In spite of mild winter temperatures, Australians still ski during the winter months. Between June and October, Australians head to the snow in New South Wales' Snowy Mountains and the Alpine regions of Victoria. While the daring go skiing and snowboarding, others don snow shoes for hikes. Perisher Ski Resort in the Snowy Mountains has a snow tubing park where families slide down mountains in parkas and inner tubes. These resorts also have nightlife, fine dining, and wine to enjoy after long days on the slopes.
Tourists in Australia can enjoy walking tours and hikes even more in winter than in summer because the cool weather is more tolerable than Australia's hot, humid summers, and there are fewer crowds. Australia's scenery makes nature hikes popular. Tour guides at Both Feet, a walking tour company at Victoria's Great Ocean Walk, say winter is their favorite time for walking. August days typically are clear, sunny, and quiet. If walkers are brave enough to don jackets in the cool weather, they can enjoy tours without other vacationers around, and Both Feet has wine and meals for the walk.
Australians engage in many sports other than skiing during the winter season. Swimming is popular year-round, and Sweeney Research states 59 percent of Australians report being interested in swimming. Winter is also the season for football games and parties, as the Australian football season lasts from March until August. The Australian Football League website, afl.com.au, includes information on the sport's schedule, so Australians and visitors can buy tickets or turn on their televisions to take in a game.
Several Australian cities host film festivals, and many occur during cool winter months when people seek entertainment indoors. The Melbourne International Film Festival--the largest film festival in Australia--is held annually in July and August. It features films from around the world but also gives attendees a taste of Australian cinema. Those on the west coast of Australia may enjoy the Perth Revelation Film Festival in July.
