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.This image is significant because it depicts aspects of the life of a pioneering family of Falls Creek and the founders of "Skyline", the first lodge at Falls Creek.Black and White Images taken at Cleve Cole Hut Photo 1 Outside Cleve Cole 1951 - From Left: Ray Meyer, Wal Johnson and other people from a visiting group Photo 2 Cleve Cole Hut Mt. Bogong CLEVE COLE HUT was built in 1937 for the Ski Club of Victoria, to commemorate pioneer skier, Cleve Cole, who died on a disastrous ski trip across the high In August 1936 three men, Cleve Cole, Mick Hull, and Howard Michell, skied from Mount Hotham across the Bogong High Plains to Mount. On reaching the mountain they became trapped for four days on the summit ridge by appalling weather conditions. For three days they followed the Big River through rough country before deciding that Howard should continue alone to find help, leaving Mick to care for Cleve who was barely able to continue. Three days later a search party, raised after Howard had reached Glen Valley, found Cleve and Mick. Within two days the group arrived at Glen Valley where, tragically, Cleve Cole died later that night. In memory of Cleve’s life and his pioneering work in the Victorian alpine country it was decided to build a refuge hut on the mountain. It is called the Cleve Cole Memorial Hut.falls creek, bogong high plains, ray meyer, cleve cole hut

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.This image is significant because it depicts aspects of the life of a pioneering family of Falls Creek and the founders of "Skyline", the first lodge at Falls Creek.Black and White Image of Wal Johnson near a stand of trees on Timms Spurfalls creek, bogong high plains, timms spur, wal johnson

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.This image is significant because it depicts aspects of the life of a pioneering family of Falls Creek and the founders of "Skyline", the first lodge at Falls Creek.Black and White Image of Mt. Bogong from above Roper's Hut with Wal Johnson and Ray Meyer seated on the ground. ROPER'S HUT Frederick Roper and his family grazed the Bogong High Plains from the 1890s until 1908. Frederick "Jack" built three huts. The hut known as Roper’s Hut was built on Jack's new grazing lease after his former run had been acquired by the SEC in the late 1930s. It had become a well-used refuge hut prior to its destruction in the 2003 bushfires. It was rebuilt by Victorian High Country Huts Association in 2008.falls creek, bogong high plains, wal johnson, ray meyer, ropers hut

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.A blue and brown checked shirt made of woollen fabric. It has a buttoned down collar and front closing. Meyer Family records suggest that it could have been handmade by Rel Gibbs who hand made woollen shirts and embroidering Skyline badges.falls creek, building skyline, skyline founders, toni st elmo, adrian ruffenacht, jack minogue, ray meyer, lloyd dunn, david gibson

Swedish snow shoes for horses were imported by Martin Romuld in 1937. They were used by Tom Fitzgerald's packhorses but not on the State Electricity Commission of Victoria's horses as a S.E.C.V. 'horse expert' claimed the horses would break their legs.Tom Fitzgerald lived on the Omeo Highway near Shannonvale and brought cattle up to the Bogong High Plains. He would have travelled in the snow during the year visiting his hut and maintaining his equipment. The S.E.C.V. worked on the Bogong High Plains all year round during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. Copy of a black and white photo glued onto cardboard showing a "Swedish snow shoe for horses" followed by further information re their uses on the Bogong High Plains. On the back stamped in blue 'Rescent'swedish snow shoes; horses; bogong high plains

This booklet was produced to advertise Mt Beauty, the Kiewa Scheme & surrounding areas to visitors / tourists. The photos cover Falls Creek with snow, lifts and skiers - one with Spion Kopje Lodge. Also Tawonga Camping ground, Bogong Village, Mt Beauty Chalet, the Control panel at Kiewa Power Station, Clover Dam at No. 3 Power Station, the road to Falls Creek and a view of Mt Beauty township. The photos indicate what Mt Beauty and the Kiewa Valley and High Plains looked like c1950's during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. The area was recognised and encouraged as a tourist attraction especially Falls Creek enabling comparison with later photos and ideas. A fold down booklet postcard size of 12 colored photos - back to back of Mt Beauty, the Kiewa Scheme & surrounds. They fold in to form a front photo with title and a back card for stamp & address of addressee. On the back of the front photo are a few paragraphs describing the beauty, history and 'things to do' in the area for the visitor / tourist. mt beauty; kiewa scheme; tawonga; bogong; clover dam; kiewa valley; bogong high plains

