Australian ski areas have begun snowmaking ahead of the start of their 2024 ski season, which for most is three weeks away this weekend.
Snowmaking teams have been hard at work overnight firing up snowmaking systems to give Mother Nature a helping hand. Below freezing temperatures as low as -5C and some natural snowfall has helped efforts.
The country's largest resort, Perisher, pictured above this morning, reported 5cm of snowfall on the ground this morning with more expected through the day, as well as the perfect opportunity to make some snow.
"It's a great feeling having both our snow guns and Mother Nature working together to give us the help we need to cool the ground and prepare for our opening day on 8 June," said Maddi Ventura, Perisher's Marketing Manager, adding, "We can't wait to welcome our guests back for a fantastic season ahead."
Most Australian ski areas open for the King's Birthday long weekend from 8-10 June regardless of weather conditions.
Australian ski areas saw a good pre-season snowfall in April but most of that has gone during drier, warmer weather in the weeks since, so the temperature drop and snowy weather now is well timed.