Australia - The rapidly approaching start to Australia’s snow season has many enthusiasts eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for winter 2006. This time of year sees debates, conjecture and often obscure forecasting methods adopted by locals, returning seasonal staff, purported weather experts, holiday makers and anyone else with a modicum of interest in how Mother Nature will treat ski resorts for snow in the coming season.
Three snowfalls in May have been a good early indicator of what many forecasters predict is going to be a bumper winter. Although much of the accumulations have melted off on the lower slopes (expected for this time of year) the upper slopes still have areas of good coverage.
In preparation for this season, Perisher Blue commenced its’ snowmaking activities today on Front Valley. Cold overnight temperatures and the fact that the ground remains frozen are ideal conditions for making snow. Perisher Blue expects to continue to produce its own snow from now on until well into July or possibly August.
Combined with natural falls, this will allow for what is expected to be good season long snow accretion. “By about mid July we generally have enough snow on the ground at Perisher Blue to last for the rest of the season,” said John Palmer Perisher Blue’s Snowmaking Manager.
Perisher Blue officially kicks off the 2006 winter season in style with an array of great entertainment for everyone to enjoy over the Queen’s Birthday holiday long weekend June 10 to 12.
Commencing on Friday June 9 the skies will light up with a huge Fire Show at Smiggin Holes starting at 8.30pm. Straight afterwards at the Smiggins Hotel, Tommee and the Neighbourhood will get revellers moving with their roots/reggae beats then it’s the trio Venus rocking until late.
On Saturday and Sunday the resort will come alive with a variety of buskers and street performers, a clairvoyant, 5 minute massages, bands, dancers and plenty for the kids including: face painting, circus performer, clowns, entertainers and much more.
“In the past couple of seasons we have gone back to the good old days of creating a party atmosphere on the opening weekend,” said Gary Grant GM Marketing and Hospitality Services. “We have introduced plenty of fun activities for all ages to enjoy and if we have snow on the ground, even better!” continued Mr. Grant.
A very popular component of the opening weekend’s celebrations is the traditional “Blessing of the Snow”. Held this year at 10.15am on Saturday the 10th this gathering of local religious congregations and traditional indigenous dancers welcome the imminent season ahead and offers a taste of spiritual guidance to those dedicated snow devotees present.