by fully qualiﬁed Rural Medical Practitioners

Falls Medical

Creek Centre

Bogong High Plains Road, Falls Creek 3699 Phone (03) 5758 3238

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021 — PAGE 7

RESTAURANT, BAR & BISTRO

ACCOMMODATION

Sit back, relax and enjoy the ambience of our historic restaurant with an open fireplace for those chilly winter nights. Our menu offers an excellent range and selection of local produce prepared by our professionally qualified and highly experienced chefs.

We offer 24 clean and comfortable, newly refurbished rooms at the hotel as well as four modern self-contained apartments located nearby at Butler Court. All within close walking distance to boutique shops, parks and walking tracks and offering a home away from during your stay in Bright.

Are you chasing a more relaxed dining experience? Look no further than our Bar & Bistro, which offers light and delicious snacks to share right through to the classic ‘pub’ favourites that you can enjoy in the Beer Garden or the shade overlooking Bright’s main street. The choice is yours. One thing is for sure you’ll certainly enjoy the atmosphere.

Find out more: Address: 7 - 9 Anderson Street, Bright Email: accom@alpinehotelbright.com.au Website: alpinehotelbright.com.au

With Bright being located only an hour’s drive from the snowfields, you can discover the abundance of activities and things to see and do in the beautiful alpine landscape. From Snow Skiing, Cycling and Mountain Biking, Bushwalking and Hiking, Climbing, Caving and Abseiling, there is something for the whole family.

1 Y Y "Y$&$$Y!"%%

PAGE 8 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021 — PAGE 9

Dinner Plain Sled Dog Sprint returns, with more this year THERE is plenty that comes to mind when you think of Dinner Plain in winter. From the unique mountain architecture to the native snowgums that line the streets. Even the homely environment of warming by a wood-ﬁre as the snow piles up outside. One undeniably iconic element is the snow dogs, an ever-present sight at Australia’s only alpine village to completely welcome visitors with their pets. It stands to reason that the nation’s longest running sled dog event is held at Dinner Plain, and is back once again in 2021. The Dinner Plain Sled Dog Sprint is a winter show-stopper, a weekend where people come from far and wide to take part in the unique atmosphere. It attracts dog teams from across the country, mostly Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes. Since its ﬁrst race in 1994, the event hosted an unbroken run of 26 years until 2020 and COVID-19 broke the streak. Now 12 months on, Dinner Plain is ready to bring back this classic event to its snowy trails. August 14 and15 has been locked in and a new organising committee is excited to bring some new elements to the format. On the cards are more meet and greet opportunities (because every-

MAN’S BEST FRIEND: Dinner Plain is looking forward to again hosting the Dinner Plain Sled Dog Sprint on August 14 nd 15.

one loves to cuddle a husky!) and a unique skijoring category combining cross country skiers with sled dogs. The spectacle is worth the trip alone but there’s also fun to be had by taking part yourself. Dinner Plain is home base for Howling Husky Sled Dog Tours,

giving the opportunity to ride on the back with your own dog sled team. Racing through the alpine snowgums is deﬁnitely one to chalk up on the must-do list. There hasn’t been a winter as eagerly anticipated as 2021. With 2020 now in the past, locals and visitors alike can’t wait to get

RACE ACTION: You can get close to the action duirng the Dinner Plain Sled Dog Sprint. PHOTO: Karl Gray Media

back to the business of enjoying the Australian snow. To kick off the season with a bang. Dinner Plain’s Queens Birthday festivities will be headlined on Saturday, June 12 with a grand ﬁreworks display and outdoor snow party, hosted by none other than resident partystarter DJ Eddy.

Whilst properties are booking up quickly, you can still get a great spot locked in before winter gets too close. Check visitdinnerplain.com.au to see about the accommodation options on offer, and see what you need to know about taking your own dog to the snow this winter season.

