Alpine Gateway
In 2020 MHARMB secured $4.2m toward the implementation of the Alpine Gateway project, through the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund, administered by the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions.
Alpine Gateway will operate as the trailhead for the iconic Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing, and will provide a much-needed new visitor facility and multi-level car park at the current Loch Car Park site. In winter, this will offer a seamless visitor experience, including significantly improved parking and direct ski field access for skiers and boarders of all abilities.
In summer, it will be a launch pad for a range of green-season activities, including acting as a trail head for key resort walks. Year-round, visitors will be able to take advantage of lockers, toilets and public areas located in the new facility.
The project is also of significant strategic importance as it is seen as an enabler for future resort development, shifting cars out of Corral Car Park to facilitate development of that site. Consistent with the Mt Hotham Masterplan, the aim is to create a new tourism hub in and around the Corral Car Park that will feature a diverse commercial and public offering.
The design of the Alpine Gateway draws inspiration from the colours and shapes of the High Country, including native flora and the shape of traditional mountain huts, and sits in harmony with the surrounding environment. When operational, the facility will include interpretive information panels acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the land.
Update - February 2022
During 2021, COVID impacted on the resort’s construction projects in four key ways:
- Initial COVID restrictions preventing Melbourne based contractors and suppliers travelling to regional Victoria.
- Losing key RMB project staff due to Government vaccination requirements and close COVID contacts.
- The virulent nature of Omicron and subsequent isolation requirements, which has significantly impacted contractor staffing.
- The whole of industry shutdown at the end of 2021.
The extremely wet summer during the tight construction window has also impacted the production schedule.
The multi-level car park structure is on track to be completed prior to the 2022 winter with some car parking available. Construction of the Alpine Gateway is expected to continue during the 2022/23 construction period.