The Fainter Falls Walking Track was originally accessible via a fire fighting access trail, which was used by fire fighters putting out spot fires caused by lightening strikes. The fires in the summer of 2003 highlighted the beauty of the area and provided the residents with the opportunity to consider the redevelopment of the trail. Work to establish a 700 metre grade 2 walking trail with a 50 metre grade 3 extension trail to the Falls began in 2005. It also includes 3 observation decks, a bridge over a creek crossing, car parking and interpretive signage.A Friends of Fainter Falls committee was formed to work towards the construction of a track to Fainter Falls. The contents of this folder is evidence of how a local community achieved its goals for such a project in 2003 - 2008.Large orange lever arch folder bound with 2 rings. Contains the history of the redevelopment of the Fainter Falls track 2003 - completion at the end of 2008. It is divided into: Funding Proposals. Correspondence Inwards & Outwards. Minutes and Letters of Support. Inserted separately in a large white and yellow Express Post envelope is additional information including chronology, minutes, newspaper cuttings Inserted separately is the 'Small Towns Development Fund' Application Form 2006.Cover blankfainter falls. bogong. walking trail. fire track. kiewa valley community.

Visual workings and development of the Fainter Falls Trail completed in 2008. The trail was originally accessible via a fire fighting access trail. The fire in the summer of 2003 highlighted the beauty of the area and provided the residents of the Kiewa Valley with the opportunity to consider the redevelopment of the trail. Work to establish a 700 metre grade 2 walking trail with a 50 metre grade 3 extension trail to the Falls began in 2005. It also includes 3 observation decks, a bridge over a creek crossing, car parking and interpretive signage.This video recording is a visual recording of the process of the establishment of the Fainter Falls Walking Trail giving an insight into the process, the work, tools and materials used for such work from 2003 to 2008. It also shows the vegetation in the area and the amount of water flowing at the time.White cardboard cover with black plastic video labelled "Fainter Falls" on outer edge."Fainter Falls"fainter falls. bogong. walking trail. fire track. national parks of victoria

Falls Creek Snow Resort is on the Bogong High Plains in north east Victoria. It competes with other Australian snow resorts during Winter. This folder was created in the 1990s.Falls Creek began during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. It is a major ski resort in Australia and is currently promoting tourism in Summer especially for bush walkers and cyclists.Red plastic folder with 6 pages in plastic sleeves. Each page has headings describing and promoting the facilities and benefits of Falls Creek Snow Resort.falls creek snow resort, tourism in alpine resorts

Nicholas Caire was born on Guernsey in the Channel Islands in 1837. He arrived in Adelaide with his parents in about 1860. In 1867, following photographic journeys in Gippsland, he opened a studio in Adelaide. From 1870 to 1876 he lived and worked in Talbot in Central Victoria. In 1876 he purchased T. F. Chuck's studios in the Royal Arcade Melbourne. In 1885, following the introduction of dry plate photography, he began a series of landscape series, which were commercially successful. As a photographer, he travelled extensively through Victoria, photographing places few of his contemporaries had previously seen. He died in 1918. Reference: Jack Cato, 'Caire, Nicholas John (1837–1918)', Australian Dictionary of Biography.An original, rare photograph from the series 'Views of Victoria: General Series' by the photographer, Nicholas Caire (1837-1918). The series of 60 photographs that comprise the series was issued c. 1876 and reinforced a neo-Romantic view of the Australian landscape to which a growing nationalist movement would respond. Nicholas Caire was active as a photographer in Australia from 1858 until his death in 1918. His vision of the Australian bush and pioneer life had a counterpart in the works of Henry Lawson and other nationalist poets, authors and painters.Views of Victoria (General Series) No.32 / 'View of Sailor’s Creek Falls’ / Albumen silver photograph mounted on boardOn Reverse: ‘The Sailor’s Creek Falls are situated near Daylesford, in one of the valleys of the Jim Crow Ranges. The Creek at this particular juncture is naturally adapted for the formation of a large reservoir. The stream of water is small during summer months, but a great body of water may sometimes be seen during the winter or wet seasons.’nicholas caire (1837-1918), sailor's creek (vic), jim crow ranges, daylesford, sailor's falls, photography - landscapes - victoria

These photographs were taken in and around Falls Creek by Samuel Keith Pearce and printed for him as a foldout postcard by NuColor Vue. The postcards state they were printed for S. K. Pearce Pty. Ltd of Tawonga and Mount Beauty. Samuel Keith Pearce was born on 24 June 1917 in Armadale, Victoria. By the late 1940s he owned the Mt Beauty Supermarket, Newsagency, Drapery and Hardware store at Mount Beauty and also a store at Tawonga in partnership with his brother Gordon Cathew Pearce. For some time, they operated as Pearce Brothers. In the early 1960s Keith also opened a mini mart In Falls Creek. As well as being a keen photographer and an astute businessman, Keith Pearce was a well-known identity in the Kiewa Valley, making many contributions to the development of the area over a long period. This included serving as a member of the Bright Shire Council for many years. He worked hard to promote the interests of the Upper Kiewa Valley. As a sign of recognition and appreciation for his contribution to the community, the park opposite the grocery store in Mount Beauty was named the SK Pearce Gardens in his honour. Samuel Keith Pearce died on 7 July 1994 in Mount Beauty, VictoriaThis collection of postcards and image is significant because they were commissioned by a highly successful business in Falls Creek, Victoria.A high definition photo of the skiers walking in front of the National Fitness Camp at Howmans Gap. The Camp was run by the Victorian State National Fitness Council. Initially the camp was leased from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It had a capacity of 110 participants and offered both summer and winter activities.falls creek resort, national fitness camp howmans gap

Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The were 26 original member clubs which included Albury Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club and Wangaratta Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this publication include:- Page 5 - A general reminder about fire safety in the summer. - The Albury Ski Club Ball was a great success. - Some race results not hitherto published. Bogong Ski Club Open Championship: A. Lejins 1, F. Sik-tane 2. S. Hooke 3. Albury Ski Club Championship Combined: Bob Howe 1. Bob Scott 2, Skippy St. Elmo 3.ski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, ski results skippy st elmo, bob scott

MEYER COLLECTION - FALLS CREEK PHOTOS In 1947 a determined group of like-minded State Electricity Commission (SEC) staff including Ray Meyer, the chief surveyor of the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme, had a common interest that revolved around the skiing potential of the snow-covered high plains which included what is now the resort of Falls Creek. The six SEC employees, Toni St Elmo, Ray Meyer, Jack Minogue, Lloyd Dunn, Adrian Ruffenacht and Dave Gibson (together with their families) banded together to secretly build a 'hut' that was the first ski lodge at Falls Creek. Using a road built in 1930s to gain access to Falls Creek, their hut project was carried out in secret as efforts by other skiers were blocked by H.H.C. Williams – the engineer in charge of the Hydro Scheme. In 1946 Ray Meyer made a trip to the Lands Office in Melbourne. He came away with a 99-year lease on three acres that was ideally suited for a hut designed by Lloyd Dunn. Adrian Ruffenacht (Design Engineer for the KHS) had suggested where the group should build because of easy access to a spring for water. Much of the building material required was scavenged from derelict huts on the high plains. Due to the need for secrecy, the determined group worked on the hut in the evenings and weekends to avoid detection. During the building period the group had met at Echidna Rock (now known as Eagle Rock) where Skippy St Elmo announced, "This is my favourite ‘Skyline’.” And so the first lodge in the area at Falls Creek Ski Resort came into existence. With the development of the International Poma in the 1970s, the Skyline Lodge, which was sited between the ski-lift’s pole one and pole two, was demolished. However, the legacy of Ray Meyer, Toni St Elmo, Jack Minogue, Lloyd Dunn, Adrian Ruffenacht and Dave Gibson and Skyline lives on in the vibrant atmosphere of Falls Creek Resort. The MEYER COLLECTION documents developments on the Kiewa Hydro Scheme and their life at Falls Creek from the mid 1930s to 1960s.These images are significant because they depict aspects of the life of a pioneering family of Falls Creek and the founders of "Skyline", the first lodge at Falls Creek.Two black and white images of John Meyer skiing near Wilkie and Basalt Hill, Bogong High Plains. Wilkinson’s Hut (Wilkie) was built for the SEC in the summer of 1932-3 to accommodate the snow research program manager. The cottage was sited next to a hydro-meteorological station, set on stilts above the snow. It was not a refuge hut but a permanent residence for all of the year. The work carried out there included operation of a meteorological station at the cottage, measuring the snow depth and density along two pole lines, and operating stream gauging stations in the area. The engineers stationed there included Adrian Rufenacht (1934-6), and Norwegian Martin Romuld (1936-42) Romuld was a champion skier, constructing a ski-jump and a grass tennis court near the hut during his residency. Adrian was one of the founders of 'Skyline". The hut was sold in 1948 to the Victorian Ski Club and renamed Wilkinson Lodge. Robert Wood Wilkinson, best known as 'Wilkie, was the 'Father figure' of Victorian skiing. Robert Wood Wilkinson died on May 22, 1939. The hut was resold some 12 years later to the Melbourne Bushwalkers club. In 1983, the National Parks Service described the building as an old SEC hut which had been purchased and, afterwards, maintained and occupied solely by the Melbourne Bushwalking Club. Wilkie Hut survived the 2003 bushfires but burnt down one year later (January 2004) in a cooking accident.falls creek, ray meyer, skyline

