Since 1978, Disabled Winter Sport Australia has supported thousands of people of all abilities to enjoy the snow, whether they are a first-timer or an aspiring paralympian. 

I recently spent time with Phil Knight, who manages operations at Mount Hotham in my electorate. Phil has been volunteering and working with Disabled Wintersport Australia for 25 years, an incredible achievement! 

Phil is just one of more than 100 people at Mount Hotham who share their time and knowledge to ensure the snow is accessible to all.  

Through generous community donations and Government grants, Disabled Winter Sport Australia provides experienced guides and advanced equipment such as sit‑skis, outriggers, and apparel designed to support those that are vision impaired. 

People supported by the organisation have ‘life-changing experiences’ and often leaving asking themselves “if I can do that, what else can I do?”. 

It is people like Phil, and all the volunteers at every alpine resort, that make this possible. Without volunteers sharing their time and expertise, groups like DWA simply wouldn’t be able to do the incredible work they do.  

It was a privilege to meet Phil and visit their Hotham headquarters. I commend DWA, its volunteers at Mount Hotham, Falls Creek and Mount Buller for making snow sports available to people of all abilities, because we all love the snow!