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ALDI's epic snow gear sale is back!

<p>Planning a ski trip or a family getaway in the Snowy Mountains? </p> <p>Aldi has got you covered with the return of its popular Snow Gear Special Buys sale set to hit the shelves on May 18. </p> <p>The highly anticipated sale will see more than 70 products on offer with prices starting from just $4.99 and nothing over $100. </p> <p>Rodney Balech, group director for National Buying at Aldi said this year's range is back and “better than ever”. </p> <p>“Whether you’re planning a solo ski trip or a friendly snowball fight with the family, Aldi’s Snow Gear range offers everything you need at an affordable price, without compromising on quality.”</p> <p>“We’re the also introducing more unisex options for kids, making it easier than ever for parents to hand down outfits to save on buying new sizes year after year.” </p> <p>“While price and affordability are on everyone’s minds this year, we have also ensured that every item in our range meets the highest benchmarks.”</p> <p>He also said that they have worked with their partners across the globe to ensure that they create “high quality products across every layer”.</p> <p>“[And] now in more sizes than ever. Each item is embedded with innovative technology that is built to provide top-of-the-line durability and comfort in all conditions, so you can feel assured that both you and your budget will feel great carving down the slopes in this year’s range.”</p> <p>A lot is on offer this year, including Adult’s Premium Ski Jackets for just $99.99 and Ski Pants for $79.99, which can often cost more at other retailers. </p> <p>They have also dropped affordable new snow hoodie for $49.99, which they say is highly waterproof and  "perfect for newcomers to the snow looking to set themselves up with the right gear without having to blow the budget." </p> <p>Gloves, goggles, helmets, thermoboots and kids knitted accessories are also on offer. </p> <p>For those with younger children, Toddler’s Snow Suit will be up for sale for just $34.99 with a few  “mini-me” designs on offer for parents who want to match with their kids. </p> <p>The sizing for teens and young adults have also been extended to give more options for those who are growing up or in between sizes. </p> <p><em>Images: Aldi/ news.com.au</em></p>

Travel Tips

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"Just one snowfall away": Aussie ski resorts dismiss doom and gloom warnings

<p>Australian ski resorts have dismissed warnings about the possibility of a below-average snowfall this season as they prepare for opening weekend.</p> <p>Meteorologists have warned that if a number of climate factors combine this winter, the 2023 snow season could be one of the worst in decades.</p> <p>Although images have shown poor snow coverage at NSW and Victoria’s biggest ski resorts, staff have rejected concerns the season won’t pick up.</p> <p>Michael Fearnside, operations director at Perisher Ski Resort, the largest in the southern hemisphere, told <em>news.com.au </em>it is “certainly not doom and gloom” for the industry.</p> <p>According to Fearnside, only time will tell.</p> <p>“This is my 38th winter working in the snow industry and some of our best seasons have begun with low snowfall at the start,” Fearnside said.</p> <p>“Our business is weather dependent but we’re always just one snowfall away, it’s no different to a farmer waiting for the weather to break.”</p> <p>Similar to other resorts, Fearnside added Perisher had made significant investments in snow-making and as a result, they haven’t had to rely on snowfall, with snow guns ready to be deployed “as soon as the conditions are right”.</p> <p>“Our snow-making covers 53.4 hectares across the resort and sets us apart for having the most reliable ski and board experience all season long,”</p> <p>“It’s certainly not doom and gloom, we’ve seen this before and we’re just waiting for the weather pattern to settle down.”</p> <p>Snowy Mountains ski resort Thredbo will need to rely on its own snow-making, despite it and Perisher being the first to see snow in April.</p> <p>Meanwhile, in Victoria’s Alps, the Mount Buller Alpine Resort has been steadily producing a mass amount of snow since the beginning of May and has a network of 341 snow-making guns ready to “kick into action” when necessary.</p> <p>Resort spokeswoman Rhylla Morgan said it is “all hands on deck” to finalise preparations.</p> <p>“In recent seasons there have been bumper early snowfalls and we’ve been spoiled with plenty of natural snow from the beginning,” she said.</p> <p>“And as much as we love to see snowfall at any time, we are taking comfort in the fact that early snow doesn’t translate to a better snow season.”</p> <p>Morgan noted two of the best snow seasons on record at Mt Buller, 1956 and 1958, “had no snow for the season start in June”.</p> <p>“But we’ll leave the forecasting to the professionals and, like all snow enthusiasts, we’ll be watching the forecast closely and hoping for the best.”</p> <p>Victorian resorts, Mt Buller, Mt Hotham and Falls Creek are hoping to repeat the record-breaking 2022 snow season, the first full return after the Covid lockdowns.</p> <p>Mt Hotham’s general manager of operations Len Dobell said the mountaintop resort had its “best season on record” in 2022.</p> <p>Falls Creek Alpine Resort head of marketing Andrew Eckersley said the resort had “more than 500,000 visitation days” in 2022, and was already expecting similar numbers of bookings in 2023.</p> <p>“Last year there was massive pent-up demand from people not being able to ski as much as they want over the last few years in,” Eckersley said.</p> <p>“The fact there’s not a huge amount of difference shows there’s still the appetite to visit the snow.”</p> <p>Although those numbers could be attributed to earlier snowfalls leading to an earlier season opening, Eckersley said he was hopeful the cold front ahead would bring some snow.</p> <p>Sky News Australia meteorologist Alison Osbourne confirmed that despite there being a cold front shifting across the alpine regions, it is not guaranteed to bring snow.</p> <p>“The best weather systems for good snowfall have the most precipitation after a cool change, so it's cold enough for heavy snow,” she said.</p> <p>“This is the opposite, heavy rain is coming before the cold weather does. The freezing level is far too high.</p> <p>“This rain is very likely to wash away the existing cover and while it remains warm, windy, and wet, conditions for snow-making are unfavourable.”</p> <p>Cooler westerly winds are expected to push over the Alps on June 16, lowering the freezing level in time for the June 10 snow season opening, but not enough for significant snowfall.</p> <p>“The silver lining is that snow-making conditions improve for the rest of the weekend.”</p> <p><em>Image credit: Getty</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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“Stay awake!”: Incredible bodycam footage of Jeremy Renner rescue

