Australian Backcountry snow on show

The North Face has announced the release of Western Faces, an Australian backcountry ski film showcasing the unexpected terrain of the Main Range in the Snowy Mountains region.

Created by Lachlan Humphreys, of Clean Line Productions and Rob Norman, of Knack Studios, Australian mountaineer Tim Macartney-Snape, freeskier Anna Segal and Freeride World Tour rookie Michaela Davis-Meehan, set out to explore some of the steepest faces in Australia – and show their Kiwi visitors what Australia has to offer. New Zealand freeskiers Fraser McDougall and Hank Bilous join for the venture deep into the backcountry to find freeride terrain and mountain weather that tests them.

The film comes at a time when Australians have been both eager to explore after extensive lockdowns, and pushed to look at other options for skiing and snowboarding, as resorts close or operate at limited capacities.

Photos by Mark Clinton / @markclinton

“Having this kind of adventure in Australia is something very unique and special, and by sharing this on film, we hope to inspire the next generation of backcountry enthusiasts,” says Lachlan Humphreys, of Clean Line Productions.

This is a goal shared with The North Face, who have partnered with Thredbo Resort to offer the first resort-accessed backcountry tours in Australia. Though the resort has closed now, Thredbo Backcountry Tours will continue to run until October 11, 2020, allowing Australians to get their last snow fix in for the season and to learn some new skills on along the way.

Athlete Tested, Expedition Proven

Photos by Mark Clinton / @markclinton

While filming for Western Faces, the athletes took on the Australian backcountry with the latest technological development from The North Face, FUTURELIGHT, launched in October 2019 at the time of this expedition.

FUTURELIGHT is the world’s most advanced breathable-waterproof outerwear technology, developed using nanospinning technology and sustainable practices. Born in the mountains out of specific requests from our global athlete team looking for increased performance and breathability in their waterproof gear, FUTURELIGHT is a revolutionary way to stay dry inside and out.

Check out the film below.

Photos by Mark Clinton / @markclinton

Kate Webster is a world traveller, ocean lover and conservation warrior who is determined to make every moment count for not only herself but the world around her. This has inspired Kate to translate those moments and share them through her storytelling. A dedicated David Attenborough and Jane Goodall fan, Kate has delved into the world of wildlife and conservation travel to bring awareness.

kate@capturedtravel.com