NSW Police are urging the community to have a plan and stay ‘Snow Safe’ as the 2022 ski season commences this long weekend.
The official NSW snow season begins tomorrow (Saturday 11 June 2022), with ski resorts expecting large crowds due to early heavy snowfalls.
Additional police will be deployed to the Snowy Mountains region from across the state as part of the high-visibility police operation. Visitors can expect to see officers from General Duties, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Southern Region Enforcement Squad, licensing police and other specialist officers – including trained Alpine Operators – throughout the season.
Southern Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Peter Cotter APM, said police will be out and about throughout the season targeting road safety, anti-social behaviour and personal safety.
“Our priority is to keep people safe – on the slopes, roads, licensed venues and out and about in the alpine region,” Assistant Commissioner Cotter said.
“Those heading to the snow should drive to the conditions and exercise appropriate caution.
“Snowfield conditions can be more difficult to navigate so we’d like to remind everyone to prioritise safety on your journey – pay close attention to the roads, don’t get distracted and slow down.
“Our officers will do all they can to keep you safe to and from the snowfields, and regardless of whether you’re driving, riding, a passenger or a pedestrian, we urge you to help us achieve this.”
Monaro Police District Commander, Superintendent John Klepczarek APM, said local police efforts will be bolstered by additional resources.
“The population of our snowfields and surrounding towns increases exponentially during winter, and for local police, community safety is always the number one priority,” Superintendent Klepczarek said.
“We will have additional staff seconded to Jindabyne from other police districts who will support the work of our local police; expect to see them out and about on patrol.
“After two years of lockdowns and disruptions, we are expecting a huge season this year, and we want to make sure everyone has a great time – but not at the expense of the safety of others.”
Deputy Premier, Minister for Regional NSW and Minister for Police Paul Toole urged everyone to take extra care on the roads this snow season, with double demerits in place across the long weekend from today.
“The recent cold snap has ensured a great start to the season and we know it’s going to be a busy time on the roads,” Mr Toole said.
“It’s important we remember to plan ahead and allow additional travel time because getting to your destination safely is everyone’s responsibility.”
NSW Police are also urging hikers visiting the region to ensure their personal safety by submitting a Trip Intention Form and hiring a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) before heading out into the national park.
A state-wide traffic operation will run throughout the Queen’s Birthday long weekend beginning at 12.01am Friday 10 June 2022 and ending at 11:59pm on Monday 13 June 2022. Double demerits will be in force throughout this period.
Further information on driving in snowfield conditions can be found by visiting the Centre for Road Safety website:
Hikers can contact the Snowy Region Visitor Centre for more information or visit: or .
For general snow safety tips when visiting alpine regions, as well as useful links you can access:
