17 hours ago
Mt Hotham rescue work continues after snow strands holiday-makers
Six people remain trapped in their vehicles after becoming stuck in heavy snow on Mount Hotham, in Victoria's high country, on Saturday.
About 20 travellers were stranded on the Blue Rag Range Track near Dargo High Plains Road after a snow storm.
The region has now recorded 62 centimetres over the week, as this year's ski season officially opened.
Victoria Police and State Emergency Service (SES) crews moved in on Sunday, rescuing 13 people.
But SES Regional Duty Officer James Boler said half a dozen were forced to spend a second night in their vehicles.
"The rescue operation has actually been pretty treacherous," Mr Boler said.
"The conditions up on the mountain have been very, very difficult to deal with."
Authorities said those still to be rescued had food and water, and were safe from the elements.
The temperature fell to -4.3 degrees Celsius last night and more snow was forecast for today.
Mr Boler said rescue vehicles were struggling to get through the snow and specialised alpine search and rescue units were being brought in today.
He said they would use sleds to help bring the remaining travellers out.
"My hope for today is that we actually are able to support anyone that does actually need any further assistance coming down.
"We're hoping not to come across any surprises and we're hoping we can have this all wrapped up as soon as possible."
On Sunday, a man in his 40s was treated for minor injuries after his vehicle had rolled in the conditions.
Dargo Highway Plains Road was closed to traffic due to the extreme weather conditions and was not expected to reopen until after the King's Birthday long weekend.
Last year, 1,471 vehicles were turned back at Mount Hotham for failing to carry legally required wheel chains.
