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

Photograph taken from highway in Tawonga. Mt Bogong in the background. Note the early model vehicles and petrol pumps and signage.Photographic history of buildings in Tawonga pre 1940.Coloured photograph of garage owned by George Harris in Tawonga, opposite Hanna Paske pre 1940 (estimate only)Handwritten in ink on back - Opp. Hanna's Paske. George Harris owned the garage.tawonga, mt bogong, tawonga garage

At the Pretty Valley Dam site erection of staff quarters was completed in April, 1947 and accommodation for workmen commenced in 1948 but suspended on 11th May for winter and resumed on 9th November. Construction of this camp was completed in 1949. A large dam was proposed at this site but was never constructed. Instead a small diversion dam was built which diverts water either to Rocky Valley Dam or to McKay Creek Power Station.An historical record of the type of accommodation provided for workmen during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Scheme during the 1940's/50'sBlack and white photograph of Pretty Valley camp showing workman's huts and construction materials.Handwritten on back of photograph in blue pen - Pretty Valleypretty valley, workmen's huts, victorian alps, secv

This photograph was taken during construction of the Rocky Valley Dam and wall. Work was commenced in early 1947 but had to be suspended during winter and then resumed in October. Work continued in 1948 with the establishment of work facilities and, at the dam site, the river was diverted through a temporary pipeline. Rocky Valley and associated spillway and outlet works were completed in 1959.A pictorial record of the construction of the rock and earth filled dam wall at Rocky Valley. Shows the extent of the project undertaken and the level of importance of the project as indicated by the large representation at the parliamentary party visit on 15/4/48.Photocopy of black and white photograph of parliamentary party visiting Rocky Valley Dam site 15/04/1948Typed on the bottom of photocopy - State Electricity Commission of Victoria. Date: 15-4-48 Time: 4.30pm No: K4397. Kiewa Hydro-Electric works. Parlimentary Party at Rocky Valleyrocky valley dam, parliamentary party, secv

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

This photo is of the very newly constructed State Electricity Commission town of Mt. Beauty. The houses up to Nelse street were erected from 1946 onward and then the township was extended beyond Nelse Street in 1950 which places this photograph about 1950/51. There is no evidence of work being commenced on the regulating pondage but the tail race canal can be seen on the centre right of photo. The workmen's camp was enlarged in 1950 to the extent of providing accommodation for a total of 1,200. There are a number of dwellings on Simmonds Creek and the road to Falls Creek can clearly be seen. Snow capped Mt. Bogong is in the upper left of the photo with Mt. Beauty behind the township rising to Big Hill beyond that.Shows the newly constructed town of Mt. Beauty surrounded by farmland and before the regulating pondage was built to discharge water from the power stations via the West Kiewa tail race tunnel into the Kiewa River. Copy of black and white photograph of Mt Beauty CampWritten on the back in black ink - A Campenmt beauty camp, secv, construction town

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

As part of the push to cut electricity costs and diversify supply, the Victorian Government (circa 1930) implemented the conversion strategy from mainly brown coal supply to hydro - electricity. The Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme became the largest scheme of its kind in the State Of Victoria and the second largest scheme in Australia. Clover Dam and Power Station were built by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria as part of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme from the late 1930's to the early 1940's. This dam was constructed to supply water to feed four turbines (62 mega watts) at the West Kiewa Power Station. This was at the forefront of sustainable "Green" energy. Costs associated with power supplies is still a major incentive of governments, however environmentally friendly alternatives such as wind and nuclear have also made inroads. The Kiewa valley and its surrounding alpine catchment were looked at(Victorian State Government), from the beginning of the twentieth century as a source of alternate power for an ever-increasing demand for electricity by growing population and heavy industrial areas within Melbourne City and State regions. Construction of dams, such as Clover Dam provided the large quantity holding areas of water required to turn the turbines at the various power stations to provide the electricity needed. The impact of these controls by moderating water run-off from the alpine regions is beneficial in reducing flooding from thawing of snow on the alps. This by-product allows agriculture and grazing to be less vulnerable to seasonal flooding thereby resulting in a more stable annual production level. Photographs also document early engineering and building techniques used in the construction of dams and power stations during the 1940’s and 1950’s. Note the lack of safety equipment and suitable work attire worn by construction workers on the sites 1. Black and white photograph of Clover Dam under construction. Has a .5cm white border around photo 2. Black and white photograph of Clover Dam under construction showing workmen at work. Has a .5cm white border around photo Written in pencil on back of both photographs - Clover Damclover dam, secv

