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Falls Creek Historical Society
Souvenir - Skiing in Australia Stamp Series
These stamps were issued by Australia Post in 1984 to commemorate the sport of skiing in Australia. This was the year of the Winter Olympics held in Sarajevo. The 1984 Australian Winter Olympics team at Sarajevo consisted of 10 athletes. They were;- Steven Lee competing in the Downhill and Giant Slalom Alistair Guss in the Downhill Marilla Guss in the Downhill and Giant Slalom Andrew Paul in the Biathlon over both 10 kilometres and 20 kilometres David Hislop in the 15, 30 and 50 kilometres X-Country events Chris Allen in the 15, 30 and 50 kilometres X-Country event Cameron Medhurst in Figure Skating Vicki Holland in Figure Skating Mike Richmond in the 500 metres, 1,000 metres and 1,500 metres speed skating Colin Coates in the 1,500 metres, 5,000 metres and 10,000 metres speed skating Colin Coates was the flag bearer at the Opening Ceremony in recognition of the Sarajevo Winter Olympics being his 5th Winter Olympics team. He went on to compete in his final Olympic Team at Calgary, Canada in 1988. These stamps are significant because they recognise the sport of snow skiing as an important and developing Australian national sport.A set of four coloured stamps featuring different styles of competition skiing. The stamps have been mounted in a white frame. australian postage stamps, skiing in australia stamp series -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Bell - Kangaroo Hoppet 1995
This bell was used by the public to ring encouragement to participants competing in the Kangaroo Hoppet. The Kangaroo Hoppet has its origins in the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club's 21 km Australian Birkebeiner, first held in 1979 at Falls Creek. In 1991 the first Kangaroo Hoppet of 42 km was conducted and became part of the Worldloppet being the first and, at the time, the only one in the southern hemisphere. It continues (2024) to be held on the fourth Saturday in August. It also includes the Australian Birkebeiner 21 km and the Joey Hoppet 7 km.Used by local family to cheer on relatives competing in the 1995 Kangaroo Hoppet at Falls Creek.Metal cylinder fastened with 3 metal rivets with metal ring handle on metal top. Attached is a metal ringer and a white ribbon with blue writing and boomerang and skis logo. Handmade.Ribbon: "AASF Falls Creek 1995"kangaroo hoppet; ski race; cross country skiing; bogong high plains, snow sports, metal bell -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photo Collection - Wally Howell, Falls Creek and Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme including Mt Beauty
1. Falls Creek ski resort is on the Bogong High Plains 2. Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme (late 1940s to early 1960s) was constructed by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria and included the townships of Bogong and Mt Beauty. The photos were taken by Wally Howell.Falls Creek is at the head of the Kiewa Valley and a major tourist attraction. Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme was constructed by the SECV and included the creation of the Mt Beauty township.1. 16 Coloured photos of Falls Creek - not dated or labelled. Includes Malony's Ski Hire & Restaurant and Sundance Inn 2. 162 Coloured Photos not dated or labelled. Includes Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme and Mt Beauty. Some multiple copies. 1. "Processed by Kodak Oct. 85 M" on printed in red ink on the back of one photo. Also, later labels were added in ink to identify each photo.falls creek, snow resort, skiing, ski lodges, sundance inn, malony's ski hire, spargos lodge, t-bar lifts, mt beauty, tourism -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Document - Sites 4 & 4a - Certificate Of Currency No.3191 Public Risk Insurance Policy
Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans died on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This item is significant because it documents actions taken by the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee in their role overseeing the Tourist Area.This letter accompanied a policy for Public Risk Insurance with the Insurance Company of North America. The policy had been increased to cover a further £10,000. However the Management Committee felt this may need to be increased by an additional £10,000 if Mr Hymans was to go ahead with further development of Site 4A. It also requested that Mr Hymans sign and return lease documents which had been sent to him.Hand written at bottom of letter: Ski Lodge and Site 4 5 Flats 4A & Burnt out Shell of Chalet Dan (?) 512663falls creek tourist area management committee, falls creek administration, parking regulations falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Poster - Kangaroo Hoppet 1992
