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

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 imagesBelow photo Johnny Robertson points out the route of a long, downhill follow-my-leader to expert skiers Bob Howe, Norm Douglas (Albury dentist and President of the Albury Ski Club) and Dick Walpole.albury ski club, bob howe, dick walpole

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 imagesBelow photo When you're heading straight for a tree, sit down - that's one lesson learned by Jeanne King, assisted here by Fred Griffithfred griffith, falls creek pioneers

This type of cast iron kettle was used by pioneer families, mainly rural in the early 1900's upon open fires (log). It covered rural activities that needed a constant readily available source of boiling water, in or mainly outside the kitchen of homesteads. This kettle was used in the early to late 1900's for the refreshment of stock men and farmers that had irregular "tea" breaks under sometimes hard and gruelling conditions.This kettle belonged to and was used by a Kiewa Valley, pioneer family, the Roper Family. This kettle was moved from their Kiewa Valley property to their hut built on the Bogong High Plains. The Bogong High Plains area provided Kiewa Valley cattlemen a good supply of fodder to supplement their Kiewa Valley grazing areas. This "camp draft" activity , in the high plains, could take up to six weeks.This large cast iron modified camp pot (cauldron) has a long tap connection located at the bottom end. The "tap" is made from brass and has a simple elongated "bar" control swivel at the end to control the water flow. The tap suggests that only water was heated (to a constant boil) for the replenishment of cattlemen's, or other horse rider's, tea or coffee mugs. Refreshments at a "temporary" location on the Bogong High Plains. There was a "log" hut built by the Roper family as temporary accommodation for cattlemen and other family members.Ot the flat bottom "FIRST QUALITY 2 GALLONS"camp fire cooking utensils, hot plate, cast iron cooking appliance, drovers kitchen

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.These images are significant because they depict aspects of the life of a pioneering family of Falls Creek and the founders of "Skyline", the first lodge at Falls Creek.Two black and white images of Ray Meyer outside Roper's Hut. Frederick Roper and his family grazed the Bogong High Plains from the 1890s until 1908. Frederick "Jack" built three huts. The hut known as Roper’s Hut was built on Jack's new grazing lease after his former run had been acquired by the SEC in the late 1930s. It had become a well-used refuge hut prior to its destruction in the 2003 bushfires. It was rebuilt by Victorian High Country Huts Association in 2008.falls creek, building skyline, skyline founders, toni st elmo, adrian ruffenacht, jack minogue, ray meyer, lloyd dunn, david gibson

The State Electricity Commission of Victoria supplied First Aid Kits to its employees and 'ran' an ambulance during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme (KHES). The KHES was constructed at the upper end of the Kiewa Valley in the Victorian mountains on the Bogong High Plains. This area is remote with difficult terrain requiring people working and enjoying recreational activities to carry a first aid kit in case of emergency. This First Aid kit is light and portable enabling the user to 'fix' minor injuries and wait for access to medical assistance.This portable first aid kit was owned by a local Mt Beauty resident, Allan S. Clarke who was a long term staff employee for the State Electricity Commission of Victoria.First Aid Outfit (Kit), No.20 by "Sanax". Yellow plastic covered cardboard box with lid fastened by a metal swivel clasp. Complete with unused original contents displayed on two levels. On the top level - Absorbent lint in clear plastic bag; roll of Johnson's Cotton Wool in soft plastic; Plastic container of Sanax Aspirin tablets; glass bottle with brown plastic lid of Calamine Lotion; and steel scissors, safety pins and tweezers in small clear plastic bag. On the second/ bottom level - in a brown glass jar with brown plastic lid "Kuraburn for the treatment of Minor burns"; in a brown glass jar with brown plastic lid "Zeptic" (antiseptic); Johnson's Bandaids of varying shapes in a clear plastic bag; in a brown glass bottle with a brown plastic lid "Germistatic" (antiseptic); 2 packets of 4 Gauze bandages in clear plastic bags; and 1 large absorbent Gauze bandage in clear plastic bag.first aid kit; kiewa hydro electric scheme; sandax; medical aids;

