Showing 104 items matching "falls creek ski school"
-
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Children outside Falls Creek Primary School
Falls Creek Primary School Prior to 1965, couples with small children would move away from Falls Creek due to there being no school facilities in the village. In the mid 60's a few families with school age children established themselves in the village, and a need arose for a school to encourage them to stay. An enrolment of seven children and a building was required before the Education Department could become involved. The Management Committee of the day gifted the families some land (still the site of the Falls Creek Primary School No. 5067) and fundraising began. The original committee consisted of the Steven family (two children), the Lee family (three children), the Caddie family (no children), the Carroll family (no children), and the Alston family (children?). After two years of community based, yet dubious fundraising methods (including weekly gluhwein parties, keg parties and numerous raffles), enough money ($1,300) was raised and an unused SEC building in Mt Beauty was bid on and won. Due to the condition of the road up to Falls Creek, it had to be dismantled and reassembled up the mountain. Unfortunately, the building was delivered to Falls Creek too late into the season to be erected but the following summer, with no money available to hire builders, working bees began, beer was on tap, and BBQs were cooked, and a crude schoolroom with an oil heater donated by Cecil Dobson from Winterhaven was erected. The first teacher hired was an Alaskan woman who agreed to a wage of $10 per child per week. Due to minimal resources the children were sent home at different times of the day in order to warm up and have a meal. Through the winter of 1971 many government departments were lobbied and it was decided that if the building could be finished to the Education Departments standards then they would provide a government endorsed full time teacher. The three main site holders (Bob Lee, Cecil Dobson and Dick Humphries) took out a loan and the school was refurbished and opened as the 'Bob Scott Memorial Hall' in time for the 1972 season. Maree Keele was the first Head Teacher. After three years of fund raising by the school committee the hall was paid off in full. After many years in the original building the Education Department took control of the school, updated the classrooms and provided accommodation for the teachers. In 1982, discussions began surrounding construction of a 'new' Falls Creek Primary School, a joint property with the community and the Education Department. After it was decided that the funds could not be raised fully by the community ($150,000), the Department constructed a new facility and students moved in on 1st July 1985.This image is significant because it includes children who became champion competitors at Victorian State, national and international level.A black and white photo of a group of children on a toboggan outside the Falls Creek Primary. It includes several future champion skiers. From back:- Kate Stevens, Pretty Valley Lodge, World Cup Freestyle representative and Champion; Tracey Lee, Attunga Lodge, Second in the Australian Freestyle and Australian Under Fifteen champion; Matthew Dobson, Winterhaven; Steven Lee, Attunga, three times Olympic and World Cup representative and competed on professional circuit; Chris Losch, Feathertop; Chris Heberle, Le Chalet, Cross Country Champion, eight times Australian Champion; Michelle Caddy, Geilo; Julie Smith: Vicki Losch, Feathertop: Debbie Humphreys, Powerhouse, Scott Caddy, Geilo: Sue Heberle, Le Chalet: Danielle Humphreys, Powerhouse, raced in State Championships and became ski instructor.falls creek primary school, falls creek education, falls creek skiers -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 17. No. 8 August 1951
Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski industry in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this issue include:- Page 304 - A meeting held at Bogong to which all clubs with Permissive Occupancies in Falls Creek were invited has agreed to form an Advisory Council. This body would be known as the "Falls Creek Alpine Village Advisory Committee. Each club was to have one representative and one vote. Suggested matters to be dealt with by the Committee included (a) Development of the village, (b) General Conduct and (c) Safety. Page 316 - An advertisement for Nissen Ski School with the slogan "Speed is the Thrill, COntrol the Art."schuss journal, the ski club of victoria -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Document - Proofs for Lift and Ski School Tickets Falls Creek, 1968
