MT BULLER welcomed skiers and boarders back to Bourke Street ski run on Saturday, June 14 as the 2021 snow season held a ‘soft’ opening.

The resort celebrated the opening of the season, although with lower visitor numbers than usual due to the prevailing COVID restrictions.

The first lessons for beginners got under way and local businesses were relieved to get their doors open and customers enjoying the alpine hospitality.

“It certainly felt a lot like winter up on Mt Buller and Mt Stirling for the Queen’s Birthday long weekend,” said resort spokesperson Rhylla Morgan.

“There was relief around the resort for operators feeling thankful to get open and have guests rolling through the gate, although in much lower numbers than usual due to the restriction on Melbourne visitors.”

Skiers and boarders took their first turns of the season on Bourke Street thanks to a 49cm deep section of snowmaking cover down the middle of the run.

Visitors from around the region made the most of the extra availability of accommodation and lift passes, while Melburnians await the green light to come back to the mountain.

“It was wonderful to see happy faces back on Bourke Street run this weekend and families enjoying walks and long lunches in the village,” Ms Morgan said.

“We would like to thank everyone who came and visited to be part of the Queen’s Birthday weekend, for following the guidelines, scanning in at venues and supporting alpine tourism."

PHOTOS: Jordan Mountain/Mt Buller