<p><em><strong>WARNING: DISTRESSING CONTENT - VIEWER DISCRETION ADVISED.</strong></em></p> <p>It’s been three months since Jeremy Renner almost lost his life to a horrific <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/hollywood-actor-hospitalised-after-freak-snowplow-accident" target="_blank" rel="noopener">snow plough accident</a>, and new footage has surfaced from the incident.</p> <p>In a gut-wrenching video, medics can be seen desperately trying to save the Hawkeye actor after his 6,500kg Snowcat vehicle ran him over on New Years Day, 2023.</p> <p>Renner was left in critical condition with extensive injuries at the scene of the incident in Lake Tahoe, Nevada.</p> <p>The Marvel star was using his snow plough to clear a path out of his home following a massive snowstorm, according to the <em>New York Post</em>.</p> <p>The mighty storm saw over 35,000 people without power in the area.</p> <p>New police bodycam footage from the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office showed the scene just moments after Renner’s devastating accident.</p> <p>The footage shows a team of five medics in a desperate attempt to save the star, who suffered blunt chest trauma and orthopaedic injuries.</p> <p>“It was horrible. I thought he was going to die, man. I’m holding him and his colour is just going,” a person at the scene said.</p> <p>Renner’s accident occurred just moments after he stepped in to save his nephew, Alexander Fries, from the path of the snow plough.</p> <p>Police bodycam footage captured Fries explaining what had happened to his uncle.</p> <p>“He went up and turned around, got out to tell me something and then that’s when it started coming at me, like, full force,” he told officers.</p> <p>“That’s when he tried to jump back in there. Right where his blood is at, that’s right where it all happened.”</p> <p>“He tried to jump on it, into the thing, and it took him under,” he added.</p> <p>An emergency call from the incident was also released, which heard the actor’s neighbour telling emergency services that Renner had been “crushed” by the snow plough.</p> <p>On the call, the frazzled neighbour can be heard asking for the emergency crew’s time of arrival as he explained Renner’s “shallow” breaths were “getting shorter” and that the actor had started to “drift off” to sleep.</p> <p>Renner lost a significant amount of blood and underwent surgeries with round-the-clock care from medics after he was flown to Renown Regional Medical Centre in Reno, Nevada.</p> <p>His frantic neighbour, who happened to be a doctor, applied a tourniquet to Renner’s leg to stop the bleeding.</p> <p>Renner was released from hospital in January and has been recovering at home since then.</p> <p>The actor opened up about the chilling events for the first time in an <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/marvel-star-gives-chilling-first-interview" target="_blank" rel="noopener">exclusive interview</a> with US <em>ABC News</em> anchor Diana Sawyer.</p> <p>He shared that he refuses to be “haunted” by the harrowing accident.</p> <p>“I shifted the narrative of it being victimised or making a mistake or anything else,” he told Sawyer.</p> <p>“I refuse to be f**king haunted by that memory that way.”</p> <p>The actor also revealed the harrowing detail of him writing his “last words” to his family as he didn’t think he’d make it through.</p> <p>“I’m writing down notes on my phone. Last words to my family,” he said, holding back tears.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Instagram/Washoe County Sheriff’s Office</em></p>

