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Falls Creek Historical Society
Ephemera - Business card - Koki Alpine Lodge, Falls Creek, Victoria
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 Sigi Doerr. Sigi 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. Sigi 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, VictoriaA three folded paper business card featuring a representation of Gauguin artwork on the front and reservation details on the inside. This business card was an invitation to accommodation and restaurant at Koki LodgeKoki Alpine Lodge Falls Creek Victoria Inside "For I too am beginning to feel an immense need to become a savage and create a new world." PAUL GAUGUIN, 1887 ....an invitation to enjoy the New World of KOKIkoki lodge, george shirling, micheal blackwell, business cards, falls creek accommodation -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Article - Falls Creek Hosts Australian Junior Cross County Title
Falls Creek was selected as the venue for the 1994 Kinetix Australian Junior Championships in Cross Country Skiing in 1994. The event was held on the 2nd and 3rd of September. It was attended by over 100 skiers from Victoria, New South Wales, ACT and the United States. Several local skiers performed well, reinforcing North East Victoria as a force in cross country skiing. Nearly 30 teams competed in the Australian Interstate Junior Relay Championships in the final event. To top the events off a huge snowball fight broke out between skiers and officials, showing good fun could be had between rival teams. The event was organised by the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club.This article is significant because it records the holding of a major event at Falls Creek.An article covering pages 11 and 12 of "The Hydro Courier" containing images and text. It was published on September 13, 1994 and the images were taken by Falls Creek Photo Service.junior cross country 1994, falls creek events, hydro courier, summit masters, birkebeiner nordic ski club -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photographs – Skiers at Falls Creek – Set of 10 black and white photographs
After World War II, the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme was started in the Kiewa River valley by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria. On land previously used only for summer cattle grazing in the natural alpine grasslands, the first ski lodge was built in 1948 by workers from the hydro scheme as skiing was a popular recreation. Many of the hydro employees were of European background and had grown up enjoying skiing and snow sports in their homelands and were keen to continue to pursue their winter sports interests. The first lift, a rope tow, was built in 1951 and the first chairlift in Australia was constructed there in 1957. Two T-Bars were opened in 1961. In 1964, the Victorian Municipal Directory recorded that Falls Creek had 29 ski club lodges and 16 commercial lodges.Employees of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria in the Kiewa River Valley were the earliest skiers on the Bogong High Plains and built one of the first ski lodges at Falls Creek. They were amongst those pivotal in the development of the skiing and tourist industry at Falls Creek and on the Bogong High Plains. Set of 10 black and white photographs of various skiers at Falls Creek Victoria1. From Left-John Robertson Myrtleford; Bill Bridgford, St Trinians; Girl not known; Roy Wolpole, Myrtleford; Fin McAuliffe, Myrtleford; Looking on foreground, Toni St Elmo 2. Falls Creek. Property of State Electricity Commission of Victoria Publicity Photo Negative No PB4046. Publicity Branch, 15 William St Melbourne. 3. Avic Lajons 4. No markings 5. Bill Bridgeford (lower person on slope) 6. Max Lawrence? Facing skiers 7. 6575. Indistinguishable red stamp on back 8. 6875. Ces Dobson on tractor 9. From left on tow. John Robertson (Myrtleford); Bill Bridgeford (St Trinians); Girl unknown; Roy Walpole (Myrtleford); Vin McAuliffe (Myrtleford); Looking on foreground Toni Beveridge. 10. From Left 1; 2; 3. Bill Bridgeford; 4. George McPherson ? (Myrtleford); 5. John Robertson (Myrtleford); 6. Elsbeth Rollenson? (Myrtleford); 7; 8; 9. 11. Bogong. Looking N.E from Big River fire track. Skiers on way to Falls Creek. Spion Kop on left. Going around Ropers Cerner near the 18 mile post falls creek, skiing, bogong high plains -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Document - Falls Creek Development - Ski Tow System
Bob Hymans Collection Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans died on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This letter is significant because it reflects the relationship between Bob Hymans and the Management Committee.A letter from the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee to Bob Hymans advising that a proposal for new ski lift from another company has been accepted. It also states that is premature to discuss a intro-tow ticketing system at this stage.falls creek tourist area management committee, ski lift proposals -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Postcard - "AKJA" Sled in use, Falls Creek
