An Austrian in the Australian Alps

It's winter in Australia - and freezing cold in some regions. For many, this awakens a longing for skiing. However, Australia is rarely associated with snow and ski slopes. SBS reporter Daniel Georgakos spoke with Austrian Florian Tabelander, who calls the Australian Alps home for the winter season.

Florian Tabelander aus Lermoos steht seit seinen jüngsten Kindheitstagen auf Skiern. Credit: Privat

Around 25 Austrian ski instructors are employed here. So we have a small community here. On Thursdays there is always the famous "Austria Night" happening. If you want to speak German, the trip to Mount Buller is definitely worth it. And the skiing is of course also great here.

Florian Tabelander

Seit 2017 in Australien: Florian Tabelander Credit: Privat

I finished third at the U16 World Championship. It was actually always my dream to become a professional racer, but it is difficult to achieve. Especially in Austria.

Florian Tabelander

Florian Tabelander (r.) auf dem Podium mit dem norwegischen Riesenslalom- und Slalom-Weltmeister Henrik Kristoffersen (M.). Credit: Privat

It was my life over four or five years that I worked overseas in the European or American winter and then from June to October back in Australia.

Florian Tabelander

Nur selten am Strand: Florian Tabelander Credit: Privat

Since the start of the pandemic, I have lived in Australia continuously

Florian Tabelander

Sonnenuntergang in Mount Buller. Credit: Privat