Industry News
An Australian startup aiming to bring a novel concept of indoor skiing inside a rotating snow tunnel has taken a major step forward, confirming Melbourne, Australia, as the site of its global headquarters and first operational showcase. Snowtunnel announced on May 1 that it will build its pilot facility in Melbourne’s western suburbs, about 11 kilometers (7 miles) from the central business district. The site, scheduled to open in late 2026, will serve as the first full-scale demonstration of the company’s patented “Endless Mountain” technology.
At the centre of the project is the Snowtunnel™ — a rotating indoor structure designed to simulate a continuous downhill ski experience. Standing 12.5 meters (41 feet) high and 16 metes (52 feet) long, the tunnel will be lined with real, groomed snow and offer more than 600 square meters (6,460 square feet) of rideable surface, allowing skiers and snowboarders to move continuously regardless of season or weather conditions.
The company described the Melbourne development as a transition point from concept to commercial rollout. CEO Scott Kessler said the project represents the culmination of years of engineering aimed at replicating alpine conditions in an urban setting, adding that the location was chosen to make snow sports more accessible to a large metropolitan population.
The facility will also function as the company’s global headquarters and a demonstration hub for investors, partners, and the public ahead of a broader international expansion. COO Daniel Portelli said the Melbourne site would act as a “bridge” between development and global deployment, following strong interest since the technology was first unveiled.
That expansion is already underway. Snowtunnel has confirmed an exclusive territory agreement in the United Kingdom and indicated that discussions are ongoing in other international markets.
Beyond the core tunnel attraction, the Melbourne site is planned as a broader alpine-themed complex. Designs include a snow play area for beginners and families, professional instruction programs, and on-site equipment hire aimed at lowering barriers to entry for first-time participants.
The concept reflects a wider trend toward bringing traditionally location-dependent outdoor sports into urban environments, similar to the rise of artificial surf parks and indoor climbing facilities.
Snowtunnel argues the model could address structural limitations in the snow sports industry, noting that most of the global population lacks access to ski fields and that natural snow seasons are typically limited to a few months each year. By offering a controlled, year-round environment, the company positions its technology as both an accessibility and climate-resilience solution.
Construction timelines and further details about the Melbourne site are expected to be released closer to the planned 2026 opening. With a 2026 opening, Snowtunnel would beat the planned indoor ski center in Penrith near Sydney to the punch and become Australia’s first indoor ski center in 20 years.