Surveying under the prevailing conditions at this time was an arduous and demanding task. There were no roads beyond Tawonga and access was by bridle tracks, on foot or horseback. This camp was to provide accommodation to those men who were surveying the road from South Tawonga to the Bogong High Plains which was commenced in April, 1938. The actual work was undertaken by the Country Roads Board, on behalf of the State Electricity Commission, using three Caterpillar diesel crawler tractors equipped with Kay Bruneriei (Brunner) lhydraulically operated trailbuilders (angle dozers)This photograph shows the primitive living conditions that were endured by those carrying out the initial field investigations and surveys for the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. It is possibly one of the few photographs in existence of this camp and of the very rustic timber foot bridge across the West Kiewa river. It has been taken from approx. 100m up Simmonds Creek Road. A black and white photograph showing a small, timber foot bridge across the West Kiewa River. There is a man standing on the bridge and two small huts on the far side of the river, against a backdrop of Mt. Beauty and Mt. Bogong.At the top of the photograph, handwritten in black ink is the inscription "Kiewa River and Surveyor's Camp 25/8/38". The number 4 is stamped towards the right upper corner. On the back, in a circle, about 1.3cm in diameter, are the words "Kodak Print". The word "Velox" is faintly discernible on the back as well.surveyor, tawonga, west kiewa river, bridge, camp, secv

W.D.Chapman had a keen interest in botany and was particularly interested in Eucalyptus species. He was first to discover the tree which now bears his name on his numerous visits to the Kiewa power station which is situated near the Bogong High Plains. He was a Commissioner and later the Chairman of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria, the organisation in charge of building the Kiewa Hydro Scheme. The tree is a cross between two eucalypts. The trees are unique as they cannot procreate. There were two 'Bogong Gum' trees. One at Cranky Charlies and one on the way up to the High Plains passed by the Ryder family on their way up.This plaque was beside the Falls Creek Road and indicated the location of the 'Bogong Gum' tree. The tree was burnt in the 2003 bush fires but survived only to be killed in the 2006 bush fires. There were two 'Bogong Gum' trees. One at Cranky Charlies and one on the way up to the High Plains passed by the Ryder family on their way up. Heavy bronze plaque embossed with inscription. On the back is a large rectangular steel piece bent at the bottom to form a 'U' shape. One end of the 'u' is attached to the plaque and the other end has two holes for bolts enabling the plaque to be attached near the tree. One bolt is in a hole."Type tree from which was first described the species / Bogong Gum / (Eucalyptus Chapmaniana, Cameron) / The species was identified by the / late Brigadier W. D. Chapman M.C.E., / D. Eng., M.I.E. Aust., M.I.C.E. Lond. Commissioner / of the State Electricity Commission / of Victoria from May 1944 to May 1955, / in his honour it was named."plaque; state electricity commission of victoria; w.d.chapman; eucalyptus; bogong gum tree; falls creek road

This stock horse saddle was probably used in the mid 1900's. This was the period when cattle mustering was at its prime. The movement of cattle was by mounted stock horse only and not by other methods. Northern territory cattle stations in the late 1900's started to use helicopters for "cattle control". In the KIEWA Valley/Bogong High Plains and other rural cattle producing areas required well trained stock horses and stockmen for cattle control. It is only in the later 1900's that motor bikes and four wheeled quad-bikes have taken over, in part, from the mounted stockman.This horse saddle is very significant to the Kiewa Valley because of the early introduction of cattle stations in what initially was regarded as a semi remote location. The maintenance of cattle in the Kiewa Valley is and was an important requirement. A good stock horse saddle as and is important, especially during the period when cattle were grazed on the Bogong High Plains. The mustering and and moving cattle from the valley pastures to the high country was a demanding and dangerous exercise requiring "sure footed" stock horses.The "good" saddle was a vital part of this cattle mustering. A scientific study started in 1947 to study the impact of grazing cattle on the natural Alpine and sub Alpine vegetation found grazing cattle had an adverse affect on the natural Alpine and sub alpine vegetation, and grazing on the plains was stopped by the Victorian Government in 2005.This "camp draft" in the High Plains could take up to six weeks.This all leather "stock horse" saddle shows plenty of wear. It is in "full harness" configaration with stirrups and leg protectors horse, country, leather, gaiters, high, grazing, cattlemen, laces, studs

