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Falls Creek Historical Society
Article - "Father" watches over his mountain-top family, 30 July 1986
This article acknowledged the naming of Ory's Trail at Falls Creek in 1986. Orest “Ory” Frueauf was born in Kharkov, Russia in 1925 and moved to Germany with his family to escape persecution. He was conscripted to the German Army during the Second World War. He was a POW until 1948. He was recruited by a French construction company to work as and interpreter on a hydroelectricity project in Tasmania. Ory then moved to work on the Snowy Mountain Scheme including driving a truck to fill the wall of the Rocky Valley dam. In 1952 Ory was recruited by the Albury Ski Club as its lodge supervisor. That year he also entered into a business partnership with Cecil Dobson, running the general store “Whitehaven” and Post Office at Falls Creek. They extended their business by adding accommodation turning Whitehaven into one of the best commercial lodges at Falls Creek. Ory and Cecil dissolved their business partnership in 1963 and Ory went on to build a new lodge called “Snowhaven” at the site of the present day Frueauf Village, Falls Creek. Ory retired to Tawonga, Victoria in 1992 and passed away in 1999.This article is significant because it documents the naming of Ory's Trail to recognise a pioneer of Falls Creek.A newspaper item about Ory Freauf on the occasion of the naming of Ory's Trail at Falls Creek.falls creek pioneers, frueauf, ory frueauf -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Postcard - Ski School Meeting Place, Falls Creek
These photographs were taken in and around Falls Creek by Samuel Keith Pearce and printed for him as a foldout postcard by NuColor Vue. The postcards state they were printed for S. K. Pearce Pty. Ltd of Tawonga and Mount Beauty. Samuel Keith Pearce was born on 24 June 1917 in Armadale, Victoria. By the late 1940s he owned the Mt Beauty Supermarket, Newsagency, Drapery and Hardware store at Mount Beauty and also a store at Tawonga in partnership with his brother Gordon Cathew Pearce. For some time, they operated as Pearce Brothers. In the early 1960s Keith also opened a mini mart In Falls Creek. As well as being a keen photographer and an astute businessman, Keith Pearce was a well-known identity in the Kiewa Valley, making many contributions to the development of the area over a long period. This included serving as a member of the Bright Shire Council for many years. He worked hard to promote the interests of the Upper Kiewa Valley. As a sign of recognition and appreciation for his contribution to the community, the park opposite the grocery store in Mount Beauty was named the SK Pearce Gardens in his honour. Samuel Keith Pearce died on 7 July 1994 in Mount Beauty, Victoria. The first Poma tow to open at Falls Creek was the Nursery Poma in 1964. The name "Poma" originates from the inventor of this style of lift Jean Pomagalski who was born in Krakow, Poland, He fled Poland with his family and settled in France. As an engineer he developed the first surface lift with a tow rod which was installed in Alpe d'Huez (France) in 1934.This collection of postcards and images is significant because they were commissioned by a highly successful businessman in Falls Creek, Victoria.A colour image of skiers and instructors gathered at the Meeting Place, Falls Creekfalls creek, falls creek chairlifts, poma lift falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Ernest Forras and Julian Brown at Julian's Lodge with Beth Brown and Marnie Searles
Julian Newton-Brown arrived at Falls Creek in 1957. He had studied Pharmacy at Melbourne University. After developing a love for the mountains, Julian moved to Mt. Beauty and then Falls Creek. He worked for the SEC in the test laboratory at Rocky Valley reading weather instruments. By working several jobs, Julian was able to build a small lodge of 10 beds named “Arundel”, located at 18 Slalom Street, Falls Creek. The lodge is now the “Elk at Falls”. Arundel prospered and Julian extended it to include 32 beds and changed its name to "Julian’s” in 1961. When alcohol restrictions were eased in Falls Creek, Julian built a night club which he called “Big Julian’s” and later “THE MAN”. When Julian and his wife Beth retired and left Falls Creek, their son took over running the lodge. An active community man, Julian was a member of the Falls Creek Chamber of Commerce, a member of the SES, a stakeholder in Falls Creek, an author and a documentary maker. Julian Newton-Brown died in May 2020. Ernest Forras built Kooroora Chalet at Mount Buller with his brother, Aurel in 1953. They were both ski instructors and contributed greatly to the development of the ski industry.This item is significant because it gives details of an important lodge at Falls Creek, Victoria.A colour photograph of four friends inside Julian's Lodge, Falls Creekjulian's lodge, julian newton brown, falls creek ski lodges, earnest forrer -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Julian Newton Brown on Yamaha SL 351