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Devastating reason ski-resort won’t reopen

<p dir="ltr">A ski-resort in NSW won’t be able to open up this winter due to the early snowfall which has now delayed a rebuild that was destroyed in the 2020 bushfires.</p> <p dir="ltr">Selwyn Snow Resort shared the devastating news on Facebook explaining the hurdles they keep overcoming and will come out stronger after this one. </p> <p dir="ltr">The family friendly ski-resort was completely destroyed during the horrific bushfires that blanketed the state in 2020. </p> <p dir="ltr">“We’re deeply saddened that we find ourselves in this situation,” the post read.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Due to unprecedented early snowfalls the Selwyn re-build will not be complete by 2nd July.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite occurring during off-season, five of their employees had to be evacuated but with high hopes of reopening. </p> <p dir="ltr">The past seven days has seen some record snowfall and the resort was upset after the builder explained that it would be difficult to complete the renovations and rebuilding on time. </p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s difficult to be here after the hurdles we have faced over the last few years, and we want to thank our guests and the public for your ongoing support. </p> <p dir="ltr">“We know that this is devastating news for our guests, employees and local communities, and want you to know that we share this sadness with you and look forward to a fresh start in 2023.” </p> <p dir="ltr">Guests who purchased products from Selwyn Snow Resort will be refunded in full.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Facebook</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Olympic-level tips to make the most of the snow

<p dir="ltr">With the sudden plunge in temperature, it’s safe to say winter has well and truly started - making it the perfect time to book your next winter getaway.</p> <p dir="ltr">Having recently enjoyed a trip to the slopes in eastern Victoria’s Mt Buller, Winter Olympian and Toyota ambassador Belle Brockhoff has shared ten tips for making the most out of your next winter trip.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Wear sunscreen</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The cold doesn’t stop the UV rays – in fact, the snow actually reflects the sun’s rays, meaning double exposure when on the slopes. Using a sunscreen that’s designed for exercise will keep you protected while you master the snow.   </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Nappy protection</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">For beginner snowboarders who are more likely to fall back onto the snow, duct tape a couple of nappies down the backside of your pants. If you’ve ever been hit in the tailbone, you’ll know why this might be a good idea.   </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Road to the Snow </strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Consider the type of vehicle you’ll need to travel to the slopes. We might forget being in warmer climates for a majority of the year that the roads can get icy with snow settling, making it harder to drive. It’s best to drive a 4x4 vehicle, I always drive my Toyota Kluger up to the slopes – it fits all my friends and all our snow gear too.  </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Don’t forget the snacks!</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Pack snacks in your jacket pockets. Time flies when you’re having fun, which is inevitable in the snow and hitting the slopes so make sure you’re stocked up for any emergency hunger situations.   </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Early Birds catch the fresh snow </strong></p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-d634579e-7fff-5f56-af3c-623f0a201372"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">It’s best to set the alarm as early as possible, this way there will be fresher snow and minimal queues for equipment hire and ski lifts.  </p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/06/brooke15.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Snowboarder and three-time Olympian Belle Brockhoff has shared some tips after taking her own trip to the slopes. Image: Supplied</em></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Snap the Stacks </strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The funniest moments are the unexpected moments, and when mates (or you) have a blackmail-worthy stack on the slopes it’s a must to document the footage for eternity (or at least submitted to Jerry of the Day and/or Slalom Tokyo drift.) Or simply just take photos to remember the experience.  </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Mid-week tricks</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">While the slopes are fun at the weekend, travelling up and practising tricks during the week is even better. It’s the perfect time to grab a bunch of friends, hit the quiet slopes and enjoy fewer queues and wait times.  </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Remote access </strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Now that majority of workplaces are allowing a ‘work from anywhere’ policy, pack up the laptop and head to the snow. Most resorts have great Wi-Fi access and multiple quiet places to take meetings and calls.  </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Invest in (or borrow) a pair of waterproof snowboarding/skiing pants</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">This means your bum will stay dry and therefore a LOT warmer.   </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Keep an eye out for a clear night</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Away from the metro city lights, there’s less light pollution, especially on the hill. There’s always a beautiful sunset to keep an eye out for and an amazing view of the stars. Always look up to admire our starry night sky when it’s a clear night.    </p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a29afed6-7fff-a4ae-4af7-2c50d49c8974"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Supplied</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Snowed in shoppers spend the night in IKEA

