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Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - Falls Creek Alpine Resort Summer '98 /'99
A part of the yearly marketing and information material promoting Falls Creek region for the summer holidays. It includes information for the Special Events program from October 1998 until April 1999.This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek in the late 1990s.An A4 size leaflet promoting businesses and activities in Falls Creek over the summer season. An accommodation rates chart is included in the centre page.falls creek marketing, accommodation falls creek, falls creek summer -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Ray Meyer racing at Falls Creek, c1949
MEYER COLLECTION - FALLS CREEK PHOTOS In 1947 a determined group of like-minded State Electricity Commission (SEC) staff including Ray Meyer, the chief surveyor of the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme, had a common interest that revolved around the skiing potential of the snow-covered high plains which included what is now the resort of Falls Creek. The six SEC employees, Toni St Elmo, Ray Meyer, Jack Minogue, Lloyd Dunn, Adrian Ruffenacht and Dave Gibson (together with their families) banded together to secretly build a 'hut' that was the first ski lodge at Falls Creek. Using a road built in 1930s to gain access to Falls Creek, their hut project was carried out in secret as efforts by other skiers were blocked by H.H.C. Williams – the engineer in charge of the Hydro Scheme. In 1946 Ray Meyer made a trip to the Lands Office in Melbourne. He came away with a 99-year lease on three acres that was ideally suited for a hut designed by Lloyd Dunn. Adrian Ruffenacht (Design Engineer for the KHS) had suggested where the group should build because of easy access to a spring for water. Much of the building material required was scavenged from derelict huts on the high plains. Due to the need for secrecy, the determined group worked on the hut in the evenings and weekends to avoid detection. During the building period the group had met at Echidna Rock (now known as Eagle Rock) where Skippy St Elmo announced, "This is my favourite ‘Skyline’.” And so the first lodge in the area at Falls Creek Ski Resort came into existence. With the development of the International Poma in the 1970s, the Skyline Lodge, which was sited between the ski-lift’s pole one and pole two, was demolished. However, the legacy of Ray Meyer, Toni St Elmo, Jack Minogue, Lloyd Dunn, Adrian Ruffenacht and Dave Gibson and Skyline lives on in the vibrant atmosphere of Falls Creek Resort. The MEYER COLLECTION documents developments on the Kiewa Hydro Scheme and their life at Falls Creek from the mid 1930s to 1960s.This image is significant because it depicts aspects of the life of a pioneering family of Falls Creek and the founders of "Skyline", the first lodge at Falls Creek.Images of Ray Meyer racing at Falls Creek about 1949. The fourth image shows John Meyer near the Wilkie on Bogong High Plains.falls creek, victorian snowfields, ray meyer, john meyer -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - A summer holiday, that's just Sweet F.A. Falls Creek
A part of a yearly marketing and information material promoting Falls Creek region for the summer holidays. The slogan for the year was 'A summer holiday that's just Sweet F.A." The information on one side of the unfolded brochure focuses on activities available utilising the theme of the slogan:- Fresh Air, FIne Accommodation, Fun Activities, Fabulous Alternative, Fine Animalse, Flora Alpine, Fabulous Altitudes, Footslogging Adventures and Financially Acceptable. The other side features detailed information about accommodation and dining venues.This item is important because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortDL size brochure for. summer holiday at Falls Creek, illustration of man in hammock on front cover with blue background, green, blue and white illustration and black title text of 'A summer holiday that's just Sweet F.A' on top of page and 'Falls Creek' at bottom. Opens up to multi-page of illustrations and information about summer activities and accomodation for Falls Creek. falls creek summer, falls creek marketing, falls creek activities -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Postcard - Views of Falls Creek 1959
postcards feature images taken by Frederick Charles Griffith. “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.These postcards document how Falls Creek was portrayed to the wider community.A set of postcards showing aerial views of Falls Creek as well as groups of skiers on the slopes, On Back of each card: POSTCARD CORRESPONDENCE / ADDRESS ONLY In a square for stamp Placement - KODAKfred griffith, albury ski club, falls creek, bowna ski club -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Postcard - Mini Mart and Post Office, Falls Creek
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.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 outside the Mini Mart and Post Office, Falls Creekfalls creek, falls creek chairlifts, poma lift falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Presentation at Falls Creek Ski School 1959
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection documenting his time with the Australian Alpine Club and the formation of the Albury Ski Club. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.This image depicts a presentation at the Falls Creek Ski School in its early years.Black and white photographs of a trophy presentation at Falls Creek Ski school probably in 1959bogong, falls creek, snow, snowfields, falls creek ski school -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Article - Falls Creek Ski Village - top snow playground, 18 April 1958
This article focuses on Toni St. Elmo and his views on the future of skiing in Falls Creek and the development of Spion Kopje as an important ski field with the potential to rival Mt. Kosciusko.This article is significant because it documents the variety of activities available at Falls Creek during its development.A newspaper item reports on Toni St. Elmo's vision for the future of Falls Creek and the snowfields on Spion Kopje. It features a photo of Toni and Skippy St. Elmo.toni st. elmo, falls creek development, spion kopje -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Race Events at Falls Creek 1953 Part 1