... Proofs for Lift and Ski School Tickets Falls Creek, 1968...Proofs for Lift and Ski School Tickets Falls Creek, 1968... printer. Proofs for Lift and Ski School Tickets Falls Creek, 1968 ...SKI TICKETS Before tows and lifts were introduced at Falls Creek, it could take skiers 20 minutes to climb to the Summit … but only TWO minutes to go back to the bottom. The arrival of tows, then chairlifts and T-bars changed the face of skiing forever. The first rope tow was constructed by Toni St. Elmo for the 1951 winter season. Bob Hymans installed a smaller tow for his guests at Skyline Lodge. Tows were still quite slow, so in 1956 Bob Hymans created his single chairlift. In 1958 the Village rope tow, designed by Albury engineer Jock Wilson, opened. It was financed by shareholders including Bill Griffith (Bowna Ski Club) and the Bridgford family (St. Trinian’s Ski Club). Several other tows followed including the Summit T-bar in 1961, built by Ron McCallum and operated by Alpine Developments Pty. Ltd. which was a company formed by C. H. (Bill) Bridgford. By 1982 Falls Creek was served by 16 different lifts or T-bars, all owned and operated by Alpine Developments (Holdings) Pty. Ltd. During the development of Falls Creek, different methods have been used to pay for the use of tows, lifts and T-bars … including metal tokens, single tickets, strips of tickets and season passes. The Falls Creek Historical Society Collection includes many examples of these items.These items are significant because they demonstrate the steps taken to create early lift and lesson tickets.These items are the proofs for tickets to be printed for the 1968 season. Some tickets have handwritten notes to advise printer.falls creek tickets, falls creek lifts -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Lifts and Ski School Lesson tickets 1981
SKI TICKETS Before tows and lifts were introduced at Falls Creek, it could take skiers 20 minutes to climb to the Summit … but only TWO minutes to go back to the bottom. The arrival of tows, then chairlifts and T-bars changed the face of skiing forever. The first rope tow was constructed by Toni St. Elmo for the 1951 winter season. Bob Hymans installed a smaller tow for his guests at Skyline Lodge. Tows were still quite slow, so in 1956 Bob Hymans created his single chairlift. In 1958 the Village rope tow, designed by Albury engineer Jock Wilson, opened. It was financed by shareholders including Bill Griffith (Bowna Ski Club) and the Bridgford family (St. Trinian’s Ski Club). Several other tows followed including the Summit T-bar in 1961, built by Ron McCallum and operated by Alpine Developments Pty. Ltd. which was a company formed by C. H. (Bill) Bridgford. By 1982 Falls Creek was served by 16 different lifts or T-bars, all owned and operated by Alpine Developments (Holdings) Pty. Ltd. During the development of Falls Creek, different methods have been used to pay for the use of tows, lifts and T-bars … including metal tokens, single tickets, strips of tickets and season passes. The Falls Creek Historical Society Collection includes many examples of these items.These tickets are significant because they represent a stage in the management at Falls Creek Tourist Village.A set of tickets available for the Winter season of 1981ski tickets falls creek, falls creek tourism, falls creek management -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Lift and Ski School Lesson tickets 1988, Alpine Development Holdings Pty Ltd
SKI TICKETS Before tows and lifts were introduced at Falls Creek, it could take skiers 20 minutes to climb to the Summit … but only TWO minutes to go back to the bottom. The arrival of tows, then chairlifts and T-bars changed the face of skiing forever. The first rope tow was constructed by Toni St. Elmo for the 1951 winter season. Bob Hymans installed a smaller tow for his guests at Skyline Lodge. Tows were still quite slow, so in 1956 Bob Hymans created his single chairlift. In 1958 the Village rope tow, designed by Albury engineer Jock Wilson, opened. It was financed by shareholders including Bill Griffith (Bowna Ski Club) and the Bridgford family (St. Trinian’s Ski Club). Several other tows followed including the Summit T-bar in 1961, built by Ron McCallum and operated by Alpine Developments Pty. Ltd. which was a company formed by C. H. (Bill) Bridgford. By 1982 Falls Creek was served by 16 different lifts or T-bars, all owned and operated by Alpine Developments (Holdings) Pty. Ltd. During the development of Falls Creek, different methods have been used to pay for the use of tows, lifts and T-bars … including metal tokens, single tickets, strips of tickets and season passes. The Falls Creek Historical Society Collection includes many examples of these items.A set of three 7 Day Anytime tickets for the 1988 Season. This set includes one ticket for a private lesson, one for a class lesson and the final ticket is for a child. These tickets could redeemed at any time during the 1988 winter season.7 day anytime tickets, falls creek passes, falls creek winter season -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Newspaper - Australia's Playground of the Future
