Horse owned by the Fisher family who were dairy farmers in the Mongans Bridge area in the early 1900'sThe Fisher family were very keen horse people and received awards for their horsemanship and their horsesSepia photographic postcard of Everil Fisher with saddled horse. Dog in the foreground. Photo taken 1923Handwritten on back - Everil Fisher 1923fisher family, kiewa valley farmers, mongan's bridge

Horse, Sir William Wallace was awarded first place at the Yackandandah show in 1912. Horse was owned by the Fisher family who were dairy farmers in the Mongans Bridge area in the early 1900'sThe Fisher family were very keen horse people and received awards for their horsemanship and their horses.Sepia photograph of horse, Sir William Wallace (displaying first prize ticket) owned by the Fisher family. Photo taken at Yackandandah show in 1912. Photo is mounted on a heavy cardboard frame.Handwritten on the back of photograph 'At Yackandandah Show' 1912fisher family, kiewa valley farmers, mongan's bridge

Horse owned by the Fisher family who were dairy farmers in the Mongans Bridge area in the early 1900'sThe Fisher family were keen horse people and received awards for their horsemanship and their horsesSepia photograph of Paddy Fisher with unnamed horse. Photo is mounted on heavy card frameHandwritten on back of photograph - "Paddy" 1915paddy fisher, kiewa valley farmers, mongan's bridge

Horse owned by the Fisher family who were dairy farmers in the Mongans Bridge area as early as the 1900'sThe Fisher family were very keen horse people and received awards for their horsemanship and their horsesSepia photograph of horse (unnamed) owned by Fisher familyfisher family, kiewa valley farmers, mongan's bridge

Hume and Hovell discovered the area in 1824 and by the end of the 19th century the valley was transformed by logging, dairy and beef cattle properties and tobacco farms. The logs could have been milled for timber at the State Electricity Commission's mill at Howman's Gap which provided a much needed source of timber for construction of McKay Creek Power Station which began construction in 1951 and also the camps and houses for the workers and their families. There was a need for housing and infrastructure for an increasing population of workers for the hydro-electric scheme as there was a general shortage of this commodity. A timber mill was started in Tawonga by Mates, of Albury, in 1945, and electricity became available in 1946 the S.E.C. bought the mill, and enlarged it. In 1960 it was purchase by a local family, they also started a timber mill in Mt Beauty worked both until 1980 when they closed it. The Tawonga mill and enlarged the mill called Mt. Beauty Timbers Pty Ltd employed approximately 50 people. An historical pictorial record of the general working conditions, type of machinery and vehicles in use in the 1950’s. Note the lack of protective clothing!Black and white photograph of the logging camp at Mountain Creek. November 1955Handwritten on the back of photograph - MOUNTAIN CREEK LOGGING CAMP NOV 55mountain creek logging camp, timber industry, tawonga

Hume and Hovell discovered the area in 1824 and by the end of the 19th century the valley was transformed by logging, dairy and beef cattle properties and tobacco farms. The logs could have been milled for timber at the State Electricity Commission's mill at Howman's Gap which provided a much needed source of timber for construction of McKay Creek Power Station which began construction in 1951 and also the camps and houses for the workers and their families. There was a need for housing and infrastructure for an increasing population of workers for the hydro-electric scheme as there was a general shortage of this commodity. A timber mill was started in Tawonga by Mates, of Albury, in 1945, and electricity became available in 1946 the S.E.C. bought the mill, and enlarged it. In 1960 it was purchase by a local family, they also started a timber mill in Mt Beauty worked both until 1980 when they closed it. The Tawonga mill and enlarged the mill called Mt. Beauty Timbers Pty Ltd employed approximately 50 people An historical pictorial record of the general working conditions, type of machinery and vehicles in use in the 1950’s. Black and white photograph of logging at Mountain Creek November 1955Small typed note attached to the back of photo - Logging Mountain Creek November 1955mountain creek logging camp, tawonga, timber industry

Tawonga is in the Kiewa Valley, where local farmers lived with their families. The Ryder and Briggs families have been prominent farming families in the local area since early settlement. Vera Ryder and Alli Briggs were pupils at Tawonga Primary School in the early 1920's. Their families were prominent in the settlement of the Kiewa ValleyCopy of black and white photograph of 3 legged race at Tawonga Sports Day circa 1920's (estimate only) Vera Ryder & Allie Briggs racing in the foreground. Various adults and children standing in the background.Printed label attached to rear. Tawonga Sports Day. Vera Ryder and Allie Briggs - 3 legged race. Girls have white aprons over their dresses.tawonga, sports day, kiewa valley farmers