MEYER COLLECTION - FALLS CREEK PHOTOS In 1947 a determined group of like-minded State Electricity Commission (SEC) staff including Ray Meyer, the chief surveyor of the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme, had a common interest that revolved around the skiing potential of the snow-covered high plains which included what is now the resort of Falls Creek. The six SEC employees, Toni St Elmo, Ray Meyer, Jack Minogue, Lloyd Dunn, Adrian Ruffenacht and Dave Gibson (together with their families) banded together to secretly build a 'hut' that was the first ski lodge at Falls Creek. Using a road built in 1930s to gain access to Falls Creek, their hut project was carried out in secret as efforts by other skiers were blocked by H.H.C. Williams – the engineer in charge of the Hydro Scheme. In 1946 Ray Meyer made a trip to the Lands Office in Melbourne. He came away with a 99-year lease on three acres that was ideally suited for a hut designed by Lloyd Dunn. Adrian Ruffenacht (Design Engineer for the KHS) had suggested where the group should build because of easy access to a spring for water. Much of the building material required was scavenged from derelict huts on the high plains. Due to the need for secrecy, the determined group worked on the hut in the evenings and weekends to avoid detection. During the building period the group had met at Echidna Rock (now known as Eagle Rock) where Skippy St Elmo announced, "This is my favourite ‘Skyline’.” And so the first lodge in the area at Falls Creek Ski Resort came into existence. With the development of the International Poma in the 1970s, the Skyline Lodge, which was sited between the ski-lift’s pole one and pole two, was demolished. However, the legacy of Ray Meyer, Toni St Elmo, Jack Minogue, Lloyd Dunn, Adrian Ruffenacht and Dave Gibson and Skyline lives on in the vibrant atmosphere of Falls Creek Resort. The MEYER COLLECTION documents developments on the Kiewa Hydro Scheme and their life at Falls Creek from the mid 1930s to 1960s.These images are significant because they depict aspects of the life of a pioneering family of Falls Creek and the founders of "Skyline", the first lodge at Falls Creek.Two black and white images of John Meyer skiing near Wilkie and Basalt Hill, Bogong High Plains. Wilkinson’s Hut (Wilkie) was built for the SEC in the summer of 1932-3 to accommodate the snow research program manager. The cottage was sited next to a hydro-meteorological station, set on stilts above the snow. It was not a refuge hut but a permanent residence for all of the year. The work carried out there included operation of a meteorological station at the cottage, measuring the snow depth and density along two pole lines, and operating stream gauging stations in the area. The engineers stationed there included Adrian Rufenacht (1934-6), and Norwegian Martin Romuld (1936-42) Romuld was a champion skier, constructing a ski-jump and a grass tennis court near the hut during his residency. Adrian was one of the founders of 'Skyline". The hut was sold in 1948 to the Victorian Ski Club and renamed Wilkinson Lodge. Robert Wood Wilkinson, best known as 'Wilkie, was the 'Father figure' of Victorian skiing. Robert Wood Wilkinson died on May 22, 1939. The hut was resold some 12 years later to the Melbourne Bushwalkers club. In 1983, the National Parks Service described the building as an old SEC hut which had been purchased and, afterwards, maintained and occupied solely by the Melbourne Bushwalking Club. Wilkie Hut survived the 2003 bushfires but burnt down one year later (January 2004) in a cooking accident.falls creek, joan meyer, bogong high plains

Falls Creek Primary School Prior to 1965, couples with small children would move away from Falls Creek due to there being no school facilities in the village. In the mid 60's a few families with school age children established themselves in the village, and a need arose for a school to encourage them to stay. An enrolment of seven children and a building was required before the Education Department could become involved. The Management Committee of the day gifted the families some land (still the site of the Falls Creek Primary School No. 5067) and fundraising began. The original committee consisted of the Steven family (two children), the Lee family (three children), the Caddie family (no children), the Carroll family (no children), and the Alston family (children?). After two years of community based, yet dubious fundraising methods (including weekly gluhwein parties, keg parties and numerous raffles), enough money ($1,300) was raised and an unused SEC building in Mt Beauty was bid on and won. Due to the condition of the road up to Falls Creek, it had to be dismantled and reassembled up the mountain. Unfortunately, the building was delivered to Falls Creek too late into the season to be erected but the following summer, with no money available to hire builders, working bees began, beer was on tap, and BBQs were cooked, and a crude schoolroom with an oil heater donated by Cecil Dobson from Winterhaven was erected. The first teacher hired was an Alaskan woman who agreed to a wage of $10 per child per week. Due to minimal resources the children were sent home at different times of the day in order to warm up and have a meal. Through the winter of 1971 many government departments were lobbied and it was decided that if the building could be finished to the Education Departments standards then they would provide a government endorsed full time teacher. The three main site holders (Bob Lee, Cecil Dobson and Dick Humphries) took out a loan and the school was refurbished and opened as the 'Bob Scott Memorial Hall' in time for the 1972 season. Maree Keele was the first Head Teacher. After three years of fund raising by the school committee the hall was paid off in full. After many years in the original building the Education Department took control of the school, updated the classrooms and provided accommodation for the teachers. In 1982, discussions began surrounding construction of a 'new' Falls Creek Primary School, a joint property with the community and the Education Department. After it was decided that the funds could not be raised fully by the community ($150,000), the Department constructed a new facility and students moved in on 1st July 1985.This image is significant because it represents the school which the Falls Creek Community fought to establish for their children.A framed coloured photo of Falls Creek Primary School under heavy snowIn lower right corner - 1981 Old Primary School Above doorway:- FALLS CREEK SCHOOL No. 5067falls creek primary school, fcps 5067, education falls creek

