Residents in Melbourne’s north intending to visit to the Alpine and Mount Buffalo National Parks are encouraged to be prepared and stay safe during the winter season following early and ongoing snow fall and heavy rain across popular 4WD tracks and visitor locations.
Whether snow playing, camping, hiking, driving or backcountry skiing, it is important to understand the risks associated with the Alpine environment in winter.
“Victoria’s stunning alpine regions are a great place to visit over winter, offering fun activities for everyone to enjoy, including families and adventurers looking for that first experience in the snow,” Parks Victoria’s area chief ranger Julien Atherstone said.
“Everyone has a role to play in ensuring visitor safety. Please prepare for your visit by checking the weather forecast, bringing the right gear, wearing the correct attire and letting someone know your plans.
“Many high elevation 4WD tracks in the Alps are already under deep snow and have become impassable. Please stay off these tracks to stay safe, as it can be difficult to reach visitors stranded by extreme weather conditions,” Mr Atherstone said.
Dramatic weather changes are common and should not be underestimated when planning a winter trip and Parks Victoria said visitors must be well prepared for sudden changes in conditions and remain alert to hazards including unstable snow, rising river levels, steep icy slopes, avalanches and extreme weather.
Visitors to the Alpine National Park, especially those visiting the higher elevation areas of Mount Bogong and Mount Feathertop, are likely to encounter a range of hazards each winter including unstable and deep snow; steep icy slopes; cornice formation; avalanches; and extreme weather.
“If you are not fully prepared and experienced, consider getting some training from one of the many guiding companies and practicing your skills closer to a resort,” Mr Athersone said.