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PAGE 10 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021

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Snow Australia Awards celebrate our past and present champions THE Australian snowsport community had good reason to celebrate at the recent Snow Australia Awards in Melbourne. Australian athletes captured four World Cup victories, 12 World Cup podiums, two World Championships titles and ﬁve World Championships medals during the northern winter season. World Championship gold medallist and backto-back FIS Aerials Crystal Globe winner Laura Peel and Snowboard Cross Team event World Champions Belle Brockhoff and Jarryd Hughes shared the coveted Athlete of the Year award (Olympic disciplines). Ben Tudhope was recognised with the Athlete of the Year award for Paralympic Disciplines, the second consecutive award for the Para Snowboarder who was the winner in 2020. Tudhope said it was amazing just to be able to travel and compete this season, given the many logistical challenges posed by the pandemic. “Even to compete at just one event has been amazing,” he said. “Now I am looking forward to next season. We have a big year ahead of us with the World Championships in January and the Paralympic Winter Games in March.” Laura Peel, who in March became Australia’s ﬁrst ever aerial skier to win two World Championship gold medals (2015 and 2021), was over the moon capping her best season to date with a back-toback and third overall Snow Australia Athlete of the Year (Olympic disciplines) award. “I am very honoured to be Athlete of the Year,” said Peel after receiving her award from Senator Richard Colbeck. “There are obviously some incredible athletes in our little Australian winter community and I wish Jarryd [Hughes] and Belle [Brockhoff] could be with us tonight.” “There are a lot of people

WHAT A BUNCH: The first Snow Australia Medal recipients. FIS Alpine World Cup gold medal winner Steve Lee (second from right) and Australia’s first Winter Paralympian, Ron Finneran OAM (front, left) were presented the medals alongside (not in any order) Olympians Kim Cifford, Jo McDougall (nee Henke), Sally Rodd, Ondine McGlashan, Marilla Guss, Richie Biggins, Al Guss and Peter Forras.

Athlete of the Year - Olympic Disciplines

z Laura Peel z Belle Brockhoff z Jarryd Hughes

Athlete of Year - Paralympic Disciplines z Ben Tudhope

Alex “Chumpy” Pullin Outstanding Achievement Award z Danielle Scott

Junior Athlete of the Year z Valentino Guseli

Coach of the Year - Olympic Disciplines z Mich Roth and Dave Morris (Aerials)

Coach of Year - Paralympic Disciplines z Par Sundqvist (Para Snowboard)

that have helped me to get to this point at my career so I’d like to start by thanking the Olympic Winter Institute of Sport, Snow Australia, the Victorian Institute of Sport, the Australian Federal Government and our sponsors Karbon and XTM. “I’d also like to say thank you to my amazing coaches and teammates. Finally, I’d like to thank my incredible family and friends, who have always supported me along the way. Thank you everyone.” Belle Brockhoff and Jarryd Hughes also made history

AWARDED: Ben Tudhope won Athlete of the Year in Paralympic Disciplines.

when they won the ﬁrst ever Snowboard Cross team event at the 2021 Snowboard World Championships. The duo are now looking forward to competing together again at Beijing 2022, where the discipline will make its Olympic debut in less than 10 months. Snow Australia announced that its traditional Outstanding Achievement Award had been renamed the Alex ‘Chumpy’ Pullin Outstanding Achievement Award, to honour the memory of the two-time Snowboard Cross World Champion who

TOP ATHLETE: Laura Peel was joint winner of the Athlete of the Year award.

tragically passed away in July last year. The award was presented to aerial skier Dani Scott for her amazing comeback season, after spending three years away from the snow due to injuries. “I am so honoured,” Scott said. “This means the world to me because he (Alex Pullin) has always been there for me. “I thought a lot about him when I was out there (sidelined by injury)]. “Just seeing how hard he worked and what he was able to achieve was inspiring and it

HONOURED: Danielle Scott was awarded the Alex ‘Chumpy’ Pullin Outstanding Achievement Award.

will live on forever. “It’s really an exciting time to be part of such a successful aerials team and it’s great to also see the young athletes come through. “We’ve got such a rich history and it keeps going on.” Sixteen-year-old Snowboard Halfpipe talent Valentino Guseli was recognised as Junior Athlete of the Year. The young and upcoming athlete is currently based overseas, but he sent a video message to thank the snowsport community for the award.