Julian Newton-Brown arrived at Falls Creek in 1957. He had studied Pharmacy at Melbourne University. After developing a love for the mountains, Julian moved to Mt. Beauty and then Falls Creek. He worked for the SEC in the test laboratory at Rocky Valley reading weather instruments. By working several jobs, Julian was able to build a small lodge of 10 beds named “Arundel”, located at 18 Slalom Street, Falls Creek. The lodge is now the “Elk at Falls”. Arundel prospered and Julian extended it to include 32 beds and changed its name to "Julian’s” in 1961. When alcohol restrictions were eased in Falls Creek, Julian built a night club which he called “Big Julian’s” and later “THE MAN”. When Julian and his wife Beth retired and left Falls Creek, their son took over running the lodge. An active community man, Julian was a member of the Falls Creek Chamber of Commerce, a member of the SES, a stakeholder in Falls Creek, an author and a documentary maker. Julian Newton-Brown died in May 2020. In 2003 when this flyer was published operation of Julian's Lodge transferred from Julian and his wife Beth to their son Charlie Brown, a former Australian Champion and World Cup skier and his wife, Bena.This item is significant because it gives details of an important lodge at Falls Creek, Victoria.A black and white image of Julian Newton Brown testing a Yamaha SL 351 in 1968.julian's lodge, julian newton brown, falls creek ski lodges, accommodation falls creek, charlie brown -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Cecil Dobson, Falls Creek Pioneer
... Creek, Victoria. Falls Creek Ski Lodges Cecil Dobson A black ...Cecil Dobson began work as a carpenter/ labourer in Mount Beauty in 1947 and then as a chainman and truck driver on the High Plains. He started a small shop on the mountain to which supplies had to be dragged on a sledge. In 1952 he entered into a business partnership with Orest “Ory” Freauf, running the general store “Whitehaven” and Post Office at Falls Creek. They acquired a crawler tractor which they called “Leaping Lina” to make transport easier. He also built lodges for other people, including the Dawn Ski Club Lodge. To make more money and get away from the grocery store, Cec and Ory extended their business by adding accommodation turning Whitehaven into one of the best commercial lodges at Falls Creek. Ory and Cecil dissolved their business partnership in 1963. Cec retired in 1984 and moved to Tawonga South, Victoria. This item is significant because it pictures a pioneer of Falls Creek, Victoria.A black and white portrait of Cecil Dobson and a second photo of Cecil driving a crawler tractor.falls creek ski lodges, cecil dobson -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Esther Bottomley - Winter Olympian and winner of the Kangaroo Hoppet
Esther Bottomley was born on 8th February 1983 in Terang, Victoria but moved to Mount Beauty and became affiliated with the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club. She was the first female Australian athlete to compete at three WInter Olympic Games in Cross Country. She competed at Torino in 2006, Vancouver in 2010 and Sochi in 2014. Esther has also competed in events in the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships in the sprint event in 2003 and 2005. Her best World Cup finish was 18th in a team sprint event at Canada in 2009. Esher was also the winner of the Women's Kangaroo Hoppet in 2010 and 2011. This image is significant because it depicts an Australian Winter olympian and dual Kangaroo Hoppet winner.A coloured image of Esther Bottomley competing in the Kangaroo Hoppet 2010.australian winter olympians, esther bottomley, kangaroo hoppet -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Equipment - Skis from the Four Seasons Lodge, Falls Creek
In 1948 Bob Hymans (1922-2007) built a small lodge on the corner of Falls Creek Road by the oversnow called Four Seasons or The Grand Coeur Annexe. Believed to be a wonderful host Bob also owned and operated Southern Cross and Grand Coeur. Grand Coeur unfortunately burnt down in 1961. These skis, now located in the Falls Creek Museum, were donated by Bob’s daughter Bridget. They hung in the main room of the Lodge for many years, never touching snow.These skis are significant because they were owned by Bob Hymans, a pioneer of Falls Creek, Victoria.A pair of wooden skis with bindings and poles.bob hymans, four seasons, grand coeur chalet -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Booklet - Australian Ski Year Book, Various
