Mountain Safety

To enjoy a fun and safe trip here are a few smart tips from our ski patrol team:

Make a plan and carry a map.

WINTER

• Always lodge a Trip Information Form with Ski Patrol before you head out for the day.
• Ensure you have the current map of the ski trails available. The current winter map is downloadable from this website. Printed maps are available in resort.
• Make sure you are warmly dressed. When skiing, several layers of clothing are recommended rather than one or two heavy layers, allowing you to adjust these layers according to the conditions. A warm hat, gloves and a waterproof jacket should always be carried as weather can and does change rapidly.
• It is a good idea to carry some emergency food supplies (chocolate or other high energy food), a whistle and waterproof matches.
• Mt Stirling is an alpine environment and the weather can deteriorate rapidly. Poor visibility can make navigation very difficult. If you become lost or injured don't panic. Stay where you are, don't keep moving until you are exhausted. Shelter from the wind, stay dry and light a fire. Place your skis crossed, upright in the snow near you in a prominent position and attract attention by blowing your whistle. The distress signal is three long blasts, repeated at one minute intervals.

• In case of emergency initially contact the Mt Stirling Ski Patrol at Telephone Box junction (0409 945 901) or any ski patroller. The nearest public telephone is at the Mirimbah Store.

For further information about things to consider when visiting the snow, visit the snow safety website: www.snowsafe.org.au.

 

To ensure you have an enjoyable and safe time when skiing Mt Stirling follow the Alpine Responsibility Code:

• Know your ability. Always stay in control. Be able to stop to avoid other people or objects.
• Take lessons from qualified professional instructors to learn and progress.
• Do not stop where you obstruct a trail or run or are not visible to others
• Give way to other skiers when entering a trail or when starting downhill.
• Always use proper devices to prevent runaway equipment. Ensure your equipment is in good condition.
• Keep to the left and ski in preferred direction.
• Do not obstruct or walk on ski trail.
• Avoid people ahead of you - they have right of way.
• Observe all warning signs. Keep of closed trails and out of close areas.
• Ski only on groomed or marked trails that are within your ability.
• Do not ski or undertake any other alpine activity, if drugs or alcohol impairs your ability.
• If you are involved in a collision or witness an accident, alert Ski Patrol, remain at the scene and identify yourself to the Ski Patrol.

SUMMER

• Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return
• You can register a trip intention with Victoria Police (Mansfield is the closest) which is a smart idea for longer trips or if you are heading remote or travelling solo
• Carry appropriate supplies including water, torch, matches, some high energy snacks and basic first aid kit
• A snake bite kit is a good idea - two compression bandages and some gauze - and is available at local chemists
• Carry a few layers of clothing including a waterproof jacket, gloves, hat and a warm layer.  The weather can and does change rapidly in the mountains and we have had snow fall in every calendar month of the year!
• Carry a spare battery for your phone - it can drain more quickly in areas with low signal and when exposed to the cold.  Keep you phone in an inside pocket (warm) so it doesn't drain so quickly and close all applications you are not using.
• Got an emergency?  Call 000
• Use the ESTA (emergency markers) placed on each wayfinding sign to help someone find your location.

 

Sun Safety - Did you know that ultraviolet radiation is higher in the alpine environment? visit the SunSmart website for info and tips to help protect your skin at Mt Stirling whatever the weather.