The night was also an opportunity to present the first Snow Australia Medals - a legacy project launched by Snow Australia in 2020 to recognise the achievements and careers of those past and retiring athletes who represented Australia at the highest level of snowsport competition. The medals were issued to ten athletes, the first of 60-plus snowsport legends announced as recipients during the last 12 months to accept the recognition in person. Spearheading the group were FIS Alpine World Cup gold medal winner Steve Lee and Australia’s first Winter Paralympian, Ron Finneran OAM, who were presented the medals alongside Olympians Kim Cifford, Jo McDougall (nee Henke), Sally Rodd, Ondine McGlashan, Marilla Guss, Richie Biggins, Al Guss and Peter Forras. “After a tumultuous 12 months, tonight we are in the position to publicly present the first of our medals to our past athletes,” said Snow Australia CEO Michael Kennedy during the presentation. “We are proud to recognise nine alpine athletes who competed at the highest level between 1976 and 1992, plus Ron Finneran, the pioneer of Paralympic Winter Sports in Australia. “Importantly, we celebrate people who have given so much back to their sport and their communities, and remain a visible presence in the sport today.” Mr Kennedy said the season was especially challenging for Australian athletes, with many of them not able to travel or compete overseas. “It’s amazing to have them here tonight along with some of the legends of our sport. Together, they are shining and inspiring examples for our young generation to follow,” he said.

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021 — PAGE 11

Virtual success to be part of the Kangaroo Hoppet again in 2021 AUSTRALIA’S premiere cross country ski event will offer the best of both worlds this season, with a virtual and in person event planned to mark the 30th anniversary of the Kangaroo Hoppet. Last year’s hoppet was scheduled for August 22, but with Covid-19 restrictions on social gathering and international travel, the decision was made in April to replace the normal 42km, 21km and 7km cross country skiing events with a virtual version in which participants could take part in the event using an activity of their choice at any location over a three week period. The Australian and international skiing community rallied around the 2020 Kangaroo Hoppet, Australia’s international ski marathon, with 1901 participants (475 from overseas) representing 37 nations taking part in the virtual “Do It Your Way” version of the event. Past event winners from Norway, Germany and the USA took part as well as Australian world champions in mogul skiing and mountain biking. Activities included running, walking, cycling, swim-

JOIN IN THE CELEBRATION: The Kangaroo Hoppet will be staged for its 30th year in August, and you can take part in the virtual Hoppet, or on the day in the real event.

ming, roller skiing, inline skating, paddling, canoeing, mountain biking, swimming, exercise machines, and, for the limited number of Australians with the opportunity to ski at Perisher and Falls Creek, (not to overlook ski tunnels in Finland and Norway), cross country skiing. With two enthusiasts completing their Hoppet at research bases in Antarctica,

the event reached all seven continents, which is believed to be a world ﬁrst for sporting events! The Virtual Hoppet was a great way to bring the skiing community together during global isolation. The 2021 Hoppet will be held on Saturday, August 28, and mark its 30th birthday, and 30th running of the event at Falls Creek.

While organising committee members are all looking forward to a relatively normal winter and a real Hoppet at Falls Creek, they have decided to also offer a virtual Hoppet for international skiers who cannot make it to Australia and of course the virtual event will be open to Australian skiers who cannot make it to Falls Creek and also non skiers who want to

be part of the event. Holding both events will allow for the international skiing community to be connected through the great local world class ski event. With the uncertainty of border openings and closing complicating the issue, entries for the Hoppet will not open until July 1 with the Earlybird price on offer until July 31.