Falls Creek Primary School Prior to 1965, couples with small children would move away from Falls Creek due to there being no school facilities in the village. In the mid 60's a few families with school age children established themselves in the village, and a need arose for a school to encourage them to stay. An enrolment of seven children and a building was required before the Education Department could become involved. The Management Committee of the day gifted the families some land (still the site of the Falls Creek Primary School No. 5067) and fundraising began. The original committee consisted of the Steven family (two children), the Lee family (three children), the Caddie family (no children), the Carroll family (no children), and the Alston family (children?). After two years of community based, yet dubious fundraising methods (including weekly gluhwein parties, keg parties and numerous raffles), enough money ($1,300) was raised and an unused SEC building in Mt Beauty was bid on and won. Due to the condition of the road up to Falls Creek, it had to be dismantled and reassembled up the mountain. Unfortunately, the building was delivered to Falls Creek too late into the season to be erected but the following summer, with no money available to hire builders, working bees began, beer was on tap, and BBQs were cooked, and a crude schoolroom with an oil heater donated by Cecil Dobson from Winterhaven was erected. The first teacher hired was an Alaskan woman who agreed to a wage of $10 per child per week. Due to minimal resources the children were sent home at different times of the day in order to warm up and have a meal. Through the winter of 1971 many government departments were lobbied and it was decided that if the building could be finished to the Education Departments standards then they would provide a government endorsed full time teacher. The three main site holders (Bob Lee, Cecil Dobson and Dick Humphries) took out a loan and the school was refurbished and opened as the 'Bob Scott Memorial Hall' in time for the 1972 season. Maree Keele was the first Head Teacher. After three years of fund raising by the school committee the hall was paid off in full. After many years in the original building the Education Department took control of the school, updated the classrooms and provided accommodation for the teachers. In 1982, discussions began surrounding construction of a 'new' Falls Creek Primary School, a joint property with the community and the Education Department. After it was decided that the funds could not be raised fully by the community ($150,000), the Department constructed a new facility and students moved in on 1st July 1985.This image is significant as it is representative of the children who have attended Falls Creek Primary School and their families who work to establish an education facility in Falls Creek.A coloured photo of a group of students gathered outside Falls Creek Primary School No. 5067 held in the Bob Scott Memorial Hall. Children in the photo include:- Phoebe Irwin, Paul Bryce, Sharon Purdue, Matthew Dobson, Tracy Lee, Danielle Humphries, Emma Brown, Kelly Bryce, Tim Scott, Megan Scott, Darren Spargo, David Spargo, Paul Costa, Adrian Costa, Luke (?) Spargo, Charlie Brownfalls creek primary school, bob scott memorial hall, education falls creek, fcps 5067

MIM SODERGREN and the WOMEN'S SKI PROGRAM The Women's Ski Program at Falls Creek and Thredbo was initiated in the mid 1980s. One of the most popular instructors involved in this program was Mim (Mariam) Sodergren. Mim developed innovative, specialized ski programs for women and children in both Australia and the United States. She and her husband Mike originated from Tahoma, California, USA. They spent 17 years of their lives without a summer, working as ski instructors in Lake Tahoe during the northern winters, and then they’d head off to Falls Creek and Thredbo in Australia. Mim and Mike Sodergren were both inspiring instructors at Falls Creek Snowsports School, dedicated to education and had a deep-seated passion for fostering an inclusive Snowsports community. Tragically Mim and Mike were among the 18 people killed 30 July 1977 in Thredbo, Australia, when a landslide tore through Thredbo’s ski resort village and demolished two staff lodges. In 1997 the Australian Professional Snowsport Instructors (APSI) established the Sodergren scholarships in memory of Mim and Mike. The Sodergren Scholarship recognises the rising potential of Snowsport instruction within Australian ski resorts and allows the recipients to further their professional development by providing all training free of charge for one season. The women’s program still operates at Falls Creek and is a "heartfelt tribute to the memory of Mim Sodergren, a beloved 1980s instructor and mentor who tragically lost her life in the Thredbo landslide in 1997. Designed by women, for women, and inspired by the enduring passion of Mim and her partner, Mike, who was also an instructor, this program is a wonderful opportunity to learn to ski in a friendly and supportive environment, just as Mim envisioned." (Falls Creek Website 2024). Mike’s Men’s Ski Program at Falls Creek is also named in honour of Mike Sodergren.These photos are significant because they commemorate an innovative ski instructor lost through the tragedy at Thredbo in 1997.Two colour photos showing groups of women participating in the Ladies' Group at Falls Creek in the 1980s, as well as a photo of Mim and Mike Sodergren. Image 1 Left to right: Leonie Docking, Carol Bartholomew, Mim Sodergren, Blanche Spargo, Jane Zagorski, Rosanne Osborn and Di Mashford Image 2 Left to right : Pat Smart, Blanche Spargo, Margaret Smith, Pam Mero, Iris Jones, Jennifer Reuter, Lee Lowther, Jane Zagorski, Mim Sodergren Image 3: Mim and Mike Sodergrenwomen's ski program, falls creek ski school, mim sodergren

Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The were 26 original member clubs which included Albury Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club and Wangaratta Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this issue include:- Page 2:- Tonl St. Elmo (Nissen Alpine Club) had been appointed as a Justice of the Peace. Climatologists with the CSIRO reported that the mean daily temperature of summer in Victoria and NSW had fallen by 3°F since 1880 whilst in the Northern Hemisphere summers were becoming warmer. Page 5: There was to be no Queen's Birthday holiday this year but Tuesday 2nd June would be a public holiday for Coronation Day. Page 11: Featured "They're Busy in the North-East" - nothing has been heard of the Sydney Clubs which had proposed building at Falls Creek and Beechworth seems to be in danger of losing its site. Nissen Alpine Club has had plans for extension approved. A new rope was being installed for the Nissen tow. Falls Creek was undoubtedly the most progressive centre in the North East. For a slightly rougher experience Cleve Cole Memorial Lodge was recommended.tom mitchell m.l.a., toonallook, fred griffith

Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski industry in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this issue include:- Cover - Features a photo by H.Gibbs titled "On the road to Falls Creek, Bogong High Plains"schuss journal, the ski club of victoria

Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski industry in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this issue include:- Page 256 - Explanation of the A.N.S.F. tests and results. Instructions for Test Judges are also included. Mrs. S. St. Elmo is listed as a judge. Page 263 - All skiers visiting Bogong High Plains must comply strictly with the requirements of the State Electricity Commission in regard to transport and general activities in the area. The detailed regulations were set out in the following page.schuss journal, the ski club of victoria, skippy st. elmo, sec regulations

Falls Creek Primary School Prior to 1965, couples with small children would move away from Falls Creek due to there being no school facilities in the village. In the mid 60's a few families with school age children established themselves in the village, and a need arose for a school to encourage them to stay. An enrolment of seven children and a building was required before the Education Department could become involved. The Management Committee of the day gifted the families some land (still the site of the Falls Creek Primary School No. 5067) and fundraising began. The original committee consisted of the Steven family (two children), the Lee family (three children), the Caddie family (no children), the Carroll family (no children), and the Alston family (children?). After two years of community based, yet dubious fundraising methods (including weekly gluhwein parties, keg parties and numerous raffles), enough money ($1,300) was raised and an unused SEC building in Mt Beauty was bid on and won. Due to the condition of the road up to Falls Creek, it had to be dismantled and reassembled up the mountain. Unfortunately, the building was delivered to Falls Creek too late into the season to be erected but the following summer, with no money available to hire builders, working bees began, beer was on tap, and BBQs were cooked, and a crude schoolroom with an oil heater donated by Cecil Dobson from Winterhaven was erected. The first teacher hired was an Alaskan woman who agreed to a wage of $10 per child per week. Due to minimal resources the children were sent home at different times of the day in order to warm up and have a meal. Through the winter of 1971 many government departments were lobbied and it was decided that if the building could be finished to the Education Departments standards then they would provide a government endorsed full time teacher. The three main site holders (Bob Lee, Cecil Dobson and Dick Humphries) took out a loan and the school was refurbished and opened as the 'Bob Scott Memorial Hall' in time for the 1972 season. Maree Keele was the first Head Teacher. After three years of fund raising by the school committee the hall was paid off in full. After many years in the original building the Education Department took control of the school, updated the classrooms and provided accommodation for the teachers. In 1982, discussions began surrounding construction of a 'new' Falls Creek Primary School, a joint property with the community and the Education Department. After it was decided that the funds could not be raised fully by the community ($150,000), the Department constructed a new facility and students moved in on 1st July 1985.This image is significant because it includes children who became champion competitors at Victorian State, national and international level.A black and white photo of a group of children on a toboggan outside the Falls Creek Primary. It includes several future champion skiers. From back:- Kate Stevens, Pretty Valley Lodge, World Cup Freestyle representative and Champion; Tracey Lee, Attunga Lodge, Second in the Australian Freestyle and Australian Under Fifteen champion; Matthew Dobson, Winterhaven; Steven Lee, Attunga, three times Olympic and World Cup representative and competed on professional circuit; Chris Losch, Feathertop; Chris Heberle, Le Chalet, Cross Country Champion, eight times Australian Champion; Michelle Caddy, Geilo; Julie Smith: Vicki Losch, Feathertop: Debbie Humphreys, Powerhouse, Scott Caddy, Geilo: Sue Heberle, Le Chalet: Danielle Humphreys, Powerhouse, raced in State Championships and became ski instructor.falls creek primary school, falls creek education, falls creek skiers

Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski industry in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this issue include:- Page 304 - A meeting held at Bogong to which all clubs with Permissive Occupancies in Falls Creek were invited has agreed to form an Advisory Council. This body would be known as the "Falls Creek Alpine Village Advisory Committee. Each club was to have one representative and one vote. Suggested matters to be dealt with by the Committee included (a) Development of the village, (b) General Conduct and (c) Safety. Page 316 - An advertisement for Nissen Ski School with the slogan "Speed is the Thrill, COntrol the Art."schuss journal, the ski club of victoria

Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski industry in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this issue include:- Cover - Australia's First Olympic Ski Team Departs - features a photo from "The Age" Derrick Stogdale, President of the Ski Club of Victoria, conveys the good wishes of Victorian skiers to Olympic team members, Bruce Haslingdon, Cedric Sloane and Bill Day. The team consisted of Captain-Manager R.G. Chisholm (Chairman, S.C.V. Racing Sub-Committee), W. Day (N.S.W.), B. Haslingdon (N.S.W.), R. Arnott (Vic), T. Aslangu (Vic) since withdrawn. Page 383 - Falls Creek Reminiscence - Australia - New Zealand Meeting 1951 gives a detailed recount of the events and activities held during a two week visit to Falls Creek by the New Zealand teadmschuss journal, 1952 winter olympic ski team, inter-dominion event 1951

Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski industry in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this issue include:- Cover - Image acknowledging the Australian team in the Oslo Winter Olympics Page 31 - TRANSPORT TO FALLS CREEK - Following press reports in recent months regarding curtailment of the work of the State Electricity Commission on Bogong High Plains, there will be no snow clearing on the road above Howman's Gap next winter, and possibly no snow clearing at all. Traffic will not be permitted to proceed where no clearing is being carried out. Apart from this, it is hoped that it will not be necessary to curtail any further the general arrangements in force last winter. During this summer the road will be closed to visitors generally, but arrangements will be made for working parties at ski huts to proceed to or from Falls Creek between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays only, provided that prior arrangements have been made.winter olympics 1952, road access to falls creek 1952

Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski industry in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this issue include:- Cover - An image of the first Australian Winter Olympic Ski Team entering Bislett Stadium, Oslo during the opening ceremony on the February 15. Standard bearer is Gordon Day, followed by Australian Captain George Chisholm leading the team.schuss journal, australian ski team 1952 oslo, 1952 winter olympic ski team

Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski industry in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this issue include:- Cover - Features a photo by H.Gibbs titled "Western Cliffs of Mt. Bogong" Page 65 - BOB HYMANS reported news of Falls Creek. At his own Ski School, notable improvements to accommodation have been made and additions to the building itself, which will make it very much more comfortable and serviceable to visitors. Water supply and heating are amongst the items in hand. Bob has acquired a Land Rover which will be a power of assistance to him in maintaining fresh supplies and in servicing his project generally. Kiewa Valley Ski Club members are making splendid progress with the erection of their Lodge. This is the latest building addition in that area and raises the number of clubs resident there to nine. Nissen Ski Tow members intend to operate their tow on the upper slopes of Falls Creek every day during the coming season that conditions permit. They are to be warmly commended on their enterprise. Page 65 - Advertisement for Bob Hymans' Ski School and Lodgeschuss journal, bob hymans, kiewa valley ski club, nissen tow

Wallace's Hut is the oldest surviving cattlemen's hut on the High Plains, built in 1889 by the three Wallace brothers - Arthur, William and Stewart. Their father David bought land at Kergunyah as well as grazing land on the banks of the Kiewa River, North East Victoria. Once the boys were old enough, the family followed the local squatters’ custom of taking their cattle up to the mountains for the spring and summer to fatten the mob, at the same time resting their home pastures. They decided to build a hut where they could shelter from the extreme mountain weather. The timber was cut from the forest about four hundred metres east of the hut, and the hearth stone was dragged in from Pretty Valley. The chimney had a base of rubble and above this iron sheeting on a timber frame. The slab walls were lined with hessian and later with tar-paper, and inside there was a bush table, sleeping platform and a rustic fire-side settle. The hut nestled among snow gums sheltered by a rocky outcrop. The names of the Wallace brothers were burnt into the tie-beams of the roof and at the back of the mantelpiece. The Wallace family’s lease expired in the late 1930s and the hut was bought by the State Electricity Commission to house staff on the High Plains and it became the first home of Toni and Skippy St. Elmo. The SEC covered the old shingles with iron, and later on the walls and chimney as well, and they added a lean-to. Wallace’s Hut is now owned by the Crown and maintained by Parks Victoria. It is on the Historic Buildings Register and is classified by the National Trust.This image is significant because it depicts an important heritage-listed structure and refuge for cattlemen and other travellers in Victoria's High Country.A black and white photograph of a skier outside of Wallace's Hut. Several sets of skis and poles are standing around and other skiers are in the background.wallace's hut, toni and skippy st. elmo, high country huts