These photos are part of the Fred Griffith Collection. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook, Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.These images record a race event held at Falls Creek in 1953A set of black and white photographs which document a ski race event at Falls Creek in 1953fred griffith, falls creek, bogong -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Race Events at Falls Creek 1953 Part 2
These photos are part of the Fred Griffith Collection. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.These images record a race event held at Falls Creek in 1953A set of black and white photographs which document a ski race event at Falls Creek in 1953fred griffith, falls creek, bogong -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Falls Creek Ski School Race Club, Mid 1970s
The Falls Creek Race Club was started in the late 60's by Rodney Moss assisted by Bob Howe from Albury Ski Club and Geoff Henke from Moloney's. The club ran races on the summit every weekend and later started the training squad. Its aim is to promote all the skills of skiing and snowboarding and to improve the safety and enjoyment of the sport for all age groups. As an athlete's skills Improve so they can begin to train and race at Children's level races and move on to Junior and Senior levels, possibly aspiring to the Masters Circuit or State and National Teams. Hundreds of children have been involved over the past four decades and the program has produced a number of skiers who have been successful at national and international levels. Falls Creek has produced Olympians Ross and Malcolm Mine, Joanne Henke, Jenny Altermatt, Steven Lee in Alpine skiing. Dick Walpole and Chris Heberle in Cross Country, Britteny Cox, Paul and Adrian Costa in Freestyle Moguls. Many others have represented in National Teams at World Championship events.This photograph is significant because it includes early members Falls Creek Race Club, some of whom progressed to become representatives in international sporting events including World Championships and Winter Olympics.A framed colour photograph of members of the Falls Creek Race Club standing outside the Club buiding.Beneath Image Race Club Photo, mid 1970's outside of the original race hut. Noelene Lee on the balcony with Jill Helberle. L-R Simone Belza, ?, Bob ?, Chris Losch, Guy Maguire, Steven Lee, Susie Losch, ?, Karl Brandmeier.falls creek race club, falls creek olympians -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Document - Notes On The Falls Creek Tourist Area, 28.07.1960
Bob Hymans Collection Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans die on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This document is significant because it outlines plans for the development of the Falls Creek Tourist Area.A three page document from the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee outlining the location of Falls Creek, the role of the Committee, and inviting applicants who may desire to establish much needed facilities to apply to do so. The procedure for applying is briefly explained.falls creek tourist area management committee, development plans -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Letter - Annual Clean-Up Falls Creek Tourist Area, 16.10.1959
Bob Hymans Collection Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in May 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grande Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans died on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob’s endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This document is significant because it documents the Rules of Falls Creek Tourist Area Regulations 1959.A letter from the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee detailing arrangements made with the State Electricity Commission for the clean up of the Falls Creek area prior to the summer season. This was to ensure the removal of garbage and other rubbish which had accumulated during the winter.bob hymans, state electricity commission, sec falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Postcard - Falls Creek Souvenir Postcard Folder
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, VictoriaThis collection of postcards and images is significant because they were commissioned by a highly successful business in Falls Creek, Victoria.The cover and text from a postcard folder featuring coloured images of Falls Creek in the 1970s.falls creek village, postcards falls creek, s. k. pearce -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Ski Instructors Falls Creek Ski School
In 1961 the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee determined that there should be only one approved Ski School in the Tourist Area. The franchise for 1961 was granted to Alpine Developments Pty. Ltd', which also had the franchise for Tow Bar operations. The Ski School headquarters were based at the canteen adjacent to the T-Bar drive station. The Management Committee also determined that "No person shall be permitted to give instruction in skiing for any money or material consideration without the prior approval of the Management Committee". The Alpine Developments franchise was extended for the 1963, 1964 & 1965 seasons. In August 1964, the Committee declared that it was satisfied with the present Ski School operated by Alpine Developments, and is most anxious to retain it at Fells Creek. They declared that they were particularly happy with the standard of teaching and control achieved by the School director, Mr. Siegfried Haberzettl, who was at the resort for his fifth year, and to whose leadership and direction the success of the School was largely due. The Committee therefore arranged to extend the franchise for a further three years after 1965, and thereafter the franchise was to be continuous on twelve months' notice of termination from either party. In the 1960s and 1970s, the majority of Ski Instructors were Austrian. Lorna Clarke was one of the first