Showing 1061 items matching "skis and skiing"
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Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 24. No.6 August 1958
Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski facilities at Falls Creek.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. The cover features a photo of Milan Kovacic demonstrating the Wedeln Technique. Page 257 has a photo of an unknown gentleman transporting a bass on a chair lift with the suggestion that he could provide "music while you ski" to assist the Wedeln Technique. Pages 258 - 260 continued Tribute to George S Fitzgerald, Pioneer of Omeo and the Bogong High Plains from the previous issue. Page 263 reported on the success of the New Ski Tow at Falls Creek including a photo taken by Eric Burt on the opening day. An advertisement for Falls Creek Ski School was also on this page. Page 266 referred to a talk given by Bernhard Plohberger and page 275 features an advertisement for Falls Creek Ski School where Bernhard Plohberger would teach the "Wedeln Technique".schuss journal, the ski club of victoria, george fitzgerald of shannonvale, bernhard plohberger -
Melbourne Legacy
Photograph - Junior legatee outing, Grass skiing, 199
... Grass skiing...skiing ...Legacy have many programs to send young junior legatees on activities, camps and outings. This photo shows children attempting grass skiing. The date and venue is not known. It was stored with other photos of Junior Legatees from the 1980s and 1990s. A record of a Legacy providing experiences for the junior legatees.Colour photo of junior legatees attempting grass skiing.Printed on Fujicolor paper.junior legatee outing, skiing -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Ski-Horizon Vol 7 No 2 Final Issue
Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The were 26 original member clubs which included Albury Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club and Wangaratta Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this issue include:- Page 1 - An explanation for the end of the publication in line with the dissolution of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs and the formation of the Victorian Ski Association. Page 5 - A whisper that Bob Hymans has asked the SEC for permission to build a "Pomalift" steel cable tow costing about £20,000 at Falls Creek.federation of victorian ski clubs, bob hymans, pomalift -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - Falls Creek 1995
... skiing ...Part of an annual marketing campaign, this booklet was designed to provide information for planning a holiday at Falls Creek for the winter of 1995. It includes extensive details about activities, facilities and accommodation in the Village as well as contact information to make necessary bookings.This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortMagazine titled Falls Creek '95 containing information and images for 1995 winter holidays. Front cover with image of snow globe with people skiing in it. Falls Creek logo on bottom left corner. Advertising on back page. Falls Creek 1995 / FALLS / SKI GUARANTEE / CREEK / FALLS CREEK / VICTORIAskiing, ski, falls creek, victoria, school holidays, winter, snow, winter sport, 1990s, marketing, graphic design -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Poster - Kangaroo Hoppet 2021
The Kangaroo Hoppet is Australia’s premier long distance cross country ski race, and a member of the Worldloppet series of international cross country ski events. The first race at Falls Creek was held in 1979 under the name of “Australian Birkebeiner”. It was a 21km race with about 80 participants organised by the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club of Mount Beauty. The course started and finished at Falls Creek Alpine Resort and took participants out into the Bogong High Plains. After running the event for 10 years, it was decided they should become part of the Worldloppet series of marathon ski races. Representatives from the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club and the Australian Ski Federation attended the Worldloppet Annual Meeting in Finland in June 1990 to put the case for the acceptance of an Australian event into the Worldloppet series. Before being admitted, they had to demonstrate that the Birkebeiner Club could run a world class event, so three months later in August 1990 a 42km event named the Australian International Ski Marathon was held at Falls Creek together with a 21km Birkebeiner race and a 7km event called the Birkebeiner Lite. The event was approved by delegates from USA, Norway and Austria, in 1991 Australia became the 12th member of Worldloppet, with the condition that there had to be a name change. After some late night discussion allegedly involving red wine from North East Victoria the main event became the 42km Kangaroo Hoppet, with the minor events being the 21km Australian Birkebeiner, and 7km Joey Hoppet. In the winter of 1991, the first Kangaroo Hoppet was held. It was a great success and has been a regular fixture on the international ski calendar ever since. It features the main 42km event as well as a 21km event and a 7km event. The Hoppet brings the Australian snowfields to an international audience. In 2021 plans were in place for the 30th anniversary of the Hoppet when it was again stopped due to COVID-19. A virtual Hoppet was put in place. It ran between 1st and 29th August 2021 and was again successful, with almost 1200 entrants. 