Falls Freedom – dust off your skis and snowboards

Falls Creek has welcomed yesterday morning’s announcement by the Victorian Premier that the ski season will commence on 22nd June, 2020.

Falls Creek Alpine Resort Management Board Chair, Ms Jo Shannon, thanked all of their industry partners who have united with a common goal of providing Australians with the opportunity to have a safe snow experience this winter.

“We also thank all those Victorians who have followed the public health messaging and maintained physical distancing so that this has become possible,” Ms Shannon said.

“On behalf of the Board, I wish all the businesses, staff and community organisations all the best for a safe and successful snow season.”

Falls Creek contributes $400M to the regional economy and is supported by the many communities and businesses in the surrounding towns.

Ms Shannon said many of these areas experienced bushfires and associated impacts through summer, and when combined with the current pandemic, has resulted in a significant reduction in economic activity and local jobs.

Under the current restrictions, the lifts will not be turning on the Queen’s Birthday weekend, and more details on what the ski season will look like for all Victorian Alpine resorts will be made available in the coming days.

Falls Creek Resort Management CEO, Stuart Smythe, said the industry, each resort and their stakeholders have been developing detailed Safety Management plans and implementing strategies to ensure the DHHS directives regarding health and safety are applied, including putting measures in place to manage social distancing and to comply with the gathering restrictions.

“An important part of contributing to safety within the resort for all our staff and guests will be through contact tracing,” Mr Smythe said.

Mr Smythe also talked about the importance of maintaining our current progress for the season to go ahead.

“The great work by everyone over the past few months is paying off. Today’s announcement is resounding testament to this.

“Let’s keep up the diligent work so we can all safely enjoy the snow this winter and get some turns in. We look forward to seeing everyone soon.”

Further details regarding what the season will look like for businesses and guests to Falls Creek will be released as they become available. 

Marketing and Communications Manager, Sarah Watt, said there are a lot of changes in place within the resort this season.

“Guests are encouraged to visit the Falls Creek website - www.fallscreek.com.au - to stay informed about changes to this season’s procedures and avoid confusion when they are visiting during this season.”