Vail Resorts, a global mountain resort operator, completed the acquisition of Falls Creek and Hotham Alpine Resorts, two Australian ski resorts, from Merlin Entertainment, a global leader in location based, family entertainment, for A$174m. "We are thrilled to welcome the guests and employees of both Falls Creek and Hotham into the Vail Resorts family and further strengthen our position in Australia, which is one of our most important international markets. The acquisition of the leading mountain resorts in Victoria is part of our continued strategy to drive season pass sales and build loyalty with guests from around the world. After our success connecting with skiers in Sydney and across New South Wales since acquiring Perisher in 2015, we have a huge opportunity to create a deeper connection with Melbourne and broader Victorian skiers and riders," Rob Katz, Vail Resorts Chairman and CEO.