... . And it was published on behalf of N.S.W. Ski Council, Ski Club of Victoria, Ski ..."The Australian Ski Year Book" was first published in 1928 by the Kosciusko Alpine Club and the Ski Club of Australia, which with the Kiandra Ski Club, were the oldest organisations for skiing in Australia. In later years organisations from Victoria, Tasmania and New Zealand were included. And it was published on behalf of N.S.W. Ski Council, Ski Club of Victoria, Ski Council of Tasmania, Ski Council of the Federated N.Z. Mountain Clubs. It aimed to provide an annual record of the sport of ski running in Australia, and of events elsewhere which would be of interest to Australian ski enthusiasts. The first edition included an account of the first journey across the mountain range on skis from Kiandra to Kosciusko in 1927 by the party led by Dr Herbert Schlink, a former resident of Wodonga. Other editions included contributions from Tom Mitchell, a pioneer of Falls Creek.A collection of six issues of the Australian Ski Year Book. The publications contain articles and images related to the Ski Industry in Australia and overseas."The Australian Ski Year Book" was first published in 1928 by the Kosciusko Alpine Club and the Ski Club of Australia, which with the Kiandra Ski Club, were the oldest organisations for skiing in Australia. In later years organisations from Victoria, Tasmania and New Zealand were included. And it was published on behalf of N.S.W. Ski Council, Ski Club of Victoria, Ski Council of Tasmania, Ski Council of the Federated N.Z. Mountain Clubs. It aimed to provide an annual record of the sport of ski running in Australia, and of events elsewhere which would be of interest to Australian ski enthusiasts. The first edition included an account of the first journey across the mountain range on skis from Kiandra to Kosciusko in 1927 by the party led by Dr Herbert Schlink, a former resident of Wodonga. Other editions included contributions from Tom Mitchell, a pioneer of Falls Creek.australian skiing, australian ski publications, tom mitchell, herbert schlink -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Document - Bob Hymans' Correspondence Collection
Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans die on 7th July 2007. This collection of between 200 - 300 items includes documents from Bob Hymans' correspondence whilst he was pioneering developments at Falls Creek, Victoria. It consists of Aerogrammes, telegrams, maps and communication with American and French companies related to issues ranging from licences, ski tows, international visits and developments at Falls Creek.This Collection is significant because it contains correspondence records of a Falls Creek pioneer who played an active role in the development of Falls Creek Village, including the first ski lift as well as Grand Coeur and Four Seasons lodges.A collection of letters and other documents from the personal records of Bob Hymansbob hymans, falls creek pioneers -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Bogong, 1953
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection documenting his time with the Australian Alpine Club and the formation of the Albury Ski Club. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992. This image is from the Fred Griffith collection which documents the early development of Falls Creek.Black and white square photograph of two people wearing snow gear in the snow. The person on the left is in a lighter coloured suit and holding a ski pole and the person on the right is in a dark suit and holding skis and ski pole. There are skiers in the background, where there is mostly snow-covered hill and small amount of sky above. Stamped - SUPER / G & D . SERVICE Pencil - 61bogong, falls creek, snow, snowfields, albury ski club, skiing, snow sports, fred griffith, australian alpine club, albury -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Bogong 12 July 1953
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection documenting his time with the Australian Alpine Club and the formation of the Albury Ski Club. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992. This image is from the Fred Griffith collection which documents the early development of Falls Creek.Black and white square photograph of man shovelling snow in front of himself. There are high levels of snow either side of man and building in the background. Snow is on top of building. Stamped - SUPER / G & D . SERVICE Pencil - 61bogong, falls creek, snow, snowfields -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Bogong, 1953
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection documenting his time with the Australian Alpine Club and the formation of the Albury Ski Club. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992. This image is from the Fred Griffith collection which documents the early development of Falls Creek.Black and white square photograph of two people wearing snow gear in front of a hut in deep snow, one person is sunken in the snow with back to camera and the person on the right is standing higher up on snow. Skis and ski poles are next to the people. Snowy hill with some greenery is in the background with sky. Stamped - SUPER / G & D . SERVICE Pencil - 61bogong, falls creek, snow, snowfields -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Bogong, 1953