The Community Centre was built in the early 1950’s as an all-purpose hall for the social and recreational use of the workers and families employed on the Victorian state government Kiewa Hydro-electric scheme. The hall was originally called Mt Beauty Recreation Centre and later changed to Mt Beauty Community Centre. It has been the heart of the community for over 65 years and had a heritage listing put on it around the year 2000. The Alpine Shire secured a heritage grant and the hall was restored to its former glory in 2000. In heritage circles it is claimed that the hall is the best example of a 1950’s construction town community hall, which is still functioning anywhere in AustraliaThe Community Centre was and is a very important part of life in the small remote community of Mount Beauty and a range of activities have taken place in the Community Centre over the past 65 years- Picture theatre; Dances and balls; A physical education and boxing club run by Alex McCollough for 30 years; School and social club concerts; Girls gymnastics; Drama group productions, revues and pantomimes; Callisthetics and ballet; Badminton; Wedding receptions and birthday parties; Music festival events; Staging area in times of natural disaster; The library for many years; Shire and community meetings; Secondary College gymnasium for many years and shelter for the Community Market in inclement weather 1 – 1972 specifications for colour scheme of original Mt Beauty Recreation centre, Typed on buff foolscap paper with small colour swatches and letter of explanation to Mr A.J. McCullough. 2 – Set of 10 colour photographs of the upgrade and extension to Mt Beauty Community Centre undertaken in 2000. Photos mounted 2 to a page on blue copy paper. 3. Second copy of No.1 above. Also - typed A4 sheet re history of "The Mount Beauty Community Centre"1 – Header on pages-Mate’s Colour Bar Personal Colour Scheme for Recreation Centre Mt Beauty Vic. 21/3/62. Accompanying letter to A.J McCullough signed by Colour Consultant Ena Chatuein 2. First page of photos, written in black felt marker – Mt Beauty Community Centre 30/11/00 mt beauty, community centre

Hume and Hovell discovered the area in 1824 and by the end of the 19th century the valley was transformed by logging, dairy and beef cattle properties and tobacco farms. Timber was required for construction of McKay Creek Power Station which began construction in 1951 and also the camps and houses for the workers and their families. There was a need for housing and infrastructure for an increasing population of workers for the hydro-electric scheme as there was a general shortage of this commodity. A timber mill was started in Tawonga by Mates, of Albury, in 1945, and electricity became available in 1946 the S.E.C. bought the mill, and enlarged it. In 1960 it was purchase by a local family. They also started a timber mill in Mt Beauty and worked both until 1980 when they closed the Tawonga mill and enlarged the mill called Mt. Beauty Timbers Pty Ltd which employed approximately 50 people. A pictorial record of the development of the Mt Beauty community and the local timber industry.Colour photograph of aerial view of Mt Beauty Timber Mills and surrounding area including pondage and part of airfield. Photo taken in 1960’s (estimate only)Handwritten in ink on back of photograph in very faint writing – Recent photo of Mt Beauty Timber Industries Mt Beauty Operationsmt beauty timber industry, timber industry, timber mill, secv

Hume and Hovell discovered the area in 1824 and by the end of the 19th century the valley was transformed by logging, dairy and beef cattle properties and tobacco farms. Timber was required for construction of McKay Creek Power Station which began construction in 1951 and also the camps and houses for the workers and their families. There was a need for housing and infrastructure for an increasing population of workers for the hydro-electric scheme as there was a general shortage of this commodity. A timber mill was started in Tawonga by Mates, of Albury, in 1945, and electricity became available in 1946 the S.E.C. bought the mill, and enlarged it. In 1960 it was purchase by a local family. They also started a timber mill in Mt Beauty and worked both until 1980 when they closed the Tawonga mill and enlarged the mill called Mt. Beauty Timbers Pty Ltd which employed approximately 50 people. A pictorial record of the development of the local timber industry in the Kiewa Valley showing equipment used in timber milling.Colour photograph of Mt Beauty Timber Industries Mill. Photo taken inside the workshop showing saw blades and equipmentmt beauty, mt beauty timber industry, timber mill

Myrtleford Ski Club is a non-commercial, family friendly club. It was one of the earliest lodges to be built at Falls Creek and was one of the earliest ski clubs formed and celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2013. In 1949, Myrtleford Ski Club obtained permission for occupancy and began planning the MSC Lodge. There were only three other huts on the mountain, Bogong Ski Club in an old Army hut, Skyline as the Ski Club of Victoria lodge and the Albury Ski Club lodge. The lodge was built mostly from donated materials. The basement was dug out and lined with stone from the Ruined Castle area, timber was cut (using cross-saws) from the Walpole properties and was milled then carted up to Falls Creek on either the Walpole or Calvert trucks. The iron on the roof was originally a tobacco kiln on Billy McNamara's property. The lodge has undergone many improvements over the years including a second storey added in the 1950’s, updating of accommodation, shower and toilet facilities to meet the changing needs of members. The lodge now caters for 38 people in a variety of shared rooms from two to eight beds per room. Toilet and shower facilities are also shared. The club has a Lodge Managers for the winter season. Myrtleford Ski Lodge was one of the earliest ski lodges built in the Falls Creek area in 1938. It is an excellent example of early sporting and community activities in the Upper Kiewa Valley area. Photograph shows family members, including women, involved in the construction.Sepia photograph of the building of the Myrtleford Ski Club about 1948Handwritten on the back of photograph in black pen - Building Myrtleford Ski Club (about 1948) Stamped on back of photograph - 6 2511myrtleford ski club, skiing, snow sports, victorian alps, falls creek

