Why Buffalo? I wouldn't have though that that would have been the best choice. By the sound of things you want steep, snow covered and clear of trees. I'm not sure much of that exists at Buffalo. But maybe somebody else will correct me on that.
Feathertop is one of the better places though you will have to spend half a day to hike in. Though you have the benefits of two huts! It has great slopes to practice on.
The backside of Mt Buller also has opportunities for steep mountaineering / mixed climbing. This can be accessed from the summit (expensive) or from the base (free). But I think this is too advanced for what you are after.