The Kangaroo Hoppet is Australia’s premier long distance cross country ski race, and a member of the Worldloppet series of international cross country ski events. The first race at Falls Creek was held in 1979 under the name of “Australian Birkebeiner”. It was a 21km race with about 80 participants organised by the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club of Mount Beauty. The course started and finished at Falls Creek Alpine Resort and took participants out into the Bogong High Plains. After running the event for 10 years, it was decided they should become part of the Worldloppet series of marathon ski races. Representatives from the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club and the Australian Ski Federation attended the Worldloppet Annual Meeting in Finland in June 1990 to put the case for the acceptance of an Australian event into the Worldloppet series. Before being admitted, they had to demonstrate that the Birkebeiner Club could run a world class event, so three months later in August 1990 a 42km event named the Australian International Ski Marathon was held at Falls Creek together with a 21km Birkebeiner race and a 7km event called the Birkebeiner Lite. The event was approved by delegates from USA, Norway and Austria, in 1991 Australia became the 12th member of Worldloppet, with the condition that there had to be a name change. After some late night discussion allegedly involving red wine from North East Victoria the main event became the 42km Kangaroo Hoppet, with the minor events being the 21km Australian Birkebeiner, and 7km Joey Hoppet. In the winter of 1991, the first Kangaroo Hoppet was held. It was a great success and has been a regular fixture on the international ski calendar ever since. It features the main 42km event as well as a 21km event and a 7km event. The Hoppet brings the Australian snowfields to an international audience. In 1992 the Men's Winner was Gudmund Skjeldal from Norway in a time of 1:47:17. The winner of the Women's event was Beatrice Grunenfelder of Switzerland in a time of 2:12:49. This poster is significant because it documents an event which brings international attention to Falls Creek and the surrounding region.A large coloured poster featuring an aerial photo of cross country skiers from the 1991 event. The logo of the Kangaroo Hoppet is in the centre top position and the Worldloppet logo is in the bottom left corner.At top: AUSTRALIA' S WORLDLOPPET SKI RACE / FALLS CREEK VICTORIA / 29TH AUGUST 1992 Beside Worldloppet logo: Details from Race Secretary Box 192 Mt. Beauty 3699 Australia Photo: Ken Bell, PhotoMotionkangaroo hoppet, worldloppet events, falls creek, mt. beauty -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 26. No 7 September - October 1960
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 facilities at Falls Creek.The journal includes stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. The cover features a photo of a female skier passing beneath trees, which was provided by the Herald newspaper. Pages 323 - 329 included an extensive report of the Australian National Ski Championships held at Falls Creek In August 1960, written by R. J. Zatorski. Results were included with this report. Fred Griffith contributed a report and results of the N.E.D.S.A. Junior Championships on pages 334 - 338. A selection of photos from both Championship events was included. Finally Falls Creek was able to boast of the existence of three electricity- powered street lights in the Village. After a long wait Skyline Lodge was also fully connected to electricity on 25th August 1960.schuss journal, skyline lodge, n.e.d.s.a. events at falls creek, national ski championships -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Document - To All Licensees - Parking Fee & Admission Charges; Garbage; Animals
Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans died on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This item is significant because it documents actions taken by the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee in their role overseeing the Tourist Area.A circular from the Management Committee prior to the 1963 Ski season. It clarifies regulations and expectations related to parking fees and admission charges, garbage disposal, animals, water supply, run clearing and race line crossings.falls creek tourist area management committee, falls creek administration -
Orbost & District Historical Society
jumper, 1970's - 1980's
The jumper was owned by John Court, a previous employee of Orbost Shire Council.A blue cotton/polyester long-sleeved jumper. It is fleecy lined. On the front is painted a picture of a fox on skis holding ski poles. at the top is a gumleaf with ERRINUNDRA inside. Below the fox is a gumleaf with SKI CLUB inside the leaf. This is in white. On the label is Size 110cm.clothing jumper court-john errinundra-ski-club recreation -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Poster - Kangaroo Hoppet 1991