The Anglican Church of the Holy Cross was situated in Maddison St., Mt Beauty. It was dedicated on Saturday 18th December 1965. The Rector was The Reverend Colin G. Burgess Th.L.Mt Beauty was created by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. During the late 1960's the town was handed over to the Bright Shire and its building sold. A plaque was unveiled in the porch to commemorate the Dedication of the Church by Mr H. H .Williams, the chief engineer of the Kiewa Scheme.5 page hand made book with white pages and black typing stapled together with 4 staples. The book includes the Order of Service, The Procession to the Altar, The dedication of the Church, The dedication of the Furniture, At the Prayer Desk, At the Lectern At the Pulpit, At the Chancel Step, At the Altar, The Dedication Mass, The Collect, The Epistle, The Gospel, Proper Preface and is written by the Right Reverend Theodore Bruce McCall, Fourth Bishop Of Wangaratta on Saturday, 18th Dec., 1965mt beauty; anglican church; religion;

Junction Dam was part of the Hydro Electric Scheme during the 1940'sState Electricity Commission of Victoria construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric SchemeBlack & white photo of Junction Dam constructionjunction dam, secv, bogong

Ski skins and webbing were introduced into the Victorian Alps by European skiers. Enthusiasts travelled to enjoy the snow and to explore the Victorian Alps including the Bogong High Plains. This equipment enabled them to travel over snow without slipping when going up hills. They took the skins off when they wanted to slide down hills. In later years waxes were used for cross country skiing and then 'fish tail' markings on the back of skis to enable skiers to travel distances up and down mountains. Later developments also included motor transport (replacing horses to get to the snow line) and roads to take skiers to the ski fields and mechanised tows to take skiers up mountains so they could ski down (downhill skiing).Skiers visited the Bogong High Plains especially during the years of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria's construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme from the 1930's onwards. Tourists to the area increased during this time and influenced the development of Falls Creek.Long cream strips with soft short 'fur' on one side and a type of strong hessian on the back with the length of the middle and sides stitched. At one end an adjustable strap is attached to a steel, hinged clasp and at the other end is a loop that fits over the ski. A quarter of the way from each end is a steel attachment for fastening over the ski - the 'toe' end with a rubber embossed flap and the other with a short and long strap each with a steel ring at the end.On the rubber attachment: 'vinersa/pat uno'ski skins; bogong high plains; falls creek

Skiers used this binding to hold their foot onto the ski.The Bogong High Plains has been a skiing destination for Cross Country and Downhill skiers since the 1930's and especially during and after the State Electricity Commission of Victoria's construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. The steel plate indicates it is for the Bogong High Plains area.Dirty metal binding with a leather adjustable strap on each side and a flexible coil joining the two straps at the back. There are 4 holes on the steel plate allowing for attaching it to the ski.Inscribed on the metal plate at the front. "Bogong / toe iron / pat app for / Australia"ski binding; bogong high plains; cross country skiing

The Mt Beauty Fire Brigade commenced under the State Electricity Commission of Victoria in 1948. It was a (Country Fire Authority) C.F.A. Brigade from December 1961 and later an Urban Fire Brigade. The Fire Brigade and its Ladies Auxillary provided many community activities as well as protecting the population.The State Electricity Commission of Victoria established the Mt Beauty Fire Brigade during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. Its Ladies Auxillary was very active and involved, serving the community by raising money for the brigade and providing social occasions such as 'Deb' balls.One set of two pages and one set of eleven pages of the History of the Mt Beauty Fire Brigade and Mt Beauty Urban Fire Brigade respectively. Typed and photocopies.mt beauty fire brigade; ladies auxillary; deb balls

Mt Beauty is an all year tourist destination. Mt Beauty Chalet no longer exists as it was burnt down. It was a landmark in the town especially during the State Electricity Commission of Victoria construction days.Mt Beauty is a construction town built in the 1940's and 1950's by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme.Three colored postcards created for tourism 1. Mt Beauty Chalet 2. Mt Beauty Township 3. Mt Beauty Township with Pondage and Mt Bogongmt beauty chalet; mt beauty township; postcards

Junction Dam was part of the Hydro Electricity Scheme during the 1940'sState Electricity Commission (S.E.C.V.) construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric SchemeBlack and white photograph of Junction Dam construction. View from upstream.junction dam, bogong, secv

