Perisher Valley, NSW, Saturday 19 September 2026: Perisher celebrated the 2026 season with the inaugural Splash & Dash Perisher Tube Slide Challenge, bringing together competitors, costumes and plenty of crowd-pleasing action on the snow. 

The event saw participants take on a timed snow-obstacle course before launching into a tube ride down the slope and skimming across the water, with participants racing to stick the landing and sprint to the finish. 

The challenge brought a festive atmosphere to the resort, with party shirts, costumes and bold spring outfits adding colour to the day. 

Combining end-of-season fun with community impact, participant entry fees raised over $1,300 for Jindabyne Trail Stewardship, contributing to the improvement and maintenance of the local mountain bike trail network. 

“The inaugural Splash & Dash was a highlight of our spring events calendar, a fun way to celebrate the season with our community and support a local cause,” said Emily Smith, Senior Manager Brand and Experience – Perisher & Australia. “The season isn’t over just yet; there’s still time to get up here and enjoy the last days of the 2026 season.”  

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By Pete ‘The Frog’ Taylor
Snow Forecaster & Owner
snowatch.com.au

There were high hopes for Season 2026, but with the thought of an El Niño raising its head later in the season, there was also some pessimism around. The lead-up to Season 2026 was certainly not a normal one.

We saw a run of warm nights, or nights where the humidity was simply too high for the snow guns to fire. Usually, from mid-May, the resorts fire up the guns whenever conditions are right and start building a base, allowing some early skiing and snowboarding.

Mt Buller has had Snow Factory technology for many years now, producing ice from a hose coming out of the shipping container that houses the factory. The technology can produce snow in temperatures of up to 20°C. Large piles of snow, known as “whales”, are built up and then spread across the slopes before opening weekend.

Thredbo has also invested in this technology and has been pumping out snow on Friday Flat, the lowest part of any Australian resort at 1,365m, since May.

In a season that has seen minimal low-level natural snowfall, this technology has been a game changer. Mt Buller has been able to keep Bourke Street open, while Thredbo has kept Friday Flat operating from June through September.

The opening weekend did have a little snow on the ground, thanks to a decent fall just before opening. We also had a couple of cold nights when the snow guns were able to fire up, and Front Valley at Perisher opened on the Sunday.

Unfortunately, the warm nights soon returned and we saw very little snowmaking through June. By the end of the month, we were staring at what looked like the worst start to a season on record, with virtually no natural snow on the ground.

July saw temperatures drop and the snow guns finally fired up properly. We also saw some light natural snowfalls, allowing a base to develop and a number of runs to start opening over the following weeks. It looked like we were finally getting back on track.

The high-pressure systems that had been sitting further south than normal through June, pushing potential cold fronts underneath the mainland, had shifted. Optimism was high.

Satellite images were showing cold fronts lining up to arrive through August. In particular, the first weekend of August promised a big dump overnight on the Sunday, with more snow to follow. It looked like the snowfall that would finally set up the season and allow much more terrain to open.

All forecasters, including myself, and the weather bureaus were predicting big falls. But Mother Nature had other ideas and threw warm air into the mix for much longer than we had anticipated.

The result was a big dump of rain, with Thredbo receiving around 80mm, washing away a large chunk of the snow that had fallen during July.

We did see snow falling after the rain, with Hotham, Falls Creek and Perisher receiving around 25–40cm during this period. A few more runs were able to open, so there was still a glimmer of hope.

Some snowmaking also took place, which helped preserve the cover, but temperatures remained too warm and the snow had started to melt. The cold fronts that did make it into the mountains often delivered more wet stuff than frozen stuff.

Strong winds were also thrown into the mix for a couple of weeks, much like August and September 2023 and 2024. The resulting “hairdryer” effect accelerated the snow melt considerably.

The official Spencer’s Creek snow depth reading, taken by Snowy Hydro and used to compare seasons, reached a peak of just 94.5cm on August 13.

