Caretakers Reflection on Summer 2025/6
My second season as caretaker started with a flurry; a flurry of snow. In only a t-shirt and shorts, having driven from Brisbane, and suitcases packed with mostly summer clothes, could I find a pair of gloves or beanie? My freezing hands weren’t dexterous enough to wrestle with the car bike rack. To my shame, the two bicycles spent a cold night in the carpark covered in snow. It was early November and we would be treated to three more snow events, again in November, December and finally in May.
My partner, Gaby, soon joined me and the sun came out. As the temperature rose, the conditions were perfect for golfing, hiking and biking. This summer has seen a dramatic increase in guests coming for just mountain biking. We had groups from as far away as the Sunshine Coast, Queensland and Bright, Victoria. The Australian Interschools, Cannonball MTB Festival and Thredbo Gravity Series kept the Lodge full of guests.
The number of ‘bed nights’ has increased 45% from the previous summer, due mainly to the mountain bikers.
January is definitely the time to visit! The Blues Festival saw the Lodge 100% full for the first time, including providing beds for musicians from Sydney. One of our longest standing members, Margaret Keith, and her extended family enjoyed a stay at the Lodge. ‘Aunty Marg’ is particularly cherished as she introduced my parents to Berghutte. The following weekend was the Australia Day Holiday and Thredbo hosted a Food, Beer and Wine Festival, attracting both locals and visitors from near and far.
The hottest day of the year (33.5 degrees) on January 28th saw Gaby and I escape for two days to the cooling sea breezes at Tathra on the coast.
‘Frequent flyer’ points have accrued to members Donough and Paul Brooks. Four visits this summer to fly-fish for trout. My childhood friend Sandra and her husband Ross had two extended visits. Sadly, Ross and I weren’t as successful at finding trout as were the Brooks. Notable were the many overseas guests. Visitors from Ireland, Canada, Czech, Iceland, France, Germany, Netherlands, South Africa and the UK. Many were surprised by Australia having an alpine environment.
Returning this summer was the block booking for the Coogee Swimmers (David & Sharon O’Sullivan) who ‘enjoy’ refreshing dips in the Thredbo River. The final block booking of the season was again Nic & Karen Reader and their mountain biking friends. That weekend the carpark comfortably fitted thirteen large 4WD’s. The fire pit got a final workout and the last of the bike riding ‘tall tales’ were told. The ‘shotski’ also got a final workout and has earned a rest until the Winter Season.
We would love to welcome you and your family and friends to Berghutte next summer. Look forward to seeing you at the Berg.
