It started as a simple question, would it be possible to recreate a snowy winter?

As the town dipped into lower temperatures Mr Appleton got to work, creating a snow machine. After a first failed attempt, he was more dedicated than ever to have a blanket of snow hug his front lawn.

The project seemed unexpected and following the record-breaking -10.4C in July, Mr Appleton reflected it was more than just an experiment. 

“A few years ago there was pretty heavy snow and the whole neighbourhood had a lot of fun,” he said.

The Ben Street resident consulted his neighbours, who he described as a close community in and of itself. “We all weren’t sure if it was possible to do or not,” he said.

At about 5am last Sunday morning, when temperatures dropped to -5.7C, Mr Appleton turned on his snow machine and watched the snow fall. 

However this process was not easy. 

Working off a weather chart, he has spent the past few weeks tracking the temperature and humidity.

The snow machine, which acts as a high power sprinkler, sits on his mailbox and faces his front lawn. 

Only the correct combination of water and pressure, specific nozzles and the supply of compressed air could create the snow.

All had to be balanced or the snow could be hosed with water within minutes. 

“I was more shocked than surprised. I was sure it was going to work, but I had to see it with my own eyes,” he said.

“The neighbours heard the pump and knew what was going on.

“They had their fingers crossed.”

It didn’t take long before children were playing in the snow, he said, even before his two daughters were awake. 

"We’re just regular mums and dads providing entertainment for our kids. It was just something a little bit extra ordinary,” he said.

After posting photos online, Mr Appleton received multiple message from residents who wanted to create snow themselves. He said he is even open to running a workshop, out of Irrigear Goulburn where he purchased his supplies, for those interested. 

Although, he said, there was one moment that stood out to him when looking back.

On the morning of his triumph, he left home to return to a small snowman. Soon after, a local woman apologised for allowing her children to play on his front lawn after he posted the photo of the snowman online.

“It pleased me the most, it was great, everyone should be welcome,” he said.

Mr Appleton said he will continue to create snow over the winter.