While many skiers will just be happy to get back to the trails in the local region, the Hoppet is a great way for all skiing enthusiasts to come together towards the end of the season. The atmosphere and pageantry mark the event as a memorable occasion for all participants, whether they be at the front of the ﬁeld, or enjoying the day with family and friends. Allan Marsland was one of the many local drivers behind the event and has been the face of the Hoppet for 30 years. He told Mt Hotham/Falls Creek News that while there have certainly been some ups and downs since the inaugural event in 1991, the organising committee has always staged a great event. “2021, while challenged through restricted international travel, will be another memorable event,” he enthused. “It will be great to see the atmosphere and excitement again as the skiers start and ﬁnish in the Nordic Bowl.” For further information please contact info@hoppet. com.au or www.hoppet.com.au See you in Falls Creek on August 28.

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PAGE 12 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021

AT THE HELM: Jenni Cole is the new CEO of Disabled Wintersports Australia (DWA).

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Fresh start for Disabled Wintersport 2021 DISABLED Wintersport Australia (DWA) has announced a new chief executive ofﬁcer in Jenni Cole. Ms Cole was most recently the CEO of Disability Sports Australia and comes to DWA with over 30 years experience at all levels in adaptive sport. She is a rehabilitation physiotherapist and educator by background and was the manager of classiﬁcation for Paralympics Australia from 2006 - 2009 and medical coordinator for the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games. A keen recreational skier and avid alpine hiker, Ms Cole brings to the role of CEO of DWA broad experience in adaptive sport combined with passion for the power of adaptive sport to transform the lives of people with disability. “I am tremendously excited to be able to combine my passion for adaptive sport with my love for the mountains and the snow, and to build on the amazing work done by DWA for so

many years, to bring the joy of snow and alpine sport to people with a disability and their families,” she said. “I look forward to working closely with the DWA board and the fantastic team from DWA and am excited for the future of this great organisation.” After a disrupted season in 2020, which saw COVID-19 restrictions resulting in cancellation of camps and the well known volunteer guide program, this year is shaping up to be a signiﬁcant return toward usual operations. On snow services will resume at Falls Creek and Mt Hotham, as well as Mt Buller, and Thredbo and Perisher in NSW, meaning that people with a disability will once again be able to experience the joy and freedom of snowsports in a safe and inclusive environment. “Our experienced and passionate staff and returning volunteer guides are already preparing to welcome our members back to the snow,” said Ms Cole.

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“What better way to dust off the COVID lockdown blues and experience something magical? “DWA has the skill and equipment to make sure that anyone can experience the freedom of being on snow.” DWA is the National Sporting Organisation for Disabled Wintersport. It was established in 1978 with a vision for the equality of opportunity for people with disabilities to participate at all levels in the winter sport of their choice. DWA has over 1000 active members who range from recreational skiers and snowboarders through to Australia’s Winter Paralympians. For more information about how to get involved, whether as a guide, volunteer or as a person with any kind of disability who wants to try adaptive skiing and snowboarding, please visit the DWA website www. disabledwintersport.com.au or make contact via email at info@disabledwintersport. com.au.

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021 — PAGE 13

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PAGE 14 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021

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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021 — PAGE 15

Aussie snow athletes shone on the world stage in tough season By STEVE CUFF

IN what was a difﬁcult year for athletes to travel and compete, Australia once again showed the snow world that we are a strong force when it comes to snow competition. Our elite athletes produced a swag of medals and great performances with multiple podiums for many athletes. This sets the tone for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics which are now clearly in their sights. Here is a recap of the season highlights.

