By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY
A surprise pre-season opening dump of snow caught some drivers unaware of the dangers of slippery roads.
A trip to Mt Buller just two days prior to the official start of the 2026 ski season saw several vehicles ‘off the road’ either on the way up the mountain or on the return down.
Some 25cm of snow fell on Wednesday night and a further 20-30cm on Thursday and although resort staff were cheering, some drivers were not.
It was Thursday morning that saw at least three cars off the edge due to inexperienced driving in the snowy, wet and icy conditions.
It was another reminder to motorists that driving in winter conditions is vastly different to the remaining eight months of the year.
Drivers are reminded that snow chains must be carried by all vehicles, whether used or not, and they must be of diamond pattern.
When instructed – including by roadside signs – to fit chains, this must be done as it will give vehicles more traction and less likelihood of running off the road.
And it is advisable to carry a torch (for finding the end of the chains behind the wheel), a garbage bag (for kneeling on) and gloves, as chains are harsh and dirty – all to make fitting chains easier.
Obeying the road rules is absolute and must be adhered to, especially when travelling up the mountain from the Mirimbah gates – the limit is 60km/h and in places down to 40km/h and even 35km/h on sharper bends.
Slowing down when it is snowing is also imperative as the road conditions change and falling snow from trees happens frequently – landing on tops of cars and windscreens, which may obstruct the driver’s view.
Stick to permitted car parks – be guided by parking personnel – if you go out of these official car parks you may find your vehicle ‘slipping over the edge’.
Other points to remember before going to the mountains are to check your tyres are in good condition and suitable for snow driving; fill your car’s radiator with anti-freeze – once in the alpine regions cars can freeze over; check your car battery is also in good condition – as again the cold conditions can freeze your battery; and check air-conditioning and heating systems properly – de-misting and warming the car is imperative.
By checking a few of these conditions and learning to ‘slow down and drive to conditions’, you can make your trip a better, safer and more pleasant one.