Snowstorm Stories: from coastal commutes to childhood wonder

05th Aug 2025

As heavy snow blanketed Guyra and the wider Northern Tablelands on August 2, the event became more than just a meteorological milestone — it became a memory-making weekend for locals and visitors alike.
1Among those drawn to the winter spectacle were seasoned snow-chasers, spontaneous adventurers, and families fulfilling long-held dreams.
Andrew, a visitor from Coffs Harbour, made the trek inland with a friend. Their snow chase began late Friday, battling thick fog near Dorrigo before arriving in Guyra in the early hours of Saturday.
“We got to Guyra around 4am and parked near a truck stop,” Andrew shared. “It started snowing lightly around then but picked up heavy by 7am. We were out taking photos and videos—it was magical.”
But the conditions were far from easy.
“The roads were slippery, and I almost didn’t make it up the hill near the church,” he said. “We decided to head back around 10am, doing 50km/h in a 100 zone. It ended up taking us five and a half hours to get home instead of the usual two and a half.”
Despite the challenges, Andrew said the experience was unforgettable.
“It was a learning curve—next time I’ll pack more blankets and probably book a hotel. But it was worth every second. I can’t wait to do it again.”
Cheryl McInnes, who grew up in the Snowy Mountains and now lives in the area, described the weekend as nostalgic.
“It brought back great memories. I hope the kids take this weekend with them through life, like I have.”
For photographer Matt Walsh, the weekend was the best he’s seen in over a decade of visits. “I have been coming to Guyra at least four times a year for the past 10 years and every time it’s been a great experience,” he said.
“I have always had a love for the snow, and Guyra is like a second home to me. To see it this time with so much snow left me with a lot of great memories and will always have me coming back.”
Francene Logan moved to Black Mountain from Brisbane four years ago. She had guests staying with her from Brisbane and Coffs Harbour and said the combined excitement was palpable.
“We were like kids in a lolly shop, frolicking in the snowcone soft, fresh powder, watching the snowflakes that were up to the size of 50 cent pieces at times.
“Our legs used muscles they had forgotten, walking in some knee deep drifts around our property, and our Shropshire sheep experienced snow, like in their native country.
“We have been wanting to experience an epic snowfall and all our dreams came true. We will always reminisce about snowfall of 2025!”
For newer locals like Daniel Rond, Malia Ashman, and Ron Llewellyn, the snowstorm cemented their love for Guyra.
Daniel, who moved from the Central Coast, said he always knew Guyra can receive snow but this event was truly amazing.
“It was good to see the town been frequented by lots of visitors, it was great for our local businesses.”
Malia, originally from Tonga, said her family has embraced the cooler lifestyle. “It’s such a change from what we’re used to—but we love it. We were so excited to see snow like this.”
And for Ron, who moved with his son RJ just seven months ago, the snowfall was a welcome reminder of why they chose Guyra.
“We picked it for the weather and the fishing — and it’s been everything we hoped for.”
From coastal travellers to new residents and lifelong locals, the snowstorm of August 2 wasn’t just a weather event — it became a shared chapter in the story of a region that wears winter with pride.

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Snowstorm Stories: from coastal commutes to childhood wonder

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