Ski-field Operators Worried Covid Test Rule Will Put A Dampener On Victorian Skiers Staying Local

As restrictions ease up in Melbourne and school holidays are approaching, ski enthusiasts across the state are ready to hit the slopes.

But the alpine industry remains dubious and feel unfairly targeted as a new testing system requires Melburnians get a COVID test 72 hours prior to departing.

Rhylla Morgan from Mount Buller said they are concerned ski goers will ditch Victorian resorts and instead head across the border to places like Perisher or Thredbo.

"We hope that this can be worked out and that it’s only a short-term measure. It would be awful to think that Victorians will be leaving, going to NSW and we would be losing their business. Of course, that's a worry."

- Rhylla Morgan

Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton explains because the virus thrives in the alpine ski environment this is about protecting the ski industry.

"We need to make sure there are no cases that go up on the mountain. Even though the number in metro Melbourne may be tiny, a single case whose infectious up on the mountain may be a potential super spreader event"

- CHO Brett Sutton

Children as young as 3-years-old would be required to get tested.

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