Pictorial record of the grave of pioneer woman Mrs Mary Hollonds, who passed away in 1862. The grave is located at Mullagong Station (farm) in Tawonga, five miles south of Keegan's Bridge. Miss Hobbs, formerly of Running Creek, mentioned that twin babies of the Brigg's family are buried at Mary Holland's feet.Pictorial record of pioneer gravesites in the Kiewa Valley. Social history of people in 1977 showing interested in local historyColour photograph of group visiting the grave of pioneer woman Mrs Mary Hollands at Mullagong on 29th May, 1977Handwritten in faint blue ink on back of photograph: Mrs Mary Holland's grave. Died 1862 Mullagong. 29th May, 1977kiewa valley, mullagong station, tawonga, hollonds family, brigg's family

The 3 photographs are of early residents of the Kiewa Valley who have pursued varying careers. Pictorial history of early residents of the Kiewa Valley giving an insight into the accomplishments of some local residents ie: R Nicholls and T Hotter travelled from New Zealand to work in the Kiewa Valley. J.H. Thompson pursued a career as a police officer. W.M. Sloan and his father built the water wheel at Junction Creek.1. Black and white photograph of Rod Nicholls and Tom Hotter, both of Mt Egmont New Zealand 2. Black and white photograph of J.H Thompson Former pupil of Mongan’s Bridge School 3. Black and white photograph of W M Sloan taken in 1880’s. Photograph is an oval within a larger rectangle 1. Handwritten in black pen on back of photo – Rod Nicholls (wearing hat) & Tom Hotter Both of Hawera (Mt Egmont) New Zealand 1949 – 1950 2. Handwritten on the back of photograph in ink J H Thompson, A fond memory for Mrs. Fisher, Everil & Paddy. Former pupil of Mongan’s Bridge school 3. Handwritten on back of photograph in blue ink – W M Sloan. He and his father built the water wheel 1880’s on Junction Creek (Bakers) j h thompson, fisher family, mongan's bridge, w m sloan, kiewa valley

In 1940 Field Headquarters for the Kiewa Scheme were established at Bogong with office, workshop facilities and accommodation for workmen, staff and some families constructed. (There had been a 'tent camp' on this site in 1939 but was destroyed by bushfires) Construction of accommodation continued until 1947. Lake Guy was named after Mr. L.T. Guy Mr L.T. Guy was placed in charge of Hydro investigations in 1923 and became the resident engineer for the Kiewa Valley Hydro Scheme in 1938. He was the Resident Engineer in charge of construction work and associated activities on the Kiewa area. He held this position from 1939 to November 1946 when he was transferred to Head Office. Black and white photograph of Mr Leonard Guy. Photo mounted on black background with typed information regarding Mr Guy underneath, Printed in black ink, on white paper underneath photograph – LEONARD GUY L.T. Guy was placed in charge of Hydro Investigations in 1923 and made intermittent visits to the area. In 1938 he became Resident Engineer. The lake at Bogong is named after him in recognition of his contribution on the Kiewa Scheme. leonard guy, secv, bogong

Pictorial record of the graves of early pioneers Mrs Elizabeth Eyre who died in 1879 located at Tawonga Homestead and Mary Hollands , located at Mullagong in TawongaRecord of early history of Kiewa Valley pioneers Gwen Hobbs and Rob Hollands are descendants of pioneer farmers. Hobbs and Hollands families have lived and worked in the Kiewa Valley for many years.1. Colour photograph of 2 Kiewa Valley residents visiting gravesites of pioneer Elizabeth Eyre who died in 1879. Grave located at Tawonga Homestead. 2. Colour photograph of Kiewa Valley residents visiting the gravesite of Mrs Mary Hollands, pioneer of the area. Gravesite located at Mullagong property in Tawonga.1. Handwritten in ink on back of photograph: Gwen Hobbs and Rob Hollands - Tawonga Homestead grave 2. Handwritten in ink on back of photograph: Gwen Hobbs and Barbara, Rob and Margaret Hollands at Mullagong graveselisabeth eyre, mary hollonds, tawonga, graves