This journal detailing the author and friends walks and observations together with black and white photographs of the Kiewa Valley and the Bogong high plains regions during various "walks during the years 1945 to 1948. These walks were undertaken during the various Hydro - electricity generating plants and infra structures were being installed. It relays how the walker and adventurer enjoyed the pristine Alpine regions of Victoria. The wilderness and higher sense of adventure encountered by the author and his "walking party" is now no longer that intense. The isolation of the region was, at that time, still a barrier for the casual adventurer and required a dedication of the "pioneer" mountain walker.The significance of this journal is that both the photographs and accounts of those intrepid adventurers walking throughout the Victorian Alps and the Bogong High Plains details the countryside in one of the remaining years of relative pristine and minimal "tourist" developed regions of rural Victorian. The necessity of greater electrical power supply to the rapidly growing demand from cities and larger towns, post World War II immigration, had resulted in drastic changes to the infrastructure of the Victorian Alpine regions and particularly the Kiewa Valley. The photographs and the written accounts of the "adventurers" in this journal presents the last phases of the " Australian rough outback environment" and also the typical "bush wise" city/town dweller that although lived in towns and cities still had the adventurers heart of their fore fathers.This item has been photocopied by the author of his journal, consisting 27 pages of A4 size paper. A covering letter by the author is at the front of this loose leafed journal. The journal is bound in a yellow plastic cover with spirals. At the back is a 2 page biography of Myrtle Emily (Grigg) Deamer 1922-2006, then a photo of Meg with baby Bryn and son Tony followed by a letter from David BottomleyThe author's correspondence and covering letter has his signature "D Bottomley"alpine country, bush walking, bogong mountain, alpine adventures

This stock horse bridle was probably used in the mid 1900's. This was the period when cattle and sheep mustering was at its prime. The movement of cattle and sheep was by mounted stock horse only and not by other methods. Northern territory cattle stations in the late 1900's started to use helicopters for "cattle control". In the KIEWA Valley/Bogong High Plains and other rural cattle/sheep producing areas required well trained stock horses and stockmen for cattle/sheep control. It is only in the later 1900's that motor bikes and four wheeled quad-bikes have taken over, in part, from the mounted stockman.This horse bridle is very significant to the Kiewa Valley because of the early introduction of cattle and sheep stations in what initially was regarded as a semi remote valley location. The maintenance of cattle and sheep in the Kiewa Valley was, and still is an important requirement of livestock management. A good stock horse bridle is important, especially during the period when cattle and sheep were grazed on the Bogong High Plains. The mustering and and moving cattle/sheep from the valley pastures to the high country was a demanding and dangerous exercise requiring "sure footed" stock horses.The "good specialised" bridle was a vital part of this cattle/sheep mustering. A scientific study started in 1947 to study the impact of grazing cattle/sheep on the natural Alpine and sub Alpine vegetation found grazing cattle had an adverse affect on the natural Alpine and sub alpine vegetation, and grazing on the plains was stopped by the Victorian Government in 2005.This "camp draft" on the Bogong High Plains could take up to six weeks.This harness bridle includes "blinders, winklers or blinkers" and would therefore be used on a pack or "working" horse. This bridle has rings on each end of the browband. The bridle is one used by a horse working in a team configuration pulling a heavy cart or wagon. The bridle has ten adjustable straps to allow it to accommodate a variety of horse sizes. See KVHS 0495 for a stock horse saddle.horse, country, leather bridle, gaiters, high country grazing, cattlemen, laces, studs

