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Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Royalauto Article - Kiewa Valley, Kiewa Valley is Alpine Retreat
... Valley with Falls Creek, a ski resort on the Bogong High Plains ...With the completion of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme in 1961 tourism became important to the Kiewa ValleyTourism was encouraged in the Kiewa Valley with Falls Creek, a ski resort on the Bogong High Plains and the SECV's Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme completed also in the mountains and in the townships of Bogong and Mt Beauty.Two yellowed pates cut out of the Royalauto magazine dated march 1966"Royalauto march 1966"falls creek, mt beauty, bogong, tourism, racv, kiewa valley -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book - Miscellaneous - Pictorial - Snow, Georgian House, The Australian Snow Pictorial, c1952
This book records the history of skiing in Victoria with photos of places and people showing equipment used in the snow fields and used by skiers.Falls Creek and the Bogong High Plains are included in this book showing photos of local people and machinery etc. Dorothy Anderson (nee Ryder) owned and used this book. She lived at Tawonga.This is a bound pictorial book with a blue cover and white printed title.. The subject is Alpine resorts and ski areas in the Australian High Country in the 40s and 50s. 'To our very dear friends, Mr and Mrs Ryder, with our best wishes for a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year from Harold and 'Rel / Ril ?' 'snow, skiing, photography, pioneers, enthusiasts, heritage, st elmo, secv machinery, ryder family, bogong high plains, rope tow -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Ski Lift Ticket - strip, 1978
During 1978 strips of tickets were used on the Nursery and Link lifts at Falls Creek. For each ride a ticket was torn off by the operator at the bottom of the lift. Ski lift tickets have changed often during the years from single lift coins, single tickets, day tickets, electronic tickets. The names and existence of lifts has also changed over time.In 1978 ski lift tickets were sold as a strip of 7 and operators were employed on each lift to collect them. Falls Creek is a major ski resort in Victoria and Australia. This strip has been superseded by other forms of 'tickets' sold at Falls Creek. This ticket also names 2 of the lifts which operated in 1978. Seven ski lift tickets attached as a strip to a butt. They are for the Nursery lift or the Link Lift at Falls Creek for the 1978 season. The writing is black on white and the strip has a thick green stripe down the length of it. In red at the top hand written: "Please Use."ski lift tickets. falls creek. alpine sport. downhill skiing. -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Skis Snow Competition, circa 1966
The post World War II migration of European "snow skiiers" into Australia combined with the construction of Hydo Electricity Schemes in both the N.S.W.and Victorian Alps regions, opened up these winter snow areas to a greater influx of tourists and holiday adventurers interested in "winter" sports. The ability to project, on a global scale, skiing facilities of international standards to those in the northern hemisphere during their summer has opened up the Australia ski resorts and their facilities to a much greater winter sport orientated population. These cross country skis were purchased by a member of the Bogong Ski Club and were part of a bulk ski stock consignment from Finland in 1966/67. They were introduced into the Victorian Alps to encourage skiers to take up cross country skiing both at Falls Creek and Mount Buller. This initiative spurred on the now annual 42 kilometre cross country "Kangaroo Hoppet" race at Falls Creek. This race is currently the biggest cross country snow skiing race in Australia. These snow skis were made in Finland. They are wooden (hickory) skis and made from four strips (glued and shaped) pieces of wood that are not laminated. There is a painted blue flash on the top of the skis that extends the full length of the skis. The face of the underside of the skis is flat and is coated in black Stockholm tar. Glider or grip wax was applied onto this base. The top body of the skis is tapered from shoe position to both front and back tips.Tapered curvatures from foot radiating to all sides provides the required aerodynamics. Metal boot bindings consisting of a toe plate with adjustable toe clip and a heel plate, both of which are screwed onto the skis. "KILPA, KARHU URHEILUTARPEITA SPORTART1KLAR, Karhu-Valtz Finland. Hickorypohjin"snow skiing, cross country skiing, falls creek winter tourism -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Skis - Downhill with bindings, c1970's