Towong Hill Homestead is a 110-year-old Federation style mansion situated on a rock outcrop, with views of about 260 degrees. It was built over 2 years by grazier Walter Mitchell from bricks made from local clay dug from the river bank, to be the family home for his new bride Winifred. They established their home in 1904. After the death of Walter in 1917, Winifred relocated her family, but the homestead remained in the families hands. In 1935, Thomas Mitchell (1906-1984) returned home to Australia, a successful Lawyer, and married city girl, Elyne Chauvel, and settled himself back at his childhood home, Towong Hill. Thomas was a world champion slalom skier, had been a prisoner of the Japanese at Changi, and was elected for the Country Party in 1946 and served as attorney-general in the McDonald government. His wife Elayne (1913-2002) is best remembered for her Silver Brumby series of novels for children. But Elyne also wrote a substantial number of non-fiction works about the Snowy Mountains. Photographs demonstrate local Kiewa Valley residents enjoying a community visit to the historic homestead at Towong Hill which holds significance to the early history of the area. Also demonstrates a pictorial history of social activities undertaken during this period2 black and white photographs mounted on buff card. Kiewa Valley residents attending afternoon tea at Towong HillHandwritten in black pen underneath photo - T.W.Mitchell Towong Hill. Afternoon Teat w mitchell, towong hill, kiewa valley

The Hallford truck was made by J & E Hall, of Dartford, England, whose business commenced in 1785. In 1926 the Fisher family of Mongan's Bridge took delivery of the 1923 Hallford truck which was used on the farm to transport cream to the Kiewa Butter Factory in Tangambalanga. In 1967, the truck was sold to Mr Greg Bedstead and other members of the Kiewa Valley Historical Society for the KVHS who reimbursed them at a later date. The truck was housed at the Butter Factory for many years and was paraded on special occasions.This truck was used to transport cream to the Kiewa Butter Factory from the Fisher family's dairy farm at Mongan's Bridge. At other times a tyre was removed and a belt attached to run a chaff cutter. This truck has historical significance as it is presentative of vehicles which were used by farmers to transport cream to the butter factories by a local family. Furthermore, it has social significance as KVHS members combined their finances to purchase this truck so it would be part of our collection. It is well provenanced and has an excellent interpretive capacity.2 black and white photographs mounted on buff card 1. Photograph of Halford truck with man on white horse riding alongside. Presumably in a parade. Dated 11th July, 1972 when truck was no longer in service. 2. Photograph of Halford truck followed by a horse and buggy. Date unknown1. Handwritten in black ink above photo 'Halford truck N.E. Dairy Co. Kiewa. 11 July, 1972' 2. No markingshallford truck, fisher family, kiewa valley farmers, dairy truck

1. Kiewa Valley Consolidated School was established in 1953 combining Dederang North, Kergunyah, Gundowring, Kiewa, Gundowring Upper, Red Bluff, Charleroi and Gundowing North schools on a 10 acre site with 11 rooms at Kiewa. The bark was cut from the canoe tree, by aboriginal craftsmen, to produce a canoe for fishing in the rivers running through the Kiewa Valley either before or just after the 1800's. The tree trunk, located at Kiewa, would have been used at the beginning of European settlement in the Kiewa Valley or just before contact was made. 2. Pictorial record of the graves of early pioneers C Ibbotson, Mrs Elizabeth Eyre and John Eyre who died between 1858 – 1904, all located at Tawonga Homestead 1. The above schools are in the Kiewa Valley. The date and number of combined schools give insight into the change in population and families in the Kiewa Valley before and after 1953. The tree was found along the Kiewa River and indicates that Aborigines lived by the river and used tree bark to craft canoes to cross rivers and to fish in the deeper sections of the river. 2. Pictorial record of the early history of Kiewa Valley pioneers whose descendants have lived and worked in the Kiewa Valley for many years 1. Newspaper article of local school children visiting a canoe tree in Kiewa July 11, 1972. mounted on buff card 2. Black and white photo of pioneer graves at old Tawonga Homestead. Mounted on buff card 1. Handwritten in black ink above newspaper clipping ‘Canoe Tree Kiewa Valley Consolidated School. 11 July, 1972’ Handwritten in pencil at bottom of article ’10 Nov. ‘72’ 2. Handwritten in black ink above photo ‘Tawonga Homestead graves’ Handwritten below photo ‘T Ibbotson D. 1858, Elizabeth Eyre D. 1879, John Eyre D 1879, John Eyre D. 1904 tawonga homestead, canoe tree at kiewa, tawonga graves

