History

In 1962, the Rev Peter Goodwin-Hudson, Director of the Sydney Anglican Youth Department (now Sydney Anglican Youthworks), led a vision for a ski lodge in the NSW Snowy Mountains.  From its early beginning volunteers worked to establish the original building which opened in 1963 for its first snow season.  Southern Cross Ski Chalet was a vital part of the ministry of the then Anglican Youth Department.  Managers were appointed to cook and clean and leadership came from Youth department staff and volunteers.  Accommodation was originally two 10-bed dormitories, one staff room and one managers’ room.

In the early 1980s there was a plan to sell the lodge in order to put money into a new site at Jindabyne called Hilltop where coach groups from Sydney could be more easily accommodated.  Rather than sell the lodge, people were invited to pay a sum of money to become members in the Preferential Booking System (PBS).  This raised the funds needed and the lodge was not sold (although unfortunately after many years, Youthworks has now sold Hilltop).  This new company structure included having 7 Directors, 3 appointed by the Anglican Youth Department Council and 4 elected by members of the Southern Cross company, and this structure remains today.  Southern Cross is a non–profit company limited by guarantee and registered as Anglican Youth Department Diocese of Sydney Ski Lodge Ltd.  Click here for more information on membership of the Southern Cross company and of the Preferential Booking System (PBS).

A major upgrade of the lodge took place in 1990 with the addition of a new wing with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a second lounge room and a much larger ski/drying room.  Minor upgrades have regularly occurred since then.

In 2008 there was a change in staffing and ministry, with Hosts being appointed to lead devotions and Bible discussions, chefs being seconded from Anglican Youthworks and a contract cleaner appointed.

2011 saw the trading name changed to Southern Cross Alpine Lodge and a new website launched.

2012 saw the completion of our 50th year of snow season ministry.

2013 to 2016 has seen major refurbishments, with re-cladding of the exterior and major upgrades to several rooms and the men’s bathroom.  These upgrades have all been paid for out of cash flow.

2019 saw a new tea/coffee making area, relieving congestion near the kitchen.

2020 onwards sees further refurbishments planned, although some delayed due to COVID‑19.

Throughout our over 61 years, Southern Cross has been a place of spiritual & physical rest and recreation, and a place where well over 11,000 visitors have had time to enjoy fellowship and to spend time with God.  It remains a haven in Kosciuszko National Park.  As one of our visitors said: It is like a little taste of Heaven!!