Victoria’s largest ski resort just got a bougie glam-up with the unveiling of a 10-metre-high sculpture to mark the opening weekend of the ski season.

Suspended over the snow-covered crags above Falls Creek, the super-sized installation greeted powder hounds in a geometric bloom of golden petals as they returned to the ski fields for the first time this year.

And if you thought art was for viewing not touching, hold on to your helmets because this immersive artwork is part sculpture, part public viewing platform. Follow the walkway between the petals for an over-the-edge-of-the-mountain view of the alps like they’ve never been seen before.

The $750,000-plus Flower of the Alpine Sun artwork was officially unveiled on day one of the 2026 ski season, as snowboarders and skiers zipped up Halley’s Comet Chairlift for the first runs of the year.

Trumpeted as one of the highest-altitude artworks in Australia (certainly the largest in the alps), the Alpine Sun sits at an elevation of more than 1,600 metres. You’ll find it near Cloud 9, the newly renovated restaurant at the gateway to Mouse Trap, the beginners’ ski run at the top of Halley’s Comet.

Meet the artist

Milan-born Australian artist Giovanni Veronesi created the sculpture after taking a punt on an off-brief design. The original brief called for a sculpture in the village carpark, but Veronesi thought it would be epic to create an artwork ‘lookout’ on the mountain.

Drawing on his love of the alps and geometric fabrication, he designed a walk-through sculpture that frames a mountain panorama across Falls Creek village and beyond.

“There is something about when you have those really cold winter days, when the sky is deep blue and the sun is blazing, and you can feel the wind biting your face while you’re skiing. I’ve always associated it with the feeling of being really alive, and so I wanted to put that feeling into physical form and share it with the audience," Veronesi says.

The sculpture, funded by the Victorian Government’s Alpine Business Support Package, was unveiled shortly after a winter blast dumped 32cm of snow on Falls Creek, raising hopes of a bumper ski season.

What’s new at Falls Creek in 2026

In addition to Falls’ new mountain bling, snowcationers can also expect a revitalised lineup of aprés-ski entertainment and hospitality. Nelse Lodge, one of the mountain’s original 1950s lodgings, has reopened to the public after a five-year makeover. The lodge, which operates as a ski resort in winter and high-performance athletes’ hub in summer, has a new 12-person sauna, hot-and-cold mineral plunge pools, gym, and reimagined Euro-inspired bar and restaurant.

Cooroona Alpine Lodge has launched its luxe Skyline Penthouse Apartments, promising some of the lushest digs on the mountain, as well as an expanded menu at on-site restaurant Cooroona Cantina. For aprés done your way, Cloud 9 Restaurant now offers live music on the mountain, while Lakeside’s new afternoon soirée serves up fireside aperitivo snacks and spritz. Did we mention it’s the best place to watch the Thursday evening fireworks?

Falls faves

If you fancy your powder with a side of pampering, check in to Astra Falls Creek. The lodge has been named the Best Boutique Ski Hotel in the World Ski Awards for 10 consecutive years for good reason. If you can’t afford to stay here, at least splurge on a treatment in the spa or cosy up on the leather couch with a cocktail by the fire. If you ask nicely, the staff will even proffer marshmallows for your toasting pleasure.

Harvey Hour at locals’ favourite the Falls Creek Hotel has become a village tradition, with punters flocking to the balcony overlooking the Village Bowl for jugs of Harvey Wallbanger. It’s little wonder the pub has become Australia’s biggest importer of Galliano.

When you pass through the bowl, keep a lookout for the old 1960s ticket booth, today home to Falls Creek Distillery. This ‘gin with altitude’ is distilled with alpine botanicals and can be enjoyed at venues throughout the High Country. Don’t leave town before grabbing a hot jam donut at Snownuts Donuts at the bottom of Halley’s Comet to fuel your on-mountain adventures.

Grab a deal

For a more wallet-friendly snow stay, take advantage of the early-bird specials. Falls Creek accommodation providers are offering up to 30 per cent off early-season bookings, while the Epic Australia 4-Day Pass offers lift access at three resorts – Falls Creek, Hotham and Perisher – for $669, (on sale until 17 June). New to snow sports? Try the new Epic Beginner Bundle – offering three days’ beginner lift access, group lessons and rentals for $499.