The Kangaroo Hoppet is Australia’s premier long distance cross country ski race, and a member of the Worldloppet series of international cross country ski events. The first race at Falls Creek was held in 1979 under the name of “Australian Birkebeiner”. It was a 21km race with about 80 participants organised by the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club of Mount Beauty. The course started and finished at Falls Creek Alpine Resort and took participants out into the Bogong High Plains. After running the event for 10 years, it was decided they should become part of the Worldloppet series of marathon ski races. Representatives from the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club and the Australian Ski Federation attended the Worldloppet Annual Meeting in Finland in June 1990 to put the case for the acceptance of an Australian event into the Worldloppet series. Before being admitted, they had to demonstrate that the Birkebeiner Club could run a world class event, so three months later in August 1990 a 42km event named the Australian International Ski Marathon was held at Falls Creek together with a 21km Birkebeiner race and a 7km event called the Birkebeiner Lite. The event was approved by delegates from USA, Norway and Austria, in 1991 Australia became the 12th member of Worldloppet, with the condition that there had to be a name change. After some late night discussion allegedly involving red wine from North East Victoria the main event became the 42km Kangaroo Hoppet, with the minor events being the 21km Australian Birkebeiner, and 7km Joey Hoppet. In the winter of 1991, the first Kangaroo Hoppet was held. It was a great success and has been a regular fixture on the international ski calendar ever since. It features the main 42km event as well as a 21km event and a 7km event. The Hoppet brings the Australian snowfields to an international audience. In 1991 the Men's Winner was John Aalberg from USA in a time of 1:56:12. The winner of the Women's event was Betsy Youngman of USA in a time of 2:16:55.This poster is significant because it documents an event which brings international attention to Falls Creek and the surrounding region.A large coloured poster featuring several images: from top:- Kangaroo symbol: a large group of cross country skiers; sunset over the mountains; mountains in the daytime with a skier on the right and the central image of a skier superimposed over the other images. The logo for Worldloppet is in the centre beneath the main image beside the logo for QANTAS. This was the poster for the first Kangaroo Hoppet held as an international event.Above image: AUSTRALIA' S SKI MARATHON / FALLS CREEK VICTORIA / Kangaroo Hoppet Beneath image: 31 AUGUST 1991 / 42/21/7 km DETAILS FROM RACE SECRETARY BOX 192 MT. BEAUTY 3699 AUSTRALIAkangaroo hoppet, worldloppet events, falls creek, mt. beauty -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 22. No. 1 January - February 1956
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. This issue also has a banner advertising the 1956 Melbourne Olympic games across the bottom of the cover. Items related to Falls Creek in this issue include:- Page 17 features a review of Skyline Lodge and preparations being made by Bob Hymans to install a new lift at Falls Creek Pages 27 and 28 detail information and descriptions of cabins and lodges in Victoria including Skyline, Wilkinson Memorial Lodge, Cope Hut and Cole Cleve Memorial Hut, Bivouac Hut and Summit Hut at Mount Bogong. An advertisement for Ski Boots from J Molony is on page 5. Although only referring to their Melbourne address, Molony's operated a shop at Falls Creek during the winter season.schuss journal, the ski club of victoria, skyline, bob hymans -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Book - Skiers' Handbook, G.R.T. Ward, 1946
This publication is one of the earliest Skiers' manuals which had a focus on skiing and snowfields in Australia. G.R.T. (Bob) Ward, was an accountant by profession and served for many years as the secretary of Kosciusko Alpine Club (KAC). Although not an architect, he had an interest in design and designed Kunama Huette at Kosciusko in 1952. It was destroyed by an avalanche in 1956. Bob Ward was the co-author of "Frozen lessons : a handbook of ski technique", as well as several other publications including "The Diamond Jubilee of the Kosciusko Alpine Club" published in 1969.The complete title of this publication is "Skiers' Handbook of concise, modern ski technique and classification of Australian snow. It contains 54 pages and the contents include:-Development of Ski Technique in Australia: Concise Modern Ski Technique, with commentary: Classification of Australian Snow; Ski Waxing. The cover is blue with black and white text and features an image of Eric McIllree demonstrating the Advanced Stem Christiania technique.non-fictionThis publication is one of the earliest Skiers' manuals which had a focus on skiing and snowfields in Australia. G.R.T. (Bob) Ward, was an accountant by profession and served for many years as the secretary of Kosciusko Alpine Club (KAC). Although not an architect, he had an interest in design and designed Kunama Huette at Kosciusko in 1952. It was destroyed by an avalanche in 1956. Bob Ward was the co-author of "Frozen lessons : a handbook of ski technique", as well as several other publications including "The Diamond Jubilee of the Kosciusko Alpine Club" published in 1969.australian skiing, skiing handbook, bob ward kosciusko alpine club -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - Falls Creek For The Best Snow Falls