These photographs were taken in and around Falls Creek by Samuel Keith Pearce and printed for him as a foldout postcard by NuColor Vue. The postcards state they were printed for S. K. Pearce Pty. Ltd of Tawonga and Mount Beauty. Samuel Keith Pearce was born on 24 June 1917 in Armadale, Victoria. By the late 1940s he owned the Mt Beauty Supermarket, Newsagency, Drapery and Hardware store at Mount Beauty and also a store at Tawonga in partnership with his brother Gordon Cathew Pearce. For some time, they operated as Pearce Brothers. In the early 1960s Keith also opened a mini mart In Falls Creek. As well as being a keen photographer and an astute businessman, Keith Pearce was a well-known identity in the Kiewa Valley, making many contributions to the development of the area over a long period. This included serving as a member of the Bright Shire Council for many years. He worked hard to promote the interests of the Upper Kiewa Valley. As a sign of recognition and appreciation for his contribution to the community, the park opposite the grocery store in Mount Beauty was named the SK Pearce Gardens in his honour. Samuel Keith Pearce died on 7 July 1994 in Mount Beauty, VictoriaThis collection of postcards and image is significant because they were commissioned by a highly successful business in Falls Creek, Victoria.A postcard featuring two skiers guiding an "AKJA" sled. These sleds were designed in Finland for transporting a person or goods on snowy or icy surfaces. At Falls Creek they were used by the Ski Patrol to evacuate an injured skier or snowboarder. astra falls creek, falls creek accommodation, falls creek businesses -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Document - S.E.C. - Falls Creek Tourist Hotel Project (Adjacent To Ski Village)
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 died on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This item is significant because it documents plans made by the State Electricity Commission to develop the Falls Creek Tourist Area.A letter from the State Electricity Commission (SEC) outlining details of a site available for the development of a Tourist Hotel Project in Falls Creek in late 1962/3. The SEC estimated that by the winter of 1963 Falls Creek Village would be able to accommodate 500 persons. The site for development was up to 2 1/2 acres adjacent to the Upper Kiewa Valley Road. It envisaged a building able to accommodate about 100 guests. The successful developer would be granted a lease for 45 years at a rent of £300 per annum. Written applications for the lease were to be submitted by 31st March 1963.falls creek tourist area management committee, falls creek administration, state electricity commission -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Document - Falls Creek Tourist Management Committee Directive
Bob Hymans Collection Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in May 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grande Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans died on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob’s endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This document is significant because it documents an aspect of Bill Hymans' interaction with the Falls Creek Management Committee.A single page document sent to Bob Hymans by the Falls Creek Tourist Management Committee on 31 July 1959. The directive stated that materials and property owned by him needed to be neatly stored and stacked within the boundaries of the site for which he held a license.bob hymans, falls creek alpine village advisory committee -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Document - Meeting Minutes Of Falls Creek Alpine Village Advisory Committee
Bob Hymans Collection Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in May 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grande Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans died on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob’s endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This document is significant because it documents discussion concerning the operation of Falls Creek.MInutes of the Falls Creek Alpine Village Advisory Committee held on 21 September 1957 typed on foolscap size paper. Topics of discussion included contributions to the Ski Improvement Fund, equipment in the Casualty Room and also the possibility of erecting a simple rope tow on the nursery slope.chairlift falls creek, bob hymans, ski improvement fund, falls creek alpine village advisory committee -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Letter - Circular To Licensees - Leases - Falls Creek
