A current snow depth of 127.4 centimetres means that Perisher Blue is experiencing one of the best starts to a ski season in recent memory. This news comes just in time for the NSW school holidays, so children and parents a-like can enjoy the resort at it�s absolute best.

Perisher Blue has officially exceeded the snow level recorded for this time during the season of 2000, which was celebrated as a bumper year for ski resorts all around Australia. Snowy Hydro, an electricity and water company independent of Perisher Blue, records these snow depth measurements at a station near Spencers Creek, just outside of the resort.

According to Bob Jack, General Manager of Operations at Perisher Blue: �An early start like this always bodes well for the rest of the season�. Snowy Hydro agrees, with a spokesperson saying �We have an excellent cover for this time of the year, and the current snow depth means we can expect a fantastic season to come.� Snowy Hydro also notes that approximately five to ten centimetres of the recent snow fall can be attributed to cloud seeding, which is taking place in an area of the Snowy Mountains close to Perisher Blue.

Snowmakers, ski patrol and mountain operations staff have been working hard to keep up with the snow falls. Thanks to their dedication we now have 49 lifts up and running, with the North Perisher T Bar making its 2004 season debut today. North Perisher T Bar gives skiers and boarders access to even more advanced terrain.

Recent weather conditions have meant that extensive snowmaking has been possible, which has added greatly to an already outstanding cover of snow. It is certainly shaping up to be a phenomenal school holiday period.

It looks like there is plenty more snow to come. The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting more snow to fall over the next couple of days. This is excellent news for all those making turns throughout Perisher Blue�s diverse terrain. Things will only be getting better with completion of our terrain parks and the new Super Half Pipe underway; Perisher Blue is offering more winter fun for families these holidays.

There is plenty to do and plenty of snow at Perisher Blue, now open for your pleasure! Check out latest conditions and information on www.perisherblue.com.au.

Media Contact: Dave Kirwan E: dave.kirwan@perisher.com.au T: +61 (0)2 64594419