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 -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - Fall-Line - Australia's National Skiing Magazine July - Aug 1979
“Fall-Line” was one of a series of magazines published by the Victorian Ski Association. It was produced from 1979 until 1985. It superseded their previous publication, “Ski” magazine and was followed by the “Australian Skiing” magazine. The Victorian Ski Association was formed in 1955.This magazine is significant because it documents developments in the ski industry in Australia.A magazine featuring a coloured image on the cover and containing articles and advertising related to developments in skiing in Australia. This issue included an extensive article discussing the possible of the development of Lakeside Resort on the shores of Rocky Valley Dam as well as an update on recent changes at Falls Creek. FALLS CREEK The ski patrol has been increased from seven to eight, under the leadership of Senior Patroller John McDonald, and two new radios have been purchased. A four wheel drive ambulance has been purchased to replace the old conventional drive model. It will provide free ambulance transport between Falls Creek and Mt. Beauty, and will be driven by trained volunteer personnel. A new 165 vehicle day visitor car park has been completed at Windy Corner, adjacent to the approved toboggan slope. The closest car park to Falls Creek's Nordic Preferred Area, its capacity will be doubled next summer. A planning permit has been issued to Treglor Pty. Ltd. for its proposed hotel/convention centre. Construction is expected to begin after the season. A new Mercedes 800 tractor with Schmidt Snowcutter recently arrived on the mountain and will be used to clear the car parking areas Falls Creek continues to be among Australia's most expensive resorts, with a high season day ticket price of $13.50. Falls Creek's newest commercial lodge, Lakeside Lodge, has opened with accommodation for more than 50 people and luxury facilities including private rooms with full ensuite, sauna, spa pool, and a dining room for guests. It is located at the top of Schuss St. just behind Imaj flats and very close to the village bowl.australian ski magazines, skiing australia, victorian ski association -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Malcolm Milne wins Bronze Medal at World Downhill Championship 1970
This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It depicts Malcom Milne after winning the Bronze Medal at the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships at Val Gardena, Italy in 1970 becoming the first Australian skier to win a World Championship skiing medal. George Shirling arrived in Falls Creek in 1962. He engaged Phil Nowell to build the original Koki Alpine Lodge which opened in 1965 with 14 beds. George operated the lodge with Michael “Baldy” Blackwell as manager. He also graduated in sport psychology in 1981 and was invited to become team psychologist for the Australian Winter Olympic team which went to Albertville, France, in 1992. He later owned the Red Onion Chalet. George credited the success of Koki to “Baldy” Blackwell. “Baldy” and Phil Nowell started the Trackers Mountain Lodge in partnership during the 1980s. In 1971 George sold Koki Lodge to Sigi Doerr. In 2024 the renamed Koki Alpine resort remains a highly popular destination in Falls Creek. George Shirling passed away on 27th February 2023. He had remained actively involved in Falls Creek and was generous with his time and knowledge, always an amazing supporter of The Falls Creek Museum and Falls Creek Village.This item is significant because it depicts Australian champion skier Malcolm Milne winning his first major World Championship in 1970.A black and white photograph of Malcolm Milne taken at the World Downhill Championships in 1970. It has been autographed in red pen. An explanatory sign is attached.Written in red ink at top right: "To Hans, Wally & Lou and all the guys at the Mountain Man. Happy Skiing to all, Malcolm"george shirling, red onion, malcolm milne, falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 23. No. 4 June 1957
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. This issue features a photo of skiers on the Frying Pan Spur Slopes by R. D. McNabb. Page 128 includes a brief article relating the successful recruiting of ski instructors at Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre. Page 134 has a photo of a skier at the Cornice, Frying Pan Spur near the Nissen Tow, Falls Creek taken by R. D. McNabb in November 1956. Spion Kopje is in the background. Page 138 "Skimming Around Falls Creek" gives a progress report on developments at Falls Creek. This includes an update regarding Bob Hymans' chair lift and new snow vehicles, Milan Kovacic's new "Snow Crystal Inn", a new Coffee Lounge at the Falls Creek General Store operated by "Cecil and Orest" and other work and maintenance carried out for the 1957 Winter season.schuss journal, the ski club of victoria, bob hymans, snow crystal inn, cecil dobson, ory freauf -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 26. No 5 July 1960
