Winch Grooming Issue Date: 21 June, 2010 (re-issued 3 July, 2011)
Perisher operates four dedicated Winch Grooming Machines (Winch Cats). Winch Cats can operate on steep
terrain using a large winch mounted on the back of the machine to attach the winch rope to anchor points at
various locations on the mountain. The winch and the winch rope assist the machine to climb uphill and
therefore groom steep slopes and to more effectively shift snow and groom on lesser gradients. A list of runs
that are may be groomed using winch cats is attached.
Winching operations generally take place at night and outside of normal operating hours but can, in special
circumstances, be carried out during normal opening hours.
During winching operations the winch rope can be extended up to 1000 metres in length. At times, the Winch
Cat operator will be unsighted and will not have visual contact with the fully extended length of rope.
During winching operations the winch rope will at times be under tension and taut, however please be aware
that it can, and will, move and whip vertically and horizontally.
WARNING : BEING IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO A WINCH CAT OR THE WINCH ROPE DURING
WINCHING OPERATIONS COULD CAUSE DEATH.
ALL OVERSNOW VEHICLE AND SNOWMOBILE OPERATORS NEED TO BE AWARE OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF WINCH CAT AND WINCHING OPERATIONS OCCURING AND THE EXTREME
DANGERS INVOLVED BEING IN AND AROUND THESE OPERATIONS.
Winch Cat operators will notify all Perisher two way radios when winching operations are in progress and will
install signs and flashing orange lights at major oversnow route crossing points. All winch cats are fitted with
flashing lights and a flashing orange light will be installed at the anchor point when the winch rope is
connected.
Any oversnow vehicle or snowmobile operator who is authorised to cross a route where winching operations
are taking place must never approach a Winch Cat or a winch rope when it is operating. Wait at the crossing
point until you make visual or radio contact with the Winch Cat operator and then only cross the route when the
operator gives you clear indication that it is safe to proceed.
Perisher would like to take this opportunity to remind all oversnow vehicle or snowmobile operators that any
access to the ski area requires prior authorisation.
David Milford
Safety Compliance Manager