For alpine activities within resorts, alpine-qualified leaders are not required, but you must be properly prepared and equipped. While it is unlikely that downhill skiers would venture far from the lifts, note that all on-snow activities outside resorts must be led by a qualified guide.

Most people will need to hire ski equipment. It is definitely worth arranging a group hire price. It is usually easier to hire gear in Cooma – most places will let you take gear for the weekend on Friday night, saving time on Saturday morning. In general, hire prices increase as you get closer to the snow. To correctly set release bindings, hire staff need to know your weight and skiing ability: be honest – correct settings save injuries.

Downhill skiing and resort telemarking require some of the warmest clothing, due to the windchill which may be experienced while skiing and the length of time which will be spent in queues and on lifts. Beginners need to ensure their clothing is waterproof – they're going to spend at least a while sitting in the snow. Personal requirements vary, but most people will need:

• thermal tops and bottoms with thinner woolly socks
• waterproof pants
  
• one or two jumpers, depending on how much you feel the cold
• a parka
• sunglasses or goggles, sunscreen, lipbalm
• beanie and waterproof gloves.

Carry a small bumbag or backpack in which to carry:

• spare clothing
• drinks and snacks
• lunch and/or wallet.

Check that everyone understands the run grading system: green runs are for beginners, blue are intermediate, black are advanced. Beginners should not attempt black runs: they will endanger themselves and others. Lessons are the fastest way to advance from beginner to advanced.

Depending on the size and ability of the group, it may be appropriate to split the group up. However you decide to split your group, ensure that:

• rendezvous points and times are clearly communicated to every individual
• no-one is skiing alone
• small groups stick together, ie, re-group after every run
• the whole group gets together again at lunchtime and home time.

Leaders and parents should arrange between themselves to directly supervise beginners and regularly check up on intermediate and advanced groups.

It is recommended that everyone be given the mobile phone number of a leader or parent as an emergency contact.