A Reference Area in Victoria is a ‘tract of public land containing viable samples of one or more land types that are relatively undisturbed’. The Boiler Plain Reference Area near Paw Paw Plain on the Brabralung trail that runs between Mt Hotham and Dinner Plain is, sadly, after recent fires, no longer ‘relatively undisturbed’, but it is rarely visited. This tour, happening as part of the 2025 Australian Backcountry Festival will visit Boiler Plain, allowing participants to see this remote area on skis or snow shoes.

This wander will explore the Boiler Plain reference area and surrounding area on snow shoes. Access to this area out of winter is difficult because of thick scrub – hence this trip during winter. The Victorian high country has a wealth of unique animals and plants and we will travel through burnt and recovering snow gum woodlands, learn about the fire history of the area, and enjoy the slow travel options that are presented by snow shoeing.

The trip will start from Mother Johnsons carpark on the Great Alpine rd (resort entry not needed), follow the Brabralung trail towards Hotham to Paw Paw Plain, then go off track through snow gum forest to Boiler Plain. There is a moderate climb of 25 minutes to Paw Paw, then a slow decent towards Boiler Plain. Muster at 0845 for 0900 walkout.

You will need your own snowshoes (these can be hired from the Hoys stores: It would be wise to pre book them). Given that we will be walking through untracked forest you may want to bring adjustable snow poles if you have them. People are welcome to attend on skis, provided you are proficient in off track touring through undulating terrain. Patterned skis would be better than skins in order to reduce the need to stop for transitions. You will need warm gear to put on while we rest, suitable clothing for the conditions, sunglasses or googles, snacks and water.

Saturday August 30.

While the tour is free, you do need to register as numbers are limited and you will need to have a ticket for the weekend festival. There is no gate entry to park at Mother Johnsons.

You can get a weekend ticket to the festival here: General admission is $40 and student is $30 for the weekend. There is a huge amount of activities happening that weekend – tours, workshops, speakers, various parties, you’d be mad to miss it.