I'M Siim, the head of the instructors at our ski school.

With eight years at Mt Stirling, I'm excited to share our ski instructors with you.

We have a dedicated newspaper page in Mt Buller News each year to introduce our team and we're pleased to continue this tradition.

This year our team includes four instructors from Estonia, one from Finland and a local boy Ben.

Marie Cathleen Kilp, who was with us last year, has returned this season.

We've had a wonderful season so far and the ample snow has made our workdays truly memorable.

1. KELLI MARIE JAAMA, 28, Estonia

I was put on both cross-country skis and slalom skis when I was three years old, as winter sports are the most natural part of my family’s lifestyle.

Although I didn't pursue skiing professionally like both of my brothers, I can't imagine a life without it.

More than anything, I enjoy going on ski hikes in the Swedish mountains.

This is my first season working as a skiing instructor at Mt Stirling, and I'm very much looking forward to spreading the joy and love of cross-country skiing. I hope to see you on the tracks!

2. MARI ANN JAHHU. 19, Estonia

Hello!

My name is Mari Ann, and I'm a 19-year-old ski instructor from Estonia.

I'm thrilled to be here at Mt Stirling for the first time.

I was a competitive skier until I was 16, and for the past season, I've been teaching children how to ski.

I am an active and adventurous person, passionate about embracing an outdoor lifestyle.

I love this job because it allows me to share my enthusiasm for skiing with others and help them discover the joy and excitement of this amazing sport.

3. BEN PLUMB, 24, Victoria

G’day, I’m Ben, from the United Kingdom and NSW, but now living here in Victoria!

It is an absolute pleasure to be joining the Mt Stirling team for 2024.

I am an avid climber and ice-climber, back-country skier, and splitboarder.

For the past few winter seasons, I've been skiing around Mt Kosciuszko's main range in NSW, particularly at ‘Blue Lake’, where there is phenomenal ice-climbing, weather permitting.

During the dry season, I work as an outdoor instructor and climbing guide.

I specialise in delivering experiential learning in nature to school groups ranging from kindy to year 12 students.

I also facilitate leadership programs for university groups and guide clients in climbing and mountaineering.

Having a passion for all things snow, I moved to Mt Buller in late December to work on a Via Ferrata offered during the summer season and, importantly, to teach cross-country skiing over the winter.

Although I'm a downhill ski instructor, this will be my very first season teaching cross-country skiing, which I'm thrilled about.

If you see me on the tracks, come say hi… I’m always wearing my smile :)

4. PONTUS SJÖBLOM, 28, Finland

I grew up in southern Finland, a region that offered abundant opportunities to explore both winter and summer sports.

While I've dabbled in various activities, I found myself most captivated by running, rock climbing, and cross-country skiing.

I have a deep love for the outdoors and aim to share my experiences to inspire others to enjoy nature as much as I do.

5. MARIE CATHLEEN KILP, 24, Tallinn, Estonia.

My journey in cross-country skiing began at the age of 10, and I competed in the sport until I turned 18.

Since then, I've focused on expanding my knowledge in physical education and skiing.

Over the past three winter seasons, I've had the joy of guiding numerous kindergarten groups in Estonia.

Alongside this, I've enjoyed teaching private lessons to skiers of all levels over the past year.

Whether assisting beginners in finding their balance or refining the techniques of experienced enthusiasts, each lesson is tailored to the individual's specific needs.

My first season on Mt Stirling in 2023 was particularly memorable.

It provided me with valuable experience working with diverse groups and further honing my teaching skills.

Armed with a Bachelor of Arts in Sport and experience as a PE teacher, I possess a solid foundation in physical education and teaching.

I'm thrilled to return for my second year, eager to share my passion for cross-country skiing with my students.

The greatest reward of being a ski instructor is witnessing the smiles on people’s faces after a successful lesson.

I look forward to meeting you on the mountain!

6. SIIM EILO, 34, Estonia

Hello, I'm Siim and I am delighted to return to Mt Stirling for my eight winter season as the head of ski instructors.

Winter sports have always been a significant part of my life, and I cherish the opportunity to share my love of skiing and help others improve their skills.

With over 25 years of skiing experience and a decade of professional teaching and coaching, skiing is both my passion and my profession.

I approach teaching with patience and enjoy working with people of all ages and abilities, having taught skiers ranging from beginners to advanced levels.

I excel in Cross Country and Telemark skiing, and I am proficient in downhill skiing as well.

This season, I look forward to spending rewarding days on the snow in our beautiful outdoor environment.

7. MARI LINNUS, 23, from a small village in southeast Estonia.

I have been skiing for my whole life, since I remember.

I grew up with three older brothers so basically what they did, I copied them.

Because of them I fell in love with sports generally and especially winter sports.

Back in Estonia I worked as a cross country skiing instructor at Limpa ski school.

I've also been an assistant coach in children's training camps.

Throughout the year I help to organise different sport events so people can enjoy an active lifestyle and beautiful Estonian nature.