Prepare and be aware of kunanyi/Mt Wellington’s weather extremes

Published on 07 July 2023

kunanyi/Mt Wellington is Hobart’s iconic natural feature, and while its beauty is immense, so is its weather extremes.

In the heart of winter, kunanyi can become a beacon for tourists and locals with its snow-covered summit, but also a danger for those unprepared for extreme weather conditions.

Across two days last month, the kunanyi/Mt Wellington Explorer Bus had to provide transport to bring more than 90 walkers back down kunanyi/Mt Wellington who set off on foot for the summit ill-equipped.

Last year, during a massive snowstorm that blanketed kunanyi/Mt Wellington over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend, nine people had to be rescued from the mountain.

Acting Hobart Lord Mayor Helen Burnet said preparation for all types of weather was the key to tackling kunany/Mt Wellington.

“If visitors are not prepared Tasmania’s weather can be deadly, especially on kunanyi/Mt Wellington,” Cr Burnet said.

“For every 100 metres you ascend the temperature typically falls a degree and the summit is 600 metres higher than the Springs and is likely to be 6°C colder.

“If it’s windy, the summit will feel even colder. Walkers should always be prepared to turn back, and low cloud can reduce visibility to a few metres.

“Snow and ice can make tracks very slippery.”

Tasmania Police Rescue Services Senior Constable Callum Herbert said it was imperative that people were prepared before embarking on walks in Tasmania’s alpine areas.

“People undertaking day walking activities on kunanyi/Mount Wellington should be aware this is an alpine environment, and you must be suitably prepared and physically capable of the journey,” Senior Constable Herbert said.

“Check the weather forecast and road closure information, carry warm clothing, water and food, communication devices, and equipment to keep you safe until the arrival of emergency services if required.

“Anyone planning on driving up kunanyi/Mount Wellington must ensure their vehicle is capable of the journey before departing.

“It is not safe to drive a two-wheel vehicle on an icy and slippery alpine road.” kunanyi/Mt Wellington Explorer Bus managing director Jonathon Gregory said his message was simple.

“We provide a tourism service, not a rescue service,” Mr Gregory said.

“Our company statement is be prepared for all conditions.

“You see people that are not prepared, they walk up, you have severe and rapid weather changes, and they are not attuned to it and a lot are not from here.

“Even if the weather looks fine, take those extra warm clothes and provisions just in case.”

The City of Hobart is also making sure its staff is well prepared with the purchase of fit-for-purpose alpine clothing for those working on kunanyi/Mt Wellington.

Stormy weather on top of the mountain can be like an Antarctic blizzard, but now staff will be able to safely operate in all conditions, including assisting Tasmania Police should a rescue be required.