Getting Back Up

Today was the last day of skiing in Thredbo for season 2011. Surprising, considering how much snow is around. Dosed up on multiple painkillers (not recommended behaviour) and with a beautiful day from sunrise, I decided I had to find out if I could ski, whilst there was still one lift (Basin T-bar) operating in the resort.

No, I wasn't within an hour of first chair and very gingerly I took my first turns in almost 2 months towards the bottom of the Basin. There were lots of locals out getting their last turns. The snow was firm (I stayed on the groomer), the cover good and the weather perfect - sunny, calm and below zero. There was lots of encouragement from Richard, Del, Jane, Paul and others. After 6 runs I decided that I had succeeded in doing what I set out to do. After a long missed coffee from the crew at Eagles Nest, I (unlike many others) downloaded on Kosi chair heading for a hot shower and to await the effects of the painkillers wearing off.

Yesterday

Marion captured these die-hards today at DHG
Happy Birthday Noni

More than just a heavy frost this morning
33cms fell (up top) over the past few days

Middle slopes below Bunnywalk and below Mid Station

Upper World Cup (yes, it's been closed for a week)

The Bluff

Central Spur - nice turns (yes, it's been closed for a while too)

Looking up Karels from top of Basin
yes, Karels was closed too

Frozen trees near Kareela

Result: As I type this report I certainly feel worse than before I started this morning but will attempt a little touring later in the week - weather and drugs permitting - before the next round of scans on my back.

Last word: A very fond farewell to Alan and Lyn, who closed up the Thredbo News Agency today after many, many years of dedicated service to the Thredbo community. May you enjoy much more (well deserved) time out on the range touring.