Australian Magazine (A.M.) published a special three page article about Falls Creek and the Bogong High Plains on 24th August 1954. The article was titled "Australia's playground of the future". Written by Muir Maclaren, it referred to the Bogong High Plains as a comparatively new and unexploited winter playground which could be one of the best snow resorts in the world. There were 13 huts which were at Falls Creek which were there due to "hard work, the grace of God, and the permission of the Victorian State Electricity Commission". A brief history of the Albury Ski Club Lodge was included. In 1954 the Lodge was run byLes Meikle and had the Club had a membership of 200 people. Lodges with accommodation established at this time, with the ability to house a total of 280 people, included Albury, Skyline, Bogong, Myrtleford, Hymans, Dawn, Galleon, Kiewa Valley, Snowden, Nelse, Moroma, Trowalla, St, Trinian's, Bowna and Nissen. The reporter also interviewed Skippy and Toni St. Elmo and gave a description of the tow and its fees. He outlined Toni's earlier background with the SEC and noted that Toni had recently named a peak in the area Mt.. Hillary in honour of the success of Edmund Hillary in conquering Mt. EverestThis article and accompanying images are significant because they capture early information about the Bogong High Plains, Falls Creek and its pioneers.A centre spread from a monthly publication featuring text and colour imagesBeneath photo Toni St. Elmo and his wife, Skippy, who run the ski tow and a ski school. Skippy won the Albury Club Club Championship against men.bogong high plains, skippy st. elmo, toni st. elmo -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Postcard - Ski School Meeting Place, Falls Creek
... Ski School Meeting Place, Falls Creek...Ski School Meeting Place, Falls Creek..., Falls Creek Ski School Meeting Place, Falls Creek Postcard Ski ...These photographs were taken in and around Falls Creek by Samuel Keith Pearce and printed for him as a foldout postcard by NuColor Vue. The postcards state they were printed for S. K. Pearce Pty. Ltd of Tawonga and Mount Beauty. Samuel Keith Pearce was born on 24 June 1917 in Armadale, Victoria. By the late 1940s he owned the Mt Beauty Supermarket, Newsagency, Drapery and Hardware store at Mount Beauty and also a store at Tawonga in partnership with his brother Gordon Cathew Pearce. For some time, they operated as Pearce Brothers. In the early 1960s Keith also opened a mini mart In Falls Creek. As well as being a keen photographer and an astute businessman, Keith Pearce was a well-known identity in the Kiewa Valley, making many contributions to the development of the area over a long period. This included serving as a member of the Bright Shire Council for many years. He worked hard to promote the interests of the Upper Kiewa Valley. As a sign of recognition and appreciation for his contribution to the community, the park opposite the grocery store in Mount Beauty was named the SK Pearce Gardens in his honour. Samuel Keith Pearce died on 7 July 1994 in Mount Beauty, Victoria. The first Poma tow to open at Falls Creek was the Nursery Poma in 1964. The name "Poma" originates from the inventor of this style of lift Jean Pomagalski who was born in Krakow, Poland, He fled Poland with his family and settled in France. As an engineer he developed the first surface lift with a tow rod which was installed in Alpe d'Huez (France) in 1934.This collection of postcards and images is significant because they were commissioned by a highly successful businessman in Falls Creek, Victoria.A colour image of skiers and instructors gathered at the Meeting Place, Falls Creekfalls creek, falls creek chairlifts, poma lift falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - SEC hut - home to Skippy and Toni St. Elmo
Mavis Grace Lindsay born in 1917 and married Toni St. Elmo in Ballarat on 18 December 1944. She was known as “Skippy” from childhood. They moved from Melbourne in 1945 and spent the year living in Wallace’s Hut. Toni was employed by the State Electricity Commission to record weather-related data. They were to become responsible for early developments at the Falls Creek resort and for promoting a love of skiing. Toni taught Skippy to ski and she practised on the High Plains where she and her husband lived. Toni entering her in the first club championships held by the Bogong Ski Club at Rocky Valley, which he had established. Skippy St Elmo won many ski races during the 1950s and represented Australia in New Zealand. In 1947, the first ski lodge was built by six SEC employees including Toni St Elmo. The lodge was named “Skyline”. In 1957, Toni was involved in building the first rope tow at Falls Creek, called Nissen. He also established the Nissen Ski School. In 1949, Skippy won the Downhill and Combined State Championship held at Mt Buller. In 1950, Skippy was selected to compete in New Zealand with the Victorian team. Skippy trained with the men at the Bogong Ski Club which became a talking point in 1953 when the Albury Ski Club held an Open Championship and Skippy won in the Giant Slalom and Downhill. She went on to win many more races. In 1960, Skippy and Toni said farewell to Falls Creek. Skippy passed away in Queensland in July 2005 and Toni passed away in September of the same year. In November 2006 they were honoured at the Alpine Village at Falls Creek by the spreading of their ashes over Eagle Rock.A black and white photograph of Skippy and Toni St. Elmo standing in the doorway of their hut on the Bogong High Plains. A line of washing stretches behind the hut connected to the outside toilet.skippy st. elmo, toni st. elmo, sec hut skippy and toni st. elmo -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Adrian Costa at Lillehammer Winter Olympic Games, 1994
