• However, freezing weather and a massive snowfall allowed them to reopen earlier than predicted.
• “The 2022 season on Ben Lomond is shaping up to be one of the best in the last 20 years.
• Coronavirus restrictions, a shortage of tourists, and insufficient snow for skiing have all contributed to the ski field’s decline in recent years.
• In 2018, a fire devastated the renowned Ben Lomond Alpine Hotel, dealing another severe blow.

At this time of year, the ski lifts at Tasmania’s main ski field, Ben Lomond, are generally closed.

However, freezing weather and a massive snowfall allowed them to reopen earlier than predicted.

According to Ben Mock of Ben Lomond Ski Lifts, the season generally begins in July, but the conditions were ideal for it to be moved forward.

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“We had a lot of work to do over the last couple of days to get us open,” he said.

“It was so stressful but then we got the tick and it was just a sigh of relief.”

Mr. Mock said the snowy conditions were a good sign for the months ahead.

“It certainly sets us up for the winter season. The snow that has fallen is a great base for us to start on and there is more on the forecast,” he said.

On Ben Lomond, the first day of the snow season carries the risk of harm.

Alex Findlater, a third-generation ski patroller on the mountain, has been assisting those in danger for the past 11 years.

“We have minors injuries, like cuts, and then we pick up people who are out on the slope who can’t get themselves down with broken bones and more serious injuries,” he said

“We also often deal with injuries due to the extreme weather and the cold, like hypothermia.”

Learning from both his father and grandfather, Mr. Findlater described it as a “rewarding” job.

“Growing up around the patrol has been part of what the mountain is to me,” he said.

“There’s something really special about Ben Lomond and the community here.”

The 2022 season on Ben Lomond is shaping up to be one of the best in the last 20 years.

Coronavirus restrictions, a shortage of tourists, and insufficient snow for skiing have all contributed to the ski field’s decline in recent years.

In 2018, a fire devastated the renowned Ben Lomond Alpine Hotel, dealing another severe blow.

The main public shelter on the mountain was also destroyed, although it is expected to be repaired by the start of the season next year.

Ashley Howard of Ben Lomond Snow Sports stated that things were improving for his company and the mountain as a whole.

“It’s looking really good. If we have got this amount of snow already, it can only get better from here,” he said.

“Business is looking up. It is just full steam ahead.”

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Between June and September, visitors to Ben Lomond’s summit must bring snow chains.

During the ski season, a bus service operates from the lower parking lot.