Header photograph: Blowhard Traverse photo by M. McColl. A skiing trip to Mt Hotham in the 1930's meant a long trek across the Blowhard traverse.

Don Bennett first strapped on a pair of skis 80 years ago. The thrill of those skis running over fresh snow and a love of the Alps has been integral to his life ever since.

 

Co-founder of the Alpine Club of Victoria , Don was instrumental in the establishment of a radio network in the Mt Hotham and Mt Bogong area to improve skier safety, a service that lasted 18 years and saved many lives.

 

Don presented the old radios to Museum manager Marg Franke-Williams at his home in Brighton. A 40 minute interview with Don Bennett can be seen at the museum.