Embarking on the Ultimate Ski Season Adventure at Mt Hotham: Tips from our previous crew.
As winter approaches a wave of excitement washes over those about to embark on their first ski season at Mt Hotham. They imagine waking up to breathtaking views, carving fresh powder, and making new friends from all over the globe. But before stuffing your bags full of ski gear and heading to the slopes, here are the most repeated golden nuggets of advice from past seasoners.
**1. Time Flies: Cherish Every Moment**
"Four months might sound like a long time," says seasonal instructor Katie. "But trust me, it’ll be over before you know it! Make sure to enjoy every crazy minute and treat each other with kindness. The bonds you create will last a lifetime. I still connect with people I met during my first season, and we reminisce about the hard work and crazy parties!"
It's not just about the slopes; it’s about the unforgettable experiences—like the time lifts were on wind hold and they spent two days in the staff flat bonding over board games and a packet of two minute noodles or two.
**2. Plan Ahead with Early Bird Passes**
Matt, a barista by day, and bartender by night, chimes in: "Book your early bird pass now; the prices will only go up as the season approaches. If you missed the Epic Pass deal, don’t fret—ask your employer about a merchant pass. It’s your ticket to the best value for hitting those legendary trails!"
He learned the hard way when he arrived at the mountain only to find out that those season passes were no longer on sale, and it took a week for the merchant pass to be arranged —definitely a lesson well learned!
**3. Embrace Shared Living: The Good and the Wild**
"Get ready for shared living!" laughs Sav, who has spent multiple winters at Mt Hotham. "Even the best staff houses are crowded with everything from wet snow gear to larger-than-life egos. You won’t have a moment to yourself on the couch, but that’s also the best part. There’s always someone to chat to, share tips about your binding settings, or to lean on during tough days."
Sav emphasises that the friendships formed in these tightly knit houses are some of life's strongest. "I am travelling the world with my best friends and my partner, all of who I met at Hotham"
Super Good Group Directors Lisa and Sarah also have plenty of tales to tell you throughout the season - they started in staff accommodation 20 years ago and now run 3 businesses together.
**4. Save for the Unexpected**
"Arrive with savings if you can," advises Kurt, a seasoned supervisor. "The weather gods hold the keys to how busy the resort will be. There’s no job in the resort that isn’t affected by what Mother Nature serves up. Having enough saved up to pay for your accommodation was the best advice I received."
It’s true—saving enough to cover at least part of your stay will ease the pressure, especially when we are all waiting for the snow to pile up and the crowds to come.
As you prepare for your ski season, remember to look forward to magnificent adventures—be it the workplace skills you’ll enhance, the skiing or snowboarding challenges you'll tackle or the iconic parties like the Annual Snowgies or a DJ Eddy dress up party or two. Whether you’re sharing stories and meals in the staff house, reenacting your riding achievements, or enjoying stunning summit sunsets, each moment is bound to be as exhilarating as the last.
So get ready for a winter you’ll never forget—a winter of snow, friends, laughter, and maybe a few wild stories to tell long after the slopes have closed.
Do your snow dances, we sure are!
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