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 died on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This letter is significant because it documents actions which needed to be taken by the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee in their role overseeing the Tourist Area.A letter and application form dated 28th May 1962 from the Management Committee to Falls Creek Licensees. The form had to be completed by all licensees who wished to make application for a lease. It was to be lodged with the Management Committee, who would forward it to the State Electricity Commission along with Committee's recommendations.falls creek tourist area management committee, sec licenses -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Papers - Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee, August 1984
Falls Creek is a ski resort in the north east of Victoria on the Bogong High Plains. Members of business's (accommodation & restaurants) formed the Falls Creek Chamber of Commerce to promote tourism 'under' the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee. The Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee under the direction of the State Electric Commission of Victoria came into effect in 1959 and from then on building sites were leased and building and sewerage controls were applied. In 1979 the Victorian State Government had established the Ski Industry of Victoria working party with a brief report on its operation. These papers give an insight into the business of the Falls Creek Chamber of Commerce in 1984 eg. car parking, noise, closure of the resort due to heavy snow falls, the media and general development of the resort. Local business people are named as attending the meeting indicating many non English surnames. 4 yellowed papers typed on both sides of the first 3 pages. irst paper has 6 items listed re Falls Creek Chamber of Commerce / Sub Committee on General Booking Conditions.Dated 15th August 1984 Next 3 papers dated 13th August 1984 Falls Creek Chamber of Commerce / Minutes of General Meetingfalls creek, ski resort, bogong high plains, falls creek chamber of commerce, snow, ski lodges, -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Falls Creek Ski School - Ladies Group
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
Article - Business Opportunities At Falls Creek Tourist Area
Bob Hymans Collection Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans died on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This document is significant because it outlines plans for the development of the Falls Creek Tourist Area.A newspaper advertisement and transcript aimed at people to apply to establish new businesses in Falls Creek. Businesses being sought were a General Store with postal and telephone services; Cafe; Ski hire and repair centre and ski lifts and/or tows. Proposals for other types of businesses would be considered. THe advertisement was to be placed in the Melbourne Age and Sydney Morning Herald.falls creek tourist area management committee, development plans, falls creek businesses -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - This Week in Falls Creek
A4 size photocopy of first edition of 'This Week in Falls Creek' magazine, July 1980 -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Book - Astra Falls Creek, c2018
In 1987 Falls Creek local Roy Morris opened the ‘Astra Lodge’. Rosy Seaton acquired ‘Astra Lodge’ in 2014 and renamed it just Astra. Rosy with Grant Amon Architects completed major renovations and new buildings in 2015, 2016 and 2017, which included a new Day Spa, and six new apartments. Astra Bar and Restaurant. The revitalised Astra welcomed its first guests in the 2017 snow season. This publication tells the story of the redevelopment which has earned recognition in the ‘Best Boutique Ski Hotel Australia’ for eight consecutive years by the World Ski Awards.A book including images and texts which tells the story of the Astra in Falls Creek, Victoria.non-fictionIn 1987 Falls Creek local Roy Morris opened the ‘Astra Lodge’. Rosy Seaton acquired ‘Astra Lodge’ in 2014 and renamed it just Astra. Rosy with Grant Amon Architects completed major renovations and new buildings in 2015, 2016 and 2017, which included a new Day Spa, and six new apartments. Astra Bar and Restaurant. The revitalised Astra welcomed its first guests in the 2017 snow season. This publication tells the story of the redevelopment which has earned recognition in the ‘Best Boutique Ski Hotel Australia’ for eight consecutive years by the World Ski Awards.falls creek, astra falls creek, rosy seaton, accommodation falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Postcard - The Frying Pan Inn, Falls Creek
With the completion of the Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme in 1959, Falls Creek began to change from being a construction site into an alpine tourism resort. In 1964 the Frying Pan Inn group consisting of Bill Bridgford, Geof Henke and L G Morrison acquired a license to construct a restaurant. It opened in time for the 1965 season, but the Frying Pan venue was damaged by fire in 1967. Renovations took until 1973 when the Frying Pan Inn reopened. It is now a popular Apres Ski location in the heart of Falls Creek Village.This postcard depicts a popular venue at Falls Creek.A postcard featuring a coloured photograph of the Frying Pan Inn. It has a title and publisher details on the reverse.In image: Sign - Frying Pan Inn Licensed Restaurant On reverse: Top Left: FALLS CREEK, Victoria, Australia /Frying Pan Inn and Summit beyond. Centre: Nu-Color- Vue of AUSTRALIA In stamp square: FC 12 NCV 2562 Publisher information vertically down centre: NUCOLORVUE PRODUCTIONS PTY. LTD./ COPYRIGHT PRINTED IN AUSTRALIAfalls creek village, frying pan inn, falls creek tourism -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Children at Falls Creek Primary School
