Early snowfalls blanket mountain resorts

AUSTRALIAN ski resorts have received more early snowfalls, bringing optimism to skiers and snowboarders for the season ahead.

Mt Buller snow April 25 2012

AUSTRALIAN ski resorts have received more early snowfalls, bringing optimism to skiers and snowboarders for the season ahead.

Perisher has had between 10 to15cm of snow over the past 24 hours and more snow was predicted for next week.

"It's really starting to look like winter in the resort at the moment,'' spokesman Richard Phillips said.

"It is really exciting to see another snowfall this early in the year and it's certainly generating excitement both within the resort staff and with our guests.

"We have seen a big spike in enquiries with guests starting to plan their winter holidays.''

Falls Creek resort in Victoria received around 3 to 5cm of snow, with temperatures dropping to-1.5C.

Spokeswoman Debbie Howie said the resort was blanketed in snow and the trees were dusty white.

"We've had another chilly winter blast come through with snowfalls and freezing temperatures" she said.

"It feels like we are already in winter with the recent snow blasts. We had snow only a couple of weeks ago and now this one as well - it's a great lead up to the winter snow season.

"Winter is fast approaching and these early snowfalls are a good sign."

Ms Howie said Falls Creek Reservations have recorded above average bookings which creates a positive vibe throughout the resort.

"People are looking for a value snow holiday and with the reduced lift ticket prices and value for money packages, Falls Creek has gained strong bookings which is a great outcome," she said.

Charlotte Pass April 25 2012

Christine Parker, from Charlotte Pass resort in New South Wales, said the snow had fallen to quite a low altitude.

"You can see the snow in the hills around Jindabyne,'' she said.

"This is the second snow fall we've had this month.

"Temperatures have been below 1C for the past 24 hours and reached a low of minus-1.3C at 6pm last night.

"Snow continues to fall with more predicted over today and tomorrow.''

Mt Buller spokeswoman Rhylla Morgan said the snow and the sub-zero temperatures were ideal at this time of year for bringing down the ground temperature and preparing the slopes ready for a good snow base.

"There is something magical about seeing flakes swirling in the air that brings out the child in all of us,'' she said.

"We don't want too much snow falling just yet as we still have some works being completed on our new chairlift and other preparation for the season, but its always good to see snow in the mountains.''

The ski season officially begins on the June long weekend.

 

Mt Buller snow April 25 2012