Adrian Costa is the second of four brothers who grew up at Falls Creek, attended school there and at Mt Beauty and were members of the Falls Creek Race Club. He started skiing at the age of three. Costa started competing in moguls around age 16 and ‘specialised’ in this field two years later. In 1991 he entered in the International Youth Championships in Le Sauze, where he finished second. His impressive career included competing in the World Cup from 1992 until 2003, representing Australia in the Winter Olympics in 1992 Albertville, 1994 Lillehammer, 1998 Nagano and in 2002 Salt Lake City where he was given the honour of carrying the Australian Flag in the Opening Ceremony. In total, Adrian Costa made 126 World Cup starts between 1991 and 2003, placing 31 times in the top-10 and seven times in the top-5. After retiring from competitive skiing, he coached another future four time Olympian, Britt Cox.These images are significant because they depict a former Falls Creek skier and Australian Olympic athlete.This item includes two colour photos of Adrian Costa competing at Lillehammer Olympics and carrying the Australian Flag at the Opening Ceremony.australian olympians, adrian costa, mogul skier -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Alex Warrender - Ski Patrol
Alexander Warrender was born in Melbourne and educated at Melbourne Grammar and Geelong Grammar School. He began skiing at an early age and spent many winters at Falls Creek. After leaving school in 1973, Alex decided to live at Falls Creek and went on to join the Falls Creek Ski Patrol. He was quickly promoted to second in charge of the Patrol aged 20 and was one of the first fulltime paid patrollers on the mountain. Alex also played in the band at the Frying Pan in the Bowl. Tragically he died in a car accident on the Oxley Road leaving the mountain on 23rd of August 1976. His funeral was a St John’s church in Toorak, and ashes were scattered on The Summit in a ski formation of the letter A by his young brother Simon and members of the Patrol. After Alex’s death, a small hut was constructed at the top of the Summit in 1980 which houses first-aid equipment used by Ski Patrol where a plaque was placed by Ski Patrol. Each year since Alex’s death, at 5pm on the 23rd of August, Falls Creek Ski Patrol gathers at this hut along with members of the Falls Creek community to remember Alex and other patrollers no longer here. This annual event is referred to as the Warrender Night, and celebrates the spirit of the Ski Patrol. Members of the Ski Patrol also raised funds and materials to build The Alexander Warrender Memorial Ski Patrol Base located on the ridge to the left at the top of Eagle Chair. It was officially opened by Alex’s mother Pamela on August 23rd 1990.This image is significant because they capture the image of one of Falls Creek's First Official Ski Patrollers whose memory is still honoured today.A colour photo of Alex Warrender Ski Patroller at Falls Creek and a framed photo of a group of Ski Patrollers and friends who attended Warrender Night in 2008Beneath framed image: Ski Patrol Evening 23 August 2008 - Summit Hut - Falls Creek Thank you from The Warrnedersalex warrender, falls creek ski patrol -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Paul Costa in action
Paul Costa is the eldest of four brothers who grew up at Falls Creek, attended school there and at Mt Beauty and were members of the Falls Creek Race Club. He originally raced in alpine skiing but changed to mogul skiing at the age of 16. His first event was the Falls Creek Summit Masters, where he finished second in the Open Class. In 1993 Paul Costa placed fourth at the FIS Freestyle World Championships in Altenmarkt-Zauchensee, Austria. He was selected to represent Australia in the Winter Olympics at Lillehammer in 1994, joining his brother Adrian in that team. During his mogul skiing career, Paul Costa collected 26 World Cup starts. At the end of his competitive career he took up coaching junior teams and was part of the moguls coaching staff for the 2006 Torino Olympics.This image is significant because it depicts an Australian Winter Olympian and former member of the Falls Creek Race Club.Coloured image of Paul Costapaul costa, australian olympians -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - Falls Creek For The Best Snow Falls
... promoting Falls Creek ski region. These include magazines for summer ...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 - Ski All Day Party All Night - Skiing Falls Creek
... promoting Falls Creek ski region. These include magazines for summer ...This magazine is part of a collection of yearly marketing magazines promoting Falls Creek ski region. These include magazines for summer and winter programs.This item documents a range of activities and facilities available at Falls Creek Alpine Resort.Magazine containing information and images for 1987 winter holidays. skiing, ski, falls creek, victoria, school holidays, winter, snow, winter sport, 1990s, marketing, graphic design -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - Skiing Falls Creek, Information 1987