Skiing was started as an industry in the near by skiing village of Falls Creek, when many of the migrant workers who were employed by the Kiewa Hydro Scheme thought the near by snow fields would be a good place to ski. Gradually this village has developed into a major skiing resort during the Victorian winter. Many people who lived in Mt Beauty, Bogong Village or Falls Creek itself have either grown up snow skiing or spend their winters skiing. As a consequence Falls Creek developed a skiing community from this base and some skiers went onto represent Australia in skiing competitions and the Winter Olympic games due to their association with Falls Creek and or Mt Beauty. These skiis were used by Doug Mc Conville in the 1976 Winter Olympics. He crashed in his Olympic event. Doug Mc Conville skied locally at Falls Creek.Pair of dark blue Dynastar downhill skis with lighter blue red & white logo. Stainless steel, red & black bindings with S626 1.2.3.4.inscription. Blue tags at zip ends. Y180 9 kL37 09 11565 Dynastar Polysoft Label on skis (red white blue label) on dark blue skis - Bindings S626 1.2.3.4. Salomondownhill skis. bindings. doug mc conville. 1976 olympics. snow. falls creek. -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Journal - Ski-Horizon, Vol. 4. No. 11. July 1953, 1953
The Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs. Articles refer to Jim Curtis, Honorary Secretary of Bogong Ski Club - nightly fees are 8/6 for members and 10/6 for non members, the 6d being for the Ski-ing Improvements Fund. Tensing and Sir Edmund Hillary succeeded in climbing Mt Everest in that year. Advertisements include Accommodation at Falls Creek for Skiers only, Instruction , Day Tours and Coaching etc. contact Bob Hymans c/o Bogong P.O.Member Clubs of the Federation of Victorian Ski clubs included Bogong Ski Club which was located at Falls Creek. This journal includes articles and advertisements that give an insight into the history of the ski industry and resorts.Small journal with shiny white and reddish cover with 24 pages and writing on the back of the cover. It includes short and long articles a few photographs and advertisements.skiing. bogong ski club. bob hymans. jim curtis. victorian ski clubs. falls creek. -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
West Kiewa Alpine Way and Day Ski Resort
In June 1982 This research report on the West Kiewa Alpine Way Proposal was sent to the Mt Beauty Chamber of Commerce. "The economic, tourist market and geographic factors are the kernel of the proposal." From Industrial Relocations Consultants Pty. Ltd.The proposal was to benefit the tourism industry.Manila foolscap folder with metal fastener. Papers dated June 1982 re - "Proposed West Kiewa Alpine Way and Day Ski Resort" Also enclosed but not related: Letter from Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee July 1984B. Goss written on coverwest kiewa alpine way, day ski resort, mt beauty chamber of commerce -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book - Ski Resort Planning and Development, Ski Resort Planning and Development by Research Fellow Ron G. Sibley Shire Engineer, Shire of Bright
... resort planning ski resort development falls creek's future shire ...This book was published in 1981 when the Ski Industry and the Shire of Bright were proposing to expand the tourism industry.Of interest to Local Government and to those involved in the development of and activities carried out in Alpine country and ski resort areas. This research identifies the advantages and possibilities for the future.Hard light blue plain cover book with paper cover and bound spine. The paper cover has a snow photo (bluish) above and below the title. 113 pages with black and white photos and diagrams.Front page has "B.H.Goss / 37 Roper St., / Mt. Beauty 3699" stamped in top right corner.ski resort planning, ski resort development, falls creek's future, shire of bright -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book - Alpine Resorts - 2020 draft strategy, Alpine Resorts 2020 draft strategy
... of Victoria's six Alpine Resorts. Falls Creek, Lake Mountain, Mount Baw ...This is a commissioned report auspiced by the State Government of Victoria - Department of Sustainability and Environment 2003.This report was prepared to guide the sustainable long-term planning and management of Victoria's six Alpine Resorts. Falls Creek, Lake Mountain, Mount Baw Baw, Mount Buller, Mount Hotham and Mount Stirling, after the catastrophic bush fires of 2002- 2003.Colorured cardboard front cover with two people on air mattresses in foreground. Title white on bue top left corner. 40 glossy thick paper/card pages. A4Logo "Victoria / The Place to betourism in alpine resorts, sustainability and environment, victorian government, 2002-2003 bushfires -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book - The Autobiography of Ernest Forras, Earnest Escapades Seriously for fun only The autobiography of Ernest Forras with Jan Henderson
