MT HOTHAM'S eagerly awaited Alpine Gateway visitor centre was officially opened in time for the start of the snow season last month.
Minister for Environment and Acting Minister for Regional Development, Steve Dimopoulos, toured and opened the the impressive day shelter, strategically positioned at the Loch Car Park site, on June 7.
"It will be enjoyed by visitors from across Victoria and interstate this winter, making it easier and more accessible to get on the slopes," he said.
"It will support Mount Hotham to remain a major economic driver of our state."
Funded by $4.2 million from the State Government, through Regional Development Victoria, the new architecturally designed two-storey building provides a much-needed visitor hub with a new under-cover carpark, observation deck and accessible amenities including showers, and heated lounge areas that offers panoramic views over the Victorian Alps.
Minister Dimopoulos said more than 100 jobs were created during construction – boosting secure local jobs throughout the region.
"In winter, the gateway will offer visitors a seamless experience including safe and direct ski field access for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities while outside of the snow season, it will improve year-round access to outdoor activities by providing an ideal starting point for exploring the area’s network of walking trails," he said.
"The building will also operate as a new trailhead for the iconic Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing, providing a launch pad for a range of green season activities such as guided nature walks, hiking, trail running and mountain biking.
"The new information panels celebrate and pay tribute to the Traditional Owners of the land while the design draws inspiration from the coloirs and shapes of the High Country."
The facility also provides Disabled Wintersport Australia (DWA) with a 20-square-metre storage and workshop area, along with a transfer room for intermediate-to-advanced sit skiers to transfer themselves seamlessly to the snow fields.
These areas are in addition to DWA's new space in Hotham Central.
Phil Knight, resort services manager Mt Hotham for DWA said the new development will be an absolute game changer for DWA's intermediate to advanced sit skiers.
"It will allow them direct access to the ski fields, largely independently.
"With automatic sensor doors, ample storage facilities and an artificial snow surface connecting the transfer room to the ski area, we are beyond excited with
this new addition to the resort.”
Minister Dimopoulos said the project is part of the government’s record $45 billion investment since 2014 in projects and programs that support regional Victoria to be an even better place to live, work, stay and play.
Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes, said the new visitor centre makes Mount Hotham "even more accessible and enjoyable for both locals and visitors, showcasing the beauty and adventure our region has to offer year-round".