These booklets were given to subscribers to the Warrnambool Standard newspaper as an almanac for the year 1925. Warrnambool Standard Almanacs were produced from 1875 to 1930. They contain much local information on Warrnambool and district about businesses, government officials, banks, churches, harbour management, societies and organizations etc. The Warrnambool Standard newspaper was established in 1872 and continues to this day. These booklets are of high significance as they contain mush valuable information about Warrnambool and district for the year 1925. They are important research tools for those studying and writing the history of Warrnambool and district. Copy One belonged to the son of George Barber, a well-known solicitor who opened a legal practice in Warrnambool in 1855. George Barber, Senior died in 1879 and it appears that a member or members of his family went to the Maryborough district as this copy came into the collection of the Warrnambool and District Historical Society via the Midlands Historical Society. These are two soft cover booklets of 111 pages, plus several pages of advertisements at the front and back of the booklets. The covers are buff-coloured with brown lettering. The back cover of Copy Two has come apart and has been re-affixed with adhesive tape. The booklets contain a fold-out sheet of a map of Warrnambool, several photographs in blue and brown tonings and other illustrations. The inscription on Copy Two is handwritten in black ink. ‘Barber’ ‘Lowick’ warrnambool standard newspaper, history of warrnambool, standard almanac 1925

These booklets were given to subscribers to the Warrnambool Standard newspaper as an almanac for the year 1925. Warrnambool Standard Almanacs were produced from 1875 to 1930. They contain much local information on Warrnambool and district about businesses, government officials, banks, churches, harbour management, societies and organizations etc. The Warrnambool Standard newspaper was established in 1872 and continues to this day. These booklets are of high significance as they contain mush valuable information about Warrnambool and district for the year 1925. They are important research tools for those studying and writing the history of Warrnambool and district. Copy One belonged to the son of George Barber, a well-known solicitor who opened a legal practice in Warrnambool in 1855. George Barber, Senior died in 1879 and it appears that a member or members of his family went to the Maryborough district as this copy came into the collection of the Warrnambool and District Historical Society via the Midlands Historical Society. These are two soft cover booklets of 111 pages, plus several pages of advertisements at the front and back of the booklets. The covers are buff-coloured with brown lettering. The back cover of Copy Two has come apart and has been re-affixed with adhesive tape. The booklets contain a fold-out sheet of a map of Warrnambool, several photographs in blue and brown tonings and other illustrations. The inscription on Copy Two is handwritten in black ink. ‘Barber’ ‘Lowick’ warrnambool standard newspaper, history of warrnambool, standard almanac1925

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

Tawonga is in the Kiewa Valley, where local farmers lived with their families. The school was originally opened July 27 1880, situated on 8 acres near the current township of Tawonga. The school was erased by fire in 1900 and all records destroyed. The school was then moved to the Old Tawonga Hall. In 1910, the school was shifted to its present site on 3 acres of land donated by Frank Cooper. The school building and attendance continued to grow, especially during construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme.Tawonga Primary School has educated the local farming and town children for many years. It is an excellent source of the names of the local families of the time ie: Vera Ryder – front row, far right (little girl with the wide headband.)Copy of black and white photograph of pupils at Tawonga Primary School. Circa 1920 (estimate)tawonga primary school, kiewa valley

Tawonga is in the Kiewa Valley, where local farmers lived with their families. The school was originally opened July 27 1880, situated on 8 acres near the current township of Tawonga. The school was erased by fire in 1900 and all records destroyed. The school was then moved to the Old Tawonga Hall. In 1910, the school was shifted to its present site on 3 acres of land donated by Frank Cooper. The school building and attendance continued to grow, especially during construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme.Tawonga Primary School has educated the local farming and town children for many years. It is an excellent source of the names of the local families of the time. Copy of black and white photograph of pupils at Tawonga Primary School. Circa 1920 (estimate)tawonga primary school, kiewa valley