1. In 1940 Field Headquarters for the Kiewa Scheme were established at Bogong with office, workshop facilities and accommodation for workmen, staff and some families constructed. (There had been a 'tent camp' on this site in 1939 but was destroyed by bushfires) Construction of accommodation continued until 1947. A total of 40 houses plus a hostel for single staff, post office, police station, medical centre and primary school all with water and sewerage and electricity supply. The staff hostel was known as Kiewa House and is now occupied by the Education Department. Lake Guy was named after Mr. L.T. Guy who was the Resident Engineer in charge of construction work and associated activities on the Kiewa area. He held this position from 1939 to November 1946 when he was transferred to Head Office. 2. Example of the type of heavy machinery used in clearing and building of Lake Guy, Bogong Village and Clover Dam 1. The Bogong Township was developed firstly as an accommodation centre (base camp) for construction workers employed under the Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme. At the completion of the scheme, in the 1960's, the village was opened to public/tourism use. Strict environmental control has not allowed for any extensive redevelopment in tourist accommodation and basically restricted it to the accommodation initially built for the construction workers. Lake Guy is one of the many water storage reservoirs used to supply the power stations their main power to run the huge turbines generating the final product, electricity 2. Pictorial record of the types of machinery used in the development of Bogong Village and the Hydro-electricity scheme including the Clover Dam. Note the lack of safety equipment worn by construction workers of the period. 2 black and white photographs taken at Bogong 1. Lake Guy with Bogong Village in the background 2. Workman in bulldozer clearing rocks, possibly for construction at Bogong1. Handwritten in blue ink on back of photo 'Lake Guy showing Bogong Village' 2. No markingslake guy, bogong village, secv

The Hallford truck was made by J & E Hall, of Dartford, England, whose business commenced in 1785. In 1926 the Fisher family of Mongan's Bridge took delivery of the 1923 Hallford truck which was used on the farm to transport cream to the Kiewa Butter Factory in Tangambalanga. In 1967, the truck was sold to Mr Greg Bedstead and other members of the Kiewa Valley Historical Society for the KVHS who reimbursed them at a later date. The truck was housed at the Butter Factory for many years and was paraded on special occasions. Photograph shows truck parked outside the original Kiewa Valley Historical Museum which was located at Tawonga Caravan Park and was later relocated to its current location at the Mt Beauty Information Centre. This truck was used to transport cream to the Kiewa Butter Factory from the Fisher family's dairy farm at Mongan's Bridge. At other times a tyre was removed and a belt attached to run a chaff cutter. This truck has historical significance as it is presentative of vehicles which were used by farmers to transport cream to the butter factories by a local family. Furthermore, it has social significance as KVHS members combined their finances to purchase this truck so it would be part of our collection. It is well provenanced and has an excellent interpretive capacity.Black and white photograph of Paddy Fisher's truck on a flat bed truck, outside the original Kiewa Valley Historical MuseumSmall typed tag on back of photo 'Paddy fisher's truck taken at Tawonga Caravan Park 13th December, 1969'hallford truck, fisher family, kiewa valley farmers, mongan's bridge, cream truck

In the early stages of the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme the State Electricity Commission took over the financial and construction responsibility of the Tawonga District General Hospital building at a cost of 27,000 pounds. This included the removal and re-erection of the ex-military Bonegilla ward from Wodonga while in addition they carried out all the necessary building works that allowed the hospital to operate as a functional unit. The work was completed and handed over to the Hospital Committee of Management on September 1, 1949. Local residents raised 3,400 pounds through fund raising. The balance was met by the SEC and the Hospital and Charities Commission. The initial project was to provide for a basic temporary hospital which was later to include an Operating Theatre, Offices, Store, Mortuary and a Nurse’s Home, until the establishment of a permanent medical premises. Following the opening, 455 patients were admitted to the Tawonga District General Hospital and 254 operations were performed in the first year. The hospital relocated to Mount Beauty in the former SEC administration offices located in the town centre. Official opening of the 18 bed Tawonga District General Hospital was on April 29 in 1961. The old weatherboard building was demolished around the late 1900’s to early 2000’s and replaced with a new modern brick building. Alpine Health CEO Mr Lyndon Seys oversaw the opening of the new Mount Beauty Hospital in November 2001 alongside Board of Management President Mr Andrew Randell, other board members and politicians. The Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme the State Electricity Commission played a pivotal part in the planning and initial funding of the Tawonga District General Hospital, with a view to providing medical support for its many workers on the Hydro scheme. Later, spouse and family members of workers were also able to access medical assistance The hospital was originally located in Tawonga away from the majority of the patients as the Hospital and Charities. Many SEC workers and their families have received medical care at Tawonga District General Hospital and Alpine Health over the years. A number of family members of SECV workers as well as other dedicated staff have provided high quality medical attention and support in all the facilities as nursing staff, support staff and volunteers. Many past staff members and their families still remain living in the Kiewa Valley area 19 Colour photographs of the Tawonga and District Hospital situated in Mt Beauty circa 2000. Including photographs of interior and of some staff members1. No markings 2. G Ryder at front entrance 3. Sister G Ryder in the Resuscitation Room 4. Nurse D Hateley in the Kitchen 5. Nurse D Hateley in the Casualty Room 6. Sister W McClelland in new nurse’s station 7. R Forrest, G Ryder, ?, M Ranton 8. Nurse D Hateley in the Pan Room 9. Tawonga District General Hospital: Resuscitation Room 10. Hospital Hallway 11. Empty Nurses Station 12. Tawonga District General Hospital: Nursery 13. Patient Tea Room 14, 15, 16, 17, & 18. No marking mt beauty district hospital, tawonga district hospital, bonegilla ward, ryder family