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 facilities at Falls Creek.The journal includes stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. The cover features a photo early snow falls at Mt. Buller. Pages 234 - 235 gave a detailed account of activities over the Queen's Birthday weekend at Falls Creek, where residents were surprised by early snow falls. This was written by Molly Bunyan. Page 236 included information regarding transport arrangements for the National Championships. "Falls Creek Kaleidoscope" by Tom Mitchell, Sandy McNabb and Molly Bunyan included small items of information about activities at Falls Creek. Page 239 outlines the introduction of parking fees at Falls Creek and regulations for the Winter season. On page 244 it was announced that the National Fitness Council was going to conduct a National Fitness Ski School at Howman's Gap from July 23rd until August 6th.schuss journal, tom mitchell, national fitness council howman's gap -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Poster - Kangaroo Hoppet 2022
The Kangaroo Hoppet is Australia’s premier long distance cross country ski race, and a member of the Worldloppet series of international cross country ski events. The first race at Falls Creek was held in 1979 under the name of “Australian Birkebeiner”. It was a 21km race with about 80 participants organised by the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club of Mount Beauty. The course started and finished at Falls Creek Alpine Resort and took participants out into the Bogong High Plains. After running the event for 10 years, it was decided they should become part of the Worldloppet series of marathon ski races. Representatives from the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club and the Australian Ski Federation attended the Worldloppet Annual Meeting in Finland in June 1990 to put the case for the acceptance of an Australian event into the Worldloppet series. Before being admitted, they had to demonstrate that the Birkebeiner Club could run a world class event, so three months later in August 1990 a 42km event named the Australian International Ski Marathon was held at Falls Creek together with a 21km Birkebeiner race and a 7km event called the Birkebeiner Lite. The event was approved by delegates from USA, Norway and Austria, in 1991 Australia became the 12th member of Worldloppet, with the condition that there had to be a name change. After some late night discussion allegedly involving red wine from North East Victoria the main event became the 42km Kangaroo Hoppet, with the minor events being the 21km Australian Birkebeiner, and 7km Joey Hoppet. In the winter of 1991, the first Kangaroo Hoppet was held. It was a great success and has been a regular fixture on the international ski calendar ever since. It features the main 42km event as well as a 21km event and a 7km event. The Hoppet brings the Australian snowfields to an international audience. In 2022 the Men's Winner was Peter Wolter from USA in a time of 1:28:08.2. The winner of the Women's event was Jessie Diggins of USA in a time of 1:31:50.9This poster is significant because it documents an event which brings international attention to Falls Creek and the surrounding region.A poster featuring a cartoon image of hundreds of kangaroo skiers crossing through the blue finishing gate. The date 27 AUGUST 2022 is on a red sign above the gate. FALLS CREEK is also on the gate, as well as the names of some of the sponsors. Logos of AGL, the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club, Falls Creek, KANGAROO HOPPET/Worldloppet, FIS, Alpine Shire Council, and Community Bank Mount Beauty & District are across the bottom of the poster. , Below the image: 7, 21 & 42 Km Kangaroo Hoppetkangaroo hoppet, worldloppet events, falls creek, mt. beauty -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Ski Boots - Cross Country, Pre 1970
Used by local skier at Falls Creek on the High Plains during the early 1970s.Cross country skiing was a popular sport during the 1970's and has developed since with a variety of equipment enabling different types of cross country skiing.These cross country ski boots are size 8 (men's) and made of leather. The sole of the boot is slightly extended to accommodate four holes into which pegs on the ski bindings insert. cross country ski boots. nordic skiing. langlauf skiing. falls creek. bogong high plains. -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 18. No. 1 January - February 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 - 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 -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Letter - Hand-Written - Application To Construct Double Chair Lift
Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans died on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This letter is significant because it reflects the relationship between Bob Hymans and the Management Committee.A handwritten letter from Mr Hymans to the Management Committee. The letter applies for permission to construct a double chairlift from near the Upper Kiewa Valley Road in the valley at Falls Creek to a point in the vicinity of the Ski Bowl near the Snow Crystal Inn.falls creek tourist area management committee, chairlift licence negotiations, double chairlift falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Poster - Sun Tan in the Snow - Tourism Poster
This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It is the sign accompanying his collection on display.. George Shirling arrived in Falls Creek in 1962. He engaged Phil Nowell to build the original Koki Alpine Lodge which opened in 1965 with 14 beds. George operated the lodge with Michael “Baldy” Blackwell as manager. He also graduated in sport psychology in 1981 and was invited to become team psychologist for the Australian Winter Olympic team which went to Albertville, France, in 1992. He later owned the Red Onion Chalet. George credited the success of Koki to “Baldy” Blackwell. “Baldy” and Phil Nowell started the Trackers Mountain Lodge in partnership during the 1980s. In 1971 George sold Koki Lodge to Sigi Doerr. In 2024 the renamed Koki Alpine resort remains a highly popular destination in Falls Creek. George Shirling passed away on 27th February 2023. He had remained actively involved in Falls Creek and was generous with his time and knowledge, always an amazing supporter of The Falls Creek Museum and Falls Creek Village.This item is significant because it promotes George Shirling's Collection.A Victorian tourism poster to promote holidays at Victoria's ski resorts. On Sign: 'SUN TAN IN THE SNOW THIS WINTER' Colour process lithograph, signed 'Wendy ?" Government of Victoria Tourist Development A.C. Brooks, Government Printer, Melb. 1960 - original 101.5cm x 64.4cmgeorge shirling, falls creek, exploding sports myths -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Seal Skins Ski Straps / Soles, mid 1900's
These seal skin straps and webbing were introduced into the Victorian Alps by European engineers, conducting survey work for the SEC Hydro scheme in the late 1930s. This period in time produced many immigrants from a war torn Europe with highly developed technical skills. Many of these immigrants provided articles that were well suited to the alpine regions of Australia, ones they used in their homelands. These were times when the home grown cultures of the Anglo Saxon heritage of the earlier settlers within the Kiewa Valley became interwoven with the various European cultures and this formed, what in later years became the beginning of the Australian multi-cultural society. The Kiewa Valley and its surrounding regions where the major rural areas which did not progress in a so typical Aussie "dinky-di", "she'll be right" fashion. The European influence was however not too strong, so as to obliterate the flavour of the home grown rural society.The major populated sections of the upper Kiewa Valley and the Alpine regions were accelerated by the SEC Hydro Development which brought into the slow growing rural regions a quasi multi ethnic society, however this was only noticeable up to the time when the final Power Station was commissioned in the 1960s. The slight variations to the typical Australian rural settlements of the time were in some food preparations, winter apparel such as these seal skin straps and soles and "langlauf" (cross-country skis). The sealskins were sewn so that their grain ran from front to back thereby allowing the skins to grip going up hill and glide going downhill.The gardens and varieties of flowering shrubs and trees where also more in line with traditional European "outdoor" settings. Seal skin sewn onto one side of a strap of webbing. There is a webbing loop on the front that slips over a small point at the front of the ski. There is a webbing strap attached to the back of the seal skin sole coming over the back of ski that clips metal fasteners onto a loop of webbing behind the ski boot. alpine sports, snow skis, winter clothing, mount bogong recreational activities, snow sports -
National Wool Museum
Balaclava
Knitting example by Joyce Hucker. Hucker began working with unspun wool and making dyes from the natural sources from her garden and the farm trees around her. From knitting and croceting articles, she progressed to felting and a 'wrapping' technique, always using unspun wool. She was a successful exhibitor at many craft shows and was always willing to pass on her experience and knowledge to others, often travelling widely to help groups requiring a demonstration.Knitting example by Joyce Hucker.Late J. Hucker 1972 Ski Capknitting, hucker, mrs joyce -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - John Meyer near Wilkie and Basalt Hill
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 -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Joan Meyer at Bogong High Plains
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 Historical Society
Document - Meeting Minutes Of Falls Creek Alpine Village Advisory Committee
