Profile of a Winter Group Member -- Pat Cooper

In 1980 Ian & I started our interest in XC Skiing. We were introduced to it by our friend Evan Field, I was 48 and Ian was 51. Ian was good but only had 2 seasons as he died in 1983.

I knew I was going to like it and would go out with the Fields and other friends every season. I should have had lessons at the beginning but I didn't, so I made all those mistakes that I would have to rectify later. I did a week at Falls with Bogong Jack. Did not know Andrew was a member of the Winter Group at that time. That is where I first met Loch. I also did some trips with VNPA at Howmans Gap and that is how I found out about the Winter Group, through Julie & David. I went along to a meeting and I joined up Margaret Norton who is in my local walking group. I discovered that she was in the Winter Group, we went on a number of trips at Howmans Gap which were terrific. I started taking lessons from the experts and that was when I started to improve and found it more enjoyable.

[Editor's note: can someone identify exactly where Pat is?]

Jill Dyson was a long time friend of mine. Evan also introduced her to XC skiing and I introduced her to the Winter Group. I know she really enjoyed those years. As for myself, I had a wonderful time with all the wonderful people I have met in the Group. I loved those trips and I miss them. Unfortunately one gets older and everything does not work like it used to. It is my eyes. I have not ruled out rejoining again and thank you for the great times I have had with you all. I do look forward to seeing you at some stage. All the best in 2009.

Happy Skiing. Love.

Pat Cooper