Falls Creek Primary School Prior to 1965, couples with small children would move away from Falls Creek due to there being no school facilities in the village. In the mid 60's a few families with school age children established themselves in the village, and a need arose for a school to encourage them to stay. An enrolment of seven children and a building was required before the Education Department could become involved. The Management Committee of the day gifted the families some land (still the site of the Falls Creek Primary School No. 5067) and fundraising began. The original committee consisted of the Steven family (two children), the Lee family (three children), the Caddie family (no children), the Carroll family (no children), and the Alston family (children?). After two years of community based, yet dubious fundraising methods (including weekly gluhwein parties, keg parties and numerous raffles), enough money ($1,300) was raised and an unused SEC building in Mt Beauty was bid on and won. Due to the condition of the road up to Falls Creek, it had to be dismantled and reassembled up the mountain. Unfortunately, the building was delivered to Falls Creek too late into the season to be erected but the following summer, with no money available to hire builders, working bees began, beer was on tap, and BBQs were cooked, and a crude schoolroom with an oil heater donated by Cecil Dobson from Winterhaven was erected. The first teacher hired was an Alaskan woman who agreed to a wage of $10 per child per week. Due to minimal resources the children were sent home at different times of the day in order to warm up and have a meal. Through the winter of 1971 many government departments were lobbied and it was decided that if the building could be finished to the Education Departments standards then they would provide a government endorsed full time teacher. The three main site holders (Bob Lee, Cecil Dobson and Dick Humphries) took out a loan and the school was refurbished and opened as the 'Bob Scott Memorial Hall' in time for the 1972 season. Maree Keele was the first Head Teacher. After three years of fund raising by the school committee the hall was paid off in full. After many years in the original building the Education Department took control of the school, updated the classrooms and provided accommodation for the teachers. In 1982, discussions began surrounding construction of a 'new' Falls Creek Primary School, a joint property with the community and the Education Department. After it was decided that the funds could not be raised fully by the community ($150,000), the Department constructed a new facility and students moved in on 1st July 1985.This image is significant as it is representative of the children who have attended Falls Creek Primary School and their families who work to establish an education facility in Falls Creek.A coloured photo of a group of students gathered outside Falls Creek Primary School No. 5067 held in the Bob Scott Memorial Hall. Children in the photo include:- Phoebe Irwin, Paul Bryce, Sharon Purdue, Matthew Dobson, Tracy Lee, Danielle Humphries, Emma Brown, Kelly Bryce, Tim Scott, Megan Scott, Darren Spargo, David Spargo, Paul Costa, Adrian Costa, Luke (?) Spargo, Charlie Brownfalls creek primary school, bob scott memorial hall, education falls creek, fcps 5067 -
Stawell Historical Society Inc
Postcard, Silverband Falls in the Grampians -- Postcard
Silverband Falls No 21 The GrampiansColoured photograph of a very tall water falls on layers of rock formation. A person is standing at the base of the falls.Silverband Falls Grampians No 21halls gap grampians -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Letter - Falls Creek Ski School
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 died on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This letter is significant because it documents developments made or endorsed by the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee.A letter from the Management Committee announcing the successful applicant for the operation of the Falls Creek Ski School. The Franchise was awarded to Alpine Developments for the 1961 season, after which time it may be extended or readvertised based on the decision of the Management Committee. The Ski School. The approved location of the Ski School headquarters during the 1961 season was the canteen adjacent to the T-Bar drive station.bob hymans, falls creek tourist area management committee, falls creek garbage disposal -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Souvenir - Coasters
