Industry News
Skiers and riders to Falls Creek, Australia, this winter will benefit from a major redevelopment at the Cloud 9 Restaurant at the top of Halley’s Comet chairlift, thanks to the ongoing partnership between Falls Creek Ski Lifts and Traverse Alpine Group (TAG), with local construction teams now into their third year putting the redevelopment together in challenging alpine and high-altitude conditions.
“This incredible redevelopment elevates our food and beverage offering in Falls Creek, truly a foodies paradise with over 28 places to eat and drink,” says Betony Pitcher, Falls Creek Field Marketing Manager. “There’s something for every tastebud and definitely not enough days (or nights) in the week to try them all.”
She says she is most looking forward to being able to take a coffee break in between runs or enjoy a delicious ‘on snow’ lunch of pizza, pasta or comfort food at Cloud 9 with its new semi-enclosed area, offering wind protection and shelter from the snow, extended so more guests can enjoy the stunning mountain views. The new roof sees high ceilings and huge windows all facing north to make the most of the spectacular views looking across to Spion Kopje and ensures the area is warm and cosy under the winter sun. A new bar service area upstairs in the mezzanine level will open, providing additional room for all guests.
The complex project at Cloud 9 also includes a new retail space for the Falls Creek Sports store, to ensure they have everything guests need, including a great range of gloves, goggles, helmets, beanies and other winter essentials. Last year, accessibility was also improved significantly at Cloud 9, with an entrance ramp and an internal elevator replacing stairs, making facilities easier to access for all guests.
Local Innovation at Work
Several local firms have been involved in the Cloud 9 redevelopment, including Duggan & Hanlon Constructions, Sendit Architecture and Kusch Consulting Engineers, who are all from the North-East Victoria region, as well as Melbourne and Sydney based NMBW Architecture Studio and Cave Urban Architects. This local expertise has been invaluable as the team manage the unique challenges of working in an alpine environment. At 1600m above sea level, the Cloud 9 Restaurant is proudly one of the highest buildings in Australia.
“We are also utilising sustainable and recycled materials throughout the building fabric, while maximising insulation through thermally broken windows and design to capture all that the sun can offer,” says Lee Duggan from Duggan & Hanlon Constructions.
These improvements will ensure an even greater guest experience with increased seating capacity, greater accessibility and a beautiful new semi-enclosed area overlooking Spion Kopje to enjoy your coffee or lunch whilst admiring the views.
Lock in your accommodation for a snow holiday to remember, book your lessons and rentals, and get your 2025 Epic Australia Pass for unlimited laps at Falls Creek this winter.
