Disabled Wintersport Australia makes holidaying with a disability easier than ever, as signing up to their services means that you can access concession pricing but also their equipment, pathways, programs and other benefits. Memberships last for the year, which you can find out more about here: https://www.disabledwintersport.com.au/membership/
Where to?
Here are a few of our picks based on accessibility and exciting activities to take part in.
Perisher Ski Resort, also known as Perisher Blue, is the largest ski resort in the southern hemisphere. Located in the Snowy Mountains, this ski resort boasts fantastic ski fields and wonderful facilities for everyone to enjoy. Perisher Ski Resort partners with Disabled Wintersport Australia to help guests of all abilities have an experience of a lifetime in the mountains.
In the heart of Kosciuszko National Park in the Snowy Mountains, the award-winning Thredbo ski resort is one of Australia’s best. With a picturesque village and fantastic slopes, Thredbo packs in the outdoor adventure. Partnering with Disabled Wintersport Australia, Thredbo has a DWA Resort Services coordinator who is a point on contact for information relating to disability services, including hiring adaptive equipment.
A lesser known alpine village, Mt Hotham has breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountain ranges with just a 4.5 hours drive from the heart of Melbourne. Also know as the ‘powder capital’, this resort is the only in the Southern Hemisphere to be located on top of the mountain. Mt Hotham welcomes visitors of all abilities, and supports Disabled Wintersport Australia‘s resort services program.
For a full list of accessible ski resorts, check out the trip planning section of the Disabled Wintersport website.
What to do?
Skiing the Slopes
Skiing is on the bucket list for many, and having a disability doesn’t stop you from joining in on the fun. By reaching out to Disabled Wintersport before your visit, you can organise private lessons at the Snowsports school. They are able to provide adaptive equipment, as well as being taught by an experienced guide.
Shop Till You Drop
Who doesn’t love a good shopping trip? Within the villages at all of the ski resorts, there are plenty of retail outlets that you can visit. After all, some call it shopping, but we call it retail therapy.
Wine and Dine
There are excellent restaurants and café’s in all of the Alpine Villages. Whether it’s chowing down on a burger at Thredbo Burger Bar, snuggling up with a hot choccy at the First Run Café in Mt Hotham, or enjoying something sweet at Lil Orbits Doughnuts at the Perisher Skitube Terminal, you’re in for a treat when you dine out at the Snow.
Local Festivities
With everyone flocking to the snow, the local resorts know it’s a great time to put on the festivities. At Thredbo, you can enjoy the Kids Snow Festival on from the 1-17th July, with a huge line up of free activities for all to enjoy. If you’re interested in sitting back and relaxing, watch the professionals master the slops at the Perisher Cup from the 17th September. For those staying in Mt Hotham in September, the Victorian Backcountry Festival takes place, which is a welcoming and inclusive event that teaches audiences more about the slopes while enjoying ski activities.
Next month, we’ll be taking a look at what Sporting events are taking place and how people with disability can take part in them.
