Australia gets its first ski resort gondola

Thredbo Resort has launched Australia's first alpine gondola in time for the ski season Down Under.

Merritts Gondola replaces a double chairlift and quadruples capacity.

The resort has also invested in a new car park, improved snowmaking and installed an expanded grooming fleet.

Thredbo is Australia's premier alpine resort and has been voted Australia's best ski resort in the World Ski Awards for three consecutive years.

The new cabin-style lift is similar to those found in Europe and North America and represents the culmination of two years of planning and development.

“The investment being made in Thredbo is really exciting to see, and I have no doubt Thredbo customers will agree," said Stuart Diver, general manager of Thredbo Resort.

"The launch of the gondola is a huge event for Thredbo and the entire community who have worked so hard to make this happen. It is a remarkable engineering achievement thanks to the tenacity and depth of knowledge and expertise at Doppelmayr, the world's leading manufacturer of ski lifts.

"The completion of this phase of our development plan will enhance the customer experience and continue to ensure we remain Australia's premier resort."

Thredbo plays host to close to around 750,000 visitors each year. It is located at the heart of the Australian Alps and nestled in the foothills of Australia's highest mountain Mt Kosciuszko.

In winter, Thredbo offers Australia's longest snow runs and a vertical drop close to double that of any other Australian resort with a European-style village. 

In summer, Thredbo has Australia's largest network of gravity mountain bike trails, as well as some of the best hiking trails in the country.

For more information see www.thredbo.com.au