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection documenting his time with the Australian Alpine Club and the formation of the Albury Ski Club. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook, Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992. This image is from the Fred Griffith collection which documents the early development of Falls Creek.Black and white square photograph of heavy machinery outside, a man wearing a hat is behind the machinery and operating it. A fence post is front right with a child standing (slightly blurred) to the right. Trees in the background. Stamped - SUPER / G & D . SERVICE Pencil - 61bogong, falls creek, snow, snowfields -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Bogong, 1953
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection documenting his time with the Australian Alpine Club and the formation of the Albury Ski Club. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.Black and white square photograph of man shovelling snow with high levels of snow either side of him and a hut behind. There is snow on the roof of the hut. Stamped - SUPER / G & D . SERVICE Pencil - 61bogong, falls creek, snow, snowfields -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Bogong 12 July 1953
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection documenting his time with the Australian Alpine Club and the formation of the Albury Ski Club. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992. This image is from the Fred Griffith Collection which documents early development of Falls Creek.Black and white square photograph of three men working on a tall wooden structure with a central tall pole. Trees and sky in the background, with grass in front and a wooden building structure at right of image. Stamped - SUPER / G & D . SERVICE Pencil - 61bogong, falls creek, snow, snowfields -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Bogong, 12 July 1953
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection documenting his time with the Australian Alpine Club and the formation of the Albury Ski Club. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.This image is from the Fred Griffith Collection which documents Falls Creek from the late 1940s to mid 1960sBlack and white square photograph of man outside holding a long tool into the ground, he is wearing a hat and his face is in the shadow. Trees and a house are in the background. Inscription on the reverse "Toonallook" was the name of Fred Griffith's property at Bowna, NSW.Stamped - SUPER / G & D . SERVICE Pen - Toonallookbogong, falls creek, snow, snowfields -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Bogong, 12 July 1953
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection documenting his time with the Australian Alpine Club and the formation of the Albury Ski Club. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.This image is from the Fred Griffith Collection which documents Falls Creek from the late 1940s to mid 1960sBlack and white square photograph of three men and two children handling and looking at a tall wooden structure over a hole in the ground. There is a wooden building structure to the right of image and trees and cloudy sky in the background. Stamped - SUPER / G & D . SERVICE Pencil - 89bogong, falls creek, snow, snowfields -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Bogong 12 July 1953
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection documenting his time with the Australian Alpine Club and the formation of the Albury Ski Club. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.This image is from the Fred Griffith Collection which documents Falls Creek from the late 1940s to mid 1960sBlack and white square photograph of two people standing outside: one person facing left and walking while the other is to their right facing forward and looking down into something they are holding in their hands (possibly a camera). Trees and shrubbery surrounds into the background. Stamped - SUPER / G & D . SERVICE Pencil - 68bogong, falls creek, snow, snowfields -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - Falls Creek '96
Part of an annual marketing campaign, this booklet was designed to provide information for planning a holiday at Falls Creek for the winter of 1996. It includes extensive details about activities, facilities and accommodation in the Village as well as contact information to make necessary bookings. The slogan for 1996 was "Wake up to the snow in Victoria"This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortMagazine titled 'falls creek '96' containing information and images for the winter holidays in Falls Creek 1996. Front cover is white background with purple wavy title and eight-grid of images of snow and skiing. Falls Creek logo on bottom centre and advertising on back page. Snow Holidays 1996 - Falls Creek / falls creek '96 / FALLS / SKI GUARENTEE / CREEK / FALLS CREEK / VICTORIA / Wake up to the snow in Victoriafacilities falls creek, accommodation falls creek, falls creek marketing, falls creek 1990s -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - Falls Creek '97
