In a flurry of snowflakes and ski poles, Perisher — Australia’s mighty monarch of the slopes — has well and truly blasted into the 2025 winter season like a snowplough on espresso. With 15 lifts roaring to life and terrain openings gathering pace faster than a snowboarder on fresh powder, this isn’t just an early season. It’s a high-altitude triumph.
Tucked away in the frosty folds of New South Wales’ Kosciuszko National Park, Perisher has long been the darling of Aussie snow tragics and slope-curious families alike. And this year, dear reader, she’s outdone herself.
“This is the kind of start that makes you forget how much your lift ticket cost,” chuckled one cheerful boarder from Coogee as he clutched his flat white and surveyed the freshly-groomed runs.
Quad Is Open
A King’s Birthday to Remember
The action kicked off with Front Valley’s Village Eight Express and ski school conveyors launching into gear over the King’s Birthday weekend — a timely royal salute, one might say. By Thursday, the Perisher Express Quad to Mid-Station had joined the party, whisking snow lovers to higher ground.
Come Friday, Leichhardt Chairlift and the cheekily named Happy Valley T-Bar start spinning, and by Saturday, Smiggin Holes and Guthega’s Calf T-Bar will be humming too. Additional T-Bars in Front Valley and Centre Valley are also expected to come online.
It all adds up to 15 lifts now in operation — a figure not seen this early in yonks. And it’s not just the seasoned powder hounds who are rejoicing.
“We’ve really focused on giving beginners a brilliant experience this year,” said Nathan Butterworth, Perisher’s Vice President and General Manager, brimming with the kind of enthusiasm usually reserved for first runs and schnapps. “Front Valley and Smiggin Holes are ideal for learning, and our Beginner Bundles make it easy to get started without selling the family car.”
One suspects he’s not joking — the ski industry isn’t known for its affordability, after all — but Perisher seems to be making an honest effort to win over newcomers as much as it delights the veterans.
Fun In The Fog
Mt Perisher 6: The Chairlift of Dreams
Butterworth is also eager to talk about Perisher’s brand-new toy: the Mt Perisher 6, a sleek, high-speed six-seater chairlift that’s set to make queues feel like ancient history.
“It’s going to be a game-changer,” Butterworth beams. “We can’t wait to hear guests talk about their first rides on the Mt P 6. Stay tuned — there’s more to come.”
A touch of suspense, a whiff of mystery — it seems the mountain has more secrets in store yet.
Epic by Name, Epic by Nature
Skiers and snowboarders with a sense of value — and let’s face it, who doesn’t appreciate a discount after splurging on snow gear — are reminded that Epic Australia Passes vanish faster than fresh powder in spring. The deadline? June 18.
The passes unlock not only Perisher’s alpine playground but also its Victorian cousins — Falls Creek and Hotham — plus international access to Whistler Blackcomb in Canada and other Vail Resorts abroad.
First Tracks, exclusive perks, and discounts galore? That’s enough to make any seasoned skier raise an eyebrow… and perhaps a ski pole in salute.
A Snow Season Worth Writing Home About
With snow still falling and terrain opening like Christmas presents on Boxing Day, Perisher is shaping up to be the destination for winter 2025. Whether you’re chasing double blacks or teaching your toddlers how to snowplough, there’s something up here for everyone.
The air is crisp, the lifts are humming, and the slopes are ready.
So dig out your thermals, polish your goggles, and head for the hills — Perisher’s winter wonderland is already in full swing.
Discover your moment at Perisher. For more information, visit www.perisher.com.au.
By Bridget Gomez