Junction Dam was part of the Hydro Electricity Scheme during the 1940'sState Electricity Commission of Victoria (S.E.C.V.) construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric SchemeBlack and white photograph of Junction Dam formwork constructionjunction dam, bogong, secv

Bogong Village was used between the 1930's -1950's by S.E.C.V. to house workers and their families on the Hydro Electricity SchemeState Electricity Commission of Victoria (S.E.C.V.) construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. Housing for workersBlack and white photograph of House Number 1 at Bogong Villagebogong village, secv, bogong huts

Anzac Day commemoration at Mt Beauty in 1950Commemoration of war service by residents of Mt Beauty and surrounding towns. H.H.C. Williams, Chief Engineer of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme, giving the address at the Anzac Day Service.Colour photograph of Anzac Day commemorations in Mt Beauty in 1950mt beauty, anzac day

Junction Dam was part of the Hydro Electric Scheme in the 1940'sState Electricity Commission of Victoria (S.E.C.V.) construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric SchemeBlack and white photograph of Junction Dam constructionjunction dam, secv, bogong

The shopping centre in Mt Beauty, both buildings and streetscape, have undergone significant changes since 1973. The kindergarten has undergone extensive remodelling, The Chalet has been replaced by Svarmisk Resort and Accommodation Spa. Tawonga hospital has undergone extensive renovation and is now Mt Beauty Hospital AND Kiewa Valley House. The Workman’s Club changed name to the Country Club and has since closed down. Hospital and Kiewa Valley House now occupy what is shown as a vacant lot opposite the motel which is now called Mt Beauty Motor Inn.The houses in Mt Beauty were brought in by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria when they constructed Mt Beauty Town for their workers building the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. Mt Beauty is unique began as a construction town in the late 1940's.Colour photographs of various buildings in Mt Beauty taken in 1973 1. Workman’s Club 2. View over the pondage 3. Tawonga Hospital (Mt Beauty) 4. Mt Beauty Chalet 5. Mt Beauty Kindergarten 6. The Merjei Motel 7. 8 Valley Avenue 8. Shopping Centre Handwritten in ink on the back of photos 1. Workman’s Club 1973 (after the brick makeover) From the sports oval – the high school is to the right 2. A view over the pond 1973 3. Tawonga Hospital 1973 (Mt Beauty) 4. Mount Beauty Chalet 1973 5. Kindergarten 1973 6. The Merjei Motel 1973 7. Our house at 8 Valley Ave 1973, Owner after us erected the car port, let the front hedge run amok and vanquished the vegetable garden and citrus trees Dad created. 8. Shopping Centre 1973. At the end of the street is the hospital (believe it is now Mt Beauty Bush Nursing Hotel) mt beauty, workman's club, chalet, tawonga hospital

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

Mt Beauty Camp- The new State Electricity Commission construction camp at the head of the Kiewa Valley was for workmen on the second power station in the project expected to be the most modern and best equipped in Australia… In contrast to the early Kiewa days of horses and canvas tents, the new camp, with its modern amenities, compared favourably with any country town. Administration of the Kiewa Scheme was moved from Tawonga to Mount Beauty in 1946. The first house in Mount Beauty, in Hollonds Street, was occupied by the co-op store manager from November 1946. The new Mess Hall at Mt Beauty was opened with much ceremony in early November 1946. The houses up to Nelse street were erected from 1946 onward and then the township was extended beyond Nelse Street in 1950. The workmen's camp was enlarged in 1950 to the extent of providing accommodation for a total of 1,200. Bogong Camp - 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. Both Bogong Village and Mt Beauty were developed to accommodate workmen on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme but have since become centres for tourism and a range of outdoor activities.1. Black and white photograph of Mount Beauty Camp taken in September 1950 2. Black and white photograph of Bogong Village Camp1. Written on the back in grey lead - Sept 1950. Mt Beauty Camp. HT Cooper own taking 2. Stamped on back of photograph - Copyright. Not for reproduction. Herald Sun feature Service. Melbourne Australiamt beauty camp, bogong camp, secv

The Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme is the largest hydro-electric scheme in Victoria and the second largest in mainland Australia after the Snowy Mountains Scheme. The scheme is situated in the Australian Alps in north-eastern Victoria about 350 km from Melbourne and is wholly owned by AGL Energy. The scheme was originally constructed between 1938 and 1961 by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria although it was privatised in the 1990s. The scheme was originally developed solely for electricity generation, unlike the Snowy Mountains Scheme, which was also intended to direct water west of the Snowy Mountains for purposes of irrigation. From 1937 to 1944 the construction of dams at Pretty Valley, Rocky Valley and the Junction Dam were undertaken requiring large numbers of planning and support staff to see the projects successfully completed. Planning and support staff were the backbone of the successful completion of the Kiewa Valley Hydro Electric Scheme and contributed significantly to the development of the Kiewa Valley area. Many descendants of the men in the photographs still living and working in the local areaSet of 4 black and white photographs of SECV clerical staff – Circa 1940/1941Typed on note glued to back of each photo, Numbers handwritten in blue ink in top left hand corner 1. DRAWING OFFICE STAFF KIEWA C. 1940-41 Bob Morgan – Construction Draftsman; Duncan Kerr – Draftsman; Rob Hollands – Survey Draftsman; Arthur Keeble – Office Engineer; Bill Godfrey – Draftsman 2. CLERICAL OFFICE STAFF KIEWA Peter Harnetty – Clerical; Bert Connors – Clerical; John Martin – Stores Clerical; Ken Calder – Head Storekeeper; Bill black – Construction Records 3. CLERICAL OFFICE STAFF KIEWA Jack Norman, Herb Kendall, Jack Bray – Stores Clerical; Ken Calder – Head Storekeeper; Jim Swain, George Milner – Stores Clerical; Jim Gleeson – Storekeeper; John Martin – Stores Clerical 4. OFFICE STAFF KIEWA C. 1940 Don Faulkner – Cadet Engineer; Tas Davies – Survey Draftsman; Bob Morgan – Construction Darftsman; R.J. Martin, Arthur Keeble – Office Engineers; Rob Hollands – Survey Draftsman; Jack Wollard – Head Surveyor; Harry Wilson – Plan Officer. Printing Plans Handwritten in red ink on back of photo 4 – Refer Rob Hollands secv clerical staff

The Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme is the largest hydro-electric scheme in Victoria and the second largest in mainland Australia after the Snowy Mountains Scheme. The scheme is situated in the Australian Alps in north-eastern Victoria about 350 km from Melbourne and is wholly owned by AGL Energy. The scheme was originally constructed between 1938 and 1961 by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria although it was privatised in the 1990s. The scheme was originally developed solely for electricity generation, unlike the Snowy Mountains Scheme, which was also intended to direct water west of the Snowy Mountains for purposes of irrigation. From 1937 to 1944 the construction of dams at Pretty Valley, Rocky Valley and the Junction Dam were undertaken requiring large numbers of planning and support staff to see the projects successfully completed. Planning and support staff were the backbone of the successful completion of the Kiewa Valley Hydro Electric Scheme and contributed significantly to the development of the Kiewa Valley area. Many descendants of the original SECV workers are still living and working in the local areaBlack and white photograph of 2 men, one identified as Ray Esdaile at Mt Beauty SEC Camp in 1950Handwritten on back of photograph in blue ink: Ray Esdaile and self (unidentified) 1950 Mt Beauty Camp SECray esdaile, secv, mt beauty

The Murray Region Hydroelectric Power Stations are two of seven hydro power stations, located near Khancoban in NSW. The two power stations are part of the Snowy Mountains Hydro-electricity Scheme, which is an extensive hydroelectricity and irrigation complex constructed in south-east Australia between 1949 and 1974 and now run by Snowy Hydro. Although both power stations are located in NSW, since 1 July 2008 all power generated has been allocated to the Victorian region of the National Electricity Market. Murray 2 Power Station was the first in the Snowy Scheme to use Japanese supplied large electrical and mechanical components Photographs demonstrate local Kiewa Valley residents enjoying an educational visit to Murray 2 Power Station which holds significance to the early history of the Hydro-electric Scheme in the area. Also demonstrates a pictorial history of social activities undertaken during this periodBlack and white photograph mounted on buff card Bus tour to Murray 2 Power Station showing 2 buses and group of Kiewa Valley residentsHandwritten in blue ink above photo "Snapshots Clare Roper' Handwritten in black ink below photo "Bus tour to Murray 2 Power Station'kiewa valley residents, clare roper