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 2 - Trees are being planted in snowland experimental plots on the Bogong High Plains. Tom Mitchell had suggested the plots should be established to ascertain whether suitable species could be easily introduced. Page 3 - Nissen Ski Tow would again be operating with provisions available at the Tow House. Cecil Dobson will be managing Loon's Store. He will be bringing in fresh food two r three times a week by horse sled which will also be used by Bob Hymans.tom mitchell m.l.a., snowland experimental plots, cecil dobson

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:- Cover - Rudi Wurth, winner of the National Slalom and Downhill titles at Kosciusko, 1954. Page 2 - Rover Scouts help injured skier on Bogong High Plains Page 3 - Cecil Dobson is a real asset to the village. Apart from provisions he also provides services including ski repairs, carpentering and plumbing. Page 5 - "Wongapussie" - a word for an overboot. Originally found in disposal stores as they were used for anti-gas purposes, but something similar is now being made in Albury and being used extensively at Falls Creek.rudi wurth, cecil dobson, rover scouts rescue, "wongapussie"

Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski industry in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this issue include:- Page 127 features a photo of Skyline Lodge taken by S. Flattely with the following text " THE S.C.V.'s SKYLINE LODGE, FALLS CREEK, BOGONG HIGH PLAINS This Lodge in its setting of alpine grandeur, with the impressive outlook to the Spion Kopje Spur, is one of the most comfortable cabins in our mountains. Some vacancies in July and Spring, when snow is still plentiful in this area, Book at S.C.V. Office. Page 134 outlines information for visitors to Skyline including transport, garbage, safety, traffic rules and the use of the lodge.schuss journal, the ski club of victoria, skyline lodge

Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The original member clubs were Albury Ski Club, Alpine Club of Victoria, Australian Postal Institute Ski Club, Australian Women's Ski Club (Victoria), Beechworth Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Bull Lodge Ski Club, Chamois Ski Club, C.S.I.R. Ski Club, Edelweiss Ski Club, Howqua Ski Club, Lazy Eight Ski Club, Melbourne University Ski Club, Melbourne Walking Club, Monsanto Ski Club, Moose Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Rongbuk Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club, Tanjil Ski Club, Telemark Ski Club, University Ski Club, Victorian Rover Scouts (B.S.A.), Wangaratta Ski Club, Youth Hostel Association, Yurredla 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 in this publication include:- Page 1 Information related to the F.O.V.S.C Organisation and item stating Tom Mitchell M.L.A. has been negotiating for Inter-Dominion races to be held at Falls Creek in 1950. Page 3: The State Development Committee to visit the Bogong High Plains to take evidence regarding future development of the area. Page 4 Information about Member Clubs building over the coming summer. This included Myrtleford and Albury at Falls Creek. Page 16 A list of Club Racing results for 1949. Included on the list are the Bogong Ski Club Championship; the Albury Ski Club and the N.E.D.S.A. Championships.ski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, nedsa events, victorian skiing 1949

This Pie Iron was used in the mid to late 1900's when stock, both cattle and sheep, were grazed on the Bogong High Plains. Providing meals for stockmen over open fires, even in log cabins in the Victorian Alpine region, was usually by a "camp cook" or a stockman designated "cook" from the Valley station/property. The use of "camping cooking utensils were a necessity and not a "weekend" affair. Stockmen could spend up to six weeks on the plains and all their cooking needs required had to "pack horsed" from the valley below. A scientific study started in 1947, to study the impact of grazing cattle on the natural Alpine and sub Alpine vegetation found grazing cattle had an adverse affect on the natural Alpine and sub alpine vegetation, and grazing on the plains was stopped by the Victorian Government in 2005.This item is highly significant to the Kiewa Valley as it demonstrates the kind of cooking utensils that were required for camp drafts in the Bogong High Plains environment. As the control of cattle and sheep in the High Plains was very demanding upon horse and rider, good "tucker" was a pre- requisite for a successful operation. As the time spent in this remote location was governed by the climatic condition maximum utilisation of the very good pastures in the High Plains was crucial to a successful and profitable season.This pie iron has two pie forms in horizontal configuration and both top and base rounded forms are connected at one end (Top) with pop rivet application. This application allows for the "opening" up of the two halves. The bodies are made from cast iron in a "cup" form and a metal rod and wooden handle extend to permit the opening of the two sides. The inner side of the "cups" are smooth which relates to pie requirements and not the jaffle/sandwich irons. A clasp metal "D" ring is installed at the end of one wooden handle (to keep the iron in the close/cooking position).camp fire cooking utensils, hot plate, cast iron cooking appliances, pie irons, jaffle irons, drovers kitchen