The establishment of Kiewa Valley House, was a significant victory for residents and senior citizens in the Kiewa Valley district. Plans were laid in the mid 1970’s and a proposal was formulated for a 12 bed unit nursing home to be attached to the Tawonga District General Hospital. The need for an aged care facility in Mount Beauty was prompted by recognition of the high ratio of senior citizens residing in the area. At the time residents had to travel to Beechworth, Wangaratta or Wodonga for care. On June 6th, 1980, an appeal to finance a 12 bed nursing wing was launched at a public meeting in Mount Beauty The Hospital and Charities Commission’s development board finally approved the application for government funds to build the 12 bed nursing home in early 1981. The official opening of the nursing home was on March 6th, 1985. Opening of the lounge extensions occurred in May, 1993 Many local residents have taken advantage of facilities at Kiewa Valley House when they became unable to manage independently in their own homes. This has meant they did not have to face the stress of leaving the area and being separated from their local family and friends. Many SEC workers and their families have been residents of Kiewa Valley House over the years.Set of 6 colour photographs of Kiewa Valley House and original Tawonga District General Hospital in Mt Beauty 1 Kiewa Valley House, before extensions, with old weatherboard hospital in background 2 & 3 Official opening of Kiewa Valley House. 4 & 5 Gardens between Kiewa Valley House and Hospital 5. Kiewa Valley lounge extension 1. The original Kiewa Valley House, before extensions 2. No markings 3. No markings 4. View of the gardens between the weatherboard hospital and Kiewa Valley House 5. Walkway between Hospital & Kiewa Valley House 6. Kiewa Valley House Lounge Room extension tawonga district hospital, kiewa valley house, mt beauty district hospital

In the early stages of the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme the State Electricity Commission took over the financial and construction responsibility of the Tawonga District General Hospital building at a cost of 27,000 pounds. This included the removal and re-erection of the ex-military Bonegilla ward from Wodonga while in addition they carried out all the necessary building works that allowed the hospital to operate as a functional unit. The work was completed and handed over to the Hospital Committee of Management on September 1, 1949. Local residents raised 3,400 pounds through fund raising. The balance was met by the SEC and the Hospital and Charities Commission. The initial project was to provide for a basic temporary hospital which was later to include an Operating Theatre, Offices, Store, Mortuary and a Nurse’s Home, until the establishment of a permanent medical premises. Following the opening, 455 patients were admitted to the Tawonga District General Hospital and 254 operations were performed in the first year. The hospital relocated to Mount Beauty in the former SEC administration offices located in the town centre. Official opening of the 18 bed Tawonga District General Hospital on April 29 in 1961. Kiewa Valley House nursing home was officially opened on March 6th, 1985, with a new lounge extension opening in May, 1993. Prior to this, residents had to travel to Beechworth, Wangaratta or Wodonga for care. The old weatherboard building was demolished around the late 1900’s to early 2000’s and replaced with a new modern brick building. Alpine Health CEO Mr Lyndon Seys oversaw the opening of the new Mount Beauty Hospital in November 2001 alongside Board of Management President Mr Andrew Randell, other board members and politicians.The Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme the State Electricity Commission played a pivotal part in the planning and initial funding of the Tawonga District General Hospital, with a view to providing medical support for its many workers on the Hydro scheme. Later, spouse and family members of workers were also able to access medical assistance. Many SEC workers and their families have received high medical care at Tawonga District General Hospital and Alpine Health and/or as residents of Kiewa Valley House over the years. A number of family members of SECV workers as well as other dedicated staff have provided high quality medical attention and support in all three facilities as nursing staff, support staff and volunteers. Many past staff members and their families still remain living in the Kiewa Valley area Set of 13 colour photographs of past nursing staff and support staff from Tawonga District General Hospital, Kiewa Valley House & Alpine Health 1. Marg Hickey, Barbara Clark & Margaret Ranton 2. Cheryl Clutterbuck & Rosemary Forrest 3. Margaret Ranton 4. Margaret Ranton holding unknown infant 5. Gwen Goss 6. Barbara Clark & Margaret Ranton 7. Margaret Ranton, Sue Zeinert & Jenny Piera 8. Margaret Ranton, Gloria Ryder & Jenny Piera 9. Sue Wesley, Ruth Barton, Margaret Ranton, Rosemary Forrest & Nola Henry 10. F Bogaski & H Sigmund 11. Maintenance Supervisor H Sigmund 12. Gardener Fred Keat & Handyman Joe Trezise (1977) 13. Nursing staff in new hospital 1-9 No markings 10 F Bogaski & H Sigmund 11. Maintenance Supervisor H Sigmund 12. Gardener Fred Keat & Handyman Joe Trezise (1977) 13. Nursing staff in new hospital tawonga district general hospital, kiewa valley house, alpine health

