3pm

WIMMERA residents are flocking to the Grampians’ highest points to make the most of the start of a white winter. 

Halls Gap Visitor Information Centre's Jason Meehan said staff had been busy all day dealing with enquiries. 

"There's still snow up there," he said. 

"It's not snowing in Halls Gap but Mt Williams and Boroka still seem to have snow.’’

Mr Meehan said many visitors have flocked and trekked up the mountain to make the most of the season's first snow. 

"We're getting a lot of calls," he said.

"People seem to be heading up, everyone is asking if there's still snow.’’

Mr Meehan said the majority of visitors appeared to be from the Wimmera, determined to make the most of the beauty in their own backyard.

"A lot of people from Stawell and Ararat are calling," he said.

"We're especially seeing day trippers from outlying areas who are staying for something warm and a cup of coffee.

"Whenever it snows it's a real draw card."

Mr Meehan said people are also enquiring about staying safe in the icy weather. 

"People want to known condition of roads," he said.

"Parks Victoria advising people to use all-wheel or four-wheel-drives.

"As always there limited parking so they're asking people be patient."

Earlier

THE first snow of the season has fallen on Grampians National Park.

Rangers woke to an inch of snow on Mt William on Friday.

The mountain received a scattering of snow, just enough to create footprints but not enough to impede work.

Ranger Mark Whyte said the snow started overnight and could start again later on Friday.

He said despite the relatively light snowfall visitors on the mountain and surrounds must remain alert. 

“At the moment there’s a light dust of snow,” he said.

“It’s not good cover for snow play but there might be more snow this afternoon.”

Mr Whyte said rangers inspected the mountain on Friday morning.

He said it was not unusual for the snow season to start this time of year.

Mr Whyte warned visitors to be wary of the changed conditions. 

“People need to be aware there is snow down around 600 metres,” he said.

“There’s snow and ice on the road, so using four-wheel-drives and all-wheel-drives are best, it might be busy.

“Visitors should definitely rug up, it’s -2 on Mt William.

“Stay safe, stay aware and stay warm.”

The drop in weather has led the Bureau of Meteorology to warn sheep graziers throughout the Mallee and Wimmera. 

A bureau report said low temperatures and harsh winds could put flocks at risk. 

“Sheep graziers are warned that cold temperatures, showers, possible hail and thunder and westerly winds are expected during Friday,” the warning said.

“There is a risk of losses of lambs and sheep exposed to these conditions.”

Mr Whyte said people should call Brambuk, the National Park and Cultural Centre, on 5361 4000 for information and updates on Grampians National Park conditions.