31 countries and all Australian states and mainland territories were represented. Participants came from Argentina, Austria, Canada, Czechia, Dubai, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK and the USA.This poster is significant because it documents an event which brings international attention to Falls Creek and the surrounding region.A poster featuring two skiers heading into the distance. One skier has a race bib with 30 1991 - 2021 visible on his back. At the top is a circular emblem featuring a kangaroo looking through the middle of the number 30. It is surrounded by the words "KANGAROO HOPPET ANNIVERSARY 1991 - 2021". Logos of Worldloppet, AGL, Falls Creek, Alpine Shire Council, Victorian State Government, the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club, FIS, Community Bank Mount Beauty & District and KANGAROO HOPPET are across the bottom of the poster. In middle of image: AUSTRALIA'S PREMIER X-COUNTRY SKI RACE Between image and logos: 18 AUGUST 2021 FALLS CREEK AUSTRALIA 7 KM 21 KM 42 KM HOPPET.COM.AUkangaroo hoppet, worldloppet events, falls creek, mt. beauty -
Parks Victoria - Mount Buffalo Chalet
Photograph, "Alma Coleman / Mt Buffalo Girl 1930"
Appears to be an original piece from Mt Buffalo Chalet. Listed in Draft Inventory of Significant Collection Items. Black and white handcoloured photograph of " Alma Coleman, Mt Buffalo Girl 1930" Image depicts woman on skis in snow, facing camera. Photograph is hand coloured, mounted behind a brown cardboard mount. Framed in a black wooden frame with carved decoration around edge."Alma Coleman / Mt Buffalo Girl 1930 / co founder Edelweiss ski club of Australia - 1934 / co founder Karoonda ski club / Mt Hotham 1967" -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Staff Identification Tag David Osborn 1989
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.This Staff Identification Card is significant because it belonged to David Osborn who lead developments at Falls Creek in the late 1980s.A staff identification tag featuring a coloured photograph of David Osborn. He came to Falls Creek to take up the position of General Manager, Falls Creek Ski Lifts Pty. Ltd. He continued in this role until 1990 when he was offered the position of Managing Director at Thredbo. During his period as General Manager major projects carried out at Falls Creek were:- the construction of Halleys Comet Chairlift, Slalom Street Plaza development, the introduction of snowmaking, Cloud 9 Restaurant, the construction of the Scott Chair and the Village Bowl. In 2022 David Osborn released a book, "Falls Creek Stories 1984 - 1990" which documents the developments which occurred in Falls Creek and the people who made them possible.At top: FALLS CREEK 1989 Below photo: FALLS CREEK SKI LIFTS PTY.LTD STAFF IDENTIFICATION David Osborn General Manager chairlift falls creek, david osborn, falls creek development 1980s -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Seal Skins Ski Straps / Soles
Seal skin straps and webbing were introduced into the Victorian Alps by European skiers. Enthusiasts travelled to enjoy the snow and to explore the Victorian Alps including the Bogong High Plains. This equipment enabled them to travel over snow without slipping when going up hills. They took the skins off when they wanted to slide down hills. In later years, waxes were used for cross country skiing and then 'fish tail' markings on the back of skis to enable skiers to travel distances up and down mountains. Later developments also included motor transport (replacing horses to get to the snow line) and roads to take skiers to the ski fields and mechanised tows to take skiers up mountains so they could ski down (downhill skiing). Skate skiing has also developed as another form of skiing.Skiers visited the Bogong High Plains during summer and winter to explore and enjoy the High Plains. The equipment used was a forerunner to the variety used today and the different types of skiing done today. Falls Creek was developed during the construction of the Kiewa Electric Hydro Scheme and was influenced by the number of Europeans working on the scheme and their desire to make use of the snow during winter.Each Seal skin has: Seal skin sewn onto one side of a strap of webbing. There is a webbing loop on the front that slips over a small point at the front of the ski. There is a webbing strap attached to the back of the seal skin sole coming over the back of the ski that clips metal fasteners onto a loop of webbing behind the boot.skiing. snow. high plains. seal skins. cross country skiing. alpine sports. -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - Falls Creek '97