This wasn’t quite the lowest peak on record — 1982 reached 91cm on August 19, while 2006 reached 85.1cm on August 31 — but 2026 was the earliest season on record to peak below one metre.

The main difference between these seasons is significant. In 1982, although there was no snowmaking, there was a much better base at lower elevations. In 2006, there was already a 30cm base on June 8, and it remained above 30cm until late September.

Rain over the last week, including a big dump yesterday, has now signalled the end of the season for all resorts except Friday Flat at Thredbo, which could potentially last into next week, and Perisher, which still has eight lifts running today but is likely to close in the coming days.

The resort mountain operations staff, groomers and snowmakers have done a sensational job under incredibly difficult circumstances to keep this season going for as long as they have, with so little natural snowfall.

I applaud their efforts. They are greatly appreciated by everyone who has been able to enjoy the mountains this season.

I also really feel for all the businesses that rely on snow to survive — accommodation providers, food and restaurant outlets, ski and snowboard hire shops, retailers, travel companies and many others.

If you are heading overseas to ski or snowboard during the off-season, please try to support our local suppliers and buy your gear from them where possible. Every bit helps.

Thank you to everyone who visited Snowatch this season.

It has been an extremely difficult season to forecast, with marginal temperatures and snow levels making things particularly challenging. I’ve received more messages this year asking about upcoming weather, advice on booking dates, and whether people should change or cancel trips than at any other time.

I know that, more often than not, the answers weren’t what people wanted to hear. But when people are spending their hard-earned money on a ski trip, I feel it’s important to be honest about the conditions and the risks.

The main thing that sets Snowatch apart from other snow websites offering forecasts. Snowatch is done manually. The forecasts aren’t simply spat out automatically by algorithms. Every morning from May 1 until the end of the season, I study charts, weather models, satellite images and data. I write every forecast myself and change the morning, daytime and nighttime weather icons for each resort for the following 15 days, every single day. I also publish my outlook further ahead. Obviously, long-range forecasts can’t be correct all the time, but even when the timing isn’t perfect, the arrival of weather systems can often be picked up surprisingly well — and that can be extremely useful when planning a ski trip.

This year I’ve also tried to be much more visible and engaging, with daily social media posts. It looks like that has helped spread the word, with website visitor numbers up around 40% on last year, while Facebook and Instagram numbers have also increased significantly.

A huge thank you to the Liquid Radio Network for hosting my snow reports every day since early June. It’s sad that we are finishing a month earlier than planned, but now I’m looking forward to next season, which surely has to be an improvement!

Although the Australian season is now coming to an end, I’ll still be keeping a close eye on what’s happening overseas as winter arrives in the Northern Hemisphere and the snow begins to fall over the coming months. Snowatch will still be active and posting up news as it happens.

For those still needing a snow fix — and with the funds to make it happen — there is still plenty of snow over the ditch for the next month. To everyone heading north for the off-season, I hope you have a much better season than we did!

Until next season (Forecasts begin May 1). Stay safe, and thanks again for your support of Snowatch throughout Season 2026.

Pete ‘ The Frog’ Taylor

snowatch.com.au

The post Season 2026 end of season wrap appeared first on Snowatch.

This year the Peak Festival Art Show returns after it’s inception and addition in 2025 to the very successful and popular Peak Music Festival at Perisher.

Exhibition Dates: June 5–7, 2026
Official Opening: Saturday 6th, 4pm
Daily Hours: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Location: Perisher Ski Tube Building

This year’s theme encourages artists to interpret the ever-changing beauty of Australia’s alpine landscape — from sweeping snowlines and rugged textures to shifting light, atmosphere, and mountain forms. Whether inspired by nature, movement, community, or the spirit of the snow season, we welcome creative works that capture the essence of the high country.

Everyone is warmly invited to attend the Official Opening Ceremony on Saturday June 6 at 4:00pm. Join fellow artists, friends, family, and festival guests for an afternoon celebrating creativity in the heart of the snowfields.

