Holidaymakers can start planning trips to the state’s ski fields with the NSW Nationals in Government announcing the alpine region will be open from June 22.
Deputy Premier and Member for Monaro John Barilaro said work was underway to ensure appropriate COVIDsafe measures were in place at Thredbo, Charlotte Pass and Perisher.
“One of the highlights of the winter tourism season is a trip to our alpine regions,” Mr Barilaro said.
“However, while many people are eager to return to the slopes, it is important that visitors can enjoy themselves safely and responsibly.
“The NSW Nationals in Government, through NSW Health and NSW Police, are working closely with ski field operators, associated businesses, suppliers and industry associations to ensure COVIDsafe measures are in place when the season commences.
“These measures will mean that fewer people will be able to visit and stay at resorts this season, so it is essential that people book and confirm their travel arrangements and accommodation before they travel.”
Some of the measures in place include maintaining physical distancing at resorts, limits to the number of people on ski areas, controlled access to ski lifts, increased cleaning of all facilities and no snowplay.
Mr Barilaro said to give ski resorts enough time to implement health and safety measures they will not open before Monday, June 22, which means skiers and holidaymakers will not be able to visit ski resorts for the June long weekend.
“The ski resorts will not be open over the June long weekend, so please arrange travel and accommodation from June 22 and onwards,” Mr Barilaro said.
“We are welcoming every visitor to regional NSW with open arms and I will be celebrating by shouting a few beers, but it is more important than ever that we continue to be responsible and maintain good physical distancing while we are enjoying ourselves.
“No matter where you are visiting, make sure you book, check that places you’d like to visit will be open, confirm your arrangements before you travel and, most importantly if you do feel unwell, postpone your trip.”
The Mt Selwyn resort will remain closed during the season due to bushfire damage.
A number of COVIDsafe measures will be in place on the ski fields as well as accommodation, dining and other recreational facilities, with details to be listed on ski resort websites soon.
