captainjim forbes in herefordshire for hours rhythmic as.— have been enjoying the rare event, despite wild winds and heavy snow that closed some roads. the weather has been triggered by a rare antarctic blast blanketing towns in new south wales and victoria. a rare antarctic blast has turned parts of south—eastern australia white. the icy cold front has sent temperatures plummeting way below average. towns to the west of sydney in the blue mountains have been blanketed by late winter snowfall. a few months ago, the region was battling bushfires but this has been a treat for locals and visitors. it's brilliant, especially for the kids and other people that can't get to the snow or those that don't quite have the funds on the finance for the snow, this is absolutely brilliant for them. up to a metre of snow has fallen elsewhere in the state of new south wales. the wintry blast has hit victoria and wildlife has had to contend with the icy conditions. but there are fears that trees and power lines could collapse under its weight. forecasters hav