Over summer, we have a much smaller crew on the ground than during the winter season. But there’s a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes maintaining, refreshing and getting the resort ready for winter operations.
Jesse Ruming, who you might recognise as our Snowmaking and Grooming Manager has been managing the start of multi-year Pipeline Upgrade Project. This important project ensures the longevity of our snowmaking systems and will boost snowmaking reliability for the seasons ahead.
The old steel pipe as part of the snowmaking network is being replaced with the Alpinal pipe system from Techno Alpin. Alpinal pipes are designed for quick assembly, not requiring welding like their steel counter parts.
“It can be tricky replacing snowmaking pipes,” said Jesse. “We’re digging around existing electrical, gas, and water infrastructure so we have to be really careful not to hit anything. And we’re also in an alpine environment so we are contending with slopes, mountain terrain, and the weather. The Alpinal pipes make the job a bit easier.”
As someone who does most of his work after the sun goes down during the winter season, Jesse enjoys the quieter pace of summer projects, being in the mountains and making the most of the sunshine and beautiful vistas at Hotham.
As we lead into the season, Jesse will be closing out phase 1 of the project, testing the snow guns and watching the weather so that we’re ready to make snow for the season ahead when conditions allow.
We can’t wait to welcome you all back to Hotham this season!