Part of an annual marketing campaign, this booklet was designed to provide information for planning a holiday at Falls Creek for the winter of 1997. It includes extensive details about activities, facilities and accommodation in the Village as well as contact information to make necessary bookings. The slogan for 1997 was "Snow to BUrn!".This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortMagazine titled Falls Creek '97 containing information and images for 1997 winter holidays. Front cover has image of a person in yellow and black ski gear doing a small ski jump with blue sky in the back ground. Magazine title above, 'winter holidays' and 'snow to burn' over image and Falls Creek Victoria Australia logo at bottom right corner. Falls Creek '97 / FALLS SKI GUARANTEE CREEK / winter holidays / snow to burn / Falls Creek / Victoria Australiaaccommodation falls creek, falls creek marketing, falls creek events and activities -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - Falls Creek '99
Part of an annual marketing campaign, this booklet was designed to provide information for planning a holiday at Falls Creek for the winter of 1999. It includes extensive details about activities, facilities and accommodation in the Village as well as contact information to make necessary bookings.This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortMagazine titled Falls Creek '99 containing information and images for 1999 winter holidays. Front cover with close image of woman skiing downhill with magazine title down left side of page. Falls / Creek / SNOW HOLIDAYS / 99 / FALLS CREEK / VICTORIA AUSTRALIA / OFFICIAL RESORT GUIDEfalls creek marketing, falls creek accommodation, facilities falls creek -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - Falls Creek 1994 Ski Holidays
Part of an annual marketing campaign, this booklet was designed to provide information for planning a holiday at Falls Creek for the winter of 1994. It includes extensive details about activities, facilities and accommodation in the Village as well as contact information to make necessary bookings. The slogan adopted for 1994 was "Better snow and more of it!"This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortMagazine titled 'Falls Creek 1994 Ski Holidays' containing multiple pages of information and images for 1994 winter holidays. Front cover with white background and illustration of woman skiing downhill, the 's' of Falls becoming the snow trail. Falls Creek logo on bottom centre of front page and advertising on backpage. falls creek marketing, falls creek 1990s, falls creek village, snow resorts victoria -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Magazine - Falls Creek 1993 Ski Holidays
Part of an annual marketing campaign, this booklet was designed to provide information for planning a holiday at Falls Creek for the winter of 1993. It includes extensive details about activities, facilities and accommodation in the Village as well as contact information to make necessary bookings. The publication was supported by Tourism Victoria and the Falls Creek Chamber of Commerce.This item is important as it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine ResortMagazine titled 'Falls Creek 1993 Ski Holidays' containing multiple pages of information and images for 1993 winter holidays. Front cover with white background with blue title and square colour image of Falls Creek village centre of page with skier overlayed on image and title. Tourism Victoria logo on bottom left corner and Falls Creek logo on bottom left corner. Advertising on back page. falls creek marketing, events at falls creek, facilities falls creek, falls creek 1990s -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Hikers in the snow near Horn Hut, 27 September 1948
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection documenting his time with the Australian Alpine Club and the formation of the Albury Ski Club. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.A black and white photo of 4 people standing on a snow slope near Mount Hotham. They have packs on their backs and the woman 3rd from the left is carrying a billy.On back of photo: Return from the Horn Hut 27/9/1948bogong, falls creek, snow, snowfields -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Portrait Ory Frueauf
... Hydro Electric Tourism Victoria Winterhaven Ski Lodge Snowhaven ...This photograph was taken circa 1981 - 1982 by Tourism Victoria. Orest “Ory” Frueauf was born in Kharkov, Russia in 1925 and moved to Germany with his family to escape persecution. He was conscripted to the German Army during the Second World War. He was a POW until 1948. He was recruited by a French construction company to work as and interpreter on a hydroelectricity project in Tasmania. Ory then moved to work on the Snowy Mountain Scheme including driving a truck to fill the wall of the Rocky Valley dam. In 1952 Ory was recruited by the Albury Ski Club as its lodge supervisor. That year he also entered into a business partnership with Cecil Dobson, running the general store “Whitehaven” and Post Office at Falls Creek. They extended their business by adding accommodation turning Whitehaven into one of the best commercial lodges at Falls Creek. Ory and Cecil dissolved their business partnership in 1963 and Ory went on to build a new lodge called “Snowhaven” at the site of the present day Frueauf Village, Falls Creek. The trail known as Ory's Trail is also named in his honour. Ory retired to Tawonga, Victoria in 1992 and passed away in 1999.This image is significant because it portrays a pioneer of Falls Creek.A4 size black and white photograph of Ory Frueauf standing at the bar at Snowhaven Lodge with Vovka-Finlandia VodkaOn back of photograph: Orest Freauf 1925-1997. 