More than 100 people turned up to a meet and greet at Slalom Plaza, where visitors could get close to off-duty race dogs as well as husky and malamute puppies. 

Falls Creek Resort spokesman Nathan Fenton said the village was bursting at the seams with 25 teams of dogs taking part in Australia’s only under-lights event. 

“It’s always a great event to get out and enjoy,” he said.

“For spectators it’s a real thrill seeing the dogs race through the ski-in ski-out streets.”

This year the event has been extended to incorporate three nights of racing on Thursday, Friday and Saturday – each night drawing fierce competition and lots of spectators.

“We’re expecting this event to kick off a big week at the resort – around half a metre of fresh snow is in the forecast and the village is a hive of activity with peak season visitors,” Mr Fenton said.