Marketing material from the 1970s for Falls Creek, showing various photographs of snow life during this time.The coasters are an example of marketing during the 1970s for Falls Creek as well as scenery of winter life. Six square cork drinks coaster with a different colour photograph of people in the snow. FALLS CREEK VIC is written in gold lettering at the top centre of each image. FALLS CREEK VICfalls creek, skiing, 1970s, marketing, ski, ski lift, snow, winter -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Postcard - Falls Creek Road and Grand Coeur Lodge Annexe
These photographs were taken in and around Falls Creek by Samuel Keith Pearce and printed for him as a foldout postcard by NuColor Vue. The postcards state they were printed for S. K. Pearce Pty. Ltd of Tawonga and Mount Beauty. Samuel Keith Pearce was born on 24 June 1917 in Armadale, Victoria. By the late 1940s he owned the Mt Beauty Supermarket, Newsagency, Drapery and Hardware store at Mount Beauty and also a store at Tawonga in partnership with his brother Gordon Cathew Pearce. For some time, they operated as Pearce Brothers. In the early 1960s Keith also opened a mini mart In Falls Creek. As well as being a keen photographer and an astute businessman, Keith Pearce was a well-known identity in the Kiewa Valley, making many contributions to the development of the area over a long period. This included serving as a member of the Bright Shire Council for many years. He worked hard to promote the interests of the Upper Kiewa Valley. As a sign of recognition and appreciation for his contribution to the community, the park opposite the grocery store in Mount Beauty was named the SK Pearce Gardens in his honour. Samuel Keith Pearce died on 7 July 1994 in Mount Beauty, VictoriaThis collection of postcards and image is significant because they were commissioned by a highly successful business in Falls Creek, Victoria.A high definition photo of Falls Creek Road and Grand Coeur Lodge Annexe. The original Grand Coeur Lodge was built by Bill Hymans between 1950 and 1952. Unfortunately it was burned down in 1961. Grand Coeur was never rebuilt, but Bob modified his annexe to be used as accommodation and later also operated Southern Cross and the Four Seasons. falls creek accommodation, falls creek businesses, grand coeur chalet -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - This Summer, What Will You Fall For at Falls?
A part of a yearly marketing and information material promoting Falls Creek region for the summer holidays. The brochure outlines active and more relaxing options available at Falls Creek in the summer of 1989 - 90. Accommodation featured on the back cover includes:-Nelse Lodge, Falls Creek Motel, Viking, Lakeside LOdge, Winterhaven Lodge, Astra Lodge and Cooroona Ski Lodge.This item is important because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortWhite A4 brochure for Summer at Falls Creek. White cover with grey title in capital letters - THIS SUMMER, WHAT WILL YOU FALL FOR AT FALLS? - with ba blue butterfly and framed image of pink flowers centred underneath. Opens to A3 size with internal double page and back page spread of images and information of Summer at Falls Creek. falls creek marketing, falls creek summer, accommodation falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Newsletter - Falls Creek Towie Times
"Towie Times" is a collection of newsletters compiled for tow operators at Falls Creek in the 1990s. It contained articles including anecdotes, employee of the week, serious reports and staff information, cartoons and advertisements capturing life as a "towie" at Falls Creek.A collection of newsletters including news items, cartoons, stories, staff information, advertising and reports about staff activities at Falls Creek in the 1990s."Towie Times" is a collection of newsletters compiled for tow operators at Falls Creek in the 1990s. It contained articles including anecdotes, employee of the week, serious reports and staff information, cartoons and advertisements capturing life as a "towie" at Falls Creek.falls creek staff, falls creek social life, falls creek activities -
Greensborough Historical Society
Tickets, Diamond Creek Horticultural Society, Diamond Creek Show 1924, 1924_
Two Lady's Tickets for Diamond Creek Show, Season 1924, Diamond Creek Horticultural Society stamp on verso; one Member's Ticket for Diamond Creek Horticultural Society, Season 1924. Two Lady's Tickets for Diamond Creek Show, Season 1924: black print on buff card, Diamond Creek Horticultural Society stamp on verso; one Member's Ticket for Diamond Creek Horticultural Society, Season 1924: black print on pink card Signed H. J. Blackdiamond creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Staff Identification Tag David Osborn 1989
