Police have expressed frustration at the growing number of drivers heading to Victoria’s alpine resorts without required snow chains, with more than 80 vehicles turned away from Mt Buller each weekend.
Just three weeks into the snow season, officers have already carried out 50 rescues on Mt Hotham, many involving stranded motorists caught out by sudden weather changes and icy roads.
Eastern Region Commander Karen Nyholm said the numbers were alarming.
“Up to 80 vehicles are being turned back every weekend at Mt Buller, which is concerning. It shows some travellers are still underestimating just how serious alpine conditions can be,” she said.
“These aren’t small mistakes – we’re seeing people needing to be rescued because they weren’t prepared. Carrying snow chains isn’t optional – it’s the law, and for good reason.”
Despite clear laws, road signage and repeated public safety messages, police and alpine resort staff continue to stop vehicles without snow chains – vital safety equipment that can mean the difference between a safe drive and a dangerous crash.
As the school holidays ramp up and crowds head to the snowfields, authorities are warning that too many motorists are ignoring safety advice and putting lives at risk.
Recent incidents include:
- A probationary driver and his girlfriend became stranded on the Dargo High Plains Road while attempting to drive from Gippsland to Sydney via Mt Hotham without snow chains. The local CFA had to winch their 4WD to safety.
- A car carrying two adults and two children slid off Mt Buffalo Road and landed on a small embankment. Thankfully, no one was injured.
- Thirteen people had to be rescued from Blue Rag Range Track near Mt Hotham after 50cm of snow fell in a short time, leaving their vehicles stuck late at night.
- Two young men drove an unregistered Mercedes sports car up to Mt Hotham in treacherous conditions. The car, unsuitable for snow chains due to low-profile tyres, was intercepted by police and the driver fined.
A strong police presence is in place across the alpine region, with Highway Patrol, alpine-trained members, Liquor Control Victoria and the Heavy Vehicle Unit conducting compliance checks.
Police are particularly concerned about the spike in day-trippers who fail to check conditions or carry chains, wrongly assuming the rules don’t apply to short visits.
A zero-tolerance approach will apply to drivers not properly equipped for the conditions. Commander Nyholm urged snow-goers to take the basics seriously.
“Before you head off, pack your chains, check the weather, and make sure your car can handle the conditions. It could save your life.”
“Alpine conditions can change fast – roads that look fine can become icy or dangerous without warning.”
Authorities are reminding all visitors that snow chains must be carried and fitted when required – no matter how long they plan to stay in the mountains.
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