With only one week left until the start of the ski season, resorts in the New South Wales Snowy Mountains are busy preparing a number of COVID-safe protocols.
From social-distancing measures to prohibiting cash payments, this season on the ski fields will be very different.
The Thredbo Ski resort is set to open on the 22nd of June, while Perisher Ski resort will open on the 24th, followed by Charlotte Pass on the 26th.
"To actually have a ski season is something to be celebrate," CEO of the Australian Ski Areas Association, Colin Hackworth, said.
"That being said, it's going to be different this year.
"It all comes back to hygiene, sanitisation and social distancing."
'Maybe pack a sandwich'
Less people will be allowed onto the ski fields this season, with both Perisher and Thredbo initially operating at a 50 per cent capacity.
This decision will help allow more space on the slopes and enable the 1.5-metre social-distancing rule.
"We are going to have to spread out in queues. There could well be longer lines," Mr Hackworth said.
"There are going to be restrictions in food and beverage facilities … so maybe it would be best to pack a lunch and take your own thermos and a sandwich."
Both resorts, along with Charlotte Pass, are urging visitors to pre-book prior to their arrival due to the limited number of guests allowed on the mountain each day.
Perisher's online store will open from tomorrow for visitors to purchase lift tickets.
Thredbo Ski Resort launched their online store last week, which resulted in their website crashing as thousands of people tried to purchase lift passes.
"You need to book and plan ahead as many of the components of your ski holiday as you can," Mr Hackworth.
"There's no point in just rolling up to the resorts and hoping you can go skiing or snowboarding."
Northern Hemisphere will be watching
Tobogganing and snow play will not be permitted, and cash will not be accepted.
There will also be limits on the number of guests allowed on chair lifts, gondola cabins and T-bars at any time.
Mr Hackworth said how Australian ski resorts handle operations amid the coronavirus pandemic will be observed, and potentially mimicked, by international ski industries.
"All of our Northern Hemisphere cousins are watching Australia with a magnifying glass," he said.
"Just be a little bit patient and remember we've all got to look after each other because COVID-19 hasn't gone away."
