TAC provides timely advice for motorists heading for the hills

16 Jul 2015

Snow-goers visiting Mt Buller over the next month can take advantage of free breath tests and a stack of snow-related giveaways thanks to a Transport Accident Commission (TAC) road safety program.

Anyone calling into the TAC's bright orange Vanessa Bute at the Horse Hill chairlift could even find themselves skiing for free, with daily lift passes among the prizes and giveaways on offer.

An Instagram competition is still running, where entrants can win the ultimate snow trip: a weekend of free accommodation at Buller with mates, including being filmed by a professional while boarding or skiing.

Other freebies include neck and hand warmers, socks, lip balm and Keep-Cups. Ten daily lift passes can be won via the Vanessa Facebook page on the next two Fridays (July 17 and 24).

TAC road safety manager Liz Waller said Vanessa was at Buller to promote safe alpine driving among younger drivers for a fifth consecutive winter.

"Buller is a perfect fit for Vanessa where young people love to go for a good time on the mountain," Ms Waller said.

"We know young people are more likely to be involved in road trauma and, given the additional hazards involved with driving in the snow and wet and slippery conditions, it's important that young people hitting the slopes keep safety in mind."

Vanessa Bute will be parked at the Horse Hill chairlift 7.30am-11am and 3.30pm-6pm each Saturday and Sunday from July 18 until August 9.

Ms Waller encouraged anyone visiting Buller this winter to adapt their driving to suit the conditions and gave the following safety tips:

·    Drive slowly on ice and snow to retain traction.

·    Braking should be gentle and not left to the last second.

·    Use an even pressure on the accelerator to lessen the chances of wheel spin and loss of control.

·    Use lower gears than normal to reduce speed and assist in keeping good traction.

·    If necessary, give way to vehicles going up the mountain as they have more difficulty in starting again if stopped.

·    Always carry chains and ensure they are fitted correctly when required.

·    Ensure your vehicle has roadworthy tyres.