Robert Ridge (Peanter Peak cancelled due to avalanche risk). Organiser: Grahame Harris

When DoC advised against Peanter Peak because of avalanche risk (!) the trip was transferred to the Robert Ridge, and several participants dropped out before we left. When we arrived at St Arnaud it was raining lightly and more dropped out, having coffee at the new cafe and then returning home. The remaining four set out to do the circuit. It was up the Pinchgut in weather that had now cleared, meeting snow lying in the bush. At the Bushedge Shelter light snow started falling, increasing in intensity by the time we reached Relax Shelter. We decide to continue on the circuit, and the snow thickened into a mild whiteout on the traverse to the Bushline Hut. We could only see one marker pole ahead at a time, but the wind was not severe and the temperature was not too frigid. After lunch at the Hut the weather cleared a bit and we continued on down Paddy's Track. However, about half-an-hour from the car there was a clap of thunder that would have been quite terrifying if we were still up on top, and it rained steadily for the rest of the way. We were back at the car by 2.30pm. All expressed enjoyment of the exercise and experience of different conditions. Crampons had been carried but were not needed as the snow was quite deep but crisp and easy for walking

Party: Uta Purcell, Christine Hoy, Mary Young, Grahame Harris.