The Rocky Valley Dam is located on the Bogong High Plains, near Falls Creek, Victoria. The dam is man-made and has a capacity of 28,000 megalitres (990×106 cu ft). At an elevation of 1600m, Rocky Valley Dam is the highest significant body of water in Australia. The dam was created for the Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme. Just a short distance from the heart of the village, the lake provides a playground for a range of aquatic activities. It is also utilised in snow making for the Falls Creek ski resort. Work began on the Rocky Valley Dam site in early 1947 and continued until May. It resumed in October after the winter and a camp for the accommodation of workmen was commenced at this time. Work continued in 1948 with the establishment of work facilities, including the erection of two large excavators. The Rocky Valley Dam was completed in 1959.These images are significant as they capture work carried out to build the wall at Rocky Valley near Falls Creek, VictoriaThree black and white images showing work on the Rocky Valley Dam, Victoriarocky valley dam, kiewa hydroelectric scheme, falls creek

SECV constructed the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme including the township of Mt Beauty. The area became a popular tourist destination.Tourism in the Kiewa Valley especially at Mt Beauty and the Bogong High Plains along with the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme became very popular and an important industry.Fold out b & w postcard with 12 photos back to back. All with a title. Kate 1950s 1. High Voltage Transmission Line, showing Mount Beauty Township 2. Clover Dam Reservoir, Kiewa 3. No. 3 Power Station, Kiewa 4. Generators, No. 3 Power Station 5. Turbines, No. 4 Power Station, Kiewa 6. junction Dam, Bogong 7. Mt Beauty Village Shopping Centre 8. Switchyard, No. 4 Power Station, Kiewa 9. Control Room, No. 4 Power Station, Kiewa 10. Winter Scene at Rocky Valley on the Bogong High Plains 11. Water Channel, Mt Bogong in Background 12. Mt Beauty Township, Kiewa Valleytransmission line, power station, generators, mt beauty, turbines, junction dam, switchyard, rocky valley, control room

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: Reference to ski instructors and Ski Schools in Victoria including Bob Hymans' School and Ernst and Auriel Forras who operate the Nussen School with Max Denham. Page 5 Bogong High Plains locality map, with construction areas and power lines marked. It is accompanied by a notice regarding safety and access from H. H. C.Williams, Construction Engineer. Page 12 An article referring to Tom Mitchell's stallion "Debtor" and Ernest Forras, Ski Instructor. Page 13: Continuation of Ernest Forras' profile. Page 22 Comment by Toni St. Elmo and the Myrtleford Ski Club Tow. ski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, ernest forras, nissen ski school

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.

Tom Mitchell was a strong supporter of trans-Tasman ski competitions and in the early 1950s visits between local clubs became common. In 1953 a team from New Zealand visited Falls Creek for the first time. This was only a few months after Edmund Hillary and Nepalese Sherpa Tenzig Norgay became the first climbers confirmed to have reached the summit of Mount Everest. Toni St. Elmo, supported by Tom Mitchell proposed that a peak on the Bogong High Plains northwest of Mt. Nelse should be named Mt. Hillary in honour of the New Zealander's success. He also suggested a ceremony should be held during the visit of members of the New Zealand Ski team to Australia in September 1953. This image from the St. Elimo Collection held by the Falls Creek Historical Society, represents the planting of a New Zealand flag on the mountain during the ceremony.This image is significant because it is part of the St. Elmo Collection which documents early pioneers of Falls Creek and their outstanding contribution to skiing in Australia.A coloured image of two skiers carrying a New Zealand flag across the High Plains.Beneath the image: Tony St Elmo and Tom Mitchell ski out across Bakers Spur to plant a flag on Mt Hillary in 1953, north of Mt Nelse, and which now seems to have been lost off the map. Pic - The St Elmo Collection.tom mitchell, st. elmo collection, toni st. elmo, sir edmund hillary

