Falls Creek, Australia (Wednesday, May 26, 2004) - As the warmer days ebb away, and the last of the autumn leaves fall to the ground, the snow bunnies are hopping into their ski suits in readiness for the annual Queen's Birthday long weekend start of the Australian ski season, June 12 to 14.

While the main focus at Falls Creek is on the opening of a new chairlift, named "The Drover's Dream" to reflect the resort's association with Victorian high country heritage, there will be numerous après-ski parties throughout the picturesque alpine village.

Visitors are invited to celebrate the start of the 2004 winter at the first (of many) Happy Harvey Hours at the Falls Creek Hotel, on Saturday afternoon between 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm. The official opening of Astra Alpine Lodge's Vodka Bar at 5 pm will be lots of fun, as will the wining and dining at numerous après-ski venues in the
alpine village, such as Milch, Mo's Restaurant and The Man, who will be celebrating the arrival of the winter season.

The resort will be in full winter mode throughout the traditional Queen's Birthday opening weekend with some enthusiastic skiers and boarders schussing the slopes (if the forecasted snowfalls eventuate) and riding the new chairlift.

Diana Lodge has Free wine tastings with De Bortolis Wines between 5 and 6 pm on Saturday, June 12, followed by a Wine & Food Appreciation Dinner at 7:00 pm. It is a relaxed evening of dining (six courses) and tasting wines, with some fun and games. The cost - AUS$65 per person - includes sampling De Bortolis wines.

Oysters will feature strongly again on the menu at Mo's Restaurant and it will hold its first "Oyster Happy Hour" of the winter between 4:30 pm and 5:30 pm on Saturday, June 12. Oysters and Boags beer or a glass of sparkling wine is priced at AUS$18.

Gebi's Ski Hire will be holding its annual Champagne Shopping afternoon on Sunday, June 13 between 1:00 pm and 5:30 pm with a complimentary glass of champagne and spot prizes for purchasers. It's a great chance to check out the new stock and grab the pick of the bunch, or pick up a bargain from last year's gear.

And most importantly, of course the ski lifts will open.