... A small fold out guide to ski lifts and Ski School at Falls... Creek Alpine Resort skiing falls creek school holidays winter ...Part of a yearly marketing and information material promoting Falls Creek ski region for the winter holidays. This is a small fold out guide to ski lifts, tariffs, ski runs and a map of Falls Creek. It also includes basic safety instructions.This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortA small fold out guide to ski lifts and Ski School at Falls Creekskiing, falls creek, school holidays, winter, falls creek marketing -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - Falls Creek School Holiday Guide, 1987 School's Out
... Falls Creek ski region for the winter holidays, this brochure ...A part of a yearly marketing and information material promoting Falls Creek ski region for the winter holidays, this brochure includes a lesson timetable planner and booking details. It was produced by Falls Creek Ski Lifts Pty Ltd.This item is important because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortA small brochure including a lesson timetable and Family Ski Holiday Plannerfalls creek marketing, ski lesson timetable, falls creek winter programs, falls creek school holidays -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - Falls Creek High Altitude Training Centre
... Resort skiing ski falls creek victoria school holidays winter ...A part of a yearly marketing and information material promoting Falls Creek region for the summer holidays. This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortA4 size flyer for Falls Creek High Altitude Training Centre. Illustration of man running marathon front on with blue scribbled background and green scribbled ribbon. Text underneath image with green diamond graphics with black illustrations of various activities. skiing, ski, falls creek, victoria, school holidays, winter, snow, winter sport, 1990s, marketing, graphic design -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Document - Junior Test Sheet, The Ski Club of Victoria Junior Test
This is a framed receipt in the name of Skippy St. Elmo for completion of the Ski Club of Victoria Junior test for ski instructor. The test was completed on 25 August 1945 at the Scout Hall, Bogong High Plains. The receipt was found inside the cover of a typed manuscript. Mavis Grace Lindsay (Skippy) born in 1917 and married Tony St. Elmo in Ballarat on 18 December 1944. She was known as “Skippy” from childhood. They moved from Melbourne in 1945 and spent the year living in Wallace’s Hut. Toni was employed by the State Electricity Commission to record weather-related data. They were to become responsible for early developments at the Falls Creek resort and for promoting a love of skiing. Toni taught Skippy to ski and she practised on the High Plains where she and her husband lived. entering her in the first club championships held by the Bogong Ski Club at Rocky Valley, which he had established. Skippy St Elmo won many ski races during the 1950’s and represented Australia in New Zealand. In 1947, the first ski lodge was built by six SEC employees including Toni St Elmo. The lodge was named “Skyline”. In 1957, Toni was involved in building the first rope tow at Falls Creek, called Nissen. He also established the Nissen Ski School. In 1949, Skippy won the Downhill and Combined State Championship held at Mt Buller. In 1950, Skippy was selected to compete in New Zealand with the Victorian team to compete in New Zealand Skippy trained with the men at the Bogong Ski Club and that fact became a talking point in 1953 when the Albury Ski Club held an Open Championship and Skippy won in giant slalom and downhill. She went on to win many more races. In 1960, Skippy and Toni said farewell to Falls Creek. Skippy passed away in Queensland in July 2005 and Toni passed away in the September of the same year. In November 2006 the pair was honoured at the Alpine Village at Falls Creek by the spreading of their ashes over Eagle Rock.This certificate is an early document belonging to Skippy St Elmo, a pioneer of Falls Creek.Framed marking sheet for a Junior ski test for Ms Skippy Elmo at Bogong High Plains on August 25 1945. The test sheet is attached to a white backing paper which has 'My First achievement....skiing. Bogong High Plains' typed on it. The sheet has been framed for displau.skippy st elmo, ski instructor test, ski club of victoria, bogong high plains -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Skippy St Elmo and the Ski Club of Victoria Junior Test
Mavis Grace Lindsay born in 1917 and married Tony St. Elmo in Ballarat on 18 December 1944. She was known as “Skippy” from childhood. They moved from Melbourne in 1945 and spent the year living in Wallace’s Hut. Toni was employed by the State Electricity Commission to record weather-related data. They were to become responsible for early developments at the Falls Creek resort and for promoting a love of skiing. Toni taught Skippy to ski and she practised on the High Plains where she and her husband lived. entering her in the first club championships held by the Bogong Ski Club at Rocky Valley, which he had established. Skippy St Elmo won many ski races during the 1950’s and represented Australia in New Zealand. In 1947, the first ski lodge was built by six SEC employees including Toni St Elmo. The lodge was named “Skyline”. In 1957, Toni was involved in building the first rope tow at Falls Creek, called Nissen. He also established the Nissen