<p>Six IKEA shoppers and two dozen employees have spent the night in an IKEA store in Denmark after being snowed in. </p> <p>Up to 12 inches of snow fell during the blizzard, trapping everyone inside the Aalborg store on Wednesday night. </p> <p>Rather than bracing the harsh weather to get back home, the customers and staff had an impromptu sleepover of a lifetime in the store's inviting showroom. </p> <p>Those trapped inside got to pick from IKEA's extensive range of beds to test out for the night, giving a whole new meaning to 'try before you buy'.</p> <p>Store manager Peter Elmrose told the local Danish newspaper, "<span>We slept in the furniture exhibitions and our showroom on the first floor, where we have beds, mattresses and sofa beds."</span></p> <p><span>He said customers were able to pick out which bed they were thinking of buying and try it out for real, as everyone spent the night eating and watching TV. </span></p> <p><span>Peter said despite the unusual conditions, the night went "super well" and everyone had "a lot of fun".</span></p> <p><span>Denmark's public broadcaster reported that staff from the neighbouring toy shop also joined in on the impromptu sleepover, as they were also stranded too far from home with the bad weather. </span></p> <p><span>The toy shop manager Michelle Barrett said, "</span>It's much better than sleeping in one's car. It has been nice and warm and we are just happy that they would let us in."</p> <p class="mol-para-with-font">"We just laughed at the situation, because we will probably not experience it again."</p> <p class="mol-para-with-font"><em>Image credits: Getty Images / Courtesy of IKEA</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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"Biggest snow event since 2015” on its way

<p><span>A polar blast set to hit the NSW Northern Tablelands and possibly parts of Queensland is coming sooner than expected.</span><br /><br /><span>South-east Australia had their own freezing weather, and it looks like QLD may experience their biggest dumping of snow in years.</span><br /><br /><span>Forecasters have predicted the Australian Alps could bask in a metre of snow or more over the coming days.</span><br /><br /><span>Canberra may also get a slight dusting.</span><br /><br /><span>Queensland-based Bureau of Meteorology lead meteorologist Matthew Bass said the Sunshine State could receive snowfall as early as Wednesday afternoon.</span><br /><br /><span>The coldest burst of air may arrive on Thursday however, with snow down to 900 metres on the Granite Belt.</span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Snow started falling in the Aussie Alps on Tuesday and plenty more is on the way in the coming days! Some areas are likely to see more than one metre of fresh snow this week. <a href="https://t.co/0Ncg3gdY3G">pic.twitter.com/0Ncg3gdY3G</a></p> — Weatherzone (@weatherzone) <a href="https://twitter.com/weatherzone/status/1402201968806826011?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2021</a></blockquote> <p><br /><span>This means Wallangara, Giraween National Park and Eukey could see a flurry of snow.</span><br /><br /><span>"I think it probably is shaping up to be the biggest snow event since 2015 based on our records here," he said.</span><br /><br /><span>Stephen Stefanac, meteorologist with the Bureau of Meteorology in Sydney, believes 20 centimetres of snow in the Northern Tablelands could be seen by the end of the week.</span><br /><br /><span>He estimates a further 50cm to a metre in the Snowy Mountains by the end of the week.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7841723/weather.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/3916cfd2fb0c42fb892ce4bfdf5f4d46" /><br /><br /><span>"I can't remember recent times where we'd expect that much snow up there (Northern Tablelands)," he said.</span><br /><br /><span>"It doesn't happen every year that far north."</span><br /><br /><span>Mr Stefanac said there was a chance of snow in the hills around Canberra but nothing is guaranteed.</span><br /><br /><span>"There's a slight risk. I wouldn't rule it out completely," he said.</span></p> <p><em>Image: Nine News</em></p>

News

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Postman's disgusting act after finding elderly woman lying in the snow

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in"> <p>Distressing footage has emerged of the moment a postman appears to leave an elderly woman lying on the frozen ground after she had fallen outside of her home.</p> <p>Captured on the neighbour's doorbell camera, the interaction shows 72-year-old grandmother of two Patricia Stewart and the Royal Mail employee as he was delivering a package in Bainsford, Scotland, on Thursday.</p> <p>Stewart was lying on the path in the snow when the postman arrived.</p> <p>In the footage, shared by her niece Sheryl Harkins, Steward can he heard asking the postman for help, before he says: “I can’t help pal, I’m knackered”, and walks away.</p> <p>Thankfully, the grandmother did not face any serious injuries.</p> <p>Harkins says another delivery worker arrived a short time later and called the neighbours for help.</p> <p>“Thank goodness for that girl because this could have been a very different situation if she hadn’t turned up when she did,” she wrote.</p> <p>“I honestly don’t have the words for how disgusting this is, for a human being to treat another human being in this manner.</p> <p>“Words fail me.”</p> <p>A Royal Mail area manager has since apologised to Stewart for the incident.</p> <p>“Royal Mail expects the highest standards of behaviour from our people while out on deliveries and collections at all times,” a spokesperson told local media.</p> <p>“We regularly remind our postmen and postwomen of the important role they play in their local communities.</p> <p>“We were very sorry to learn about this incident, and for the distress this incident has caused.</p> <p>“We are in touch with the customer concerned and will be investigating this incident.”</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="post-action-bar-component-wrapper"> <div class="post-actions-component"> <div class="upper-row"></div> </div> </div>