Part of an annual marketing campaign, this booklet was designed to provide information for planning a holiday at Falls Creek for the winter of 1997. It includes extensive details about activities, facilities and accommodation in the Village as well as contact information to make necessary bookings. The slogan for 1997 was "Snow to BUrn!".This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortMagazine titled Falls Creek '97 containing information and images for 1997 winter holidays. Front cover has image of a person in yellow and black ski gear doing a small ski jump with blue sky in the back ground. Magazine title above, 'winter holidays' and 'snow to burn' over image and Falls Creek Victoria Australia logo at bottom right corner. Falls Creek '97 / FALLS SKI GUARANTEE CREEK / winter holidays / snow to burn / Falls Creek / Victoria Australiaaccommodation falls creek, falls creek marketing, falls creek events and activities -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 27. No 1 January - February 1961
Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski facilities at Falls Creek.The journal includes stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. This cover featured a photo of Siggi Haberzetti taken the previous winter at Falls Creek where he would head the Ski School in 1961. The photo was provided by "The Age". Pages 12 - 13 reported a project to increase facilities at Falls Creek with the construction of two new T-Bar lifts, two nursery rope tows, establishment of a Central Instruction Centre and enlargement of the former Ski School Canteen. The Falls' Creek Committee of Management also announced the appointment of a new Chairman, Mr Len Schwarzman. Page 31 also featured an advertisement for the sale of Dawn Ski Club Lodge.schuss journal, siggi haberzetti -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 26. No 3 May 1960
Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski facilities at Falls Creek.The journal includes stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. The cover features a view of Mount Bogong across the Kiewa Valley in a photo taken by C. Bottomley. On page 115 - 115, R D McNabb & F Griffith reported on a variety of Falls Creek Highlights. Page 117 included an advertisement for Snow Crystal Inn. page 130 announced that Austrian Ski Instructor, Siegfried Haberzetti would be teaching at Falls Creek Ski School. A short article on page 134 mentions key contributors to the development of skiing at Falls Creek. It also mentions Cecil Dobson and Ory Frueauf and the introduction of their power sled transport service.schuss journal, ory freauf, cecil dobson, siegfried haberzettl, fred griffith -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Myrtleford and Albury Lodges from "Skyline"
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.Myrtleford and Albury Lodges from "Skyline". Marks at top indicate locations. L - R:- Myrtleford Ski Club, Albury Ski Clubfalls creek, myrtleford ski club, albury ski club -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - Ripparoo Lodge, 1973
Ripparoo Lodge was one of the earliest Lodges established in the Falls Creek Village. In the 1960s, Bob and Noelene Lee moved to Falls Creek to run Ripparoo Lodge. They later built Attunga Ski Lodge. Both of these lodges still operate successfully in the 2020s.This brochure is significant because it represents one of the early lodges at Falls Creek. A fold out brochure printed in blue and white, it include some images and cartoons of people enjoying hospitality at Ripparoo. Information on tariffs and services is included.Title - Ripparoo The happiest ski lodge in the village.falls creek accommodation, ripparoo, falls creek lodges -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - Fall-Line - Australia's National Skiing Magazine July 1980
... Fall-Line - Australia's National Skiing Magazine July 1980 ...“Fall-Line” was one of a series of magazines published by the Victorian Ski Association. It was produced from 1979 until 1985. It superseded their previous publication, “Ski” magazine and was followed by the “Australian Skiing” magazine. The Victorian Ski Association was formed in 1955.This magazine is significant because it documents developments in the ski industry in Australia.A magazine featuring a coloured image on the cover and containing articles and advertising related to developments in skiing in Australia. This issue included an image of sightseers on the new Eagle triple chairlift at Falls Creek.australian ski magazines, skiing australia, victorian ski association -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Bogong, 1953
... skiing ...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 is from the Fred Griffith collection which documents the early development of Falls Creek.Black and white square photograph of two people wearing snow gear in the snow. The person on the left is in a lighter coloured suit and holding a ski pole and the person on the right is in a dark suit and holding skis and ski pole. There are skiers in the background, where there is mostly snow-covered hill and small amount of sky above. Stamped - SUPER / G & D . SERVICE Pencil - 61bogong, falls creek, snow, snowfields, albury ski club, skiing, snow sports, fred griffith, australian alpine club, albury -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Equipment - Skis from the Four Seasons Lodge, Falls Creek