Australians to gain the highest Austrian qualification, the Staatlicher Bundessportheim. She was employed at the Falls Creek Ski School in 1964. In the 1980s there was a push for more Instructor training to take place in Australia to enable local instructors to gain higher qualifications without having to travel to Europe. During this period, George Pirmoser and later Brad Spalding were Ski School Directors and Bridgford was the still the owner of Alpine Developments (Holdings) Pty. Ltd. continued to push for training of Australian instructors. Brad Spalding took over as Ski School Director in 1986 and along with his partner, Melissa Landregger developed a wide range of programs including children’s and women’s programs, private lessons and multi-day clinics for which Falls Creek Ski School is renowned until the present.This image is significant because it depicts some of the early instructors at Falls Creek Ski School.A coloured photo of a group of instructors at Falls Creek Ski School. On left Siggy Haberzettl, on right Lorna Clark. Siggy (Sigi) Haberzettl was the Ski School Director in the 1960s and Lorna was the first Australian instructor to be employed by the Falls Creek Ski School in 1964.falls creek ski school, brad spalding, lorna clarke, siegfried haberzettl -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Ascending the slope Falls Creek c1959
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection documenting his time with the Australian Alpine Club and the formation of the Albury Ski Club. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.Black and white photos of skiers using the tow to ascend the run at Falls Creek, probably in 1959bogong, falls creek, snow, snowfields -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - View of Falls Creek late 1950s
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection documenting his time with the Australian Alpine Club and the formation of the Albury Ski Club. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook, Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.These images record conditions at Falls Creek in the late 1950sBlack and white photos Falls Creek with people queuing for the tow or skiing in the background. Late 1950sbogong, falls creek, snow, snowfields -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Flyer - Falls Creek Ski School 1997
A foldout flyer promoting activities and programs to be offered by the Falls Creek Ski School in 1997. Falls Creek Ski School is described as "one of Australia's best, with highly qualified instructors for all disciplines. Combined with that, the mountain's terrain is hailed for its quality and variety as a teaching environment. Rapid improvement for accomplished skiers and unbelievable accomplishments for first timers - that's what lessons are all about."This item is important because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine Resort across all age groups.A glossy booklet featuring images and information about programs to be offered at Falls Creek in the 1997 winter season. The front cover features a photo of ski lesson in progress with five skiers and an instructor.On Cover: Ski School 1997falls creek marketing, falls creek ski school, falls creek activities -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Falls Creek Holiday Ticket 1971
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 Falls Creek Holiday Pass for 1971. It has been signed in red ink by J. Fox and is dated from 2/8/ - 6/ 8/71.falls creek passes, administration falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Souvenir - Falls Creek Cap, c1980s
A range of promotional material is produced every season for Falls Creek snow resort in Victoria.This item is representative of clothing used as promotional material.Black baseball cap with blue embroidered text on front - Where the Fun Falls! Falls CreekWhere the Fun Falls! / Falls Creekfalls creek, falls creek memorabilia, falls creek clothing -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - Ski Falls Creek - The Ski Easy Resort
A part of a yearly marketing magazine promoting Falls Creek ski region for the winter holidays. It includes 24 pages of detailed information and maps describing resort facilities, different runs and access to the snow. Available accommodation is explained with the inclusion of tariffs for 25 different venues in both lodges and apartments. Transport, ski hire, other village services and insurance and booking agents are also explained. The brochure was published by Victour.This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortAn A4 sized magazine titled "Ski Falls Creek - The Ski Easy Resort". It consists of 24 pages of information and images.falls creek 1985, the ski easy resort, falls creek marketing, falls creek maps, falls creek activities -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Letter - Meeting Minutes Of Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee, 29.02.1960
Bob Hymans Collection Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans die on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This letter is significant because it documents the approach to SEC tariffs for licensees.The complete minutes of meeting convened on 29th February 1960 to elect Licensee Representatives to the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee.falls creek administration, licensee representatives -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - Falls Creek High Altitude Training Centre
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
Photograph - Upper Kiewa Valley Road, Falls Creek