SKI TICKETS Before tows and lifts were introduced at Falls Creek, it could take skiers 20 minutes to climb to the Summit … but only TWO minutes to go back to the bottom. The arrival of tows, then chairlifts and T-bars changed the face of skiing forever. The first rope tow was constructed by Toni St. Elmo for the 1951 winter season. Bob Hymans installed a smaller tow for his guests at Skyline Lodge. Tows were still quite slow, so in 1956 Bob Hymans created his single chairlift. In 1958 the Village rope tow, designed by Albury engineer Jock Wilson, opened. It was financed by shareholders including Bill Griffith (Bowna Ski Club) and the Bridgford family (St. Trinian’s Ski Club). Several other tows followed including the Summit T-bar in 1961, built by Ron McCallum and operated by Alpine Developments Pty. Ltd. which was a company formed by C. H. (Bill) Bridgford. By 1982 Falls Creek was served by 16 different lifts or T-bars, all owned and operated by Alpine Developments (Holdings) Pty. Ltd. During the development of Falls Creek, different methods have been used to pay for the use of tows, lifts and T-bars … including metal tokens, single tickets, strips of tickets and season passes. The Falls Creek Historical Society Collection includes many examples of these items.This Staff Identification Card is significant because it belonged to David Osborn who lead developments at Falls Creek in the late 1980s.A staff identification tag featuring a coloured photograph of David Osborn. He came to Falls Creek to take up the position of General Manager, Falls Creek Ski Lifts Pty. Ltd. He continued in this role until 1990 when he was offered the position of Managing Director at Thredbo. During his period as General Manager major projects carried out at Falls Creek were:- the construction of Halleys Comet Chairlift, Slalom Street Plaza development, the introduction of snowmaking, Cloud 9 Restaurant, the construction of the Scott Chair and the Village Bowl. In 2022 David Osborn released a book, "Falls Creek Stories 1984 - 1990" which documents the developments which occurred in Falls Creek and the people who made them possible.At top: FALLS CREEK 1989 Below photo: FALLS CREEK SKI LIFTS PTY.LTD STAFF IDENTIFICATION David Osborn General Manager chairlift falls creek, david osborn, falls creek development 1980s -
Marysville & District Historical Society
Print (item) - Black and white etching, THE STEVENSON FALLS, MARYSVILLE, 1900s
A copy of an early black and white print of an etching of Steavenson Falls in Marysville in Victoria.A copy of an early black and white print of an etching of Steavenson Falls in Marysville in Victoria. The Steavenson Falls is named after the Victorian Assistant Commissioner of Roads and Bridges, John Steavenson who arrived in Victoria in the early 1860s.THE STEVENSON FALLS, MARYSVILLE.steavenson falls, stevenson falls, marysville, victoria, waterfalls, john steavenson, etching -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Children outside Falls Creek Primary School
Falls Creek Primary School Prior to 1965, couples with small children would move away from Falls Creek due to there being no school facilities in the village. In the mid 60's a few families with school age children established themselves in the village, and a need arose for a school to encourage them to stay. An enrolment of seven children and a building was required before the Education Department could become involved. The Management Committee of the day gifted the families some land (still the site of the Falls Creek Primary School No. 5067) and fundraising began. The original committee consisted of the Steven family (two children), the Lee family (three children), the Caddie family (no children), the Carroll family (no children), and the Alston family (children?). After two years of community based, yet dubious fundraising methods (including weekly gluhwein parties, keg parties and numerous raffles), enough money ($1,300) was raised and an unused SEC building in Mt Beauty was bid on and won. Due to the condition of the road up to Falls Creek, it had to be dismantled and reassembled up the mountain. Unfortunately, the building was delivered to Falls Creek too late into the season to be erected but the following summer, with no money available to hire builders, working bees began, beer was on tap, and BBQs were cooked, and a crude schoolroom with an oil heater donated by Cecil Dobson from Winterhaven was erected. The first teacher hired was an Alaskan woman who agreed to a wage of $10 per child per week. Due to minimal resources the children were sent home at different times of the day in order to warm up and have a meal. Through the winter of 1971 many government departments were lobbied and it was decided that if the building could be finished to the Education Departments standards then they would provide a government endorsed full time teacher. The three main site holders (Bob Lee, Cecil Dobson and Dick Humphries) took out a loan and the school was refurbished and opened as the 'Bob Scott Memorial Hall' in time for the 1972 season. Maree Keele was the first Head Teacher. After three years of fund raising by the school committee the hall was paid off in full. After many years in the original building the Education Department took control of the school, updated the classrooms and provided accommodation for the teachers. In 1982, discussions began