... Skis from the Four Seasons Lodge, Falls Creek ...In 1948 Bob Hymans (1922-2007) built a small lodge on the corner of Falls Creek Road by the oversnow called Four Seasons or The Grand Coeur Annexe. Believed to be a wonderful host Bob also owned and operated Southern Cross and Grand Coeur. Grand Coeur unfortunately burnt down in 1961. These skis, now located in the Falls Creek Museum, were donated by Bob’s daughter Bridget. They hung in the main room of the Lodge for many years, never touching snow.These skis are significant because they were owned by Bob Hymans, a pioneer of Falls Creek, Victoria.A pair of wooden skis with bindings and poles.bob hymans, four seasons, grand coeur chalet -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Dawn Ski Club
Dawn Ski Club was one of the earliest buildings on Falls Creek. Tom Mitchell was one of the biggest shareholders who was also one of the main instigators and a driving force behind the formation of Falls Creek. Other members were the Napier family from Wagga and Dale Crooke from Gundowring in Victoria. Their hut was built by Cec Dobson and was a copy of Skyline Lodge. Initially it had two bedrooms but was later extended to four. Dawn Ski Club was named by Tom Mitchell because he said it was the dawn of skiing for the children and it was always noted for having a child friendly atmosphere and programs. Tom Mitchell was a former Australian ski champion and Member of Parliament for Benambra who championed the causes of skiers and Falls Creek for his whole time in State Parliament. Dawn Ski Club was sold in 1960 and then sold again to Astra Lodge when a block of flats was built on the Limlimbu site. In 1986 the original Lodge building was moved to Windy Corner to become the SES Headquarters.This image is significant because it depicts one of the earliest Ski Clubs built at Falls Creek.A coloured photo of Dawn Ski Club under light snow. A red telephone box can be seen on the left.dawn ski club, accommodation falls creek, lodges falls creek, tom mitchell -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 23. No. 7 September - October 1957
Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information reporting on activities at Falls Creek in the late 1950s.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. In this issue:- Front Cover features a photo Hymans Chair Lift at Falls Creek. Dick McGain of St. Trinians relaxes on his chair. Visible is the Ski Village, St. Trinians, Kiewa Valley. Diane, Galleon and Bowna Lodges, Grand Coeur Chalet and Dobson’s Store. The photo was taken by Eric Burt. Page 240 mentions new facilities at different ski fields. Page 246 "The Chair Lift is Fabulous" reports on Bob Hymans' ski lift based on comments from skiers who have used it over the preceding months. Page 253 A photo of Frank Sicktanc in the Victorian Jump competition at Falls Creek. Page 255 A photo of The Lower Slopes of Frying Pan Spur at Falls Creek Pages 257 - 258 contain a report on the Falls Creek State Nordic Championships N.E.D.S.A. Inter Club Events. Page 262 reports on the Albury Ski Club Open Championships.schuss journal, the ski club of victoria, bob hymans, albury ski club, hymans chair lift -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Bogong Ski Team
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. He was one of the pioneers behind the development of Falls Creek and an inaugural member of the Albury Ski Club. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992. A Bogong ski team travelled to the South Island, New Zealand in 1950 and raced in the Wigley Cup, becoming the first Australian club team to compete in New Zealand. The trip was organised and the team was coached by Toni St Elmo and Tom MItchell.This image depicts an important step in the development of Falls Creek and the sport of snow skiing in Australia.A collection of black and white photo depicting the Bogong Ski team of 1950.fred griffith, albury ski club, falls creek, bowna ski club -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Ski-Horizon Vol. 2 No 12, Ski-Horizon Vol. 2 No 21
Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The were 26 original member clubs which included Albury Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club and Wangaratta Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this publication include:- Page 3. Reference to association between Tom and Elyne Mitchell and prominent American skier, Mr. Averell Harriman. Also members of the Albury Ski Club fined for swearing. Page 5 A half page advertisement for Nissen Ski School with instructors, Ernest and Aurel Forras and Max Denham. It includes the slogan "Speed is the Thrill, Control the Art".ski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, ernest forras, nissen ski school, tom mitchell m.l.a. -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Clothing - Spyder Green and Gold Ski Suit - Steve Lee