World Championships gold medals THE Australian team of 2018 Olympic silver medallist Jarryd Hughes and multiple World Cup winner Belle Brockhoff won an historic World Championship gold medal in the snowboard cross mixed teams event in Idre FjÃ¤ll, Sweden. It was Australia’s first ever mixed teams medal in the new Olympic event which will debut in Beijing 2022. The mixed teams event is a twocompetitor-per-team relay with one male and female athlete. The male athletes race first, with the women leaving the start gate with the respective time margin that the men crossed the finish line. Hughes got Australia off to a great start in the final to cross the line in first place, 0.77 seconds ahead of the Italian team. Brockhoff then raced exceptionally well to take the victory finishing 0.64 seconds ahead of the Italian team with France crossing the line in third place. Laura Peel has had her best season ever claiming both the FIS World Championship Gold Medal and the overall World Cup Crystal Globe for aerials. Laura won gold performing a number of spectacular triple back somersaults to claim victory in Almaty, Kazakhstan. In the super final, Peel competed one of the most difficult jumps ever performed by a female competitor, full-full-full, a triple twisting triple back somersault scoring a huge 106.46 points to take the win. The 31-year-old from Canberra is now the first ever Australian aerial skier to win two World Championship gold medals, having first won gold in Kreischberg, Austria, in 2015. “Honestly the second time feels even better”, said Peel after stepping off the podium. “My qualification jumps were not my best, but I saved my best for the final, it’s only the second time I have competed that jump, I am so happy to put it down.”

Snowboard Halfpipe SCOTTY James came agonisingly close to winning his third straight X Games gold, claiming the silver medal in the superpipe event in Aspen, Colorado (USA). James also fell short of recording a historic fourth straight halfpipe

S BIG PERFORMER: Scotty James claims a silver X Games medal. PHOTO: Phil Ellsworth / ESPN Images

W TOP OF THE WORLD: World Champion and World Cup Crystal Globe winner Laura Peel. PHOTO: Chris Hocking / OWIA

T GOLDEN JOY: Jarryd Hughes and Belle Brockhoff claim World Championship gold in the snowboard cross mixed teams. PHOTO: GEPA

S THE MASTER: Matt Graham claimed the overall World Cup Crystal Globe. PHOTO: FIS

World Championship gold medal, claiming the silver medal in Aspen in March to add to another silver medal performance at the FIS World Cup event in Laax, Switzerland. Australian 15-year-old snowboarding prodigy Valentino Guseli announced himself to the world by blitzing the field in qualifying for the Laax Open Halfpipe World Cup in Switzerland. The teen sensation wowed the judges with a near perfect 95 point score (out of 100) to lead the field in qualifying in his debut World Cup appearance. The qualifying result is the best ever by an Australian winter sports athlete on debut and he would eventually finish overall in eight position.

Snowboard Slopestyle ASPEN proved a happy hunting ground for Aussie snowboarders with Tess Coady capturing a bronze medal in slopestyle at the World Championships. Coady ﬁnished the season with a bronze World Cup medal in Switzerland also, her third medal of the season and a ﬁnal ranking of third.

Moguls MATT Graham won gold in dual moguls in Sweden, before back to back podiums in Deer Valley, Utah (USA) in February. To cap of a fantastic season, Graham won the overall World

Cup Crystal Globe in Kazakhstan, the ﬁrst Australian male to do so since Olympic champion Dale Begg-Smith. “I am very excited and very happy to have earnt this, the Crystal Globe is one of those things I have always wanted competing in mogul skiing” said the 2018 Olympic silver medallist. Fellow team member Brodie Summers captured a bronze medal in Sweden, his third World Cup medal of his career.

Women’s Aerials ADDING to Laura Peel’s great season, fellow team member Danielle Scott made a golden comeback winning the gold medal at the Deer Valley World Cup

event in her ﬁrst event since the 2018 Winter Olympics. Scott claimed her fourth career gold medal scoring 90.59 points with her back double full-full (a triple twisting double back somersault).

Women’s Skier Cross SKI cross athlete Sami Kennedy-Sim started the season strongly, with a bronze medal performance in the opening FIS World Cup event in Arosa, Switzerland, the podium result is the second of the two-time Olympian’s career. Kennedy-Sim’s season ended early with an elbow injury that forced her home mid season.

PAGE 16 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — June 2021

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Dinner Plain Pure High Country

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Australia’s GREATEST Snowplay Dinner Plain is the perfect destination for family snow fun. With Australia’s longest dedicated toboggan run, an all-ages ski & snowboard poma and dog-friendly village, this winter it’s time to experience a holiday worth sharing.