**PLEASE NOTE: NSW Police Force-branded vision of the press conference will be distributed to media outlets state-wide via Hightail link this afternoon**
NSW Police are warning people heading to the snow this season to ensure they are prepared before hitting the slopes and act responsibly off the slopes, during the launch of Operation Snow Safe.
Operation Snow Safe begins today (Friday 6 June 2025) and runs until Monday 6 October 2025. The high visibility operation coincides with the opening of the official ski season tomorrow (Saturday 7 June 2025).
Operation Snow Safe will see a surge in additional police officers from across New South Wales deployed to the Snowy Mountain region, within the Monaro Police District, to keep visitors and locals safe.
General duties officers attached to Monaro Police District, with assistance from Southern Region Licensing Police, the NSW Dog Unit, Southern Region Enforcement Squad, Operational Support Group, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command and other specialist units will be out in force to conduct patrols across the snowy mountains.
Officers will be targeting anti-social behaviour, alcohol-related crime in licensed venues, dangerous & distracted driving on roads leading to the snow and risky behaviour on the slopes.
In addition, NSW Police coordinate search and rescue operations during the snow season including officers from the Monaro Police District Alpine Operations Unit, NSW Police Rescue Squad along with assistance from the State Emergency Service, Fire & Rescue NSW, NSW Ambulance Service and National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Operation Snow Safe coincides with the King's Birthday road safety and enforcement operation, with double demerits in force from 12.01am Friday 6 June 2025, until 11.59pm on Monday 9 June 2025.
Southern Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Joe Cassar APM, said preparation is paramount to ensure people have a safe and enjoyable time at the snow.
"The main message is for people to be patient and be prepared. Most people have to drive a considerable distance to visit the snow, so please plan regular breaks, check the weather conditions beforehand and make sure your car is roadworthy and can manage hazardous and slippery conditions. Drivers are urged to carry snow chains and ice scrapers, in the event of a heavy downpouring of snow. In the event of a crash or breakdown, drivers are reminded to pack blankets, food and water, with limited scope for detours on the roads leading to the snow, meaning you may be stuck in one location for a long period of time," Assistant Commissioner Cassar said.
"We have significant resources deployed to the Snowy Mountains region during the four-month operation to help skiers and boarders stay safe on and off the slopes. A contingent of Traffic and Highway Patrol Command will this year deploy from both Jindabyne and Cooma to keep our roads in the Snowy Mountains region safe. Monaro Police District uniformed and plain clothes officers will be patrolling licensed premises in Jindabyne, Thredbo and Perisher, the road networks and the slopes to stamp out any anti-social or risky behaviour putting others at risk of harm. Whether it's being involved in anti-social behaviour or getting behind the wheel of a car after consuming too much alcohol, that sort of behaviour won't be tolerated."
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Director Southern Ranges Mark Peacock said hikers should plan their trip well in advance and take precautions, in the event they get into trouble.
"Snow season is one of the most anticipated times of the year for so many people, but we all need to respect our surroundings to ensure we stay safe in these rugged environments. NSW NPWS encourages adventurers – new or experienced – to plan your trip in advance, check the weather, carry a personal locator beacon (PLB), and know where shelter can be found at all times. It is also much safer to travel in a group rather than alone," Mr Peacock said.
"In addition to these steps, everyone visiting alpine areas to participate in the wide array of activities the region offers should complete a Trip Intention Form. The online form includes information about when and where you are going and what equipment you're carrying. That information is shared with your emergency contact and passed onto authorities in the event you don't return. It only takes a few minutes, but it could save your life.
"Please visit the NPWS Alpine Safety web page to ensure you're adequately prepared for your adventure."
A recent notable incident;
About 10.30am on Tuesday 3 June 2025, emergency services were called to Seaman's Hut on the Kosciuszko National Park Main Range, after three men were attempting to hike between Charlotte Pass and the Mount Kosciuszko summit and had to seek shelter from a snow storm. Officers attached to Monaro Police District Alpine Operations Unit with assistance from the State Emergency Service and NSW Ambulance responded. The three men were transported by emergency services back to Charlotte Pass. They were uninjured and were assessed by paramedics but did not require transport to hospital. While pleased the men were not injured, they were not dressed for the conditions, were not carrying sufficient water, did not have a Personal Locator Beacon and had not filled out a Trip Intention Form.
Further information on driving in snowfield conditions can be found by visiting the Centre for Road Safety website: https://roadsafety.transport.nsw.gov.au/index.html
Hikers can contact the Snowy Region Visitor Centre for more information or visit: http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au or www.environment.nsw.gov.au.
For general snow safety tips when visiting alpine regions, as well as useful links you can access: http://snowsafe.org.au/