1925 - Born in Kharkov, Russia, 1951 Tasmania Hydro Electric Co; 1954 Howman's Gap, Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme; 1955 Falls Creek Trading and Transport Co; 1957 Winterhaven Ski Lodge; 1963 Snowhaven Ski Lodge; 1992 Tawonga Southory freauf, hydro electric, tourism victoria, winterhaven ski lodge, snowhaven ski lodge, snow, orest frueauf -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Skiers
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection documenting his time with the Australian Alpine Club and the formation of the Albury Ski Club. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.This image records people involved in Falls Creek photographed by a pioneer of the area.2 Black and white images of skiers taken at Bogong.albury ski club, snow sports, falls creek, mount bogong -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Fred Griffith at Bowna, 20 September 1959
Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992. Bowna is now known as the Riverina Ski Club.This image depicts Fred Griffith who was a pioneer of the Albury Ski Club and Falls CreekA black and white photo showing Fred Griffith on left of image looking towards Whitehaven lodge fred griffith, albury ski club, falls creek, bowna ski club -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Postcard - Views of Falls Creek 1959
postcards feature images taken by Frederick Charles Griffith. “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.These postcards document how Falls Creek was portrayed to the wider community.A set of postcards showing aerial views of Falls Creek as well as groups of skiers on the slopes, On Back of each card: POSTCARD CORRESPONDENCE / ADDRESS ONLY In a square for stamp Placement - KODAKfred griffith, albury ski club, falls creek, bowna ski club -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Thea Hedley at Bowna Ski Club, 20 September 1959
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992. Bowna is now known as the Riverina Ski Club.This image depicts Fred Griffith who was a pioneer of the Albury Ski Club and Falls Creek4 black and white photo showing Thea Hedley at various parts of Bowna Ski Club at Falls Creekfred griffith, albury ski club, falls creek, bowna ski club -
Falls Creek Historical Society
Photograph - Sandy McNabb at Bowna Ski Club
This photo is part of the Fred Griffith Photographic Collection. Frederick Charles “Fred” Griffith was born in Albury, NSW on 2 March 1910. Educated in Albury and Geelong Grammar. Beginning in 1927 he spent many years working first as a jackeroo and on a range of prominent pastoral and merino stud properties in NSW and Queensland. In 1935 he repurchased his former family property “Toonallook", Bowna, NSW and developed it to be the largest Romney Marsh stud in the world, exporting rams to Argentina. He introduced many innovative practices on his property including rabbit control measures and aerial crop dusting. He was an active member of the Albury Show Society and in 1949 established the Albury Sheep Show. Fred was also the Albury representative on the Graziers’ Association Council for over 30 years. He became a life member of both the Albury and Commercial Clubs. Fred’s greatest hobby was snow skiing. His first visit to the snow was to Kosciusko in 1919. The Albury Ski Club was formed in 1935 and Fred was an inaugural member. In 1949 they were granted a site at Falls Creek to build their own lodge. Fred guaranteed the Club for finance from the Bank of NSW. The first portion of the prefabricated building was constructed in Albury. It was transported to Falls Creek on the back of Fred’s truck and erected in one day. This was the bathroom section and the rest was completed in 1950. The original lodge was burned down in 1952 and a new one built the following year. In 1955, Fred also built the Bowna Lodge for his family in partnership with David Fairbairn. He became head of the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A.) and successfully applied to run the Australian Ski Championships. Fred also inaugurated children’s races at Falls Creek and ran them for about 20 years. He also formed the company “Falls Creek Ski Tows”. In 1956 Fred along with a group of key people selected the site for Thredbo Village. Fred and his brother sold Toonallook in sections between 1951 and 1974. He moved to Albury and set up as a landscape gardener and fencing contractor. After a serious work accident, Fred retired in 1985 and moved to Rosebud, Victoria where he died on 19 August 1992.This image depicts early visitors to the Albury Ski Club and Falls Creek.A black and white photo of Sandy McNabb overlooking Falls Creek ski slope and skiers below.fred griffith, albury ski club, falls creek, bowna ski club