Ski School. In 1949, Skippy won the Downhill and Combined State Championship held at Mt Buller. In 1950, Skippy was selected to compete in New Zealand with the Victorian team to compete in New Zealand Skippy trained with the men at the Bogong Ski Club and that fact became a talking point in 1953 when the Albury Ski Club held an Open Championship and Skippy won in giant slalom and downhill. She went on to win many more races. In 1960, Skippy and Toni said farewell to Falls Creek. Skippy passed away in Queensland in July 2005 and Toni passed away in the September of the same year. In November 2006 the pair was honoured at the Alpine Village at Falls Creek by the spreading of their ashes over Eagle Rock.Photograph of Ms Skippy Elmo and man at Bogong High Plains on August 25 1945 as well as a framed receipt for the Ski Club of Victoria Junior Test for Ski Instructorsskippy st elmo, skyline lodge, bogong high plains, ski instructor test -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Uniform - Falls Creek Search and Rescue
The Falls Creek Search and Rescue Squad was formed in the mid 1970s. It was partly instigated by Rob Spargo whose family purchased the site where the Falls Creek Hotel is today. The family was instrumental in the establishment and growth of the Falls Creek community and were involved in the foundation of Falls Creek Primary School and Falls Creek Search & Rescue (now Falls Creek SES). Rob was also involved in the start-up of Ski Victoria and has served as a member the Chamber and Resort Management Board. The Falls Creek SES Unit was established in 1981 and includes several members who have served their community with VICSES for more than 30 years.This uniform patch represents an important safety organisation at Falls Creek.A cloth badge with metal studs at each corner. It has a border of purple and crimson machine embroidered stitching and the name of the unit is embroidered in black thread.FALLS CREEK SEARCH & RESCUE SQUADfalls creek ski patrol, skiing safety, falls creek services -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - Falls Creek Lodge & Apartment Guide Summer 1992
... Creek Village, Victoria. skiing ski falls creek victoria school ...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 -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - Inbjudan - Swedish Article about Falls Creek 1991
... activities at Falls Creek Alpine Resort skiing ski falls creek ...This article is from the Swedish ski magazine "Inbjudan" in 1991. In 1977 a group of cross country skiers in Mount Beauty, decided to form a cross country ski club. Some of them had skied in Norway and taken part in the Norwegian Birkebeiner Ski Race in 1979, the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club was formed. In 1989, a 42km event named the Australian Birkebeiner Ski Marathon was held and the organisers also included a half distance of 21km called the Birkebeiner and a 7km event called the Birkebeiner Lite. This article outlines the work of Allan Marsland, the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club, the Alpine Resorts Commission, the Australian Ski Federation and Tourism Victoria to be accepted into the Worldloppet international series.This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine Resort A magazine cover and article about the quest to be included in the Worldloppet series, including text and black and white images.skiing, ski, falls creek, victoria, school holidays, winter, snow, winter sport, 1990s, marketing, graphic design -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - Falls Creek and the Winter of 2006
... ski falls creek victoria school holidays winter snow winter ...Part of an annual marketing campaign, this booklet was designed to provide information for planning a holiday at Falls Creek for the winter of 2006. It includes details about activities, facilities and accommodation in the Village as well as contact information to make necessary bookings. The text claims it contains "all you need to know. all you need to do is go."This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine Resort An A4 sized marketing booklet, including images and advertising information printed on glossy paperskiing, ski, falls creek, victoria, school holidays, winter, snow, winter sport, 1990s, marketing, graphic design -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - Falls Creek Winter 2001 - Catch the Buzz
... Creek Alpine Resort skiing ski falls creek victoria school ...Part of an annual marketing campaign, this booklet was designed to provide information for planning a holiday at Falls Creek for the winter of 2001. It includes details about activities, facilities and accommodation in the Village as well as contact information to make necessary bookings. The slogan for 2001 was "Catch the Buzz".This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine Resort An A4 sized marketing booklet, including images and advertising information printed on glossy paper.skiing, ski, falls creek, victoria, school holidays, winter, snow, winter sport, 1990s, marketing, graphic design -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 18. No. 3 May 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 - Australian Olympic Skiers Return Left to Right: Bill Day, Bob Arnott, Gordon Day. Page 111 - FRONT-SPRING CABLE BINDINGS - A note from Bob Hymans advises that he has for sale a number of Front- Spring Cable Bindings made by Ramy, the well-known French maker. In This pattern the spring is attached to the ski in front of the toe-irons and eliminates the weight of the spring around the heel fitted to most cables. It is very popular with ski-racers in Europe for its comfort and control. Bob also advises that his Ski School at Fails Creek will be open during the weekends of June, and from June 30 onwards till the end of the season. schuss journal, bob hymans, front-spring cable bindings -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 21. No. 7 September - October 1955