Horse owned by the Fisher family who were dairy farmers in the Mongans Bridge area in the early 1900'sThe Fisher family were very keen horse people and received awards for their horsemanship and their horsesSepia photograph of Mr Henry Fisher with his prize winning horse (presumed to be Sir William Wallace) Photo is mounted on heavy cardboard frameHand written on back of photograph - MR HENRY FISHER Daddy and horse. Taken at home about 1915fisher family, kiewa valley farmers, mongan's bridge

The Hallford truck was made by J & E Hall, of Dartford, England, whose business commenced in 1785. In 1926 the Fisher family of Mongan's Bridge took delivery of the 1923 Hallford truck which was used on the farm to transport cream to the Kiewa Butter Factory in Tangambalanga. In 1967, the truck was sold to Mr Greg Bedstead and other members of the Kiewa Valley Historical Society for the KVHS who reimbursed them at a later date. The truck was housed at the Butter Factory for many years and was paraded on special occasions. The truck was purchased for $380. It's chassis no. 2439 and the price included a spare chain. (Ref. E. Fisher on 18th Dec. 1969) The KVHS group who paid $50 each towards the Hallford truck were: T Pyle; James Grave; P & E. Barton; K Shoebridge; K Plenderleith and SK Pearce.refunded in 1971 Hallford truck. Fisher family. Kiewa butter factory. J & E Hall Company of England. E FisherBlack and white photograph of Paddy Fisher's cream truck loaded onto a tray truck at the Tawonga Caravan Park. Seven unidentified people on the tray truckSmall typed note attached to back of photo 'Paddy Fisher's cream truck at Tawonga caravan park. 13th December, 1969hallford truck, cream truck, fisher family, kiewa valley farmers, mongan's bridge

The Fisher family were dairy farmers in the Mongans Bridge area in the early 1900'sThe Fisher family, including Everil, were very keen horse people and received awards for their horsemanship and their horsesSepia photograph of Everil Fisher on her horse. Taken in 1932Handwritten on back - Everil Fisher 1932fisher family, kiewa valley farmers, mongan's bridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

After World War II, the Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme was started in the Kiewa River valley by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria. On land previously used only for summer cattle grazing in the natural alpine grasslands, the first ski lodge was built in 1948 by workers from the scheme. The first lift, a rope tow, was built in 1951 and the first chairlift in Australia was constructed there in 1957. Falls Creek Post Office opened on 9 June 1958 (with telegraph and telephone facilities only until 1964) .Despite strong opposition from the head of the Kiewa scheme, who didn't want tourists clogging up his roads and destroying his "dry" construction camps by bringing in booze, Falls Creek boomed as much as Hotham, partly owing to its relatively good access road. Early lodges included Bogong (c.1946), Skyline (1947), Albury (1949), Myrtleford (1949) and Dawn (c.1950).The souvenir postcard photographed and produced by an enterprising local businessman Mr S K Pearce, was produced as a memento for skiers and other visitors to the Falls Creek and Mt Beauty area to send to family and friends as a reminder of their visit to the region, or to keep as a personal souvenir. It presented an excellent promotional opportunity for enterprising local businessmen to promote the area to skiers and tourists near and far. It also presents an excellent pictorial history of the falls creek area around the late 1950’s to early 1960’sColour postcard folder (unused) containing 13 photographs of the Falls Creek ski area and surrounds. Inside cover has a brief description of the area and the services available to visitors Printed on front cover- FALLS CREEK SKI VILLAGE. Your Souvenir Folder Photo of skiing slopes of the village Inside front flap - a brief description of the Falls Creek area and the services available to visitors 1. Diana Lodge parking area and Spion Kopje 2. Winterhaven Lodge 3. Ski Hirage Centre and skiing slopes 4. Ski Lodges from main road 5. Nelse and Arundel Lodges 6. Day visitors’ shelter and parking area 7. Summit T-Bar lift 8. Spur T-bar looking towards Village and Spion Kopje 9. T-bar lower station and Snow Crystal Inn 10. ‘Akja’ rescue sled in use 11. Falls Creek road and Grand Coeur Lodge annex 12. Rope tows and beginner slopes 13. Back cover- Published by Nucolorvue Pty Ltd Mentone Vic. Printed in Australia For S.K.Pearce Pty Ltd Tawonga and Mt Beauty falls creek, snow, bogong high plains, victorian alps