During the 1950's, Mt Beauty's population was rapidly increasing due to the post war baby boom and because there was a young workforce moving into the area due to the opportunity available for work on the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. Maternal Infant Welfare Centre Sisters conducted regular check-ups on babies to ensure they were feeding well, gaining weight and reaching appropriate milestones for their age.Infants and young children in the Kiewa Valley area continue to be monitored by the Maternal Health Nurses to ensure their healthy development. The photographs are an historical record of early buildings in the Mt Beauty area, their uses and how they have changed to meet the changing needs of the community.2 x colour photographs of renovations to Mt Beauty Infant Welfare Centre. Mounted on white A4 copy paperPrinted at bottom of page underneath photos - Mt Beauty Infant Welfare Centre February 1994. Replacement of tile roof with Colourbond corrugated iron and construction of covered entry porch.mt beauty, infant welfare centre

Anzac Day in Mt Beauty before 1966. Background- SEC workshops with saw tooth roof. Taken in the days before the service station was built on the corner.Record of community of Mt Beauty and surrounds commemorating the involvement of their community members in military service and remembering those who gave their lives in war.Black and white photograph of Anzac Day commemorations in Mt Beauty - pre 1966. Photo looking down the highway towards Tawongamt beauty, anzac day

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

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

Pictorial record of early residents of Myrtleford before her marriage with information regarding her future husband. Provides a social history of the Myrtleford area.Pictorial record of early residents of Myrtleford before her marriage with information regarding her future husband.Black and white photograph of Elaine McNamaraHandwritten in black ink on back of photograph - Elaine McNamara Myrtleford - Later married Johnny Robertson. Stamped on the back of photograph - 6 280elaine mcnamara, myrtleford

Photograph of early switchboard used in Mt Beauty. It is a record of old communication methods used in the area.Provides a look into the history of communications in Mt Beauty. Mr Bill Sutton is a past employee of SECV and an active member of various community organisations within the Kiewa Valley.Colour photograph of Mr Bill Sutton and unidentified man taken at Mt Beauty switchboardHandwritten on back of photograph: Pics 5 85%mt beauty switchboard, secv, communications, switchboard

Historical record of early residents of Myrtleford area circa 1950's/1960'sHistorical record of early residents of Myrtleford area circa 1950's/1960'sBlack and white photograph of Gorden Miller and Ken Alexander working on a vehicleHandwritten in black ink on the back of photograph: Gorden Muller Myrtleford (curly hair with drum) Ken Alexander with hat. Stamped on back in black ink - 6 250gordon muller, myrtleford, ken alexander

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

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

Lake Mulwala is a man–made reservoir created through the construction of the Yarrawonga Weir across the Murray River, is located between Bundalong and Yarrawonga in Hume region of Victoria and Mulwala in the Riverina region of New South Wales, in eastern Australia. The weir was constructed in 1939 to provide water for irrigation of the surrounding district. The weir also serves as a crossing of the Murray between the two towns. It is a popular tourist destination for boating, fishing and other water recreation.Photographs demonstrate local Kiewa Valley residents enjoying a visit to the picturesque area of Lake Mulwala. Also provides a pictorial history of 1973.3 black and white photographs mounted on buff card. Photographs of a cruise on Lake Mulwala 25th Feb. 1973 1. Photo of unidentified man standing on the shore of Lake Mulwala beside cruise launch. 2. Group photo of people standing by cruise boat as others disembark. Woman in centre holding handbag may be Clare Roper (unconfirmed) 3. Photo of 2 men aboard cruise launch looking out over Lake Mulwala1. Handwritten at bottom of photo in black ink. 'Cruise on Lake Mulwala. 25th Feb. 1973' 2. Painted sign above cruise launch- Scenic Lake Cruises 3. No markingsclare roper