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. Page 234 - 235 featured an extensive report on developments at Falls Creek, Victoria. FALLS CREEK SKI CENTRE CONTINUES ITS STEADY ADVANCE Falls Creek skiing has continued to show markedly improved standards over this past season. Better facilities in and around the ski village itself have been accompanied by better skiing on the abundant snow covering all adjacent slopes. Just to mention a few of those facilities in the village: There have been extensions and big improvements at the Hymans Ski School, a number of excellent new club lodges have come into being, Nissen Lodge is in operation at the foot of the tow and adjacent slopes all setting new standards of ski-living that must make other resorts watch their step. While the advent of Cecil Dobson's General Store and Ski Centre, added to the service already available at the Nissen tow house, has removed all the old problems of food supply. Nissen ski-tow, the enticing face of the Frying Pan has given good service for a number of seasons now. To it has been added this year Bob Hyman's small portable tow which has worked for most of the season on the slope just in front of Skyline Lodge. The racing programme carried out at Falls Creek through this season has maintained the high standard shown in all other affairs. The main events started with the N.E.D.S.A. Championships early in August, then followed the Victorian and S.C.V. Nordic titles, and the Intermediate events.schuss journal, the ski club of victoria, developments in falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Flyer - Julian Brown 'Galleon' room advertisement
... because it was an important feature of the Falls Creek Ski School ...This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It is an early advertisement for rooms at the "Galleon" Ski Club. The "Galleon" was originally owned by Jim Willis. In 1958 Julian Brown took over the lease, managing it whilst building Arundel Lodge. After the winter of 1959, the "Galleon" was bought by Tom Greene and renamed Cooroona. 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 was an important feature of the Falls Creek Ski School Instructor uniform.A beige coloured flyer advertising room at the "Galleon" in Falls Creek. An explanatory sign is attached.On sign" ITEM No. 147 1958 Julian Brown, manager of the "Galleon", offer you rooms that are "never stuffy" and you can have "as many blankets as you like". This was Julian's first job at Falls Creek.george shirling, red onion, ski instructor badge, falls creek ski instructor -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Flyer - Out of the Snow into the Frying Pan, 1995
With the completion of the Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme in 1959, Falls Creek began to change from being a construction site into an alpine tourism resort. In 1964 the Frying Pan Inn group consisting of Bill Bridgford, Geoff Henke and L G Morrison acquired a license to construct a restaurant. It opened in time for the 1965 season, but the Frying Pan venue was damaged by fire in 1967. Renovations took until 1973 when the Frying Pan Inn reopened. It is now a popular Apres Ski location in the heart of Falls Creek Village. The Frying Pan has always been the central hub of The Bowl and at different times in the past has been the location of the Old Race Hut and also the Ski School Meeting Point. This flyer promotes three benefits of the Frying Pan Inn - its Backpackers' Accommodation, a great location and its nightlife which included live touring bands, comedy nights and Happy Hour. Accommodation included four or six person shared rooms, with breakfast being available at an additional cost.This item is significant because it documents activities and accommodation at a well-known venue at Falls Creek.A coloured flyer to promote the Frying Pan Inn featuring photographic images, basic information about facilities and accommodation tariffs for the winter of 1995.frying pan inn, falls creek accommodation -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Equipment - Mim Sodergren's Skis