Ernest migrated from Hungary in January 1951 and helped bring commercial development to Australia's fledgling snowfields. He was keen to find Alpine employment, eventually importing ski and sports gear. This book covers his time in Hungary and his visits to the Alpine Ski Resorts - an insight into the early years of skiing in Australia.Ernest visited Falls Creek on the Bogong High Plains in 1951 and describes the area on pages 66 to76 from the point of view of an Hungarian migrant. He visited Falls Creek because his brother had got work on Kiewa Hydro Electric Ssheme.Hard dark brown cover book with dust cover coloured in red, white and green with title in black and a photo of Ernest Forras below. It consists of 190 pages. After page 54 and between Part one and Two, there are 18 pages of photos on photographic paper.Written in shaky writing on inside first page "To Debbie / From Hungary With Love / Ernest Forras 2002 / Mt Beautyernest forras, australian ski resorts from 1951, hungary pre 1951 -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Books - Australian Ski Year Books 1952 and 1953, Australian Ski Year Book 1952 and 1953
In the early 1950s snow skiing was becoming more popular as indicated by these two books of 94 pages covering the snow fields in N.S.W., Victoria and Tawmania. The first publication was limited to the Kosciusko Alpine Club in 1928. The 1952 edition being the 25th issue. Due to the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme many SECV employees had access to the Bogong High Plains including Falls Creek. These books are of historical value as indicated by the advertisements for the resorts, the equipment in the snow eg. tows, skis and clothes being used at the time, the results of ski races, etc. The accommodation has also developed and attracted a variety of people. The articles include disasters, people involved in the sport and overseas updates. In the 1952 book relevant pages for the Bogong High Plains and Falls Creek are pages 36, 38, and 68-69. In the 1953 book relevant pages are 62 and 71-72 and for aborigines 66 - 69Both books have a greyish photo as a cover with the title and year. Each book has 94 pages of soft paper. The books consist of advertisements, a Contents page and articles. Photos and diagrams are in black and white. On the front covers is written: "K. Mills"bogong high plains, skiing, falls creek, aborigines -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photos, Postcards - Kiewa Valley
Mt Beauty township, at the head of the Kiewa Valley, is situated at the foot of Mt Bogong. The town was established by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme on the High Plains.Mt Beauty is a popular tourist resort. The main highway from Mt Beauty to the Bogong High Plains is most picturesque throughout the year. During the winter months, Falls Creek provides access to Falls Creek Ski Village for snow sports. Tawonga, 6.5 km north of Mt Beauty, is famed for its trout fishing and camping on the Kiewa River. Deciduous trees make a show of colour during Autumn. The postcards are of historical value showing photos taken at an earlier time.The postcards can be compared to the attractions of the time as they do not include cycling (mountain bikes and road bikes), snow boarding, gliding and paragliding. Advertising for tourism has also changed as attractions are now available on-line. 1. 9 Coloured Photos of Bogong (5) and Visitors Information Centre display (4) 2. Two fold out coloured sets of postcards "Mt Beauty and the Kiewa Scheme", "Mt. Beauty Victoria" 3. x10 Coloured postcards Mt Beauty, Kiewa Valley, Bogong 4. x6 Coloured postcards High Country and Bogong Villagepostcards kiewa valley -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book - Skiing Into History x2, Skiing Into History 1924 - 1984 by Janis M. Lloyd
The history of the Ski Club of Victoria is also a history of skiing in Victoria. The Club was founded in 1924 when most of the skiing was done on Mt Buffalo. Members of the Ski Club of Victoria fostered and developed Victorian skiing. The book includes chapter 8 "Falls Creek", chapter 9 "Bogong High Plains" and chapter 10 "Mount Bogong"Historical account of skiing in Victoria and in particular the Bogong High Plains, Mt Bogong and Falls Creek all of which are part of the Kiewa Valley and its history. "Cecil Dobson" lived in Mt Beauty.Thick hard covered black book with a bright pink dust cover.731 pages with index and lists, mostly black and white photos and a Contents page including all Victorian Skiing resorts. Published by the Ski Club of Victoria."Many Happy / Birthday / from Cecil Dobson"snow skiing, ski club of victoria, bogong high plains, ski resorts -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Skis, Boots, Stocks
... Plains with the ski resort Falls Creek 30 km away. The local ...Skis and snow equipment has changed / developed over the years from the 1940s to the present day. The collection of skis etc. is an example of the changesThe Kiewa Valley is below the Bogong High Plains with the ski resort Falls Creek 30 km away. The local people are involved with the ski industry providing ski equipment to the visitors. A variety of skis, stocks and boots used for cross country skiing and downhill skiing.skis, ski boots, ski stocks, cross country skiing, downhill skiing -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Skis, 1944-45
