While some Aussies are jetting off to warmer climates, there’s no shortage of enthusiasm for chillier conditions at Australia’s alpine regions.
New data from Australia’s largest business bank showed alpine businesses doubled growth in the first two weeks of snow season with more than $28 million spent across Victorian and New South Wales major mountains.
Spending on accommodation was up a significant 71%, restaurants and fast-food spending increased by 42% and the standout was sporting goods, jumping up 195%.
The breakdown by state showed more than $16 million spent across major NSW mountains with the Snowy Mountains recording a whopping 472% increase in spending.
Victorian mountains were just as strong with more than $11 million spent in the last two weeks, with Mount Buller taking the lead with turnover up 248%.
NAB Executive Regional and Agribusiness, Julie Rynski said it was fantastic news for Alpine businesses who had lost two snow seasons due to COVID-19 lockdowns.
“We know Regional Australia is the place to be and the snow season is one of the exciting winter attractions that I know many of us have really missed over the last couple of years,” Ms Rynski said.
“We’ve supported many of our customers in tourism through the pandemic and I’m delighted to see people going to the slopes and supporting local business and communities to thrive again.
“Visiting and holidaying in regional Australia is vital for creating growth and prosperity right across Australia. Make sure your winter getaway is a trip to one of our stunning mountains, it will not disappoint.”
Mount Buller and Mount Stirling Resort CEO, Mark Bennetts said the early start to the snow season has seen visitor numbers much higher than pre-pandemic levels.
“The 2018 and 2019 snow seasons were two of our strongest ever yet with the early season snow our visitor numbers are an extraordinary 50% higher.
“Accommodation over the Queen’s Birthday Weekend was booked out, which doesn’t normally happen until the term two school holidays.
“After an incredibly challenging couple of years, it’s fabulous to see families and friends out in the snow skiing, boarding, smiling, posing for photos, throwing snowballs, and making snow angels together. It’s what the snow season is all about,” Mr Bennetts said.
