Snow Stories
The 2016 Darwin High Perisher Ski Trip was a great success and proved that anyone can be a good skier! Over 40 Year 10 and Stage 1 students participated in this year’s excursion, and quite a few had never seen the snow before.
Two weeks out from the trip snow conditions were looking good with over 120cm of base cover, but the week before the trip temperatures on the mountain were above 10 degrees and it was raining. The snow melted and washed off the mountain and the group arrived at Perisher to see more grass than snow. Luckily, as they got off the bus it began to snow and didn’t stop for four days.
Throughout the trip temperatures ranged between 2°C and -7°C which introduced the group to the wonders of breathing ‘like a dragon’. Not even the bitter cold winds and low visibility could stop Darwin High students from shredding up (and more often than not) falling down the slopes. Even new skiers and snowboarders were keen to brave the terrain parks and unbelievably thick powder.
Those students that braved the conditions were quick to develop some skills, as the fresh powder cushioned their falls and gave them the confidence to get back up and give it another go. Getting on and off the ski lifts was a challenge for most in the first few days, producing amusing piles ups and many an embarrassing moment.
As the week progressed the students started to explore more of the mountain. The terrain parks were a popular place to show off and get some go-pro footage. Pretty Valley offered the opportunity for beginners to escape the wind and pick up some speed. The more advanced headed to Blue Cow and Mt Perisher to take on the steeper slopes. Days ended with snowball fights whilst the keenest skiers stayed to get the last run of the day. Hot chocolate and warm soup was quick to follow, as the prehistoric heaters reportedly failed to live up to their purpose!
The students did themselves proud. They were well mannered, responsible and safe on the slopes. While there were some minor injuries, students looked after each other until the snow patrol or a teacher was able to get there to help. They worked well as a team and showed real leadership.
As the trip drew to an end and the sleep deprived students (laden with dozens of Krispy Kremes and sporting some distinctly visible ski goggle sunburn marks) arrived at Darwin Airport, it was clear to everyone that it was all worth it. Thank you to the teachers and students that were part of the 2016 Perisher Crew - it was a fantastic and very rewarding trip!
Thank you to Year 10 student Kate Hinchliffe for contributing to this article.