Skiing was first done at Falls Creek with the building of the towns of Bogong and Mt Beauty. European workers to the Hydro scheme thought that Falls Creek would make a good skiing village. The first ski lodge being opened in 1947. These skiis would have been used in those first seasons of Falls Creek and used by the first skiers of the time from 1945 onwards.These skiis are historically and socially significant, as they would have been one of the first type of skiis used at Falls Creek, one of Victoria first ski resorts, and used by the pioneers of skiing in Victoria. This item has good interpretive capacity as it shows the style of skiis that were used in the 1940's and they are a good comparative item against modern skiis. These skiis were used by Bill Bertram during the first winter traverse from Mount Hotham to the Mountain Creek base of Mount Bogong, see KVHS 0161 for biography of this historical event.Painted Red base with blue undercoat with center groove from base to 3/4 of way towards tip At tips are square pices with round holes possbily HOME MADE? 21 plus 2 holes on top face (for binding)sport, pioneers, snow, skiis, skiing, falls-creek, bogong-village, mt-beauty -
Marysville & District Historical Society
Ephemera (Item) - Information brochure, Artworkz Tourism, MARYSVILLE THINGS TO DO AROUND MARYSVILLE, 27-01-2018
An information brochure on things to do around Marysville in Victoria.An information brochure on things to do around Marysville in Victoria.Disclaimer: The authors have taken care to ensure this/ publication is correct, though please be aware that/ errors and omissions do occur.marysville, victoria, australia, information brochure, gallipoli park lake, gallipoli lake, steavenson falls, steavenson river, bruno's art and sculpture garden, fernshaw park, buxton recreation reserve, taggerty river areas, anderson mill camping area, cooks mill camping area, neds gully camping area, keppel creek day area, beauty spot nature walk, gilbert gully nature walk, michaeldene track, cathedral range, the beeches walk, tree fern gully walk, crystal journey, marysville market, lake mountain ski resort, marysville golf club, marysville public outdoor swimming pool, buxton trout & salmon farm, keppel's lookout, jock's lookout, mount gordon, armstrong lookout, keppel falls, phantom falls, cora lynn falls, meeting of the waters, st ronan's well, preiffer falls, camberville historical township, keppels hut, the big culvert, the big tree, marysville historical society -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Ski-Horizon Vol. 2 No 10, June 1951
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
Photograph - Koki Staff, Queen's Birthday Weekend 1968
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. He also graduated in sport psychology in 1981 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 credited the success of Koki to “Baldy” Blackwell. “Baldy” and Phil Nowell started the Trackers Mountain Lodge in partnership during the 1980s. In 1971 George sold Koki Lodge to Sigh Doerr. Sigh was a long time resident of Falls Creek, owning and operating Koki Lodge for many years with his wife, Lee. He was Falls Creek CFA Captain from 1995 until 1998 although he served in the Fire Brigade for much longer. Sigh had many involvements in the community. In 2023 the renamed Koki Alpine resort remains a highly popular destination in Falls Creek operated by Doerr Nominees Pty. Ltd. under the management of Vesna Sugden.This image is significant because it documents staff at a successful and popular establishment at Falls Creek, Victoria.A coloured photo of staff at Koki Lodge sitting on edge of balcony railkoki lodge, falls creek, george shirling, sigh doerr -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Ski Instructors Falls Creek Ski School
In 1961 the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee determined that there should be only one approved Ski School in the Tourist Area. The franchise for 1961 was granted to Alpine Developments Pty. Ltd', which also had the franchise for Tow Bar operations. The Ski School headquarters were based at the canteen adjacent to the T-Bar drive station. The Management Committee also determined that "No person shall be permitted to give instruction in skiing for any money or material consideration without the prior approval of the Management Committee". The Alpine Developments franchise was extended for the 1963, 1964 & 1965 seasons. In August 1964, the Committee declared that it was satisfied with the present Ski School operated by Alpine Developments, and is most anxious to retain it at Fells Creek. They declared that they were particularly happy with the standard of teaching and control achieved by the School director, Mr. Siegfried Haberzettl, who was at the resort for his fifth year, and to whose leadership and direction the success of the School was largely due. The Committee therefore arranged to extend the franchise for a further three years after 1965, and thereafter the franchise was to be continuous on twelve months' notice of termination from either party. In the 1960s and 1970s, the majority of Ski Instructors were Austrian. Lorna Clarke was one of the first Australians to gain the highest Austrian qualification, the Staatlicher Bundessportheim. She was employed at the Falls Creek Ski School in 1964. In the 1980s there was a push for more