Another Ski Resort Opens in Australia

22nd June 2020

Last modified on May 14th, 2021

Thredbo and Mt Buller were first out of the blocks and Perisher is now open. Some have delayed opening as there is not enough snow. It will though be a far from normal season with Covid-19 restrictions in place. UPDATED

Perisher opened today on Wednesday 24th June.

“We are Open! The first turns of 2020 are feeling good,” said Perisher.

Falls Creek and Mt Hotham were due to open but there is not enough snow.

They will hopefully open on July 6th.

“The delay is to ensure that Hotham and Falls Creek can open enough terrain to provide a safe experience in accordance with the COVID-19 Safe Operating Plan,” the resorts said in a joint statement.

The resorts are offering full refunds on all lift, lesson and rental purchases that have been made for Mt Hotham and Falls Creek for the period 24 June – 5 July.

However it is unclear if people will be refunded on any accommodation costs.

Thredbo in New South Wales and Mount Buller in Victoria started their winter ski season on Monday.

“We’re OPEN ❄️☀️ It’s a banger bluebird day to kick off the season and enjoy some early season turns,” said Thredbo on social media

First turns of the season 🙌❤️ There’s fresh snow in the forecast + great snowmaking conditions over the next couple days 💪❄️ We’re planning to open more terrain real soon…stay tuned 👍
Posted by Thredbo Resort on Sunday, 21 June 2020

“First turns of the season 🙌❤️ There’s fresh snow in the forecast + great snowmaking conditions over the next couple days 💪❄️ We’re planning to open more terrain real soon…stay tuned 👍” Thredbo added.

There is social distancing in place.

Thredbo, Australia. Image c/o PlanetSKI

And they’re a bit excited in Mr Buller:

❄️❄️❄️IT’S HAPPENING🙌🙌🙌It’s not going to be a snow season you’ve seen before, but if you book your accommodation, resort entry, and lift tickets you will be skiing. Details bit.ly/buller2020faq
Posted by Mt Buller on Saturday, 20 June 2020

My Baw Baw has also opened, with a dusting of snow and limited terrain open.

First Snow Update of the season! We've had a dusting of snow and are open with limited terrain. Be sure to book in advance and check the snow cams & conditions online…We're working hard to keep you safe. See our guide to winter operations at mtbawbaw.com.au/covid-19
Posted by Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort on Sunday, 21 June 2020

Charlotte Pass in New South Wales opens on Friday 26th June.

The best snow conditions are in the resorts in Victoria though the areas has seen a recent spike in covid-19 cases.

The south-eastern state has recorded more than 100 cases in the past week, mostly in Melbourne.

Victoria has extended a state of emergency declaration, re-imposed some lockdown measures, and issued warnings for six virus “hotspots”.

“This is part of living with Covid-19,” said the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison.

“There will be setbacks from time to time, but we have systems to deal with the setbacks.”

In the ski resorts coronavirus restrictions and social distancing will be in place.

– Ski resorts will operate at a reduced capacity

– Group ski and snowboarding lessons are not permitted

– Accommodation and facilities at the ski fields will have screening and safeguards in place.

– Social distancing is required and will be enforced

“Communities in the Snowy Mountains and those on major roads in and out depend heavily on tourism dollars and I know they will be very appreciative of the business brought in by visitors to the region, but it is imperative that we remember to be COVID safe,” said the New South Wales Deputy Premier, John Barilaro.

“While our regional communities are ready to welcome you with open arms, the message remains clear – if you are sick, get tested and don’t travel.”