AUSTRALIAN SKI RESORT DESTROYED BY BUSHFIRE

6th January 2020 | Jane Peel, Chief Reporter

Last modified on May 16th, 2021

Selwyn snow resort lies in ruins. Australia’s major ski resorts all remain closed as fires burn nearby with high temperatures due to return later this week. UPDATED

People have been losing their lives or their homes in the blazes so the loss of a ski resort’s infrastructure may not be the most important issue in the scheme of things.

It is, though, a big blow for the Snowy Mountains resort in New South Wales.

The damage is extensive.

They knew it was coming and all staff were safely evacuated before the fire reached the area.

“While we do not yet know the status of lifting and snowmaking infrastructure, we can confirm that the resort buildings have been severely damaged by the fire,” the resort said on its website.

“The Blyton Group is committed to Selwyn Snow Resort and our focus now is on rebuilding an even better Selwyn.

“We look forward to working with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, the NSW Department of Planning, Industry & Environment and other relevant agencies in this process.”

Staff were able to access the resort on Sunday 5th January and took these photos.

This report from 9 News has more from the scene:

Tiny townships in the Snowy Mountains have been devastated by bushfires and a popular ski resort is all but gone. #9News
Posted by 9 News on Sunday, 5 January 2020

More of Australia’s ski areas are under threat from the fires that have been sweeping across New South Wales and Victoria.

They include some of the best known resorts such as Perisher, Thredbo, Mount Buller and Mount Hotham.

All are closed to summer visitors.

On Tuesday Mt Hotham said fire activity was continuing nearby with high temperatures forecast to return later in the week.

“Air quality in the area remains very poor and could impact your health. If possible please stay away from the area for your personal safety.”

Staff are checking all properties and carrying out critical works to cut back trees and brush close to buildings and are clearing leaves to protect properties should there be further fire activity.

Perisher, which is to the south of Selwyn in NSW, reported on Sunday that it was safe for the time being.

“The cool change that came through last night has seen the threat to the resort ease for now,” it said.

“Fires remain active nearby and Perisher will see the threat remain for some time. Access to Perisher remains closed.

“It will be a challenging period ahead for all that are connected with Perisher.”

Perisher also expressed its sympathy with Selwyn.

“Our hearts go out to the community of Selwyn Snow Resort who have experienced extensive fire damage to the resort & surrounds.

“It is hard to put into words; as our neighbours, we are thinking of you.

“Sending love to all of those affected by the active fire conditions across Australia.”

In Falls Creek, Victoria, 7mm of welcome rain fell between the weekend and Tuesday but the ski area remains at risk.

Falls Creek, Australia, closed by threat of bushfires

Falls Creek closed for business

“Falls Creek remains on Watch and Act status with large, out of control bushfires to the south of the resort,” the resort said on Tuesday.

“Thursday and Friday are expected to bring heightened fire danger conditions once more.

“Air quality warnings are also in place for North East Victoria and smoke remains a constant health issue.

“Whilst roads are reopening within the region, the resort remains closed until further notice.

“We appreciate the ongoing support and concern and look forward to welcoming guests back to our resort when the time is appropriate.”

Two fires have been burning to the south east of Mt Buller for several days.

One of the two has been contained while the other is still burning.

“It has been raining this morning and there is little wind,” Mark Bennetts, CEO of Mt Buller & Mt Stirling, said on Sunday.

“While this diminishes the immediate risk, the fires are expected to remain active for quite some time.”

Thredbo resort also has several active fires burning nearby in the fires burning in the Kosciuszko National Park.

“The bush fires in Australia are without doubt one of the worst disasters to hit the country. My condolences to people, families and all who have lost property and loved ones in these tragic events,“ said the President of the International Ski Federation, Gian Franco Kasper.

The Ikon Pass, which includes Thredbo and Mt Buller on its global lift pass, is contributing to the firefighting efforts and encouraging others to do so.