Below is a selection of works by Pete ‘The Frog’ Taylor who will exhibiting.

The post Peak Festival Art Show appeared first on Snowatch.

Australia’s leading ski resorts of Perisher, Falls Creek and Hotham are kicking off the countdown to winter with lift passes, lessons and rentals on sale now, giving snow lovers the chance to lock in great value ahead of the 2026 snow season. 

“This will be a fantastic year to learn skiing or snowboarding and we hope to see more ‘bucket-list beginners’ trying the sport for the first time,” said Emily Smith, Senior Manager – Brand & Experience for Vail Resorts Australia. “Whether guests are stepping on snow for the very first time or returning with renewed aspirations, instructors at our resorts will be able to help them achieve their dreams – big or small.” 

Many of the resort’s snowsports instructors and rental teams work at Vail Resorts’ international resorts, such as Canada’s Whistler Blackcomb, over the summer months in Australia – chasing winter year-round. They bring skills back with them to ensure highly qualified instruction for Australian guests and the benefit of year-round employment keeping their teaching techniques fresh.

“You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy the mountains,” said Emily. “Whether it’s fresh air and a short break from the city, or a more regular ritual to visit and find joy in the winter months, there’s never been a better time to take a mental reset in the mountains, from First Tracks to beginner bundles and après moments, there’s something for everyone.”

Perisher: Australia’s largest ski resort has plenty of space and terrain for all abilities, so every skier and snowboarder can benefit from a lesson – book here. 

Falls Creek: With 450ha of skiable terrain to discover, you can explore picturesque Falls Creek at any skill level – book here. 
Hotham:  Adventure further at Hotham, from first turns to building confidence on Australia’s most exhilarating terrain – book here. 

Looking for the best deal on lift access?         

Save big compared to lift tickets at Perisher, Falls Creek and Hotham this winter with Epic Australia Passes. 

• Epic Australia Pass – Unlock unlimited laps at Perisher, Falls Creek and Hotham this winter with the Pass that pays for itself in 5 days. Then explore 80+ world class resorts overseas including Whistler Blackcomb in Canada, Hakuba in Japan and more! 
• Epic Australia 4-Day Pass – ski or ride any 4 days this season for $158/day*. 

Pass holders also enjoy exclusive discounts like 20% off lessons and rentals. 

For more information, please visit www.perisher.com.au, www.skifalls.com.au, www.hotham.com.au or www.epicaustraliapass.com.au.  

*(Prices are correct as of the date of publishing and are subject to change) 

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SNOW DOGS SEPTEMBER STARTS THIS WEEKEND

Snow Dogs is back at Canberra’s favourite winter playground, Corin Forest. The popular annual event is one of Australia’s only dog-friendly snow experiences and will be bigger than ever this September with three whole weekends of fun.

Every Saturday and Sunday from September 13 – 28, Corin Forest will open a dedicated dog-friendly Snowplay area, where four-legged friends and their families can experience the magic of snow together.

“Snow Dogs is a highlight for us every year,” says Dane Liepins, managing director of Corin Forest.
“It’s about creating special moments for our guests to enjoy the snow with their pets. It is always an absolute spectacle to see so many different kinds of dogs all playing in the snow.”

From the snowball chasers to the photo posers, and even the digging champs, there is plenty of fun to be had for Canberra’s furry friends. For those who prefer the apres experience, there will also be a range of treats available for both humans and dogs at the Corin Cafe. Dog beer, anyone?

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, Corin Forest will operate two separate Snowplay areas, one dedicated to Snow Dogs and one for regular snowplay and tobogganing. Guests are reminded to keep dogs on lead, clean up after them, and remain within the Corin Forest grounds, which are surrounded by Namadgi National Park and its native wildlife.

Online bookings are essential, with tickets selling out fast.

