THE message from the Alpine ski resorts this winter is “plan ahead or miss out”.
Vail Resorts, which owns both Falls Creek and Mount Hotham ski resorts, announced a fortnight ago that ski lift operations will begin on June 24.
But those hoping to get a glimpse of the winter wonderlands on a whim will be denied entry with both local resorts this week asking guests to plan and pre-purchase passes in advance.
As of last Friday, Falls Creek Resort Management will only release 250 day entry passes, per day, for vehicles to enter and that will stay in place until June 22.
Chief executive officer Stuart Smythe said “a little extra” will be asked of guests this winter.
“The 2020 snow season is going to be a little bit different for everyone involved,” he said.
“This is going to involve a change in the way the resort has traditionally been accessed.
“This year you will need to plan ahead to help achieve the best possible outcomes under the circumstances we are constrained by.”
Season pass holders will also be required to register their planned trips in advance as well as print out the confirmation from the online booking platform as proof.
There will be no limitations to access the resort for season pass holders.
The pass must be presented at the resort entrance at Howman’s Gap.
Check points will also be in place along Bogong High Plains Road to ensure vehicles are travelling in their authorised period.
An online portal to purchase resort entry became available last Thursday.
Mount Hotham has replaced its gate-based resort entry system with an electronic camera-based system to provide faster, queueless access as part of its “focus on visitor safety” heading into the ski season.
Mount Hotham Alpine Resort Management Board chief executive officer Amber Gardner said guests who have not booked a pass online will not be permitted to enter the resort.
“It’s a challenging situation for everyone,” she said.
“But I am certain everyone now understands why these measures are necessary.”
From last Friday, all resort entry permits will be checked before vehicles are permitted entry into the resort.
This may involve checkpoints at resort boundaries on both the Harrietville and Omeo approaches.
“The message this winter is clear – think ahead, plan your trip and book early to avoid disappointment,” Ms Gardner said.
“A safe and successful season relies on our valued guests understanding the reasons for these measures and adhering to them, particularly in advance of ski field operations commencing on June 24.”
No All Resorts Season Passes will be available this year.
As always, chains must be carried in all vehicles.