This suit was owned by Steve Lee, a three time Australian Olympian who competed at Sarajevo 1984, Calgary 1988 and Albertville 1992. He also achieved 1st in the Furano World Cup Super G in 1985. Steve Lee grew up in Falls Creek and had skis on his feet when he was just two years old. He later became a member of the Falls Creek Race Club and at the age of 14 won State and National Junior titles. After repeated success, Steve was selected to race overseas in the Australian Junior team. He won the Australian Open Championship at the age of 17. For 10 years, Steve never missed a race in the World Cup Circuit. Overall, He claimed 20 top 15 finishes in Downhill, Super-G and combined events. Towards the end of his career Lee swapped the World Cup circuit for the World Pro Tour in the USA, winning the Pro Downhill Tour ‘King of the Mountain’ title. He was also running a photography business in Falls Creek and was also involved in sports commentating on Australian television. This included commentating Alpine Freestyle events at four Winter Olympics and several World Championships. Steve co-founded Chill Factor Ski magazine and spent a decade as a National Selector and President of Falls Creek Race Club. He also became involved in movies, working with Roger Moore and Jackie Chan as a stuntman. As well as these activities Steve started guiding in the mid-90s and established Back Country Tours at his home area in Falls Creek Australia and also in Hakuba, Japan in 2011.This item is significant because it was worn and donated by an Australian Triple Winter Olympian who began his skiing career with Falls Creek Race Club.A green and gold Spyder brand ski suit worn for downhill skiing Olympic events by Steve Lee.Spyder brandsteve lee, winter olympics, australian triple winter olympian, falls creek race club -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Flyer - Attunga Ski Lodge
Attunga Ski Lodge was built by Bob and Noelene Lee in 1968. They had managed club and commercial lodges, including Ripparoo, throughout the early 60s before building their own premises. Three generations of the family have lived and worked in Falls Creek. As stated in this brochure, Attunga derives from the aboriginal word meaning High Place. Attunga was the first lodge in Falls Creek to have en suite rooms. It has continued to be a family-run and focused business, being purchased in 2016 by the Wruck family. Bob and Noelene Lee's son, Steven, became a three-time Olympian (in 1984, 1988 and 1992) and a World Cup winner. Noelene Lee is a Life Member of the Falls Creek Race Club.This flyer is significant because it documents the early origins of a highly regarded family business at Falls Creek.A flyer printed in blue text on light card. The front cover features an image of the Attunga Ski Lodge and two skiers in the foreground with text. Other sections explain the origin of the name "Attunga" meaning "high place" and features that are of high quality at Attunga, winter and summer activities, transport and the tariffs for 1973,On front: ATTUNGA SKI LODGE Bob & Noelene Lee .... invites you to have the fun of your life. Arlberg Street, Falls Creek, Victoria, 3699 Phone: Falls Creek - 583255 attunga ski lodge, accommodation falls creek, bob and noelene lee -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Ski-Horizon Vol. 1 No 4
Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The were 26 original member clubs which included Albury Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club and Wangaratta Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this publication include:- Page 3: A reminder for people wishing to use Cleve Cole Hut, that they need to collect a key. The Hut is dedicated to the memory of Cleve Cole, a Victorian skiing pioneer who died after being trapped on Mount Bogong in the winter of 1936. Page 14 At the Annual Dinner of the Bogong Ski Club on Saturday, 19th November, Mr. T. W. Mitchell, M.L.A., presented the Silver Discus to Fred Vines, Captain of the Bogong team which won the 1949 Inter-club Championship. The Bogong Ski Club were keen to send a team to New Zealand in 1950 to compete in the N.Z. inter-club championship (Wigley Cup).ski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, nedsa events, victorian skiing 1949 -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Ski-Horizon Vol. 3 No 1
Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The were 26 original member clubs which included Albury Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club and Wangaratta Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this publication include:- Page 2: - Falls Creek was the focus of many important visitors including Hon. T. W. Mitchell, Victorian Attorney General. Tom Mitchell delivered a message of welcome to the New Zealand visiting Ski Team from the Premier of Victoria, - The Albury Ski Club team returned from New Zealand in August. Their team of Bob Howe, Skippy St, Elmo and Mr & Mrs. Bob Cutts were winners of the friendly race competition. - Joking report about Kevin McDonald getting himself fully equipped an attached to the tow at Falls Creek - except for his skis! - A successful meeting at Toni St Elmo's cottage with N.E.D.S.A. officials.ski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, skippy st elmo -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Newspaper - Australia's Playground of the Future