Dates: September 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st, 27th, 28th 2025
Times: 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm each day
Venue: Corin Forest, 1268 Corin Road, Paddy’s River ACT 2620
Cost: $25 per person (dogs and children under 2 free)
Bookings essential via: www.corin.com.au/events

The post CORIN FOREST IS GOING TO THE DOGS appeared first on Snowatch.

On Friday I was lucky enough to be invited to attend the Official opening on the new 6 seater chairlift on Mt.Perisher.

After years of planning, building, testing (and just a little bit of weather watching), the brand new, 6-seater chairlift on Mt Perisher is ‘officially’ open. Sitting proudly on the front of Mt Perisher, the Mt P 6 is now the highest lifted point in Australia.

The lift is much faster with better wind performance. The chair can be slowed in stronger wind conditions and operate in stronger winds than were previously possible, which should result in less time lost due to wind hold. The state of the art Doppelmayer chair has a wider rope guage and can monitor any movement to the mm any movement and improve user safety. A trip to the top now takes 6-minutes, which is much faster than the previous 10minute ride and a 60% increase in chairlift capacity on Mt Perisher and a 22% increase in overall lifted capacity in the Mt Perisher precinct .

The chairs have super comfy padded seats, which is a nice change, foot rests, and the chairs are detachable so can be automatically stored overnight at the bottom station so we won’t see ice on the chairs after overnight snow. Another plus is that the lift now opens from 8:30am compared to the previous 9am. The removal of the double and triple chair towers and the new lift only need 6 external towers means there is more skiable area on the new ‘Legends’ run.

The post The ‘Official’ opening of Perisher’s new 6 seater chairlift appeared first on Snowatch.

Vail Resorts announced Richard Phillips as its next Vice President and General Manager of Hotham and Falls Creek ski resorts, effective Sept. 14. Phillips currently serves as VP and GM of Falls Creek and will oversee both resorts in his new role, creating new synergies and collaboration between the neighbouring resorts. Tina Burford, the current Vice President and General Manager at Hotham, has been appointed the new Sr. Director of Skier Services at Park City Mountain in Park City, Utah – the largest ski resort in the United States. She will relocate to the U.S. after the closing of Hotham in winter 2025. 

Rich has led the team at Falls Creek for nearly 6 years and has more than 25 years of experience in the ski industry in Australia, including former roles in sales and marketing at both Perisher and Thredbo. During his time at Falls Creek, Rich has developed strong partnerships with the local community, which are critical to resort operations and the success of the resort as a winter destination. He has also been a strong advocate for improved snowmaking on key areas of terrain at Falls Creek to improve access to lodging and village services, enhancing the resort and guest experience. 

“Rich is a driven, thoughtful, strategic leader and community partner, and he is the right person to bring together the leadership of both Falls Creek and Hotham,” said Jody Churich, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Vail Resorts’ West Region. “This multi-resort leadership model has proven successful in our operation of resorts in North America, creating deeper connections, better efficiencies, and encouraging more collaboration across resorts that are closely related based on size, scale, and geography. I look forward to Rich taking on this expanded role for our company in Australia and bringing this model to life for Falls Creek and Hotham.” 

“I am super excited to be joining the Hotham team and community in this new role,” Rich said. “With Hotham being a part of the Vail Resorts family, I have been exposed to the resort in many ways and have been inspired by the passion shown for the mountain and the constant drive to improve the guest experience across all areas of the resort. I am well aware there is much to learn and I’m hungry to better understand all facets of such a unique and beautiful resort. I not only look forward to the opportunity to bring my knowledge and experience to Hotham but also the opportunity to learn from that team and community as I expand my role and impact across our resorts in Australia. Tina has done an incredible job leading the team at Hotham and providing a great experience for skiers and riders, and I am honoured to carry that work forward with the foundation she and the leadership team have set over the last two years.” 