Bob Hymans Collection Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in May 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grande Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans died on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob’s endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This document is significant because it documents discussion concerning the operation of Falls Creek.MInutes of the Falls Creek Alpine Village Advisory Committee held on 21 September 1957 typed on foolscap size paper. Topics of discussion included contributions to the Ski Improvement Fund, equipment in the Casualty Room and also the possibility of erecting a simple rope tow on the nursery slope.chairlift falls creek, bob hymans, ski improvement fund, falls creek alpine village advisory committee -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Badge - Falls Creek Area Management Cloth Badges
Falls Creek was operated by the Falls Creek Area Management Committee. Its composition changed over time but generally the Committee was composed of representatives of the State Electricity Commission, Representatives from Ski Clubs and commercial enterprises, the Country Roads Board, the Ski Tow company and a Representative of the Upper Murray Regional Committee of the Central Planning Authority. This Committee was responsibility for long term planning for the Falls Creek Tourist Area as well as the day to day running of the Village, These patches were part of the uniform of people employed by the Management Committee.These cloth badges are significant because they indicated employees of the Area Management Committee and the role they played in Falls Creek.A group of cloth badges indicating the role of personnel employed by the Falls Creek Area Management. Shield shaped badges - 2 Falls Creek Area Management - PARKING CONTROL 1 Falls Creek Area Management - with red cross of SKI PATROL Rectangular - Green and yellow - FALLS CREEK AREA MANAGEMENT Red and blue - FALLS CREEK AREA MANAGEMENTfalls creek village, falls creek area management committee -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Document - Circular to Licensees and Lessees
Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans died on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This item is significant because it documents the wide range of actions and responsibilities undertaken by the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee.A Circular from the Management Committee prior to the 1967 season. It includes a wide range of topics including; the growth of accommodation capacity at Falls Creek; slope improvements; parking and improved road access; Tows and Ski School; garbage collection and suitable containers; tender called for a new hotel; Medical Service arrangements for 1967; Sewerage System reminders; new arrangements for Oversnow Transport; composition of the Committee; a tobogganing franchise; the Ross Milne Memorial Ski Jump; careful use of the Water Supply; Finances and appointment of an Advisor from the SEC to plan for the future; Price Structure for 1967; a request for more involvement in publicity of the Resort and a tribute to R. T. (Bob) Scott.falls creek tourist area management committee, falls creek administration, r.t. (bob) scott, ross milne memorial ski jump -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - Falls Creek Lodge & Apartment Guide Summer 1992
A part of a yearly marketing and information material promoting Falls Creek. This leaflet focuses on activities and accommodation in Falls Creek Village in the summer. Venues included are:- Astra Lodge, Diana, Halley's Lodge, Silver Ski, Snowdrift, Alpine View Apartments and Koki Apartments.This item is important as it documents different approaches to marketing Falls Creek Village, Victoria. An A4 size leaflet promoting several businesses in Falls Creek. An accommodation rates chart is included in the centre page.skiing, ski, falls creek, victoria, school holidays, winter, snow, winter sport, 1990s, marketing, graphic design -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Plan Ref. K. 6612 with Letter attached re Public Safety in Kiewa Works Area
The SECV constructed the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme which included the building of Rocky Valley Dam on the Bogong High Plains near Falls Creek. H.H.C. Williams, construction engineer, Kiewa wrote to the Ski Clubs at Falls Creek outlining the dangers arising with the filling of Rocky Valley Dam. He lists 5 warnings in the interest of safety.The plan and letter provide the dates for the completion of Rocky Valley dam and its effect on the people living and working in the area including miners and ski clubs. It describes some of the features of Kiewa Works Area at the time.Plan No. K 6612 of Fall Creek showing Rocky Valley Dam's shape when it is full. Letter dated 6th April 1959 from H.H.C. Williams to Ski Clubs at Falls Creek re public safety as Rocky Valley fills. Refers to roads, transmission lines, pole lines etc in the Kiewa Works Area.Written in ink at top of letter - "Secretary / Mt Beauty and District Progress Association"rocky valley dam, falls creek ski clubs, h.h.c. williams, khes 1959, safety