We offer formal instruction to our club members, particularly focussed on beginner skiers. In addition, experienced members of our club are always happy to share advice on cross country skiing technique.
Always learning ×
Trip help
The "How To" Guide for Beginners
Cross County skiing doesn't require a lot of specialised gear, (apart from skis!). However, you must be prepared for extreme weather conditions.
A few simple precautions, and a few items of clothing and equipment, can make the difference between being safely prepared and foolhardy.
This needn't cost a lot - there are cheap alternatives to most of the expensive specialised gear. Much of the gear required is the same as for bushwalking.
Before undertaking a trip, ask the advice of experienced club members.
Clothing, personal and snow safety tips
Cross country skiing involves a fair degree of exertion, more than down-hill, and 'body self-heating' will occur. In warm weather excess clothing should be removed (eg. into a back-pack, or left in the car) - little clothing can suffice most days. Bring sun-block & sun-glasses.
In wet weather(eg. steady rain, sleet or wet snow), clothing should consist of a rain-proof jacket & pants, eg. waterproof overpants. Jeans are worst - they absorb too much water too readily. In very cold/windy weather, gloves, hat/beanie and thermal underwear are essential. Weather on the mountain may be worse than in Melbourne - so be prepared.
For a comfortable journey home, or dining out later, a change of clothing (perhaps everything!) and towel - left in your car - is good insurance. Changing rooms, toilets, and snack food are available at Gerraty’s (Lake Mountain) and at Windy Corner (Falls Creek).
For a day trip: a small back-pack (‘day-pack’) is great to carry your lunch, energy-giving snacks (chocolate, fresh or dried fruit), packaged drinks and/or water (half/one litre per person at least) , sun glasses, sunscreen, plus items of clothing, eg. a spare pair of gloves, a tee-shirt or pullover, depending on the weather outlook (see further below).
For a ski weekend it is suggested you bring: Day-pack, water bottle, sun glasses (preferably wrap-around or goggles), personal first-aid kit, sunscreen, toiletries, towel, boots, socks (2 pairs), long pants (preferably nylon track pants or sport pants (not cotton/jeans), thermals, waterproof over-pants and jacket, woollen shirt, polar fleece, fibre-pile jacket or woollen jumpers, mittens or gloves, hat, spare clothes. Optional: camera.
Hiring Ski Gear
If hiring (or borrowing), be aware that cross-country skis, boots, poles are not the same as down-hill gear. Refuse any gear which is not in A1 condition - just walk out and hire good gear elsewhere.