Pre-winter visit required for safety and enjoyment

Being relatively remote, about 2.5 km from the nearest road at Guthega, safety is a more significant issue at Illawong than in the resorts. Access is by foot track in summer and on cross-country skis (or snow shoes) in winter, over undulating terrain, beginning with a steep descent and ascent at Farm Creek of the journey, bridge crossing, and a traverse across a steep slope above Guthega Pondage.

The trip into Illawong in winter can take from 1 to more than 3 hours depending on snow and weather conditions, and on the experience of the skier(s) – especially the slowest member of your party. Crossing Farm Creek near Guthega across the bridge is awkward and challenging with skis, poles and a heavy pack.

Staying at Illawong is far removed from a motel room or a resort lodge. As well as the operational systems, visitors need to be comfortable in the small, simple, communal accommodation, with a shared dormitory. You will share a small environment of one bunkroom, bathroom and living quarters with up to 8 people known and unknown.

Electricity is available at Illawong only for light – no electrical appliances of any sort, including chargers for electrical devices.

For a safe and enjoyable stay at Illawong in winter, the following key requirements apply:

• Have previously visited Illawong Lodge, possibly at an Easter work-party or scheduled open day, and seen how it operates and the dormitory style of accommodation available.
• Have experience in off-track cross-country skiing carrying a full rucksack.

Under 18s

People of all ages and backgrounds, including children and teenagers, are warmly encouraged to stay at Illawong and participate in all its activities – and have done so in safety for over 50 years. Illawong is known for its culture of providing a child-safe and child-friendly environment.

All adults responsible for children staying at Illawong should satisfy themselves that the conditions are suitable. IST requires appropriate permission for all people under 18 staying in the lodge without their parent, legal guardian or caregiver. Each young person will have a known adult nominated as their mentor for the period of their stay.

Illawong requests all adults booking at the Lodge for the first time to complete a Prohibited Persons Declaration, similar to those used by schools and sporting clubs, because it is possible that children may be staying at the Lodge at the same time.

Availability

Each winter 35% of available bed nights may be booked by people other than members of Illawong Ski Tourers and their families, as temporary members. These bookings are only accepted if:

• Each member of the party has visited Illawong outside of winter.
• Each member of the party has experience in off-track cross-country skiing carrying a full rucksack.
• An Illawong member who is an Accredited Lodge Leader is present for the whole period of the booking.
• Full payment for tariff accompanies booking requests.
• All members of the party have returned all previously issued keys, or paid a replacement cost.
• The IST committee is satisfied that all members of the party will comply with Illawong’s management policies, in which case each person is approved for temporary membership of Illawong Ski Tourers for the period of the booking.
• Any person under the age of 18, not accompanied by a parent, guardian or caregiver, has written permission to be in the party, including nomination of a responsible adult who will be resident at Illawong for their period of residence.
• All adults have completed a 'Prohibited Persons Declaration'.

When do bookings open?

First round booking period: Bookings for winter and winter shoulder open 1 March each year. All bookings of the same priority received between 1 and 14 March have equal priority. Bookings are allocated by 28 March. Competition for places is resolved by the Booking Officer.

Casual bookings: Casual bookings may be made any time after the allocation of first found bookings (28 March). Allow at least three weeks’ notice for the booking officer to process records, and to post vouchers and keys.

Tariffs

Winter and Winter shoulder tariffs include a wide range of non-perishable food. A list is provided on the Facilities page.

Only 8 dormitory beds are available at one time and this is strictly enforced. Children under 5 may be additional to 8 lodge users if a separate bed is not required, but they must be booked.

The tariffs apply to all visitors, regardless of age, with the exception of children under 5 not occupying a bed, who stay free of charge. 

Cancellations

Please choose your booking period carefully. Bookings are not transferable. If you wish to change or cancel a booking, contact the booking officer promptly to allow re-letting of the accommodation and the maximum refund. Check the full booking information for more details on cancellations.

• Please consider travel insurance to cover the difference between your payment and the available refund.

Need more information?
Email bookings@illawong.asn.au
Please allow a few days for a response.