Tina Burford has been a long-time leader in the ski industry with a career spanning more than four decades with 32 years at Perisher, including as the resort services director and two years at Hotham as the VP and GM. During Tina’s time at Hotham, she was instrumental in revitalisation efforts across the resort, including reimagining the overall resort experience and the Snowsports School experience. Specifically, she led the redesign and relocation of the Kids Snowsport School to enhance the beginner and family experience with a fresh indoor space and new dedicated learning areas on snow. At the same time, she and her team successfully repurposed the former learning space to implement a progression-focused terrain park and freestyle zone for resort skiers and riders. 

“I am excited to see Tina take on a critical role for our company and team at Park City Mountain in the U.S. after such an accomplished career in Australia,” Jody said. “Tina has vast experience training and teaching at resort ski and snowboard schools around the world and has even been an instructor at Vail Mountain in the U.S. With this move and her appointment to a key role at one of our North American resorts, Tina is following in the footsteps of another accomplished leader from our Australian region, Belinda Trembath, who has brought her Aussie perspective and leadership to Whistler Blackcomb as the resort’s COO starting in 2023. We are grateful to have such talented leaders share their impact across the Vail Resorts global portfolio of resorts.” 

“I am incredibly proud of the work that we have done at Hotham during my time there as Vice President and General Manager, and particularly our work to improve the Snowsports School experience for our guests,” Tina said. “Prior to leading Hotham, I spent a large part of my career running resort skier services at Perisher, and I am excited to return to these roots at the iconic Park City Mountain. I am incredibly passionate about this sport, its growth for our resorts and our industry, and inspiring the next generation of skiers and snowboarders. I look forward to bringing this passion and drive to the team at Park City.” 

Both Rich and Tina will transition into their new roles towards the close of the 2025 Australian winter season, with Rich’s role as Vice President and General Manager of Falls Creek and Hotham effective starting Sept. 14. Tina will transition into her new role after the closing of Hotham in winter 2025. 

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Friday was one of those magic Perisher days. Blue skies, crisp air, fresh groomers, and one very shiny new 6-seater chairlift spinning for the first time.

After years of planning, building, testing (and just a little bit of weather watching), our brand new, 6-seater chairlift on Mt Perisher is officially open. Sitting proudly on the front of Mt Perisher, the Mt P 6 is now the highest lifted point in Australia, and judging by the huge turnout, our awesome Perisher community were just as excited as we were to finally see it in action.

From early morning, there was a buzz around the resort. Some guests were lining up as early as 6am to be part of the moment. You could feel the anticipation building across the lifts and in the crowd at the Mt P 6 load station, where skiers, boarders and local lodgies gathered well before first chair.

We were honoured to invite six young guests to help us mark the opening of Mt P 6, with each of them celebrating their birthday on Friday 28^th June. These legends joined us for first chair and kicked off the morning with early laps, birthday cake, and front-row seats to a pretty special moment in Perisher’s history.

We feel incredibly lucky to have shared this moment with them. Being part of their birthday, on such a meaningful day for the Resort, made the occasion even more special. It was one of those mornings that remind us of what it’s really all about. Whether it’s your first run or your hundredth, there’s always a chance to Discover Your Moment at Perisher.

Throughout the morning, we kept the good vibes rolling with live music at bottom station, cookie and limited-edition Mt P 6 merch handouts, and plenty of high-fives from the Perisher team.

Whether you were lapping the new chair, stopping for a snack, or just there to see it all unfold, the energy was unmistakable…proud, happy, and a little emotional for those who’ve watched this project come to life from day one.

The Mt P 6 Is More Than Just a New Lift

Mt P 6 means faster access to the top of Mt Perisher, more laps, more choice, and ultimately, more fun. But it also means something a bit bigger. It’s a sign of progress. Of investment in our guests, our infrastructure, and our mountain community. It’s the kind of upgrade you don’t just see… you feel it.

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PEAK Music Festival 2025: Free Entry, 3 Days of Live Music, Family Fun & Snowy Mountain Magic at Perisher Valley

Perisher Valley, NSW – June 6–9, 2025 – The Snowy Mountains’ coolest winter celebration returns as PEAK Music Festival 2025 transforms Perisher Valley into a vibrant alpine playground. From June 6 to 9, experience three days of live music across seven stages, family-friendly activities, and the exhilarating start of the ski season—all with free entry.

