Region Summary
National Name: Island State of Australia
Capital: Hobart
Language: English and native languages e.g. aboriginal
Currency: Australian dollar ($AUD)
Highest Point: Mt. Ossa (1,614m / 5,295ft)
Overview
Australia let alone Tasmania does not necessarily spring to mind to those from the northern hemisphere as a skiing destination. However the island of Tasmania, situated off the coast of Victoria surrounded by the Tasman Sea and Indian Ocean is on the same latitude as many of the New Zealand ski resorts. It is at a lower elevation however, so conditions can be variable. There are only a couple of resorts so Tasmania's main advantage is the lack of crowds.
Ben Lomond is Tasmania's major downhill ski resort situated at 1,300m in the heart of the Ben Lomond National Park, roughly 2.5 hours drive from the capital of Hobart. The only other main ski area is Mount Mawson situated in Mount Field National Park just 1.5 hours from Hobart. Finally, there is some cross country skiing in some of the other national parks e.g. Cradle Mountain and Lake St Claire.
The National Parks can be contacted on 03 6288 1319 where you can get reports on weather conditions and access road status.
