Perisher Valley (NSW), Australia – Lifts were spinning at Perisher this past weekend for the first time in May in recent memory. After early snowfall and good snowmaking temperatures, however, heavy rainfall washed away hopes of a banner start to the Australian ski season.

As much as two inches of rain fell on the Snowy Mountains over the past several days, washing away the early season snow cover. It was the heaviest rainfall experienced in the region over the past several months. Colder air filled in behind the storm changing precipitation from rain to snow, but it was too little too late for the region’s ski industry.

Forecasts are indicating that the next chance for measurable snow won’t occur until sometime next week. In the meantime, Perisher is preparing for its originally scheduled season opening in two weeks. The Perisher Snowy Mountains of Music will launch the season over the long weekend June 10-13 with 130 concerts scheduled across 10 on-snow venues by artists including Ash Grunwald, Christine Anu, Dallas Frasca, Skipping Girl Vinegar, Marshall & the Fro and more.

Resort officials report that lift revenues from this past pre-season weekend resulted in a donation of over AUD  $25,000 to several charities.