Kick Off the Ski Season

PEAK Festival marks the official start of the ski season. Enjoy early snowfalls and Perisher’s extensive snowmaking facilities to be among the first to hit the slopes.

2025 Artist Lineup

This year’s festival features a dynamic mix of local legends and national acts:

• Nathan Cavaleri – Renowned Australian blues-rock guitarist and singer.
• Fat Picnic – Brisbane’s premier high-energy soul-ska ensemble.
• Shantan Wantan Ichiban – Eclectic DJ known for genre-blending sets.
• Hussy Hicks – Award-winning folk-rock duo with soulful harmonies.
• Fleetwood Max – Australia’s most authentic Fleetwood Mac tribute band.
• The Steel Syndicate – Funk-infused Brisbane band delivering infectious grooves.
• Kesha Neve – Jindabyne’s own rising star with captivating vocals.

For the full lineup and performance schedule, visit the 2025 Lineup.

Village Tours & Art Show

Immerse yourself in the local culture with guided village tours showcasing Perisher’s unique alpine charm 3pm daily. Meet in the Perisher Ski Tube building. Don’t miss the Art Show featuring works from regional artists, capturing the essence of mountain life.

Youth Stage & Kids’ Activities

The Youth Stage returns, spotlighting emerging young talents in a supportive environment. Family-friendly fun includes

• Free face painting
• Magic shows
• Balloon animals
• Classic kids’ games(

These activities ensure entertainment for all ages throughout the festival weekend

Kick Off the Ski Season

PEAK Festival marks the official start of the ski season. Enjoy Perisher’s extensive snowmaking facilities and be among the first to hit the slopes.

Where to Stay During PEAK Festival

With the Perisher Valley buzzing all weekend, securing accommodation is essential. Staying in the valley means you’re just steps from the live music stages, village events, and the slopes — no commuting, just pure alpine immersion. Many lodges offer package deals for the festival weekend, so you can wake up to mountain views and step straight into the festivities. For a full list of options, check out the accomodation guide.

 Festival Details

• Dates: June 6–9, 2025
• Location: Perisher Valley, NSW
• Entry: Free
• Stages: Seven live music stages across the resort

For more information, visit the official festival website.(Peak Festival)

Stay Connected

Follow PEAK Music Festival on Facebook and Instagram for updates, artist spotlights, and behind-the-scenes content

The post Peak Music Festival – Perisher appeared first on Snowatch.

Eiger Chalet, a little slice of mountainside paradise. Ski out, ski in and stay a while at our European-inspired boutique chalet, located in the heart of Perisher, just footsteps from the Quad Express lift.

Enjoy the friendly ambience and cosy atmosphere of our family-owned and operated ski accommodation, where the best of Perisher awaits. Wake up on snow to enjoy a leisurely gourmet breakfast, before hitting the slopes without the wait. Engage your muscles ahead of your day on the piste with a warm up in our mini gym or dive right into a deep, all over body relaxation in out traditional Euro-Sauna before indulging in an on-site massage or greeting fellow travellers in our comfortable guest lounge and games room.

Eiger Chalet is also home to the iconic White Spider Bar and Restaurant, where you can experience fine dining, chalet-style. Perisher’s premier spot to wine and dine offers spectacular views and sophisticated dishes in warmly welcoming surroundings. Enjoy some après ski fun and live music in the bar before retiring to your comfortable accommodation, or join us for a casual meal or celebratory dinner to remember. Whatever you’re looking for, there’s no better place in Perisher to make memories – and here, you’ll always be greeted with a smile.

We look forward to welcoming you at Eiger Chalet for the upcoming season. Simply get in touch to secure your comfortable Perisher accommodation today.

eiger.com.au

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