Bogong Village, which was known as “The Junction”, is well recorded. The first tent camp was at the junction of Pretty Valley and Rocky Valley streams in the early 40’s. Further downstream were the sawmill, stables and blacksmith’s forge. Horses were the main mode of transport in the early days. The road to Bogong had reached the lookout spur just beyond Roper’s Spur track just before the 1939 fires. The early forties saw rapid growth of the village, with single and married men’s quarters, workshops, mess huts and administrative offices. The facilities necessary for communal living were quickly in place- a post office, police station, co-op store, medical centre, community hall/theatre, tennis courts and school. Much of the temporary accommodation that housed groups such as the Albion Quarrying Company were in the area now under water.This group of photographs are a pictorial record of the early history of the Kiewa Hydro Scheme, the people who worked in the background supplying administrative support and the workers and their families. It also shows a glimpse into how a large group of people from very diverse backgrounds came together to enjoy social activities and share each others companyGroup of 10 black and white photographs and photocopies of original photographs of varying sizes (some official SECV photos) Some Photos are labelled with the date and the names of SECV staff members. Depicting early life at Bogong Village 1. Group photo – Kiewa House Residents 1.8.41 (SECV official photo) 2. Female staff residents 3. Female office staff 4. Kitchen staff – Junction Mess (SECV official photo) 5. Male administration staff Bogong 6. Bogong Social Club fancy dress ball, 1940 7. Wives and children of SECV workers 8. Children in fancy dress 9. Opening of Volunteer Air Observers post 1943 10. Flag raising at opening of Volunteer Air Observers post 1. Printed under photo: STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION OF VICTORIA Date: 1.8.41 Time: 12.30pm No:K 435 Kiewa Hydro-Electric Works. Kiewa House Residents Back Row L to R: S.A. Salmon, W. Strachn, T.A Connors, W.J Norman, R.C Grealey, R.D Hegarty, Mrs Hegarty, W.R Morgan, S.A Clarke, P. Morgan, P.J. Harnetty, G.W Crouch. Front Row L to R: W.L Godfrey, R.S Hollands, Pte. R Charlesworth, R.L Dunn, N Caldwell, L.T Davies, I Webber, H.L Kendall, P Tiller, Ricky Hegarty, L.T Guy, M.C Cox, K.F Calder, D.S Gibson 2. Printed on bottom: Staff who lived at Kiewa House and worked in the Administration Office c 1943 Handwritten at bottom Priscilla Johnson (nee Reid) At top of page A GOOD LIFE: WOMEN’S RECOLLECTIONS OF LIFE IN THE UPPER KIEWA VALLEY 3. Printed under photo- Office Staff – Bogong 4. Printed under photo: STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION OF VICTORIA Date: 18.5.40 Time: 11.05am No:K 103. Kiewa Hydro-Electric Works. Kitchen Staff- Junction Mess. Opening night of the new staff mess Bogong. 5. Printed under photo -Administration staff Bogong 6. Printed under photo- The social club raised money for patriotic fund from fancy dress nights. (1st Fancy Dress Ball, Bogong 1940) 7. Printed above photo: ---- and family life begins (1942 Bogong) 8. Printed under photo: A favourite photograph 9. Printed under photo: STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION OF VICTORIA Date: 24.5.43 Time: 2.8pm No:K 1151 Kiewa Hydro-Electric Works. Bogong- Squadron Leader Leggett speaking at opening of Air Observer’s Post 10. Printed under photo: Raising the flag at the opening of the Volunteer Air Observer’s Post at Bogong - 1943 bogong village; kiewa hydro electric scheme; social activities; community clubs

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