The townships of Mount Beauty and Bogong Village were constructed by the Victorian State Electricity Utility Commission (SEC) from the 1930’s to the 1950’s to house workers on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. At its peak the Kiewa Scheme employed around 4000 people. Although the towns were built as temporary accommodation for the workers and their families, many stayed and even retired there after the scheme had finished. The Bright Council, now the Alpine Shire took over the control of the township in 1960 and today Mount Beauty is one of the most complete company towns in Victoria.The SECV provided several standard designs for the housing of workers and management in Mt Beauty. At the completion of the scheme the housing was retained and Mount Beauty now exists as one of the best examples of a company town in Victoria.There are many examples of the original houses remaining around the town. This is significant as the houses were only built as temporary accommodation and still remain functional after over 60 or more years of use.Set of 6 black and white photographs of original SECV temporary house designs in Mt Beauty.Written in blue ink on front of photos 1. Winwood 2. Winwood 3. K Type 4. K Type 5. English Precut 6. Cube mt beauty houses, secv housing

Established in 1946, during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme, the township of Mt Beauty was developed by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria to provide additional accommodation for the thousands of workers during the construction of the country’s second largest hydro-electricity scheme. 
Although these towns were built as temporary accommodation for the workers and their families, many stayed after the scheme finished. Combined with the influx of European migrants, with their rich cultural backgrounds, all played a major part in shaping the future character of the Mount Beauty, the Kiewa Valley and Falls Creek. The Bright Council, now the Alpine Shire took over the control of the township in 1960. This relatively young town of Mount Beauty, along with the surrounding townships of Falls Creek, Bogong, Tawonga South and Tawonga, are all part of a prospering tourist area with excellent services, accommodation, food and a wide range of recreational activities available for all ages. According to Shire records, the population of Mt Beauty has grown from 1,500 in 1981 to 1,800 in 2016 with a projected increase to 2,000 in 2013The photographs taken around 1993 show a prosperous commercial centre catering for both locals and the needs of visitors. It provides a pictorial history of the changes which have occurred in the retail/commercial district of Mt Beauty over the years. It also demonstrates the attention paid by Alpine Shire towards providing accessible recreational green space around the town centre.Set of 12 colour photographs of Kiewa Cres Mt Beauty. Circa 1993 showing retail services and streetscape of the time. No markingskiewa cres mt beauty, mt beauty

Established in 1946, during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme, the township of Mt Beauty was developed by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria to provide additional accommodation for the thousands of workers during the construction of the country’s second largest hydro-electricity scheme. 
Although these towns were built as temporary accommodation for the workers and their families, many stayed after the scheme finished. Combined with the influx of European migrants, with their rich cultural backgrounds, all played a major part in shaping the future character of the Mount Beauty, the Kiewa Valley and Falls Creek. The Bright Council, now the Alpine Shire took over the control of the township in 1960. This relatively young town of Mount Beauty, along with the surrounding townships of Falls Creek, Bogong, Tawonga South and Tawonga, are all part of a prospering tourist area with excellent services, accommodation, food and a wide range of recreational activities available for all ages. According to Shire records, the population of Mt Beauty has grown from 1,500 in 1981 to 1,800 in 2016 with a projected increase to 2,000 in 2013The photographs taken around 1993 show a prosperous commercial centre catering for both locals and the needs of visitors. It provides a pictorial history of the changes which have occurred in the retail/commercial district of Mt Beauty over the years. It also demonstrates the attention paid by Alpine Shire towards providing accessible recreational green space around the town centre.Set of 7 colour photographs of Lakeside Avenue, Mt Beauty. Circa 1993 showing retail services and streetscape of the time. No markingsmt beauty, lakeside ave mt beauty

Established in 1946, during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme, the township of Mt Beauty was developed by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria to provide additional accommodation for the thousands of workers during the construction of the country’s second largest hydro-electricity scheme. 
Although these towns were built as temporary accommodation for the workers and their families, many stayed after the scheme finished. Combined with the influx of European migrants, with their rich cultural backgrounds, all played a major part in shaping the future character of the Mount Beauty, the Kiewa Valley and Falls Creek. The Bright Council, now the Alpine Shire took over the control of the township in 1960. This relatively young town of Mount Beauty, along with the surrounding townships of Falls Creek, Bogong, Tawonga South and Tawonga, are all part of a prospering tourist area with excellent services, accommodation, food and a wide range of recreational activities available for all ages. According to Shire records, the population of Mt Beauty has grown from 1,500 in 1981 to 1,800 in 2016 with a projected increase to 2,000 in 2013The photographs taken around 1993 show a prosperous commercial centre catering for both locals and the needs of visitors. It provides a pictorial history of the changes which have occurred in the retail/commercial district of Mt Beauty over the years. It also demonstrates the attention paid by Alpine Shire towards providing accessible recreational green space around the town centre.Set of 4 colour photographs Tawonga Crescent, Mt Beauty. Circa 1993 showing retail services and streetscape of the time No markingstawonga cres mt beauty