Legal

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ALDI shoppers furious after retailer cancels its annual snow gear sale

<p>It’s an event that shoppers look forward to each year, as they rush to their nearest ALDI for the annual Snow Gear Special Buys sale.</p> <p>The highly anticipated sale has people “working in teams” as they attempt to score a bargain.</p> <p>But unfortunately, the German retailer has had to cancel the snow sale for 2020, forcing shoppers to put that excitement on hold till 2021.</p> <p>Once a year, the supermarket releases items such as jackets, goggles, boots and thermal wear, helping Aussies stay warm as they hit the slopes.</p> <p>But with the coronavirus pandemic stopping people from travelling, the retailer found that it was inappropriate to continue with the sale.</p> <p>Taking to Facebook, ALDI revealed they are shifting their priorities to the grocery sector, forcing them to make the difficult decision of withdrawing its 2020 Snow Gear Special Buys event.</p> <p>“We’ll be back with our best-ever collection next year,” the post read.</p> <p>“We’re looking forward to sharing our best-ever collection with you in 2021. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.”</p> <p>The post garnered over 1000 comments and shares, but people were torn over the decision.</p> <p>Majority of comments came from those who live in colder areas, saying they rely on the sale to stock up on winter clothing.</p> <p>“Pity about the people who live in the colder areas. I was waiting for this to stock up on clothes to work in the paddocks etc. Typical that they only think people who will go on holidays buy this stuff,” one person commented.</p> <p>“Considering not everyone travels to snowy regions; there are thousands of people who actually live in these areas,” added another.</p> <p>“Winter is still coming – would be great if they still brought out the thermals, boots, gloves, &amp; beanies.”</p> <p>In normal circumstances, the sale occurs each year in May and attracts thousands of shoppers around the country as they hope to snap up a cool saving on snow gear.</p>

Domestic Travel

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Experience Thredbo’s slopes in luxury

<p>Nothing can match the magical, romantic allure of an escape to the winter wonderland of Thredbo; Australia’s premier ski resort. The powder-white slopes, stunning alpine countryside and festive winter ambience all make for a refreshing and exhilarating holiday experience. And to make the most of it, why not go all the way with five star accommodation right at the foot of the slopes!</p> <p>The Ski-in Ski-out chalets at Thredbo offer the ultimate in ski-holiday luxury, with slope-side convenience and fully equipped, self-contained chalets that offer an indulgent and cosy retreat at the end of a thrilling day on the ski-runs. A choice of two, three and four bedroom chalets in a range of styles is available, catering for a romantic stay or bring family or friends to share the fun.</p> <p><strong>Capturing the true alpine atmosphere</strong></p> <p>Imagine sharing a mulled wine around a roaring fire, or preparing a hearty meal in the beautifully appointed gourmet kitchen. Or you could choose to relieve any aches and pains with a glass of bubbly as you laze in the relaxing warmth of your Jacuzzi, which looks out onto the panorama of passing wildlife and glistening snow gums.</p> <p>When you are ready to take on the slopes you’ll find it easy to get set for action. A ski porter can bring a full range of ski equipment and clothing to your door. And because your chalet accommodation is right on the slope-side, you only need to walk out your front door to be in the action. A great way to beat any queues and get the first lifts.</p> <p><strong>More than just the skiing</strong></p> <p>For those who are not so ski-focused Thredbo offers an advantage over other ski fields in the quaint appeal of the local village. The shops, cafes, bars and over 30 restaurants give it a real European alpine vibe.</p> <p>Then there are the opportunities to witness pristine vistas from Dead Horse Gap or take the 2 kilometre ride on the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift – an ideal way to take in views of the spectacular valley.</p> <p><em>Written by Tom Raeside. </em><em>Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/travel/thredbo-the-ultimate-in-ski-holiday-luxury.aspx">Wyza.com.au</a>.</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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The item set to walk off the shelves during ALDI's biggest sale of the year

