With bumper snowfalls and school holiday crowds flooding the Snowy Mountains, the Minns Labor Government is urging drivers to be prepared before heading to the alpine region, warning that too many are arriving under-equipped for dangerous winter road conditions.
Fresh snow and a rush of holidaymakers have driven alpine visitation to new highs this week, prompting the Minns Government to remind travellers that excitement should stay on the slopes, not on the roads.
The stark reality of inadequate preparation has been seen in recent incidents across the alpine region.
One vehicle, not equipped with snow chains, slid off an icy road and became stranded in hazardous conditions. Another driver, apparently not adjusting their speed for the conditions, ended up down an embankment after losing control on mountain roads.
These incidents serve as a sobering reminder that if you’re not adequately prepared for the road conditions, it is very easy to end up in trouble when travelling to the snow. What should be a memorable family holiday could become a dangerous situation requiring emergency response.
To help ensure safer roads, the Minns Government has ramped up snow-clearing operations and implemented network management strategies to handle the spike in demand and improve road safety.
As part of the response, motorists are being encouraged to sign up for Transport’s free SMS Alert Service via the Driving in Snow webpage. The alerts notify travellers when car parks are full or when key alpine roads like Kosciuszko Road or Alpine Way are temporarily closed due to hazardous conditions.
A National Parks pass or ski lift ticket does not guarantee road access during closures, meaning public transport or the Skitube may be the only way to reach the snowfields during peak days.
The Government’s popular Snowy Mountains Bus Service is experiencing record-breaking demand, with a 30% increase in passenger numbers compared to this time in 2024.
So far this year, more than 28,000 trips have been made on services connecting Cooma, Berridale, Jindabyne, Perisher, Thredbo, and Bullocks Flat.
More than 3,000 journeys were recorded during the first weekend of the NSW school holidays alone – a surge that has prompted additional peak services every 30 minutes between Jindabyne and Perisher to meet demand.
Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchsion said:
“It’s fantastic to see so many people enjoying our beautiful alpine region, but good snow doesn’t mean good driving conditions. We want the thrills to stay on the slopes, not on icy roads.
“The Minns Labor Government is continuing to invest in transport solutions that prioritise public safety and make it easier for families and visitors to enjoy NSW’s world-class winter destinations.
“The Snowy Mountains Bus Service is making a real difference, especially for people without four-wheel drives or experience fitting snow chains. And fewer cars on the road helps keep those key routes open for everyone.
“Our bus services are playing a crucial role in keeping roads safe and resorts accessible.
“My advice to drivers is to plan ahead, sign up for alerts, and consider public transport, so the only drama you face this snow season is picking between Perisher and Thredbo.”
Bus ticket information and benefits:
•Book at: snowymountainsbus.com.au
•Fares include free parking at The Station Resort, shuttle access, and Kosciuszko National Park entry
•Live bus tracking now available via transportnsw.info/trip or the Opal Travel app
Preparing your vehicle for the snow:
Before heading to the snow, use this checklist to make sure you and your vehicle are ready to drive safely in the Alpine region:
•Get a comprehensive mechanical check (tyres, battery, brakes, cooling system, engine, windscreen wipers, demister, electrical system)
•Add anti-freeze (ask your mechanic to check if you need anti-freeze in your radiator or a special coolant for low temperatures)
•Ensure you have the right fuel for snow conditions (if you drive a diesel vehicle, fill your tank with Alpine Diesel from a service station close to the snowfields)
•Create an emergency kit including blankets, food, water, torch, and first aid supplies
•Pack snow chains and ensure you know how to fit them
Essential winter driving tips:
•Adjust your speed to match conditions
•Use your headlights even during daylight hours
•Allow extra distance from the vehicle in front of you
•Be aware of trucks and heavy vehicles
•Look out for signage and snow poles
•Watch out for black ice, especially at dawn and dusk
•Avoid travel fatigue by taking regular breaks
•Use snow chains when instructed by authorities
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