Australian Magazine (A.M.) published a special three page article about Falls Creek and the Bogong High Plains on 24th August 1954. The article was titled "Australia's playground of the future". Written by Muir Maclaren, it referred to the Bogong High Plains as a comparatively new and unexploited winter playground which could be one of the best snow resorts in the world. There were 13 huts which were at Falls Creek which were there due to "hard work, the grace of God, and the permission of the Victorian State Electricity Commission". A brief history of the Albury Ski Club Lodge was included. In 1954 the Lodge was run byLes Meikle and had the Club had a membership of 200 people. Lodges with accommodation established at this time, with the ability to house a total of 280 people, included Albury, Skyline, Bogong, Myrtleford, Hymans, Dawn, Galleon, Kiewa Valley, Snowden, Nelse, Moroma, Trowalla, St, Trinian's, Bowna and Nissen. Fred Griffith, as a member of the Albury Ski Club and owner of Bowna Lodge escorted the reporter and explained the potential of Falls Creek and the surrounding area to become a year-round playground, a paradise for tourists and a great income-earner for the State.This article and accompanying images are significant because they capture early information about the Bogong High Plains, Falls Creek and its pioneers.A centre spread from a monthly publication featuring text and colour imagesBeside photo of Albury Ski Club: An early morning scene outside the Albury Ski Club Lodge, Falls Creek. The lodge is packed every weekend by ski enthusiasts.albury ski club, bowna ski club, fred griffith -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Ski-Horizon Vol. 2 No 10
Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The were 26 original member clubs which included Albury Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club and Wangaratta Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this publication include:- Page 2: Albury Ski Club is set for a positive year. Present membership of the club is 130 and officials. recently elected are: -President, Mr. Fred Griffith; Vice-President and Booking Officer, Bob Howe; Secretary. Nell Newton; Asst. Sec., Angela Bowler; Treasurer. Sam Roxburgh; Social, Bruce Colquhoun: Trips, June Watson; Bus, Len Egan; Building. John Perger; Equipment, Peter Hadow. Page 3 Toni St. Elmo is planning the monster party the Bogong Ski Club will give at their Falls Creek Lodge on 4th August to the visiting N.Z. team. Page 8 - 9 Article - The Old Order Passes on the Bogong High Plains - an extensive response to the State Development Committee's Report "The Alpine Regions of Victoria; Skiing and Tourist Resorts" and suggestions for the construction of roads, ski tows and other facilities. A sketch map of Falls Creek Village is included.ski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, development of falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Document - Junior Test Sheet, The Ski Club of Victoria Junior Test
This is a framed receipt in the name of Skippy St. Elmo for completion of the Ski Club of Victoria Junior test for ski instructor. The test was completed on 25 August 1945 at the Scout Hall, Bogong High Plains. The receipt was found inside the cover of a typed manuscript. Mavis Grace Lindsay (Skippy) born in 1917 and married Tony St. Elmo in Ballarat on 18 December 1944. She was known as “Skippy” from childhood. They moved from Melbourne in 1945 and spent the year living in Wallace’s Hut. Toni was employed by the State Electricity Commission to record weather-related data. They were to become responsible for early developments at the Falls Creek resort and for promoting a love of skiing. Toni taught Skippy to ski and she practised on the High Plains where she and her husband lived. entering her in the first club championships held by the Bogong Ski Club at Rocky Valley, which he had established. Skippy St Elmo won many ski races during the 1950’s and represented Australia in New Zealand. In 1947, the first ski lodge was built by six SEC employees including Toni St Elmo. The lodge was named “Skyline”. In 1957, Toni was involved in building the first rope tow at Falls Creek, called Nissen. He also established the Nissen Ski School. In 1949, Skippy won the Downhill and Combined State Championship held at Mt Buller. In 1950, Skippy was selected to compete in New Zealand with the Victorian team to compete in New Zealand Skippy trained with the men at the Bogong Ski Club and that fact became a talking point in 1953 when the Albury Ski Club held an Open Championship and Skippy won in giant slalom and downhill. She went on to win many more races. In 1960, Skippy and Toni said farewell to Falls Creek. Skippy passed away in Queensland in July 2005 and Toni passed away in the September of the same year. In November 2006 the pair was honoured at the Alpine Village at Falls Creek by the spreading of their ashes over Eagle Rock.This certificate is an early document belonging to Skippy St Elmo, a pioneer of Falls Creek.Framed marking sheet for a Junior ski test for Ms Skippy Elmo at Bogong High Plains on August 25 1945. The test sheet is attached to a white backing paper which has 'My First achievement....skiing. Bogong High Plains' typed on it. The sheet has been framed for displau.skippy st elmo, ski instructor test, ski club of victoria, bogong high plains -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Article - Albury Ski Club Lodge Burnt Down, 19 April 1958