<p>Those who shop at ALDI love the annual snow gear Special Buys sale. The event, launched in 2008, is ALDI’s most popular Special Buys event.</p> <p>From jackets, goggles, boots and thermal wear, ALDI’s Special Buys snow sale provides shoppers with everything they need to stay warm in the snow at a low price point.</p> <p>Insiders revealed to <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-ideas/ski/item-aldi-insiders-say-will-walk-off-the-shelves-during-snow-sale/news-story/ec080817b090c4c8042a9f4b57cec4b2" target="_blank">news.com.au</a> what items will be in high demand when the sale launches on Saturday, May 18, which just so happens to be the same day as the federal election.</p> <p>Some of the items that are in high demand include:</p> <p><strong>Adults Merino Thermal Underwear</strong></p> <p>As they’re all under $40 and are also breathable, these are set to be a big seller.</p> <p><strong>Adults and Children’s Ski Jackets and Pants</strong></p> <p>The jackets are waterproof, but each item holds a different rating. The higher the number is, the more waterproof the jackets and pants are.  All items are under $60.</p> <p>The jackets and pants also have DuPont’s Sorona wadding, which is a renewably sourced fibre that keeps the outer garments insulated, moisture resistant and heat retentive no matter the alpine conditions.</p> <p>The jackets also contain a ski lift pass pocket and zips in the pockets for wet conditions.</p> <p><strong>Children’s Thermo Boots</strong></p> <p>The boots contain a polar fleece lining and are all under $20. The boots also contain a three-layered EVA in-sock in aluminium and thinsulate layers, as well as being waterproof to keep feet warm and dry. The boots also look like sneakers, which will be popular with the kids.</p> <p><strong>Adults and Children’s Goggles</strong></p> <p>This is possibly the most crucial item you need whilst hitting the slopes, and it’ll only cost you under $15. The goggles have an adjustable head strap, two different lenses to choose from, as well as offering UV protection. They come in two colours, which are black and grey, and are anti-fog coated so you can still see whilst the weather isn’t the nicest.</p> <p>As the journey of heading to the snow can be an expensive venture for the family, there’s a reason that this sale is so popular amongst Aussies.</p> <p>“A ski holiday isn’t the most affordable vacation option, so we’re proud to do what we can to make this experience more affordable for Australian families,’’ ALDI textiles buying director Renata Hay told <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/aldi-faces-competition-in-ski-gear/news-story/e0a00a48884a43915631bbaa45f87d26" target="_blank"><em>The Weekend Australian</em>.</a></p> <p>“We’ll be shipping more than 10 per cent greater volume of ski products in to our stores this year than last. The demand and ­double-digit growth have continued to surpass population growth and our store growth.”</p> <p>The ski and snow sector is now dominated by ALDI’s annual sale and has created such a cult following that ALDI has now introduced a competition that gives shoppers the chance to win a Perisher weekend package.</p> <p>One of 10 Perisher weekend packages are on offer, which include accommodation, ski lift passes, lessons and ski or snowboard hire. The competition gives shoppers the chance to win more than $30,000 in prizes.</p> <p>As always, items are available Australia-wide until stock sells out.</p>

Travel Tips

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Get ready: ALDI's craziest sale of the year returns

<p> </p> <p>Everyone loves a good bargain and ALDI’s annual snow gear Special Buys sale is not an exception – people all over Australia go crazy to get their hands on the best deal.</p> <p>Launching in 2008, the ski sale has proven to be the German supermarket’s biggest Special Buys event of the year.</p> <p>This year, however, fans better come prepared for the event as it’s supposed to be best snow gear sale yet for 2019.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bi-h_h6ACje/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bi-h_h6ACje/" target="_blank">A post shared by Amanda Roberts (@mandy_snapz)</a> on May 19, 2018 at 4:13pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The next event, however, falls on the date of our federal election – Saturday, May 18.</p> <p>The sale has caused chaos in the past before, attracting thousands of customers all over the country who are eager to get their hands on affordable snow gear.</p> <p>Adult ski jackets and pants retailed for less than $70 last year – a steep fall from the pricey cost of other competitors who have proven to find it difficult to compete with ALDI’s cheap prices.</p> <p>Just some of the offers expected to hit shelves include snow jackets, goggles, boots, under-layers and other items that will be revealed on the big day.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BUSw8h2luoe/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BUSw8h2luoe/" target="_blank">A post shared by Debbie Tsang (@debbdesign)</a> on May 19, 2017 at 4:58pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The ski and snow retail sector in Australia is estimated to be worth over $2 billion a year and the ALDI annual sale has proven to be a dominant contender.</p> <p>The consumer following for the anticipated yearly bargain sale has become so big the retail giant has introduced a competition that gives customers the chance to win one of 10 Perisher weekend packages, which covers accommodation, ski lift passes, lessons and ski or snowboard hire.</p>

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Brace yourself: Snow, hail and storms are coming