In the mid to late 1930’s survey outposts were established to plot the early stages of the Kiewa Hydro Electric System for the SECV in the Bogong High Plains. Before any roads were built, the old cattleman’s tracks were used with packhorses to deliver supplies, wages and mail and collect timesheets and correspondence from the workmen and dam builders living in canvas tents and at the outlying survey posts. The trip up the mountain was long and hard and dangerous for both horse and man Most of the men of the survey teams were not bush-men and were often ill equipped for the harsh weather and living conditions of bush camping, often arriving in their city clothes ready for work. The tent city at Bogong was destroyed by bush fires in 1939 after which an access road was built from Mt Beauty to transport building materials for more permanent dwellings for workmen. Pack horses continued to be used for transporting goods etc. to workers further up the mountain.Without the work of horsemen and their pack horses providing supplies and communications for outlying outposts, surveying and early planning for the Kiewa Valley Hydro Electric scheme could not have gone ahead and the dams and power stations which support the system could not have been constructed. The Hydro-electric scheme, and the workers who planned and built it play a major part in the early history of the Kiewa Valley and many original families still remain living, or have ties with the local area.: Set of 21 black and white photographs and copies of photographs depicting the pack horses and the men who handled them, transporting supplies and correspondence to the outlying camps and survey posts in the Bogong High Plains, via the rough cattlemen’s tracks. Photographs also show the early tent camps of the workers. Some photos mounted on A4 white paper. Some photos enlarged to A3 poster size for display1. Handwritten on back – Max Lawrence 2. -8 No inscriptions 9. Handwritten on back- Packing in supplies for early workers of the Kiewa Hydro scheme. There were no roads in the early days of the scheme 10. Printed on bottom of photo- Roper’s cattle on road below Howman’s Gap 11. Handwritten on back – Roper’s et al about to leave for the high plains 12. Printed under photo- Syd Ryder at the Pretty Valley Cut-Out (JBR) 13-16. No markings 17. Printed under photo- Gwen Talbot visits the Camp area. 1937 18. Handwritten on back- 14/1 Barbara Talbot 19. No markings 20-21. No markings 22. Printed under photo- STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION OF VICTORIA. Date: 15-3-45 Time: 8.0pm No: K 1838 Kiewa Hydro-Electric Works, Investigations 1944-1945 – Survey Camp at Young’s Hut pack horses; bogong high plains; survey posts; supplies delivery

In the 1830’s, European pastoralists started moving south from NSW into the Alps. In 1836, cattle grazing began around Omeo and the runs spread out into the foothills. The higher country was used for summer grazing and huts were built for shelter and storage during stock mustering. The lure of gold brought many people to the Alps from around 1850 to 1900. Bushfires destroyed the forests around Melbourne in 1939 and the boom in house-building after World War II ked to increased demand for timber from the Alps. This resulted in the building of a network of roads which helped open up access to the Alps. The early 1940’s brought the first of many workers to the Alps for the planning and construction of the Hydro-Electric Scheme. These were the pioneers and early settlers of the Kiewa Valley and provided a wealth of characters and a tapestry of stories and adventures to be handed down to future generations.These 3 posters, which were most likely produced for promotional purposes provide a glimpse into the early lives of the pioneer families of the Kiewa Valley through pictures and verse. They show their lifestyle and outline the hardships they had to endure in living and working in the Alpine region. They also highlight the early arguments regarding grazing in the high country which would ultimately lead to the end of the long traditions of the high country cattle men. Set of 3 A4 size posters with black and white photographs and text and colour background depicting various parts of the history of the Kiewa Valley. 1. Titled - ‘Life wasn’t meant to be easy’ Describes early life for Kiewa Hydro workers. 2. Titled - ‘Cattlemen of the High Plains’ Describes a brief history of life of the cattlemen of the high plains 3. Titled – ‘There are Places I’ll remember’ Depicts early photographs of residents of the Kiewa Valley, also includes the words from a John Lennon song as per poster title. Printed on each poster – Poster designed by Dyanne Photography - Wodonga 1. Printed at bottom of poster – Sources: G Napier and G Easdown “The Kiewa Story” 1993. Southern Hydro Archives, N Hetherington and R Hollands. G Gardner “The Kiewa Kids” 1998. 2. Printed at bottom of poster – Sources: D Purland. Handwritten at top of poster- Poster 4 3. Printed at bottom of poster – Sources: B Roper, W Davies, D Higginson, H Ryder. Handwritten at top of poster- Poster 3 kiewa valley; tourism; lifestyles