David Reid (1820-1906) was a pastoralists and politician. He left school at 16 and after meeting the overlander John Gardiner he decided to look for land south of the Murray River. Equipped by his father with some 500 head of cattle, 2 bullock wagons and teams and 6 assigned servants, he reached the Ovens River on 8 September 1838. David settled at Currargarmonge, near Wangaratta. At the end of 1843 he took up land near Yackandandah. In 1847 he took up a section of the family run of which Woorajay (Wooragee) formed a part. He built the first water driven flour-mill in the district on his Yackandandah run in 1845; his woolclip of 1848 was one of the first to be handled by R. Goldsbrough and was claimed to come from sheep descended from stock imported in the 1820s from George III's flock. Going into politics, he held the Legislative Assembly seat of Murray from October 1859 to May 1862. David Reid was a highly regarded grazier and local politician who was significantly involved in settlement around the Yackandandah area. Photo demonstrates ongoing interest in the local history of the area and its early residents2 colour photographs mounted together on buff card 1. Man and 2 children (unidentified) standing outside the remains of the Reid home. 2 Dec, 1973 2. Group of unidentified people on a tour of the old homestead of D. Reid. 2 Dec, 19731. Handwritten in black ink under photo 'D. Reid's home 1845. At Mill Park. 2 Dec 1973 2. Handwritten in blue ink under photo 'Snapshots Clare Roper"clare roper

The Captain Cook bicentenary was commemorated in Australia in 1970. The British explorer Lieutenant (later Captain) James Cook sailed and charted the East Coast of Australia in 1770, and claimed the Eastern Seabord of the Continent for the British Crown. This is not considered the official bicentenary of Australia, but rather the mapping of the Eastern coastlineLike many other towns around Eastern Australia, Yackandandah celebrated the bi centenary with a street parade, enjoyed by residents of surrounding areas including the Kiewa Valley3 black and white photographs mounted on buff card. Photographs taken at Captain Cook bi-centenary parade and celebrations in Yackandandah on April 4th 1970 1. Float depicting Captain Cook and sailors aboard the H. M. Endeavour 2. Local children on horseback possible representing the pony club. 3. Group of spectators standing outside the post office. One unidentified person dressed as a golliwogHandwritten in black ink above photo 1 "Capt. Cook Bi Centenary. Yack. 4 April 1970 (last number of date unclear) No marking on other photosyackandandah, parade, clare roper

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

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. 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 Board was not prepared to have it within the SEC controlled area and it was not until the gate at Tawonga South was taken down that the hospital was moved to the main centre of population at Mount Beauty.8 Colour photographs of the demolition of the original Tawonga and District Hospital situated in Mt Beauty circa 20001. No inscriptions 2. Side view of Tawonga District General Hospital, 1990’s 3. Demolition of the weatherboard hospital: Nurses station, ward and corridor 4. Demolition of the weatherboard hospital: kitchen & utility rooms 5. Demolition of the weatherboard hospital” front entrance & gardens 7. Demolition of the weatherboard hospital: Matrons House 8. No inscriptions tawonga & district general hospital; kiewa hydro electric scheme; mt beauty;

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

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

The Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club was formed in September 1977 when a group of enthusiasts met to discuss the idea. The club, located in Mount Beauty has conducted many activities and programs for its members and other cross country skiers at the Falls Creek Ski Resort, Alpine National Park and the Bogong High Plains. Club objectives are to promote the development of cross country racing, ski touring and associated activities. To assist in searches for persons lost in bushland areas and to maintain a Search and Rescue group. It also provides its members with opportunities for skiing and social activities. The Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club constructed a clubhouse at Falls Creek for the use of members in 1996. The club has conducted the annual Kangaroo Hoppet since 1991. Since its inception, the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club has been active in promoting cross country skiing including racing and touring in the Falls Creek, Alpine National Park and the Bogong High Plains areas and have actively participated in search and rescue in the alpine region. Birkebeiner members have represented Australia at five Olympic Games. A number of Kiewa Valley residents are active members or have been past members of the club over the years.Printed material from the internet with colour illustrations – History of the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club Inc. Sourced from http://birkebeiner.org.au/about/history/, 14/01/2016 7.45pmbirkebeiner ski club; nordic skiing; cross country skiing; falls creek; bogong high plains

