Our Projects

The Bench Project

One Thredbo strives to create spaces within our community for sharing and reflection, where those who have been a part of our community can have their stories told and their memories celebrated.

The Bench Project contributes to this aim by placing benches with memorial plaques around Thredbo in tranquil locations that facilitate rest and reflection.

Each bench will feature a number of memorial plaques adhering to a set style and format.

Three benches have already been installed, with more on order.

Friends and family members can apply to purchase a plaque, and select the particular bench on which they would like the plaque to be mounted. Along with the purchase applications, we request that submissions be accompanied by a short 100 word bio of the person to be memorialized, along with any images. These words and images will also be provided to the Thredbo Alpine Museum to add to the Faces of Thredbo collection.

Public Art Project

“Faces of Thredbo” Public Sculptures

Thredbo would not exist without the hard work and vision of its founders and early supporters. These people were the dreamers, the waymakers, the engineers, the financiers, the Olympians, and the locals. Some came to Australia fleeing political turmoil in Europe, others were born here and became captivated by the Snowies.

Four life-size public sculptures have been designed, showcasing some of these key figures who are forever embedded in Thredbo’s story, and whom many of us had the pleasure of knowing personally.

These key figures are:

• Frank Prihoda (1921 – 2022)
• Elyne Mitchell (1913 – 2002)
• Leonhard Erharter (1928 – 2007)
• Charles Anton (1916 – 1966) and Tony Sponar (1920 – 2002)

The sculptures have been designed by Brad Spalding and will be cast in Melbourne by Phillip Doggett-Williams.

We are inviting members of the public to contribute financially to the production and installation costs of these sculptures, in order to celebrate and perpetuate the legacy of these pioneers.

One Thredbo is needing to raise the following funds for the completion of the works:

• Frank Prihoda
• Elyne Mitchell
• Leonhard Erharter
• Charles Anton and Tony Sponar

All donations are tax deductible.

To raise awareness of the project, there will be a number of traveling maquettes of each work. Keep your eyes peeled, and let us know if you spot one!

Blues Festival

Taking place over three days in January each year, the Blues Festival is a much-loved event on Thredbo’s entertainment calendar.

Generating over $100,000 in revenue for Thredbo Alpine Hotel alone, it also brings more than 20 artists and musicians together in a spirit of camaraderie. Planned performances often give way to spontaneous jam sessions, creating an unparalleled atmosphere.

2025 marks its 30th year, and we’re planning the best Blues Festival yet.

Other Philanthropic Works

Have an idea for the betterment of Thredbo’s arts and culture scene that you’d like to see implemented? Or, do you simply want to contribute financially to the ongoing mission and vision of One Thredbo?

An initiative by Thredbo Chamber of Commerce