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 2003 the Men's Winner was Ben Derrick from Australia in a time of 0:53:45. The winner of the Women's event was Belinda Phillips of Australia in a time of 1:06:34. Strong winds, falling snow and poor visibility prevailed on the Bogong High Plains. Due to near blizzard conditions the course was altered for safety reasons.This poster is significant because it documents an event which brings international attention to Falls Creek and the surrounding region.A coloured poster featuring an image of a tree in the snow with skiers superimposed over the top. Borders are black with white text. The logos of Tourism Victoria and Worldloppet are on either side at the bottom of the image.In white text the top: KANGAROO HOPPET 13 Beneath the image: 30th August 2003 Tel: (03) 5754 3103 - Fax: (03) 5754 4475 - P.O. Box 400 Mount Beauty 3699 Website: http://www.hoppet.com.au Email: [email protected] kangaroo hoppet, worldloppet events, falls creek, mt. beauty

Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski industry in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this issue include:- Cover - Image acknowledging the Australian team in the Oslo Winter Olympics Page 31 - TRANSPORT TO FALLS CREEK - Following press reports in recent months regarding curtailment of the work of the State Electricity Commission on Bogong High Plains, there will be no snow clearing on the road above Howman's Gap next winter, and possibly no snow clearing at all. Traffic will not be permitted to proceed where no clearing is being carried out. Apart from this, it is hoped that it will not be necessary to curtail any further the general arrangements in force last winter. During this summer the road will be closed to visitors generally, but arrangements will be made for working parties at ski huts to proceed to or from Falls Creek between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays only, provided that prior arrangements have been made.winter olympics 1952, road access to falls creek 1952

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 5 - "Toonallook" was the venue for the Albury Ski Club's pre season barbecue in June. The Albury Ski Club Ball will also be held in the "Toonallook" wool shed on 28th November. Page 7 - Toni St. Elmo has proposed that a peak on the Bogong High Plains N.W. of Mt. Nelse should be named Mt. Hillary in honour of the New Zealander's success. He also suggested a ceremony should be held during the visit of members of the New Zealand Ski team to Australia in September 1953. Page 20 - Bob Hymans, late of the French National Instructors' School, Chamonix, advertised the opening of bookings for accommodation and lessons at Falls Creek for skiers only. Fees for beginning and intermediate level skiers, conducted day tours and coaching, including accommodation and meals were set at 12 guineas. Hire of all necessary equipment could also be arranged.bob hymans, "toonallook", toni st. elmo

Mount Bogong located in the Alpine National Park and part of the Victorian Alps of the Great Dividing Range, is the highest mountain in Victoria, Australia, at 1,986 metres (6,516 ft) above sea level. The Big River separates the massif of the mountain from the Bogong High Plains to the south. From the nearby town of Mount Beauty to its summit, Mount Bogong rises more than 1,600 metres (5,200 ft), thus making it one of the highest peaks in Australia not only in terms of its elevation above sea level, but also in terms of actual base-to-summit prominence. Mount Bogong is a popular backcountry skiing mountain through winter but only has snow for the mid winter-spring months. It is around 30 kilometres (19 mi) by road and walking track or 12 kilometres (7.5 mi) direct to Mount Beauty. Falls Creek and Mount Hotham ski resorts are also nearby. Camping is relatively safe below the tree line but the summit ridgeline is very exposed. Emergency shelter is also available at Bivouac Hut on the Staircase Spur, and at Cleve Cole, above Camp Creek on the broad ridge to the south of the summit, and Michells Hut on the Eskdale Spur. Mt Bogong is a popular recreational venue in the Kiewa Valley for back country skiing and bush walking and is a favourite with sightseers and popular subject for photographersBlack and white photograph of Mt bogong taken from Tawonga - Thursday May 6th, 1937Handwritten on back of photograph. Thursday May 6th, 1937. Mt Bogong Tawongamt bogong, tawonga, kiewa valley