MEYER COLLECTION - FALLS CREEK PHOTOS In 1947 a determined group of like-minded State Electricity Commission (SEC) staff including Ray Meyer, the chief surveyor of the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme, had a common interest that revolved around the skiing potential of the snow-covered high plains which included what is now the resort of Falls Creek. The six SEC employees, Toni St Elmo, Ray Meyer, Jack Minogue, Lloyd Dunn, Adrian Ruffenacht and Dave Gibson (together with their families) banded together to secretly build a 'hut' that was the first ski lodge at Falls Creek. Using a road built in 1930s to gain access to Falls Creek, their hut project was carried out in secret as efforts by other skiers were blocked by H.H.C. Williams – the engineer in charge of the Hydro Scheme. In 1946 Ray Meyer made a trip to the Lands Office in Melbourne. He came away with a 99-year lease on three acres that was ideally suited for a hut designed by Lloyd Dunn. Adrian Ruffenacht (Design Engineer for the KHS) had suggested where the group should build because of easy access to a spring for water. Much of the building material required was scavenged from derelict huts on the high plains. Due to the need for secrecy, the determined group worked on the hut in the evenings and weekends to avoid detection. During the building period the group had met at Echidna Rock (now known as Eagle Rock) where Skippy St Elmo announced, "This is my favourite ‘Skyline’.” And so the first lodge in the area at Falls Creek Ski Resort came into existence. With the development of the International Poma in the 1970s, the Skyline Lodge, which was sited between the ski-lift’s pole one and pole two, was demolished. However, the legacy of Ray Meyer, Toni St Elmo, Jack Minogue, Lloyd Dunn, Adrian Ruffenacht and Dave Gibson and Skyline lives on in the vibrant atmosphere of Falls Creek Resort. The MEYER COLLECTION documents developments on the Kiewa Hydro Scheme and their life at Falls Creek from the mid 1930s to 1960s.This image is significant because it depicts aspects of the life of a pioneering family of Falls Creek and the founders of "Skyline", the first lodge at Falls Creek.A photo of the Upper Kiewa Valley Road, Falls Creek. Arrows have been marked on the photo to indicate key locations. L to R:- Tony's Old place; Windy Corner: Tony's Preb./ Road.falls creek, toni st elmo, toni beveridge hydrographer -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Building Bridge at High Plains Road, Falls Creek 1950
These photos are part of the Fred Griffith Collection. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.These images record construction of a bridge at High Plains Road, Falls Creek Falls Creek by volunteers in 1950A set of black and white photographs showing steps in the construction of a bridge at Falls Creek on the King's Birthday weekend 05/06/1950fred griffith, falls creek, bridge building -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - At the Lodge Falls Creek, King's Birthday weekend 1950
These photos are part of the Fred Griffith Collection. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.These images record a group of skiers at the hut on the King's Birthday weekend 1950.A set of black and white photographs showing steps in the construction of a bridge at Falls Creek on the King's Birthday weekend 05/06/1950fred griffith, falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Letter - From Falls Creek Chamber of Commerce, 10.04.1997
Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans die on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This item is significant because it documents actions taken by the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee in their role overseeing the Tourist Area.A framed letter to Bob Hymans from Falls Creek Chamber of Commerce inviting him to be part of the "Aussie Host" seminar to be held at Falls Creek. All Chamber Members were being urged to participate in the seminars. Businesses which sent 60% of their staff or more of their employees through the workshops would qualify as an Aussie Host Business.falls creek tourist area management committee, falls creek administration, bob hymans -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - Falls Creek Resort - Ski All Day
A part of a yearly marketing magazine program promoting Falls Creek ski region for the winter holidays. It includes 24 pages of detailed information and maps describing resort facilities, different runs and access to the snow. Available accommodation is explained with the inclusion of tariffs for 25 different venues in both lodges and apartments for 1988. Transport, ski hire, other village services and insurance and booking agents are also explained. This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortMagazine titled "Falls Creek Resort - Ski All Day ....Party At Night". It contains 24 pages of images, information, maps and advertising.falls creek marketing, falls creek 1988, falls creek advertising -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Letter - To Falls Creek Lodge Holders - Disposal Of Garbage, 08.05.1961
Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans die on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This letter is significant because it reflects the relationship between Bob Hymans and the Management Committee.A letter from the Management Committee restating the regulations related to the disposal of garbage at Falls Creek. This issue appeared to be an ongoing problem throughout the 1960s.bob hymans, falls creek tourist area management committee, falls creek garbage disposal -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Letter - Annual Clean-Up - Falls Creek Tourist Area, October 1961
Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans die on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This letter is significant because it documents developments made or endorsed by the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee.A notification from the Management Committee outlining the procedure and times for the Annual Clean up of the Falls Creek Tourist Area prior to the summer season.falls creek tourist area management committee, chairlift licence negotiations, double chairlift -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Letter - Electricity Supply Extension To Falls Creek Approved, 08.04.1960
Bob Hymans Collection Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans die on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This letter is significant because it documents the commitment by the SEC to extend service to a wider area in Falls Creek,A letter outlining plans by SEC to extend electricity supply in Falls Creek. It outlines requirements to be met by licensees and residents to access this new service.falls creek administration, extension of service sec