** Update (Monday 12th): With windy and snowy conditions forecast, we will adapt the trip. Give the more difficult weather, it will be a small group, made up of people with whom I've skied before. If you have expressed your interest, even if you miss out this time I will note it and there may be future day trips. **
The snow is excellent and September is promising to be a great month for ski-touring. With the arrival of nice weather, it's the best time to try snow camping in the glorious surrounds of the Main Range.
This trip is specifically to improve skills, especially for people who have done some ski-touring but want to build confidence. Ideally, after a trip like this you could consider getting a small group together (not complete beginners, but people of similar skills to yourself), and running your own trip. The main step in that direction is to ski around the range to get a feel for the terrain, and to practice reading the map so you can ski home if the weather turns bad.
To introduce snow-camping, we will take the chairlift from Thredbo and ski a very short distance to a nearby, sheltered campsite (about 1 hour with packs - we will assume no experience skiing with a pack). Then we can drop our packs, set up camp, and practice skiing in the local area. On Sunday we will start very early, and (leaving heavy gear at the campsite) ski with just day things to Mt Townsend, snow-filled Lady Northcote Canyon and frozen Lake Albina, amid spectacular views of the western falls wilderness.
Skiing level is intermediate - suitable if you ski blue runs in the ski resort. Of course, there are plenty of chances to find steep runs if you wish, but they aren't compulsory.
We assume no snow-camping experience - we will brief you on equipment, etc. The gear store has everything you need (tents, sleeping bags etc). Importantly, spring means the onset of "enjoyable weather" and we've always had fun snow-camping at this time of year.
As the main focus is leadership skills, we will give you a map and a compass, and encourage you to take turns (with guidance) on navigation.
All signups are considered expressions of interest, and the final group will be selected based on previous contributions and participation. Probably about 6 people.
Plan will be posted after discussion with participants.