Mim (Mariam) Sodergren developed innovative, specialized ski programs for women and children in both Australia and the United States. She and her husband Mike originated from Tahoma, California, USA. They spent 17 years of their lives without a summer, working as ski instructors in Lake Tahoe during the northern winters, and then they’d head off to Falls Creek and Thredbo in Australia. Mim and Mike Sodergren were both inspiring instructors at Falls Creek Snowsports School, dedicated to education and had a deep-seated passion for fostering an inclusive Snowsports community. Tragically Mim and Mike were among the 18 people killed on 30 July 1977 in Thredbo, Australia, when a landslide tore through Thredbo’s ski resort village and demolished two staff lodges. In 1997 the Australian Professional Snowsport Instructors (APSI) established the Sodergren scholarships in memory of Mim and Mike. The Sodergren Scholarship recognises the rising potential of Snowsport instruction within Australian ski resorts and allows the recipients to further their professional development by providing all training free of charge for one season. The women’s program still operates at Falls Creek and is a "heartfelt tribute to the memory of Mim Sodergren. Designed by women, for women, and inspired by the enduring passion of Mim and her partner, Mike, who was also an instructor, this program is a wonderful opportunity to learn to ski in a friendly and supportive environment, just as Mim envisioned." (Falls Creek Website 2024). Mike’s Men’s Ski Program at Falls Creek is also named in honour of Mike Sodergren. Mim’s skis were kept for many years by Ski Lifts at Falls Creek and were recently donated to the Falls Creek Museum for safe keeping.These skis are significant because they belonged to an iconic ski instructor still commemorated at Falls Creek, Victoria.A pair of Atomic Arc Skis, primarily black with coloured logo.ATOMIC ARC MODULE 645SLmim sodergren, mike sodergren, atomic skis, thredbo landslide -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Axtrack oversnow vehicle Falls Creek Hotel
This vehicle, an Axtrack is located outside the Falls Creek Museum. It was built by Axel Andre who worked in Falls Creek as a mechanic for several years in the early 1970s. Axel was an engineer by trade. He built this small twin track vehicle for Ivan Spargo at the Falls Creek Hotel and then progressed to building bigger and better models. This included one for Ziggy Doer at Koki and Neville Mashford at Snowland purchased two of them. Some of these machines were also exported to America. Axel Andre later established a company Axtrack Engineering in Melbourne. There are still three of these Axtrack vehicles on the hill at Falls Creek in 2024. The vehicles were used for commercial purposes such as transporting supplies and staff around the mountain. The Spargo family from the Falls Creek Hotel used this vehicle for oversnow transport and it advertised Harvey Wallbanger Happy Hour. Ivan and Joy Spargo relocated from Melbourne to Falls Creek in 1965. They purchased a piece of leasehold land and built Spargo Lodge. This was a dorm style chalet built to accommodate large groups and families. Their son Rob Spargo met his future wife Blanche in 1967 when she was on holiday in Falls Creek. They married and purchased the site where the Falls Creek Hotel is today. The steep gradient of the site was a challenge to build on but was the best location available in the village. In 1970 Rob’s sister Leonie and her husband Glenn joined the business, and they started operating the hotel in 1972. The family played a critical role in the growth of the Falls Creek community and were involved in the foundation of Falls Creek Primary School and Falls Creek Search & Rescue. Rob was also involved in the start-up of Ski Victoria and has served as a member of the Chamber and Resort Management Board. Rob’s eldest daughter Lisa competed with the Australian Ski Team from 1985 to 1989 and has worked as a ski instructor in Australia, Austria & Colorado. In 2010 Lisa and her husband Damien Allport joined the family business and her parents retired to Tawonga South in 2014. Their children are now the fourth generation of the Spargo family living at Falls Creek enjoying the alpine lifestyle and providing outstanding hospitality. The 40 year tradition of the Harvey Wallbanger Happy Hour held on Tuesdays and Thursdays continues at Falls Creek Hotel in 2024.This item is significant because it depicts an important form of transport at Falls Creek, VictoriaA coloured photo of a black Axtrack oversnow vehicle decorated with red and yellow advertising.FALLS CREEK HOTEL APRES ENTERTAINMENT HARVEY HOUR TUES & THURS 3.30 PM LIVE ENTERTAINMENTaxtrack, oversnow vehicles, falls creek transport, spargo lodge, falls creek hotel -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - Falls Creek 1995
... Creek Alpine Resort skiing ski falls creek victoria school ...Part of an annual marketing campaign, this booklet was designed to provide information for planning a holiday at Falls Creek for the winter of 1995. It includes extensive details about activities, facilities and accommodation in the Village as well as contact information to make necessary bookings.This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortMagazine titled Falls Creek '95 containing information and images for 1995 winter holidays. Front cover with image of snow globe with people skiing in it. Falls Creek logo on bottom left corner. Advertising on back page. Falls Creek 1995 / FALLS / SKI GUARANTEE / CREEK / FALLS CREEK / VICTORIAskiing, ski, falls creek, victoria, school holidays, winter, snow, winter sport, 1990s, marketing, graphic design