Big White Ski Resort (photo credit: Big White Resort)

By Kevin Rothwell

Most challenging season ever

Big White closes to discourage Lower Mainland visitors

Mar 31, 2021 | 2:44 PM

A surge in 604 area code inquiries to Big White Ski Resort reservations has prompted the resort to close six days earlier for the public good.

Following the announcement Monday March 29 that the province was forcing Whistler/Blackcombe to shut down to prevent further COVID-19 spread, Big White saw a spike in inquiries.

“In the past 24 hours, Big White Central Reservations Ltd and the resort website have noticed increased traffic and inquiries from people in the Lower Mainland regarding accommodation and the purchasing of online lift tickets for the last week of operation,” The resort stated in a media release.

“With most B.C. resorts closing as of Monday, April 5, and with the disregard for COVID-19 protocols exhibited at Charley Victoria’s All-Day Après on Monday evening, Big White Ski Resort Ltd recognized closing early as a necessary action to keep its guests, residents and team members safe from COVID-19,” Peter Plimmer, President and CEO of Big White Ski Resort Ltd said.

The owner of Charley Victoria’s is likely to be censured by WorkSafe BC, Interior Health and the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB).

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Big White has indicated legal action will be taken to terminate the companies lease.

“I take full ownership for this ignorant decision that I made out of pure selfish frustration over the recent announcement, regarding COVID restrictions in our community. My decision to let his happen was wrong. I take full accountability for accept all consequences of this poor decision,” owner Justin Reid posted on Facebook after news of the party broke.

“We are grateful to have been able to keep the resort open and safe as long as we have, but with other resorts shutting down, we have become a magnet for non-local skiers and snowboarders,” Plimmer said. “Big White Ski Resort Ltd would like to thank its loyal patrons, Interior Health employees and medical staff, emergency services, and the City of Kelowna first responders for their support during the most challenging season in its history. We look forward to welcoming everyone back over the summer months (July 1, 2021) and for the next winter ski season (November 25, 2021).”

Vernon Silver Star Mountain Resort will also close for the season on Monday as previously planned. Silver Star has not experienced any patron related issues this season. The resort plans to re-open June 25 for the summer season.

Revelstoke Mountain Resort announced an abrupt end to the season with a message on its website.

“Due to a staff shortage in our Mountain Operations division attributed to Covid-19 circumstances, we have made the difficult decision to cease operations for the 2020/21 winter season. Our top priority at Revelstoke Mountain Resort has always been the health and safety of our guests and employees,” Peter Nielsen, Vice President of Operations Revelstoke Mountain Resort said. “I look forward to welcoming everyone back when we kick off our summer season on May 21 with the opening of the Pipe Mountain Coaster. Until then, stay healthy and get outside often.”

With files from the Canadian Press