Instructor training to take place in Australia to enable local instructors to gain higher qualifications without having to travel to Europe. During this period, George Pirmoser and later Brad Spalding were Ski School Directors and Bridgford was the still the owner of Alpine Developments (Holdings) Pty. Ltd. continued to push for training of Australian instructors. Brad Spalding took over as Ski School Director in 1986 and along with his partner, Melissa Landregger developed a wide range of programs including children’s and women’s programs, private lessons and multi-day clinics for which Falls Creek Ski School is renowned until the present.This image is significant because it depicts some of the early instructors at Falls Creek Ski School.A coloured photo of a group of instructors at Falls Creek Ski School. On left Siggy Haberzettl, on right Lorna Clark. Siggy (Sigi) Haberzettl was the Ski School Director in the 1960s and Lorna was the first Australian instructor to be employed by the Falls Creek Ski School in 1964.falls creek ski school, brad spalding, lorna clarke, siegfried haberzettl -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Decorative object - Antlers from Koki Lodge
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. He also graduated in sport psychology in 1981 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 credited the success of Koki to “Baldy” Blackwell. “Baldy” and Phil Nowell started the Trackers Mountain Lodge in partnership during the 1980s. In 1971 George sold Koki Lodge to Sigh Doerr. Sigh was a long time resident of Falls Creek, owning and operating Koki Lodge for many years with his wife, Lee. He was Falls Creek CFA Captain from 1995 until 1998 although he served in the Fire Brigade for much longer. Sigh had many involvements in the community. In 2023 the renamed Koki Alpine resort remains a highly popular destination in Falls Creek operated by Doerr Nominees Pty. Ltd. under the management of Vesna Sugden.This item is significant because it has clear links to an iconic business established in Falls Creek, VictoriaThese antlers were on display on the wall above the balcony at Koki Lodge.koki lodge, george shirling, sigh doerr, falls creek businesses -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Flyer - Koki Lodge publicity, 1968
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. He also graduated in sport psychology in 1981 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 credited the success of Koki to “Baldy” Blackwell. “Baldy” and Phil Nowell started the Trackers Mountain Lodge in partnership during the 1980s. In 1971 George sold Koki Lodge to Sigh Doerr. Sigh was a long time resident of Falls Creek, owning and operating Koki Lodge for many years with his wife, Lee. He was Falls Creek CFA Captain from 1995 until 1998 although he served in the Fire Brigade for much longer. Sigh had many involvements in the community. In 2024 the renamed Koki Alpine resort remains a highly popular destination in Falls Creek operated by Doerr Nominees Pty. Ltd. under the management of Vesna Sugden.This item is significant because it is connected to an iconic business established in Falls Creek, VictoriaA flyer produced to promote Koki Alpine Lodge for the Winter Season 1968, including tariffs and activities available. It is printed in black, sepia tones and small touches of blue and brown. Part of the text includes the quotation from Paul Gauguin featured on other Koki advertising:- "For I too am beginning to feel an immense need to become a savage and create a new world." PAUL GAUGUIN, 1887koki lodge, george shirling, phil nowell, "baldy" blackwell, sigh doerr -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Falls Creek Ski School - Ladies Group, 1980s
MIM SODERGREN and the WOMEN'S SKI PROGRAM The Women's Ski Program at Falls Creek and Thredbo was initiated in the mid 1980s. One of the most popular instructors involved in this program was Mim (Mariam) Sodergren. Mim developed innovative, specialized ski programs for women and children in both Australia and the United States. She and her husband Mike originated from Tahoma, California, USA. They spent 17 years of their lives without a summer, working as ski instructors in Lake Tahoe during the northern winters, and then they’d head off to Falls Creek and Thredbo in Australia. Mim and Mike Sodergren were both inspiring instructors at Falls Creek Snowsports School, dedicated to education and had a deep-seated passion for fostering an inclusive Snowsports community. Tragically Mim and Mike were among the 18 people killed 30 July 1977 in Thredbo, Australia, when a landslide tore through Thredbo’s ski resort village and demolished two staff lodges. In 1997 the Australian Professional Snowsport Instructors (APSI) established the Sodergren scholarships in memory of Mim and Mike. The Sodergren Scholarship recognises the rising potential of Snowsport instruction within Australian ski resorts and allows the recipients to further their professional development by providing all training free of charge for one season. The women’s program still operates at Falls Creek and is a "heartfelt tribute