by madmacca » Mon 23 Dec, 2013 10:38 pm
I like the idea of experiencing the full range of conditions in a single walk.
At mid September, you will likely be experiencing 20-50 cm of snow at Baw Baw plateau 1500 m, same deal into early October over Bogong High Plains (1700-1800m), and early November on the Main Range (1900-2000m). Walking in this depth will involve postholing - doable for short drifts, but very fatigueing and very slow for any extended distance.
If you left things until early October, you will still encounter snow, but depths will be less, and perhaps doable without skis/snowshoes.
But if you really want to experience the full range of conditions, equip yourself properly, skill up for winter conditions (perhaps join a club that has winter alpine walks), and leave in early September.
But the (full length of) AAWT also involves extended walking at lower altitudes (snow will generally be long gone at even just 1200 m), where you will have to carry your skis/snowshoes. And one aspect of early season walking is that you will encounter much fallen timber across the trail. IMHO, carrying snowshoes while ducking under/climbing over fallen trees, or just through overgrown sections in general, is much easier than carrying skis. I'd be interested in others opinions on this issue.
Apart from skis/snowshoes, the only other specialized equipment is probably a warm sleeping bag (down to -10C) and insulated mat. Extended winter trips will lead to a buildup of body moisture in your sleeping bag over several days, which can significantly degrade performance, so some spare capacity in your bag is important. Too warm a bag (especially into November) can also lead more sweating, and thus more moisture. A rest day at a hut
With careful site selection, a good 3 season tent is probably a better option than a 4 season tent, especially into November (too warm). Combine with a bivy if you think spindrift will be an issue.