Freak Winds Unleash Chaos at Thredbo: Three Injured as Ski Lift Detaches

National NSW Thredbo: Three injured at Thredbo after ski lift detached by ‘freak’ winds

The Incident

Three snowboarders were injured at the Thredbo ski resort in New South Wales on Saturday when a chair detached from the Kosciuszko chairlift due to strong winds. Two women in their 20s suffered back injuries, while a man in his 20s sustained facial injuries. The injured individuals were promptly transported to Canberra Hospital and Cooma Health Service for treatment. According to Thredbo resort, the incident was caused by a “freak gust of wind,” and fortunately, no major injuries were reported among other guests or chairs. The resort has assured its guests that their safety is of utmost importance and that a thorough investigation is currently underway by SafeWork NSW and an independent engineer.

Previous Incidents

This is not the first time a chairlift incident has occurred at Thredbo. In 2019, a skier sustained minor bruising after a chair fell off the Gunbarrel Express Chairlift. These incidents raise concerns about the safety and maintenance of the resort’s chairlift system.

The Kosciuszko Chairlift

The Kosciuszko chairlift, spanning almost two kilometers, is Australia’s longest chairlift and has been in operation for 33 years. Originally a two-seat lift, it was upgraded to a four-seat lift in 1990. However, its age and the recent detachments have raised questions about the adequacy of its maintenance and modernization.

Safety and Risk Management

Thredbo Resort has stated that the safety of its guests is paramount and that it will continue to apply high standards of safety and risk management. However, the frequency of chairlift incidents suggests that there may be a need for more rigorous and comprehensive safety measures. In light of these recent accidents, it is imperative that Thredbo Resort thoroughly assess the condition and reliability of its chairlifts. This should include regular inspections, maintenance, and necessary upgrades to ensure the safety and well-being of its patrons.

Investigation and Accountability

The ongoing investigation by SafeWork NSW and an independent engineer is crucial in determining the cause of the chair detachments. It is crucial that the findings of this investigation are made public and that any necessary actions are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. Accountability lies not only with Thredbo Resort but also with the relevant regulatory authorities responsible for overseeing the safety of ski resorts.

Weather Conditions

According to reports, a wind gust of 65 km/h was recorded near the chairlift top station shortly before the incident. While the resort has attributed the incident to a “freak gust of wind,” it must be noted that ski resorts should be well-prepared to handle adverse weather conditions effectively. In an industry heavily reliant on unpredictable weather patterns, resorts must have robust protocols in place to ensure the safety of their guests.

Advice for Ski Resort Visitors

For individuals planning to visit ski resorts, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks involved and to prioritize safety. Here are some recommendations:

Stay Informed

Before heading to a ski resort, check weather conditions and forecast updates regularly. It is crucial to be prepared and aware of any potential risks posed by adverse weather.

Follow Instructions and Guidelines

Resort staff and signage provide important instructions and guidelines for guests’ safety. It is essential to follow these instructions diligently and not put oneself or others at risk by deviating from the prescribed safety protocols.

Report Any Concerns

If visitors notice any potential safety concerns, such as malfunctioning equipment or faulty infrastructure, it is essential to report them immediately to the resort staff or relevant authorities. Prompt reporting can help prevent accidents and ensure that necessary actions are taken.

Choose Reliable Resorts

When selecting a ski resort, it is advisable to consider their track record for safety and maintenance. Research the resort’s safety protocols, inspection procedures, and accident history to make an informed decision.

Insist on Regular Inspections

Ski resorts should conduct regular inspections of their infrastructure, including chairlifts, to ensure that they are safe and reliable. Visitors can inquire about these inspection practices and ask the resorts about their commitment to safety.

Use Common Sense

While enjoying the thrill of skiing or snowboarding, it is essential to exercise caution and use common sense. Avoid reckless behavior that may endanger oneself or others and be mindful of one’s abilities and limitations on the slopes.

In conclusion, the recent chairlift incident at Thredbo ski resort highlights the need for enhanced safety measures, thorough investigations, and accountability. Ski resorts such as Thredbo must prioritize the well-being of their guests and invest in regular maintenance, inspections, and necessary upgrades to prevent accidents. As visitors, it is crucial to stay informed, follow instructions, and report any safety concerns promptly. By adopting these measures, both ski resorts and visitors can work together to ensure a safer and more enjoyable skiing experience.