Postcards were available at tourist destinations to promote the resort by enabling visitors to write to friends and family.The Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme hastened the development of Falls Creek as a popular destination for skiers. Roads, buildings including accommodation & chalets, ski clubs, snow vehicles, ski tows etc enabled visitors to live and ski in the snow. When construction of the KHES was completed Falls Creek continued to develop both as a winter and summer resort. Serrated edge colored postcards. 1. "On Langlauf Skis in the Australian Snowfields' - Photograph by Uwe Steinward 2. 'Ski-school and instructors at Falls Creek, Victoria' Photograph by Uwe Steinward x2 3. Overlooking the Victorian snowfields, Falls Creek, Victoria' Photograph by Uwe Steinward 4. 'Skiing down the slopes at Falls Creek, Victoria.' photograph by Uwe Steinward x3falls creek, snow, skiing, alpine sport, langlauf skmiing, uwe steinward

Photo No. 1 - Junction Dam wall was commenced in February, 1940 and completed in March 1944. Type - reinforced concrete slab and buttress. Height 25.9m, and crest length 121.9m. Lewis Construction company had the original contract, but was replaced by the State Electricity Commission in 1942. Photo No. 2 - Bogong Village was the first village built to house workers and their families working on the Hydro electric scheme. Construction commenced 1940. The single men's quarters are slightly right of centre on the foreshore. Lake Guy was named after a former resident engineer.Shows the type of terrain where the village is located resulting in the tiered layout that was necessary in order to erect housing.set of 2 black and white photos - Photo No. 1 - downstream view of Junction Dam Wall Photo No. 2 - Lake Guy and Bogong Village. Both are on photographic paperPhoto No. 1 - Upper right hand corner, back of photo, handwritten in ink or biro, Bogong 1950 Photo No. 2 - Left lower corner, front of photo in white, Bogong.bogong village, lake guy, secv

In December of 1939 the excavation of a diversion tunnel was commenced to divert water from the East Kiewa River to allow construction of the dam wall. This was completed in February 1940. Lewis Construction Co. had the contract with excavation starting in February and the first batch of concrete placed in September. In 1942 the S.E.C. took over the construction and the wall was completed in March, 1944. Type of construction: reinforced concrete slab buttress.Of historical importance in the Kiewa area as it shows the form work and preparation necessary before the pouring of concrete for the first dam in the hydro electric scheme. The destruction caused by the 1939 bushfires is also evident in the upper left hand corner.A black and white photograph of the early construction of Junction Dam wall viewed from downstreamOn back of photograph (left hand upper corner) Junction Dam 4-4-81 Dam viewed from downstream 352 Time to use for correct Exp. 40 secjunction dam, bogong, secv

Construction of the town of Mount Beauty commenced in 1946 and continued until 1952. It was built to provide family accommodation for workers engaged in the construction of the hydro electric power scheme. As well as housing, there was an administration building, staff hostel, merchandising centre, workmen's camps, base stores and workshops and the Mount Beauty Terminal Station. The first house was occupied in November, 1946 by the then manager of the trading store, with a frontage onto Hollonds Street. The total number of houses erected was 488, 162 custom built and 326 prefabricated. The main workmen's camp can be seen just left of the centre of the photograph and accommodated 144 men at the time of the photograph. By 1950 it could accommodate 1200men. Photo No. 1 is taken in 1947/early 1948 as there is no evidence of the staff hostel under construction. This hostel was commenced in August/September 1948 and is clearly shown in photograph No. 2, dating this photo as 1948 as it is before the completion of the bypass road connecting to the main (high plains) road. This road was constructed in 1939 and in 1948 followed the route of Tawonga Crescent. This remained in use until the bypass construction was completed in early 1949 and does not appear to be finished in this photograph.. Both photographs are taken from the power line easement adjacent to the Bright road.Significant historical pictorial record of the development of a town from grazing land. The type of terrain that had to be surveyed and then to construct roads and other infrastructure, with very little machinery, is also of prime significance in the development of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme.Two photographs, both hand painted to show colours, and both of Mount Beauty c 1947/48 not long after commencement of construction of homes and facilities for workers.Photo No.1 - on back of photo, left upper corner, faintly in pencil, SPIKE, underneath this is written T Pay,. Photo No. 2 - on back of photo, left upper corner, faintly in pencil, Jmount beauty, housing, accommodation