Construction of the main road from South Tawonga to the Bogong High Plains, to provide access to the construction sites for the new Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme, was commenced early in 1938, the work being undertaken on behalf of the Commission by the Country Roads Board. For the construction work, the Commission purchased three Caterpillar - model R07 - diesel crawler tractors equipped with Kay Brunerei (Brunner) hydraulically operated trailbuilders (angle dozers). This acquisition resulted from a visit to the United States of America in May, 1937 by the Construction Engineer ( Mr. C.H. Kernot) and Assistant Civil Engineer (Mr. J.F. Douglas) where they saw this relatively new type of equipment in use. With the co-operation of the CRB, the Commission demonstrated the operation of these machines at Fishermen's Bend on 6th April, 1938. They were then sent to Kiewa where they commenced operation towards the end of the month. From South Tawonga, the route led immediately across the Western Branch of the Kiewa River necessitating the construction of a bridge 100 feet long. By the end of 1939, the excavation had been 'opened up' for a distance of 19 1/2 miles (approx. 31 km) and of this length, 10 miles (approx. 16 km) had been surfaced.The purchase and use of this type of mechanical equipment in road making was a huge investment, as prior to this most of the work would have been done manually with the use of picks and shovels. Not only were many months of hard manual labour saved, but a very significant amount of time in providing access to the proposed work sites for the new Kiewa Hydro Scheme. This photo is an excellent reminder of how primitive the early machinery was compared to the present but also represents the forward thinking of the State Electricity Commissions engineers in purchasing such innovative equipment . A black and white photograph showing the type of machinery used for road making in the 1930's. It shows a grader being towed by a caterpillar tractor.On the top left hand corner of the photograph , hand written in black ink is the words 'Kiewa Road Making 25/8/1938'. On the right hand side of the photo has been stamped in blue the Number 1. It has been developed on Velox paper (marked on back of photo) with a gloss finish.road making, state electricity commission, caterpillar tractor, kiewa

Construction of the main road from South Tawonga to the Bogong High Plains, to provide access to the construction sites for the new Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme, was commenced early in 1938, the work being undertaken on behalf of the commission by the Country Roads Board. For the construction work, the Commission purchased three Caterpillar - model R07 - diesel crawler tractors equipped with Kay Brunerei (Brunner) hydraulically operated trailbuilders (angle dozers). This acquisition resulted from a visit to the United States of America in May, 1937 by the Construction Engineer ( Mr. C.H. Kernot) and Assistant Civil Engineer ( Mr. J.F. Douglas) where they saw this relatively new type of equipment in use. With the co-operation of the CRB, the Commission demonstrated the operation of these machines at Fishermen's Bend on 6th April, 1938. They were then sent to Kiewa where they commenced operation towards the end of the month. From South Tawonga, the route let immediately across the Western Branch of the Kiewa River necessitating the construction of a bridge 100 feet long. By the end of 1939, the excavation had been 'opened up' for a distance of 19 1/2 miles (approx. 31 km.) and of this length, 10 miles (approx. 16 km.) had been surfaced. (see KVHS 0328)The purchase of this type of mechanical equipment in road making was a huge investment, as prior to this most of the work would have been done manually with the use of picks and shovels. Not only were many months of hard manual labour saved, but a very significant amount of time in providing access to the proposed work sites for the new Kiewa Hydro Scheme. This photo is an excellent reminder of how primitive the early machinery was compared to the present but also represents the forward thinking of the State Electricity Commissions engineers in purchasing such innovative equipment.A black and white photograph of road making near Mt. Beauty in 1938. Mount Beauty hills can be seen in the background with cleared land for grazing in the fore ground.Hand printed in black ink at the top of the photograph is 'Kiewa Road Making 25/8/1938'. On the right hand corner has been printed the number 2. It has been printed on gloss Velox paper.road making, state electricity commission, caterpillar tractor, kiewa, secv

