DH and I would like to learn to ski. I've never tried because I figured I couldn't afford it. 2 of my brothers are skiers. One is a ski instructor in Canada. My nephew was a gun snowboarder by the time he was 8. I should at least give it a go.

How much would it cost, with equipment, lessons, access fees, ski lift, everything? We don't have ski clothes. We'd need to get chains for the car tyres. Without buying designer gear, any idea at a starting cost? We're kind of broke, so it may not work out.

We're in the outer east Melbourne. I think Buller, Baw Baw and Lake Mountain are easily accessible. My brother has a place at Hotham but they're renting it out so it wouldn't be accessible on weekends or school holidays.

Suggestions, recommendations welcome. I am a snow virgin. It's time to pop the cherry