Skippy and Toni St Elmo were responsible for early developments at the Falls Creek resort and for promoting a love of skiing. They left Melbourne in 1945 and settled at Falls Creek and moved into the first building constructed of corrugated iron and timber at Falls Creek in 1946. They were Falls Creek’s first workers with Toni employed by the State Electricity Commission to record weather-related data up to the construction of the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme. In 1957, Toni was involved in building the first rope tow called Nissen on the same route as the Summit Quad. He also established the Nissen Ski School with ski instructor Milan Kovacic and was involved in the building of the resort’s first ski club Bogong in 1949. Toni taught Skippy to ski and she practised on the High Plains where she and her husband lived. Skippy St Elmo won many ski races during the 1950’s and represented Australia in New Zealand.Skippy and Toni St Elmo were pioneers of the Falls Creek area, promoting local ski sports and tourism. The played an important role in opening up the Falls Creek area and developing its sporting potential by establishing the first ski school, ski lifts and early lodge facilities. Skippy and Toni St Elmo were honoured at the Alpine Village at Falls Creek on November 17 2006, with the spreading of their ashes at the place which played such an important part in both their lives.Set of 8 black and white photographs of Skippy St Elmo and other skiers 1. Skippy and 3 others in New Zealand 1951 2. Skippy and 5 others Falls Creek 1955 3. Cake celebrating 20 years of sport at Nissen Lodge 4. Skippy and friend outside Nissen Lodge 5. Skippy on the ski slopes 6. Skippy on the ski slopes 7. Albury Ski Club team New Zwealand 1957 8. The Bogong Ski Club 1950 Written on back of photos 1. Bob Howe Albury, Skippy New Zealand 1951 – 942H 2. Falls Creek 1955. Skippy St Elmo: H Devonassore; Margaret ?; ?; Tony St Elmo; Olive? 3. Written on cake Nissen Alpine Club. 20 years of sport. FRED 4. Skippy St Elmo 5. Skippy 6. Skippy 7. Bob Howe (Albury) Skippy New Zealand 1957. Albury Ski Club Team raced in NZ 8. The Bogong Ski club, Coronet Park, 1950. M Denham (Capt); B Wiltshire; R Roberts; Skippy St Elmo; Gwen Morris; J Frazer; J Smith; L Piera; Manager & Coach Toni St Elmo. J D Knowles Photographer Box 188, Queenstown. 744B falls creek, skiing, bogong high plains

The Junction Dam and Clover Dam Power Station, stages of the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme, were needed to meet the increased power demands of the wartime industry in Victoria. Clover added 26 megawatts to the grid. Junction Dam was completed and ready to hold water by September 1943, but was emptied in December 1943 and not filled again until May 1944. Construction of Clover Power Station commenced in July 1941 and both turbines were in service by May 1945.Clover Power Station and Junction Dam were part of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme constructed by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria. SECV official photographers took photographs of most stages of construction of the Hydro Electric Scheme and referenced each photo with a number and dating system as an historical record and for reference for other projects. This provided a thorough history of the construction of the Hydro Electric Scheme, some of the workers involved in its construction and the infrastructure supporting its construction, such a Bogong Village.Small light brown cardboard box originally containing sensitized photographic paper, now containing a range of black and white photographs of the Kiewa Hydro Electric System taken by the official SECV photographer Box has some damage – Front panel on lid is missing. Top has a puncture in top right corner and some peeling of paper along sides and at edges. Printed on the top of the box in black ink: OPEN ONLY IN PHOTOGRAPHIC DARK ROOM SENSITIZED PAPER Manufactured by – KODAK (A/asia) PTY. LTD. Melbourne Australia Green and white sticker on right side of lid and bottom right side of box, torn at join 1. 1B1 Single Weight Soft. Available in Soft (1) Medium (2) Contrast (3) Extra Contrast (4) Single and Double Weight Stamped at bottom of sticker in grey ink G8087 CK photographic paper box; state electricity commission of victoria; official photographer; kiewa hydro electric scheme; clover power station; junction dam; bogong village