to the memory of Mim Sodergren, a beloved 1980s instructor and mentor who tragically lost her life in the Thredbo landslide in 1997. Designed by women, for women, and inspired by the enduring passion of Mim and her partner, Mike, who was also an instructor, this program is a wonderful opportunity to learn to ski in a friendly and supportive environment, just as Mim envisioned." (Falls Creek Website 2024). Mike’s Men’s Ski Program at Falls Creek is also named in honour of Mike Sodergren.These photos are significant because they commemorate an innovative ski instructor lost through the tragedy at Thredbo in 1997.Two colour photos showing groups of women participating in the Ladies' Group at Falls Creek in the 1980s, as well as a photo of Mim and Mike Sodergren. Image 1 Left to right: Leonie Docking, Carol Bartholomew, Mim Sodergren, Blanche Spargo, Jane Zagorski, Rosanne Osborn and Di Mashford Image 2 Left to right : Pat Smart, Blanche Spargo, Margaret Smith, Pam Mero, Iris Jones, Jennifer Reuter, Lee Lowther, Jane Zagorski, Mim Sodergren Image 3: Mim and Mike Sodergrenwomen's ski program, falls creek ski school, mim sodergren -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - George Shirling
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. He also graduated in sport psychology in 1981 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 credited the success of Koki to “Baldy” Blackwell. “Baldy” and Phil Nowell started the Trackers Mountain Lodge in partnership during the 1980s. In 1971 George sold Koki Lodge to Sigh Doerr. In 2024 the renamed Koki Alpine resort remains a highly popular destination in Falls Creek operated by Doerr Nominees Pty. Ltd. under the management of Vesna Sugden. George Shirling passed away in March 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 photo is significant because it captures an image of two pioneers of pioneers and active members of Falls Creek Village.A black and white image of George Shirling and Michael "Baldy" Blackwell on the Koki Skidoo,On the front of the skidoo: Koki Alpine Lodgegeorge shirling, koki lodge -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Tom Jones Night, Koki 1968
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. He also graduated in sport psychology in 1981 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 credited the success of Koki to “Baldy” Blackwell. “Baldy” and Phil Nowell started the Trackers Mountain Lodge in partnership during the 1980s. In 1971 George sold Koki Lodge to Sigh Doerr. Sigh was a long time resident of Falls Creek, owning and operating Koki Lodge for many years with his wife, Lee. He was Falls Creek CFA Captain from 1995 until 1998 although he served in the Fire Brigade for much longer. Sigh had many involvements in the community. In 2023 the renamed Koki Alpine resort remains a highly popular destination in Falls Creek operated by Doerr Nominees Pty. Ltd. under the management of Vesna Sugden.A framed black and white photograph of guests enjoying "Tom Jones Night" at Koki Lodge in 1968. Guests include:- Foretable - George Shirling, Geoff Henke, Gweneth Henke (Maloney) who competed in figure skating in the Oslo Winter Olympics 1952, Sigi Haberzetti, Phyllis Bridgford, Bill Bridgford (back to camera)koki lodge, george shirling, sigh doerr -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 19. No. 3 May 1953
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 88 - BOOKINGS AVAILABLE AT SKYLINE LODGE July snow conditions are well-known to experienced skiers for their dry powder surfaces, fast running and reasonable weather generally. The lower mid-winter temperatures are mainly responsible for the crisp skiing atmosphere offered us during that month. It is surprising therefore to find that bookings for July this year are unusually light at all Victorian resorts. Skyline Lodge in particular, with its good transport, easy access, and usually abundant snow cover has everything to offer keen skiers: at present there are vacancies in its booking list through the month. Why ret sample is delightful skiing?schuss journal, the ski club of victoria, skyline -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 19. No. 7 September- October 1953
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 - Features a photo of a skier descending a steep slope. Page 240 includes four images of heavy snow conditions at Victorian resorts. The images are: Top Left: Hotham Heights Chalet Top Right: SEC Stores Hut near Skyline Lodge Lower Left: Mt. Erica Division's Hut on Mt. Baw Baw Lower Right: The Skyline Lodgeschuss journal, skyline lodge, falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Journal - Schuss Vol. 21. No. 7 September - October 1955