<p><span>On Thursday, winter will officially be here, and Australia is embracing the season change with below-average temperatures across the south of the country.</span></p> <p><span>Hobart will face a chilly 12C on Thursday while Melbourne will peak at 14C on the same day.</span></p> <p><span>Forecasters predict snow to fall on high ground in Tasmania and, Victoria and NSW will face thunderstorms. It may even hail in Adelaide.</span></p> <p><span>On the other side of Australia, the cities will experience relatively warm weather with Perth hitting temperatures in the low-20s throughout the week.</span></p> <p><span>As the week progresses, a low-pressure system will travel across the Great Australian Bight into South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania.</span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">A series of cold fronts will bring showers across southern Australia over the coming days. Showers also for the east coast due to onshore winds. Snowfalls for TAS, VIC and NSW on Tue &amp; Wed. Watch out for warnings. <a href="https://t.co/Wht32WMxqY">https://t.co/Wht32WMxqY</a> <a href="https://t.co/UR3wmxJHyC">pic.twitter.com/UR3wmxJHyC</a></p> — Bureau of Meteorology, Australia (@BOM_au) <a href="https://twitter.com/BOM_au/status/1000571144607621121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2018</a></blockquote> <p style="text-align: center;"><span> </span></p> <p><span>“A series of cold fronts will bring showers across southern Australia over the coming days. Showers also for the east coast due to onshore winds. Snowfalls for TAS, VIC and NSW on Tue &amp; Wed. Watch out for warnings,” the Bureau of Meteorology Australia tweeted.</span></p> <p><span>Two cold fronts connected with the system will bring rain and chilly temperatures into Australia’s southeast.</span></p> <p><span>Despite the cooler temperatures this week in the south, Bureau of Meteorology climatologist Dr Linden Ashcroft said there are no major climate drivers affecting the season.</span></p> <p><span>“Conditions remain neutral across both the Indian and Pacific oceans. The Indian Ocean Dipole is inactive and there are no El Nino or La Nina patterns present," she said. </span></p> <p><span>“This lack of large-scale climate drivers means our winter is likely to be more influenced by local effects.</span></p> <p><span>“It also means for much of the country there is an equal chance of a drier or wetter winter apart from southwestern Western Australia where a drier season is likely,” Dr Ashcroft said.</span></p> <p><span>This winter, the south of Australia is expected to experience warmer than average temperatures while minimum temperatures may be cooler in Queensland.</span></p> <p><strong>When it will be coolest in your city this week</strong></p> <p><strong>Hobart</strong></p> <p><span>Hobart will experience temperatures that are usual for mid-July with Thursday dipping to just 12C.</span></p> <p><strong>Melbourne</strong></p> <p><span>Melbourne is expected to be hit with scattered showers this week and on Wednesday night there will be a low of 8C. On Thursday and Friday, the forecast is 14C.</span></p> <p><strong>Adelaide</strong></p> <p><span>On Wednesday, the temperature will sink to a low of 9C. Rain and possible hail is expected to fall this evening.</span></p> <p><strong>Perth</strong></p> <p><span>This week, temperatures will fluctuate around 19-23C. A possible storm is forecast on Thursday and on Friday, overnight temperatures will sink to 6C.</span></p> <p><strong>Darwin</strong></p> <p><span>Overnight lows this week will hit around 21C.</span></p> <p><strong>Brisbane</strong></p> <p><span>By the end of the week it will be sunny, however, nights will get cooler hitting an overnight low of 8C on Friday.</span></p> <p><strong>Sydney</strong></p> <p><span>The end of the week will see the coolest nights in Sydney with overnight lows of 9C.</span></p> <p><strong>Canberra</strong></p> <p><span>The coolest day in Canberra will be on Thursday and Friday with a high of 13C. </span></p>

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Shoppers complain about "unfair" tactics at Aldi's chaotic snow gear sale

