By Michelle Lovell, Falls Creek Chamber of Commerce president

Families and snow lovers have been flocking to Falls Creek this school holiday season, and for good reason: the alpine resort has kicked off winter with one of its best starts in years.

With 93cm of natural snow cover already blanketing the slopes, the resort is boasting full lift operations and all terrain open, offering visitors an unparalleled snow experience.

International Poma opened on 15 July, providing access to the much loved ‘The Maze’ terrain.

Our incredible snowmaking, combined with cold temperatures and frequent snow-bearing fronts, mean conditions are ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and snow play.

Falls Creek Race Club along with Falls Creek Winter Sports Programs have had more than 200 eager and dedicated kids out on the slopes everyday for their school holiday program.

It has been so joyful to hear all of the giggles, squeals and yee haws from the lifts.

A program well worth considering once you have conquered all of the ‘tick boxes’ in Kids Workshop.

But, with all of the excitement around our incredible conditions, forward bookings are still unfortunately lower than we have seen in previous years.

Two seasons of below average conditions, topped with a rough economy means our businesses are still pretty nervous about what the rest of the season holds.

What makes Falls Creek so unique is the plenitudes of small and micro businesses that operate within.

It gives us a diversity of offering for our guests, not seen in any other Australian ski resort.

High end cocktail bars, and degustation menu dining, along side pubs, family friendly dining, hole in the wall coffee spots, and independent retailers means a holiday in Falls Creek really is a holiday.

The fragility of that though, is not often recognised.

Small businesses can only sustain so many low visitation seasons, along with increasing price pressures on both ordinary expenses, and government operating charges.

We need to protect what we have, and the Falls Creek Chamber of Commerce is working tirelessly to ensure that our governing bodies understand this.

The good news for our guests though, is that there is still availability.

There are still beds in lodges, rooms in hotels and apartments available for much of the rest of the season.

Whilst bookings are starting to flow a little faster now that the snow has arrived, if you have flexibility on dates, you are bound to be able to snap up some on mountain accommodation, and make the most of our ski in-ski out village across August.

And if you do, here is what you can look forward to:

Events to Catch in July/August

The resort’s vibrant village atmosphere is buzzing with après-ski delights, from cozy cafes to live music venues.

Families are especially thrilled with the return of Night Skiing and Boarding every Wednesday and Saturday, lighting up Wombat’s Ramble for magical evening laps.

Falls Creek’s winter calendar is packed with events that cater to all ages and interests.

Here’s a snapshot of what’s coming up:

• Fireworks Fiesta – Every Thursday night through August, the Village Bowl lights up with a dazzling display under the stars.

• Wombat’s Rambler (July 25): one of Australia’s longest ski races, held under lights for an unforgettable experience.

• Mim’s & Mike’s Ski Programs: running 25–27 July and 4-8 August, these multi-day clinics offer skill-building and camaraderie for women and men of all levels.

• Snowboard Demo Days (31 July 31–1 August): try out the latest gear from Burton, Nitro, and more.

• Junior Freeride at Falls (9 August): young athletes showcase their style and creativity on the slopes.

• Storm the Park Slopestyle (16 August): a high-energy freestyle competition open to skiers and snowboarders.

• Kangaroo Hoppet (23 August): Southern Hemisphere’s largest cross country ski event returns, drawing competitors from around the globe.

• Rudi Pendl Cup (28 August): a one-run Giant Slalom race where anything that turns—skis, boards, monoskis—is fair game.

More Than Just Snow

Beyond the slopes, Falls Creek offers a rich lineup of dining, entertainment, and community events.

From live music to happy hours (or Harvey hours) the village vibe is electric.

Families can enjoy themed nights, games nights, raffles, and even fundraising events like the Falls Creek Primary School fundraiser on 30 July.

Visitors are making the most of every snowy moment.

And with more snow forecast in the coming weeks, the season promises to stay strong well into spring.