This item from the Border Morning Mail, Albury reports on the total destruction of the Albury Ski Club Lodge in 1958. The Lodge had been built by the Albury Ski Club members during their weekends and spare time starting in 1948. The fire was probably caused when a drum of petrol stored in the lighting plant room exploded. The building had fortunately been insured and the Albury Ski Club was able to build a new lodge to replace it.This article is significant because it documents an importance incident in Falls Creek.A newspaper item reporting on the destruction of the Albury Ski Club Lodge from the Border Morning Mail on Saturday 19th April 1958.albury ski club, albury ski club lodge fire -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Souvenir - Falls Creek Sticker
This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It is an early souvenir from Falls Creek Ski Village. George Shirling arrived in Falls Creek in 1962. He engaged Phil Nowell to build the original Koki Alpine Lodge which opened in 1965 with 14 beds. George operated the lodge with Michael “Baldy” Blackwell as manager. In 1981 he graduated in sport psychology and was invited to become team psychologist for the Australian Winter Olympic team which went to Albertville, France, in 1992. He later owned the Red Onion Chalet. George Shirling passed away on 27th February 2023. He had remained actively involved in Falls Creek and was generous with his time and knowledge, always an amazing supporter of The Falls Creek Museum and Falls Creek Village.This item is significant because it is representative of Falls Creek promotional material.A Falls Creek Sticker printed in black on a purple and white background and including the Falls Creek logo on the right hand end. SKI FALLS CREEK plus logo Come up and ski us sometime!george shirling, ski falls creek, falls creek souvenirs -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photographs –Collection of 10 copies and original black and white photographs and printed articles relating to skiing on the Bogong High Plains
After World War II, the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme was started in the Kiewa River Valley by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria. On land previously used only for summer cattle grazing in the natural alpine grasslands, the first ski lodge was built in 1948 by workers from the hydro scheme as skiing was a popular recreation. Many of the hydro employees were of European background and had grown up enjoying skiing and snow sports in their homelands and were keen to continue to pursue their winter sports interests. The first lift, a rope tow, was built in 1951 at Falls Creek and the first chairlift in Australia was constructed there in 1957. Two T-Bars were opened in 1961. In 1964, the Victorian Municipal Directory recorded that Falls Creek had 29 ski club lodges and 16 commercial lodges. The area became a popular tourist destination for both winter and summer sports.: Employees of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria in the Kiewa River Valley were the earliest skiers on the Bogong High Plains and built one of the first ski lodges at Falls Creek. They were amongst those pivotal in the development of the skiing and tourist industry at Falls Creek and on the Bogong High Plains. Collection of 10 copies and original black and white photographs and printed articles relating to skiing on the Bogong High Plains. Some pieces have been enlarged to A3 poster size copies for display purposes 1. Copy of black and white photograph of group of skiers at Falls Creek 2. Copy of photograph of early skier on Bogong High Plains with temporary buildings and tents in the background 3. Copy of photograph of 3 skiers on Mt McKay 4. Copy of SECV photograph of Rocky Valley Camp under snow 5. Early sepia photograph of Falls Creek village with skiers in the foreground 6. Copy of a page from booklet (SECV?) promoting the benefits of owning a holiday home in the Bogong Village area 7. Copy of a page from booklet (SECV?) promoting the benefits of holidaying in and around Falls Creek/Mt Beauty 8. Panoramic view of ski fields with skis in the foreground 9. Photograph of young skier (identity unknown) 10. Photograph of 2 male skiers (identity unknown) performing a small jump 1. Bogong Ski Club Members & Friends 1944 2. Jack Neve – electrician. Rocky Valley 3. 17.5.55 Skiers ascending Mt McKay 4. State Electricity Commission of Victoria. Date:17.8.55 No:K8132 Kiewa Hydro Electric Works. Rocky Valley Camp – From Engineering Office 5 & 9 No markings 6 & 7 Short article relating to photos on each page 8. Handwritten signature on rear of photo (Sandra Conea) 10 Faded unreadable photographers stamp and handwritten numbers 6875 on rear secv; bogong high plains; skiers; falls creek; tourism