Construction of the main road from South Tawonga to the Bogong High Plains, to provide access to the construction sites for the new Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme, was commenced early in 1938, the work being undertaken on behalf of the Commission by the Country Roads Board. For the construction work, the Commission purchased three Caterpillar - model R07 - diesel crawler tractors equipped with Kay Brunerei (Brunner) hydraulically operated trail builders (angle dozers)). This acquisition resulted from a visit to the United States of America in May, 1937 by the Construction Engineer ( Mr. C.H. Kernot) and Assistant Civil Engineer (Mr. J.F. Douglas) where they saw this relatively new type of equipment in use. With the co-operation of the CRB, the Commission demonstrated the operation of these machines at Fishermen's Bend on 6th April, 1938. They were then sent to Kiewa where they commenced operation towards the end of the month. From South Tawonga, the route led immediately across the Western Branch of the Kiewa River necessitating the construction of a bridge 100 feet long. By the end of 1939,the excavation had been 'opened up' for a distance of 19 1/2 miles (approx. 31 km.) and of this length, 10 miles (approx. 16 km) had been surfaced.The purchase and use of this type of mechanical equipment in road making was a huge investment, as prior to this most of the work would have been done manually with the use of picks and shovels. Not only were many months of hard manual labour saved, but a very significant amount of time in providing access to the proposed work sites for the new Kiewa Hydro Scheme. This photo is an excellent reminder of how primitive the early machinery was compared to the present but also represents the forward thinking of the State Electricity Commission's Engineers in purchasing such new and innovative equipment.A black and white photograph of a Caterpillar diesel crawler tractor and a hydraulically operated trailbuilder (angle dozer) making a road in the Mt. Beauty area.Hand written in black ink in the top left hand corner are the words "Kiewa Road Making 25/8/1938". On the upper right hand of the photograph has been stamped the number 3. On the back is stamped the word 'Velox' severaly times, which is the make of the photograhic paper. roadmaking, caterpillar tractor, kiewa, state electricity commission

The Blue Duck Hotel stands at the confluence of 3 trout rivers - Cobungra, Bundarra and Mitta Mitta, called Angler's Rest. The original 1900's building was of slab construction and operated as a butcher shop, servicing miners on the track from Omeo to Mt. Wills. In 1912 it was purchased by a miner, Billy O'Connell, and he obtained a hotel license. In the early 1920's he transported 2 houses from Omeo on Horse drays. One is the main building of the Blue Duck and the other was a residence where Billy and his wife raised their nine children. The small log structure behind the pub is State School No.4286 where the children attended school. A teacher was shared with Glen Wills. By the late 1920's the hotel was discovered and patronized by keen anglers. Sir Harold Clapp (head of the railways) was one and he had the bronze blue duck cast and presented to the owners in the 1930's. This stands at the entrance to the premises.These photographs are of a building, in a remote area, that has provided a service to miners, anglers and travellers for over 100 years and continues to do so today. It also played a vital role in the history of the Mt. Wills/Omeo gold mining days.3 Post cards, Black and White photographs. 3 small black and white photographsPost Card No. 1 - "Blue Duck Hotel- Omeo-Glen wills road Ray Love Series No.2"(written on lower front) Post Card No. 2- "Looking towards Bogong High Plains. Omeo-Glen Wills road"(front, bottom, L hand) Ray Love Series No. 18 (front, lower R hand corner) On both of above photos, centre back, is stamped POST CARD and underneath this is printed "A GENUINE PHOTOGRAPH'/ Post Card No. 3 - Bottom L hand corner "Mystic Sea Australian Alps". R hand corner "(Bulmer Copyright)". Each small photograph, handwritten on back "Blue duck Hotel". All have circular stamp with "Print by Wilson White Albury" blue duck hotel; anglers rest; omeo highway; fishing; mining

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