surrounding construction of a 'new' Falls Creek Primary School, a joint property with the community and the Education Department. After it was decided that the funds could not be raised fully by the community ($150,000), the Department constructed a new facility and students moved in on 1st July 1985.This image is significant because it includes children who became champion competitors at Victorian State, national and international level.A black and white photo of a group of children on a toboggan outside the Falls Creek Primary. It includes several future champion skiers. From back:- Kate Stevens, Pretty Valley Lodge, World Cup Freestyle representative and Champion; Tracey Lee, Attunga Lodge, Second in the Australian Freestyle and Australian Under Fifteen champion; Matthew Dobson, Winterhaven; Steven Lee, Attunga, three times Olympic and World Cup representative and competed on professional circuit; Chris Losch, Feathertop; Chris Heberle, Le Chalet, Cross Country Champion, eight times Australian Champion; Michelle Caddy, Geilo; Julie Smith: Vicki Losch, Feathertop: Debbie Humphreys, Powerhouse, Scott Caddy, Geilo: Sue Heberle, Le Chalet: Danielle Humphreys, Powerhouse, raced in State Championships and became ski instructor.falls creek primary school, falls creek education, falls creek skiers -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photographs – Skippy St Elmo and other skiers – Set of 8 black and white photographs
Skippy and Toni St Elmo were responsible for early developments at the Falls Creek resort and for promoting a love of skiing. They left Melbourne in 1945 and settled at Falls Creek and moved into the first building constructed of corrugated iron and timber at Falls Creek in 1946. They were Falls Creek’s first workers with Toni employed by the State Electricity Commission to record weather-related data up to the construction of the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme. In 1957, Toni was involved in building the first rope tow called Nissen on the same route as the Summit Quad. He also established the Nissen Ski School with ski instructor Milan Kovacic and was involved in the building of the resort’s first ski club Bogong in 1949. Toni taught Skippy to ski and she practised on the High Plains where she and her husband lived. Skippy St Elmo won many ski races during the 1950’s and represented Australia in New Zealand.Skippy and Toni St Elmo were pioneers of the Falls Creek area, promoting local ski sports and tourism. The played an important role in opening up the Falls Creek area and developing its sporting potential by establishing the first ski school, ski lifts and early lodge facilities. Skippy and Toni St Elmo were honoured at the Alpine Village at Falls Creek on November 17 2006, with the spreading of their ashes at the place which played such an important part in both their lives.Set of 8 black and white photographs of Skippy St Elmo and other skiers 1. Skippy and 3 others in New Zealand 1951 2. Skippy and 5 others Falls Creek 1955 3. Cake celebrating 20 years of sport at Nissen Lodge 4. Skippy and friend outside Nissen Lodge 5. Skippy on the ski slopes 6. Skippy on the ski slopes 7. Albury Ski Club team New Zwealand 1957 8. The Bogong Ski Club 1950 Written on back of photos 1. Bob Howe Albury, Skippy New Zealand 1951 – 942H 2. Falls Creek 1955. Skippy St Elmo: H Devonassore; Margaret ?; ?; Tony St Elmo; Olive? 3. Written on cake Nissen Alpine Club. 20 years of sport. FRED 4. Skippy St Elmo 5. Skippy 6. Skippy 7. Bob Howe (Albury) Skippy New Zealand 1957. Albury Ski Club Team raced in NZ 8. The Bogong Ski club, Coronet Park, 1950. M Denham (Capt); B Wiltshire; R Roberts; Skippy St Elmo; Gwen Morris; J Frazer; J Smith; L Piera; Manager & Coach Toni St Elmo. J D Knowles Photographer Box 188, Queenstown. 744B falls creek, skiing, bogong high plains -
Stawell Historical Society Inc
Postcard, Mackenzie Falls in the Grampians -- Postcard
Mackenzie Falls The Grampians Series 5106Black and white view of water falls with 2 people in right corner of photo.Mackenzie Falls. Grampians. Series 5106 (copyright).halls gap grampians -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Book, Diamond Creek Primary School, Diamond Creek Primary School 1003 - serving the community for 125 years 1870-1995, 1994
History of Diamond Creek Primary School on its 125th birthday, based on history by Rev Roy Gabb published 1970244 p., 30 cm.diamond creek primary school -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - Falls Creek 2003 - Where Fun Falls
Part of an annual marketing campaign, this booklet was designed to provide information for planning a holiday at Falls Creek for the winter of 2003. It includes details about activities, facilities and accommodation in the Village as well as contact information to make necessary bookings. The slogan for 2003 was "Where Fun Falls".This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine Resort An A4 sized marketing booklet, including images and advertising information printed on glossy paper.ski, victoria, falls creek 2003, falls creek marketing