Well, we are starting get to the pointy end of the season with August typically being a busy time for us at Mt Hotham.

Our visitation has been exceptional this year with some records being broken.

The flipside has been that (just like any other tourism based businesses) we have been battling with staff shortages, accommodation shortages and of course a nasty flu coupled with COVID–19.

Its certainly been a challenge, but one we have taken to ensure that we provide the best experience in these times.

So what for the future?

Things are far from normal and I guess we just take each day as it comes.

Studies and research are being undertaken by Tourism North East in conjunction with resort management boards with regards to the critical accommodation issues facing our industry.

It will be interesting to see what recommendations are made and which are taken onboard.

We all agree we have an issue and we all agree that something needs to be done, so that's a good thing!

At the end of this season we will more than likely see the biggest shake up of the Victorian resorts in over 20 years with the establishment of a one–stop–shop called Alpine Resorts Victoria (ARV).

ARV plans to have a single board in place to manage the Victorian alpine resorts, with functions of the board distributed throughout the resorts.

This change brings a lot of uncertainty to our stakeholders and we are working closely with the State Government to attempt a fair deal for all involved and to see our resorts grow with further investment opportunities.

A lot of time has been invested to date by the various voluntary committees feeding into the process.

The consultation ain't perfect but just like most things in life, if you don't put in, you don't get out.

September bookings this year are also healthy and with some good spring deals to be had, it maybe worth doing a bit of research into your spring snow trip.

A fair amount of people missed out on accommodation prior to now as there were already bookings deferred from season 2020 and 2021.

These do start to drop off in September where the days are long and the sun is shining – perfect for beginners and also photographers to capture some cracka sunrises and sunsets.

Midweek is also an option for a more relaxing trip.

So, lots going on in the alpine world with our customers at the centre of it – without you, we don't exist.