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. Page 234 - 235 featured an extensive report on developments at Falls Creek, Victoria. FALLS CREEK SKI CENTRE CONTINUES ITS STEADY ADVANCE Falls Creek skiing has continued to show markedly improved standards over this past season. Better facilities in and around the ski village itself have been accompanied by better skiing on the abundant snow covering all adjacent slopes. Just to mention a few of those facilities in the village: There have been extensions and big improvements at the Hymans Ski School, a number of excellent new club lodges have come into being, Nissen Lodge is in operation at the foot of the tow and adjacent slopes all setting new standards of ski-living that must make other resorts watch their step. While the advent of Cecil Dobson's General Store and Ski Centre, added to the service already available at the Nissen tow house, has removed all the old problems of food supply. Nissen ski-tow, the enticing face of the Frying Pan has given good service for a number of seasons now. To it has been added this year Bob Hyman's small portable tow which has worked for most of the season on the slope just in front of Skyline Lodge. The racing programme carried out at Falls Creek through this season has maintained the high standard shown in all other affairs. The main events started with the N.E.D.S.A. Championships early in August, then followed the Victorian and S.C.V. Nordic titles, and the Intermediate events.schuss journal, the ski club of victoria, developments in falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Equipment - Belt and Nutcracker, 1951
The first nutcracker tow at Falls Creek was the Nissen Tow operated by Toni and Skippy St. Elmo. It had a capacity of five people at one time and cost 6/- day in 1951. The tow was powered by a Buick engine and operated from 1951 until 1960. Other nutcracker tows at Falls Creek were the Village (left side), Village (right side) and the Dog Patch Tow, By the 1960s nutcracker tows were rapidly being replaced in the developing major resorts although a few rope tows remained in use largely to assist access over areas of fairly flat terrain.This item is significant because it came from the original Rope Tow, Nissen, at Falls Creek, VictoriaThe nutcracker (metal clamp) has two handles that clamp onto the rope when closed together. The clamping part of the nutcracker is at the end near the hinge. The nutcracker is attached to a belt via a short rope, and a small metal loop is attached to the belt, onto which the nutcracker can be stored whilst skiing. When riding the nutcracker, the rope attachment is worn to the front which can then be pushed around to the side whilst skiing. The belt needs to be worn tightly around the hips.falls creek tows, nissen tow, toni and skippy st. elmo -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Flyer - Spargo Lodge, c1965
Ivan Spargo was a builder in Melbourne. In 1965 he and his wife Joy leased piece of land in Falls Creek and built Spargo Lodge. It was a dormitory style chalet designed to accommodate large groups and families. Their son, Rob and his wife Blanche purchased the site where the Falls Creek Hotel is today. In 1970 Rob’s sister Leonie and her husband Glenn joined the business, and they started operating in 1972. The family has been actively involved in the Falls Creek Community including the establishment of the Falls Creek Primary School and Falls Creek Search & Rescue. Rob also served as a member the Chamber and Resort Management Board. As the next generation stepped into the family business, Rob and Blanche retired to their home in Tawonga South in 2014 and Leonie and Glenn retired to Melbourne in 2017.This brochure is significant because it is linked to a prominent business and family in Falls Creek, Victoria. A small brochure publicising Spargo Lodge, Falls Creek. It is printed in brown text on buff coloured light card. When unfolded, one side shows a sketch of Spargo Lodge. The reverse side gives information about facilities and services, the tariff for regular and peak season, booking details and transport information.On front: Spargo Lodge FULLY LICENSED Falls Creekspargo lodge, falls creek accommodation, falls creek hotel -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Document - Application For Lease Of Site Selected By S.E.C, 27.03.1963
Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans die on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This item is significant because it documents proposals put forward by Bob Hymans to develop facilities in the Falls Creek Tourist Area.A letter of application from Mr Hymans for the lease of land offered by the State Electricity Commission to develop a tourist hotel. His hotel would provide accommodation for 100 guests. It would contain a dining-room seating 140 and cater for guests and day-visitors. Other facilities included a lounge, public-bar and lounge-bar facilities. A private lounge for reception would also provide guest and convention facilities. His project was designed as a year-round resort hotel. As well as serving as a winter sports hotel, the plan featured indoor facilities including a heated swimming pool, squash courts, bowling alley and sauna bath. Stables, a tennis court and boats would also attract year-round tourism. The budgeted cost was £130,000 plus bowling alley equipment. He planned that construction would commence in October, 1963 and be completed in June, 1965.falls creek tourist area management committee, hymans' hotel plans, falls creek development