<p>Customers who braved Aldi on Saturday morning encountered the chaos and frenzy of the annual snow gear sale.</p> <p>Customers ready for a jaw-dropping bargain lined up in the cold in the early hours of the morning just to get a chance to buy one of the slashed products.</p> <p>At an Aldi supermarket in Melbourne’s northern fringe, just before the doors opened an employee announced that there was enough stock for all those lined up, encouraging them to “be respectful and patient”.</p> <p>However, when the doors opened, all politeness was forgotten as customers frantically dashed around the store to get the hands on the sizes they were after.</p> <p>Customers were not keen to relive the disappointment of last year, when some left the store empty-handed and frustrated.</p> <p>In the middle of every store, giant baskets filled with jackets, pants, goggles, boots and underlayers were up for grabs.</p> <p>Men’s and women’s snow jackets were sold for an affordable $40, goggles from $14.99 and gloves for only $5.</p> <p>“This is nuts,” a customer told <a href="http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/fashion/long-lines-and-bargains-at-typically-chaotic-aldi-snow-gear-sale/news-story/6df5af41916d658fae74393bc5779739" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">news.com.au</span></strong></a> about the special buys sale. “I’ve never been in a line like this for anything before.”</p> <p>Another customer said, “It’s not as bad as I thought it would be. I was worried about the line so got here super early.”</p> <p>Customers at the Aldi store in Preston South raved about the organisation of the store and the controlled crowd.</p> <p>“Well done to the Mornington Peninsula store,” Mishie Ivy wrote on Aldi’s Facebook page.</p> <p>“They were fantastic ... shop was set out in an easy to find way. No issues. No fighting. Especially dealing with a crowd that was over 100 people.”</p> <p>But not all customers had a similar experience.</p> <p>Emily Wood and her mum arrived at the Aldi store in Maroochydore in Queensland hoping to purchase snow gear for their trip to New Zealand.</p> <p>“We arrived at Aldi at 7.45 and the line had already filled the car park,” she said.</p> <p>“We sat in the car for a while debating whether we should even bother trying and decided we may as well. We saw lots of kids and mothers with trolleys looking ready to fight it out to the death.</p> <p>“There was at least 100 people in front of us and when the doors opened we were expecting to hear running and screaming but it was so relaxed.</p> <p>“My mum and I managed to score everything we wanted which included thermals, boots, gloves and ski jackets. We decided to try them on in the different aisles with a bit of space.</p> <p>“I started to notice a lot of trolleys being filled to the brim with things and I saw people going through their trolleys, trying things on and dumping stuff they didn’t want.</p> <p>“They had clearly gone in with a trolley, scooped up an armful of the same thing and hoped that their size was there. I found this a tad unfair for people that were really trying to find their size but these other people had dumped their unwanted clothes in different aisles.”</p> <p>Ski and snowboard industry expert Glenn Cullen described the sale as a “sh*t show” on his blog <a href="http://thesnowgauge.net/" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Snow Gauge.</span></strong></em></a></p> <p>“I’m calling for an end to (the Aldi snow sale) in its current set-up and here’s why,” he said.</p> <p>“Not because Aldi gear isn’t at least passably good ... to me it still seems like a great entry point for the casual to semi-regular snow enthusiast. And if it gets more people skiing or snowboarding — great.</p> <p>“No, the problem I have with the Aldi sale is the feeding frenzy concept that it very deliberately creates. I do geddit, you know. It’s economics 101. Create a limited supply and then, if your product and the word of mouth is good, develop extraordinary demand. Aldi do it and do it well.</p> <p>“In the early 2000s you had the major brands and the major stores with their major prices. The casual enthusiast either had to hire or shell out the big bucks. Sure, you might be able to get a cheap winter parka at Kmart — but what about some proper ski pants, a helmet and a dozen other ski-specific things you might need?</p> <p>“Aldi filled that void and kudos to them. But I reckon it has now turned into a bit of a sh*t show and an unnecessary one at that.”</p> <p>Have you ever been to the annual snow gear sale at Aldi? If so, share your experience in the comments below. </p>

Money & Banking

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Extreme winter blast to bring gale, snow and rain this week

<p>Australia will be hit by a wintery blast this week, with gales, snow and storms forecasted for the country’s south-east.</p> <p>A deep low pressure system will sweep through South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania and southern NSW.</p> <p>Adelaide has already seen its wettest 48-hour stretch in four months while Mt Crawford, recorded a winds of 82km/h on Tuesday morning.</p> <p>A severe weather warning is in place for large parts of South Australia, including the capital, with gusts of up to 100km/h expected in and around the city.</p> <p>“A low pressure system in the southern Bight is causing cold, wet and windy conditions over south-east Australia,” Tom Saunders, a meteorologist with <a href="http://www.skyweather.com.au/" target="_blank">Sky News Weather</a>, told news.com.au.</p> <p>“South Australia has been hardest hit so far with heavy showers in central districts overnight and strong winds.”</p> <p>The wild weather is expected to move eastward towards Victoria and Tasmania.</p> <p>“The low will weaken today and cross Tasmania, however a cold south-westerly will maintain showers and alpine snow over the south-east states on Wednesday and Thursday,” said Mr Saunders.</p> <p>“This is a typical weather pattern for midwinter.</p> <p>“However, we are seeing the best snow conditions so far this season. The major resorts can expect around 20cm to 30cm of snow over the next few days while some higher parts of the NSW northern and central ranges may see the first dusting of snow this season on Wednesday.”</p> <p> </p>

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