Bernard Plohberger was one of the early ski instructors at Falls Creek. He was born in Austria on 14 January 1930. He was a ski instructor before he left Austria in 1955. He spent the winter of 1956 working as a ski instructor and during the summer Bernie worked as a chainman for the SEC Surveyor. He built the Ski School at Falls Creek in 1957 as well as the Frying Pan Inn. In 1960 the Frying Pan Inn was taken over by Bill Bridgford who had helped to finance its construction. Bernie married his wife Trudi in 1958 and their son Gerhard was born at the ski school in 1959, the first child born at Falls Creek. Both Trudi and Bernie worked for Bob Hymans for a period at Grand Coeur Chalet. After leaving Falls Creek, Bernie and Trudi moved to Canberra where Bernie took work on civil engineering projects such as the coal loader in Wollongong, the Vietnam memorial in Canberra, highway work on the Hume and Sugarloaf Dam in Victoria. Bernie Plohberger died on 18 May 2020. Felix Soratroi was also an Austrian Ski Instructor who was encouraged by Bernie to move to Falls Creek and work at the Ski School.This item is significant because it depicts early Ski Instructors at Falls Creek Ski School.A black and white image of two skiers near the Falls Creek Ski School.bernard plohberger, frying pan inn, falls creek ski school, felix soratroi

Attunga Ski Lodge was built by Bob and Noelene Lee in 1968. They had managed club and commercial lodges, including Ripparoo, throughout the early 60s before building their own premises. Three generations of the family have lived and worked in Falls Creek. As stated in this brochure, Attunga derives from the aboriginal word meaning High Place. Attunga was the first lodge in Falls Creek to have en suite rooms. It has continued to be a family-run and focused business, being purchased in 2016 by the Wruck family. Bob and Noelene Lee's son, Steven, became a three-time Olympian (in 1984, 1988 and 1992) and a World Cup winner. Noelene Lee is a Life Member of the Falls Creek Race Club.This flyer is significant because it documents the early origins of a highly regarded family business at Falls Creek.A flyer printed in blue text on light card. The front cover features an image of the Attunga Ski Lodge and two skiers in the foreground with text. Other sections explain the origin of the name "Attunga" meaning "high place" and features that are of high quality at Attunga, winter and summer activities, transport and the tariffs for 1973,On front: ATTUNGA SKI LODGE Bob & Noelene Lee .... invites you to have the fun of your life. Arlberg Street, Falls Creek, Victoria, 3699 Phone: Falls Creek - 583255 attunga ski lodge, accommodation falls creek, bob and noelene lee

The International Poma at Falls Creek is a 1,219 metre long Pomalift. Pomalifts are named after their inventor, Polish born French manufacturer Jean Pomagalski. The first poma at Falls Creek was called the International because it serviced the area where a F.I.S. (Fédération Internationale de Ski) international race was held in 1960. It was built over the 1968-69 summer and was ready to operate in 1969, but due to a poor snow season, the 'Inter' didn't open to the public until 1970. The author of this article, Wolfgang Lert, was a pioneer of the ski industry in the USA. He was also editor of Western Skiing, forerunner to Ski Magazine, and a founding member of the International Skiing History Association. The company name on the back of this article is Dulmison (Aust) Pty Ltd. This company was founded in c1961 and played an integral role in development of solutions for power supply problems for the Kosciusko State Park Trust and other ski fields.This article is significant because it outlines procedures for the use of an iconic chairlift used on ski fields throughout the world, including the International Poma at Falls Creek, Victoria. A two page article with images explaining how to use a Pomalift, a new addition to the ski fields in Australia.On bottom Page 2: MADE IN AUSTRALIA UNDER LICENCE BY:- DULMISON (AUSTRALIA0 PTY. LIMITEDpoma ski lifts, international poma falls creek

SKI TICKETS Before tows and lifts were introduced at Falls Creek, it could take skiers 20 minutes to climb to the Summit … but only TWO minutes to go back to the bottom. The arrival of tows, then chairlifts and T-bars changed the face of skiing forever. The first rope tow was constructed by Toni St. Elmo for the 1951 winter season. Bob Hymans installed a smaller tow for his guests at Skyline Lodge. Tows were still quite slow, so in 1956 Bob Hymans created his single chairlift. In 1958 the Village rope tow, designed by Albury engineer Jock Wilson, opened. It was financed by shareholders including Bill Griffith (Bowna Ski Club) and the Bridgford family (St. Trinian’s Ski Club). Several other tows followed including the Summit T-bar in 1961, built by Ron McCallum and operated by Alpine Developments Pty. Ltd. which was a company formed by C. H. (Bill) Bridgford. By 1982 Falls Creek was served by 16 different lifts or T-bars, all owned and operated by Alpine Developments (Holdings) Pty. Ltd. During the development of Falls Creek, different methods have been used to pay for the use of tows, lifts and T-bars … including metal tokens, single tickets, strips of tickets and season passes. The Falls Creek Historical Society Collection includes many examples of these items.These tickets are significant because they are representative of activities at the National Fitness Camp at Falls Creek.A set of Identification cards, including a photograph, belonging to Bruce McDowell at the National Fitness Camp, Falls Creek for the years 1979, 1980, and 1981. Also included is the back of one ticket showing Conditions of use of the tickets. The National Fitness Camp at Howmans Gap was run by the Victorian State National Fitness Council. Initially the camp was leased from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It had a capacity of 110 participants and offered both summer and winter activities.national fitness camp howmans gap, falls creek management

Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The original member clubs were Albury Ski Club, Alpine Club of Victoria, Australian Postal Institute Ski Club, Australian Women's Ski Club (Victoria), Beechworth Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Bull Lodge Ski Club, Chamois Ski Club, C.S.I.R. Ski Club, Edelweiss Ski Club, Howqua Ski Club, Lazy Eight Ski Club, Melbourne University Ski Club, Melbourne Walking Club, Monsanto Ski Club, Moose Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Rongbuk Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club, Tanjil Ski Club, Telemark Ski Club, University Ski Club, Victorian Rover Scouts (B.S.A.), Wangaratta Ski Club, Youth Hostel Association, Yurredla Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items in this publication include:- Page 1 Information related to the F.O.V.S.C Organisation and item stating Tom Mitchell M.L.A. has been negotiating for Inter-Dominion races to be held at Falls Creek in 1950. Page 3: The State Development Committee to visit the Bogong High Plains to take evidence regarding future development of the area. Page 4 Information about Member Clubs building over the coming summer. This included Myrtleford and Albury at Falls Creek. Page 16 A list of Club Racing results for 1949. Included on the list are the Bogong Ski Club Championship; the Albury Ski Club and the N.E.D.S.A. Championships.ski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, nedsa events, victorian skiing 1949

Steve Lee grew up in Falls Creek and had skis on his feet when he was just two years old. He later became a member of the Falls Creek Race Club and at the age of 14 won State and National Junior titles. After repeated success, Steve was selected to race overseas in the Australian Junior team. He won the Australian Open Championship at the age of 17. For 10 years, Steve never missed a race in the World Cup Circuit. Overall, he claimed 20 top 15 finishes in Downhill, Super-G and combined events. Towards the end of his career Lee swapped the World Cup circuit for the World Pro Tour in the USA, winning the Pro Downhill Tour ‘King of the Mountain’ title. He was also running a photography business in Falls Creek and was also involved in sports commentating on Australian television. This included commentating Alpine Freestyle events at four Winter Olympics and several World Championships. When the Summer Olympics were held in Sydney in 2000, Steven participated in the Torch Relay. The Torch departed from Athens on the 10th May 2000 and arrived in Sydney on 15th September 2000. The journey totalled 129 days, including 100 days travelling through every State and Territory of Australia. After 67 days in Australia, on 13 August 2000, the Olympic Torch reached the 'high point' in its 100-day journey. At 1,861 metres above sea level, the flame burned bright against a darkening sky as three-time Winter Olympian Steve Lee skied with it down the summit ridge of Mount Hotham towards a crowd of 5,000 in the mountain village. The certificate acknowledges Steve Lee's participation in the event.This image and certificate are significant because they capture an important event in Australian sporting history.Two colour photos of Steven Lee lighting the cauldron at the Hotham Village for the overnight stay of the Olympic Torch in 2000. Also included is a certificate in recognition of his contribution to the Sydney 2000 Olympics.On Certificate:- CITIUS ALTIUS FORTIUS STEVE LEE IN RECOGNITION OF AND APPRECIATION FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTION TO THE SUCCESS OF THE GAMES OF THE XXVII OLYMPIAD EN RECONNAISSANCE DE VOTRE CONTRIBUTION AU SUCCES DES JEUX DE LA XXVII OLYMPIADEsteve lee, sydney torch relay 2000, australian olympians

This magazine is part of a collection of yearly marketing magazines promoting Falls Creek ski region. These include magazines for summer and winter programs.This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortMagazine titled Falls Creek 90 containing information and images for 1990 winter holidays including activities and accommodation.On Front Cover: Falls Creek - For the Best Snow Fallsskiing, ski, falls creek, victoria, school holidays, winter, snow, winter sport, 1990s, marketing, graphic design

This magazine is part of a collection of yearly marketing magazines promoting Falls Creek ski region. These include magazines for summer and winter programs.This item documents a range of activities and facilities available at Falls Creek Alpine Resort.Magazine containing information and images for 1987 winter holidays. skiing, ski, falls creek, victoria, school holidays, winter, snow, winter sport, 1990s, marketing, graphic design

FALLS CREEK ROPE TOWS Toni St Elmo brought back plans for a Hamilton rope tow from New Zealand. He had a rope tow built in the summer of 1950-51 and it went into operation the following winter. Skiers were charged 10/- per day to use it. Skiers held onto the rope with a locking device called a ‘nutcracker” attached to a webbing belt. This tow, known as the Nissen Tow, continued to operate until 1960. Bob Hymans installed a shorter portable rope tow for his guests at Skyline from 1954. Other tows included the Village Tow and the Nursery Tow. Eventually most of the tows were taken over by Alpine Developments. From 1960 onwards they were gradually replaced by T-bars and then later on by chairlifts. This belt is from the original rope tow used between 1951 and 1960 in the Falls Creek ski lifts. These items are significant because were part of the earliest rope tows constructed at Falls Creek.A canvas waist belt with leg hoops and metal joining and hook used to attach skier to the rope tow. The wheel is also a damaged component of the Rope Tow.falls creek, nissen alpine club, rope tows, toni st elmo