Police are disappointed at the number of motorists arriving at alpine resorts unprepared, with more than 80 cars turned away each weekend from Mt Buller for failing to carry required snow chains at Alpine Resorts.
With the snow season only three weeks old, police have made 50 rescues on Mt Hotham - mostly consisting of motorists who needed to be extracted to their cars due to rapidly changing weather conditions.
Despite clear laws, signage and repeated safety messages, police and Alpine resort management staff continue to intercept a large number of vehicles without snow chains - equipment that can be the difference between a safe trip and a serious crash.
As the snow season gains momentum and school holiday crowds head to the mountains, police are warning that too many drivers are ignoring safety advice - and putting themselves and others at serious risk.
Incidents on the slopes this year include:
• On Saturday 7 June, a probationary driver relying on GPS directions became stranded while attempting to travel from Gippsland to Sydney via the Dargo High Plains Road. Driving a 4WD with his girlfriend onboard, the man was unable to ascend the final climb near the Great Alpine Road due to fresh snow, icy conditions, and a lack of snow chains. Mt Hotham CFA were required to winch the vehicle to safety. The driver later told police he was unfamiliar with alpine driving conditions.
• Emergency services responded to another incident on Mt Buffalo Road, where a vehicle carrying four people - two adults and two children - slid off the road and came to rest on a small embankment. Fortunately, no one was injured.
• Police and SES crews from Bright and Falls Creek were deployed to a significant rescue operation on Blue Rag Range Track near Mt Hotham, where more than a dozen people became stranded as 50cm of snow fell in a short period. Thirteen people were rescued after their vehicles became stuck around 10.30pm.
• On Tuesday 10 June, police intercepted two young men who had driven a Mercedes sports car up to Mt Hotham in hazardous conditions. The vehicle, which could not be fitted with chains due to low-profile tyres and poor ground clearance, was also found to be unregistered. The driver was issued with a penalty notice.
Officers will maintain a strong presence throughout the school holidays, with proactive patrols and compliance checks being conducted by local police, Highway Patrol, alpine-trained members, Liquor Control Victoria and the Heavy Vehicle Unit.
Police have seen a significant rise in day trippers - people heading up the mountain for the day, with many failing to check the conditions and not carrying chains.
Authorities are reminding all visitors that the same rules apply regardless of how long you plan to stay - if you're entering designated alpine resorts, legally required snow chains must be carried and fitted when directed.
Quotes attributable to Eastern Region Commander Karen Nyholm:
"Up to 80 vehicles are being turned back every weekend by resort management at Mt Buller which is concerning. It shows some travellers are still underestimating just how serious alpine conditions can be.
"These aren't small mistakes - we're seeing vehicles stuck, and people needing to be rescued, after being caught out in rapidly changing weather. In many cases, it comes down to a lack of preparation.
"Carrying snow chains isn't optional - it's a legal requirement at alpine resorts and for good reason. They can be the difference between reaching your destination safely or being involved in a serious accident.
"We want everyone heading to the snow to have a great time and come home safely. But that starts with being properly prepared and making sure your vehicle is ready for the conditions.
"As we move into the school holidays, we're urging all travellers to take a few simple steps before setting off - pack your chains, check the weather, and ensure your vehicle is suitable for the conditions. It could save your life."
"Alpine conditions can change fast - roads that look fine can become icy or dangerous without warning. If you're not properly equipped, it can quickly turn into a serious situation for you and others."