Established in 1946, during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme, the township of Mt Beauty was developed by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria to provide additional accommodation for the thousands of workers during the construction of the country’s second largest hydro-electricity scheme. 
Although these towns were built as temporary accommodation for the workers and their families, many stayed after the scheme finished. Combined with the influx of European migrants, with their rich cultural backgrounds, all played a major part in shaping the future character of the Mount Beauty, the Kiewa Valley and Falls Creek. The Bright Council, now the Alpine Shire took over the control of the township in 1960. This relatively young town of Mount Beauty, along with the surrounding townships of Falls Creek, Bogong, Tawonga South and Tawonga, are all part of a prospering tourist area with excellent services, accommodation, food and a wide range of recreational activities available for all ages. According to Shire records, the population of Mt Beauty has grown from 1,500 in 1981 to 1,800 in 2016 with a projected increase to 2,000 in 2013The photographs taken around 1993 show a prosperous commercial centre catering for both locals and the needs of visitors. It provides a pictorial history of the changes which have occurred in the retail/commercial district of Mt Beauty over the years. It also demonstrates the attention paid by Alpine Shire towards providing accessible recreational green space around the town centre.Set of 18 colour photographs Holland Street North, Mt Beauty. Circa 1993 showing retail services and streetscape of the time. No markingsholland st mt beauty, mt beauty

Established in 1946, during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme, the township of Mt Beauty was developed by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria to provide additional accommodation for the thousands of workers during the construction of the country’s second largest hydro-electricity scheme. 
Although these towns were built as temporary accommodation for the workers and their families, many stayed after the scheme finished. Combined with the influx of European migrants, with their rich cultural backgrounds, all played a major part in shaping the future character of the Mount Beauty, the Kiewa Valley and Falls Creek. The Bright Council, now the Alpine Shire took over the control of the township in 1960. This relatively young town of Mount Beauty, along with the surrounding townships of Falls Creek, Bogong, Tawonga South and Tawonga, are all part of a prospering tourist area with excellent services, accommodation, food and a wide range of recreational activities available for all ages. According to Shire records, the population of Mt Beauty has grown from 1,500 in 1981 to 1,800 in 2016 with a projected increase to 2,000 in 2013The photographs taken around 1993 show a prosperous commercial centre catering for both locals and the needs of visitors. It provides a pictorial history of the changes which have occurred in the retail/commercial district of Mt Beauty over the years. It also demonstrates the attention paid by Alpine Shire towards providing accessible recreational green space around the town centre.Set of 16 colour photographs Holland Street South, Mt Beauty. Circa 1993 showing retail services and streetscape of the time. No markingsholland st mt beauty, mt beauty

On Feb 3rd 1948, the Mt Beauty State School was opened with 28 pupils in all grades up to VII. Classes began in the SECV Recreation Hall, which was converted to classrooms during the school week and returned to a recreation hall on weekends for motion pictures and social occasions for SECV workers and their families. A new school building was opened in 1950 on the current school site, with an enrolment of 170 primary and secondary students. A further extension of 4 buildings was added in 1951 with a population increase to 303 students. In May 1953, the status of the school was raised to Higher Elementary School with a total of 403 students. In 1958, the school population rose to a high of 617 students with 436 in primary and 181 in secondary. In 1964, the status of the secondary section of Mt Beauty HES was raised to a High School and was moved to separate facilities in the west of town in September 1964 Pictorial history of children who attended Mt Beauty Higher Elementary School in 1960. Many of the students would have had parents working on the Hydro-Electric Scheme in and around Mt Beauty. Many of the children would also have been the descendants of parents who immigrated to Australia as foreign workers on the Hydro Electric Scheme such as Alex Van De Ruijt, whose parents were Dutch. Photocopy of a black and white class photograph of Mt Beauty H E School Grade 2B, 1960 Back row: Lawrence Woods, John Wayne, Terry Hertzog, Phillip Jervies, ?, Alex Van De Wright , ?John Sigmund, Wayne Shoebridge, Brian Harkin 3rd row: Doug Newbound, Roy Hetherington, ? Kevin Hills, Peter Renshaw, ? Grenville Gerecke, ?, Ken Thomas, Detlef Rueff, ?, not in picture Berndt Homfeld 2nd Row, ?, Lyn Plant, ?, Gabrielle Sigmund, ? Pauline Gerecke, Christine Harmer, ?, Lesley McDonald, not in picture, Jenny Richardson Front Row, ? Christine Pennery, Robyn Symons, ?, ?, Sue Mckendrick, ?, ? with a name may not be correct Chalk Board at front of children in photograph – MT BEAUTY H.E.SCHOOL GRADE 2B. 1960 Handwritten in top right hand corner of photograph, with arrow pointing to the boy 4th from the right Alex Van De Auigh (Ruijt) dutch now De Wright Handwritten on back of photograph – Top row: 6 from left (4th from Right) mt beauty school