Tom Mitchell’s Skis After his retirement in 1976 as the local Member for Benambra, people asked Tom Mitchell about his greatest achievements in politics. Tom replied speaking about his support for the establishment and development of the Ski resort at Falls Creek. Tom’s passion for Falls Creek grew, not only from his own 1930s ski career, but also from his work as a prisoner of war in the Changi Ski Club. His 5 February 1943 diary entry reads: ‘In the evening had a very successful ski meeting of 19 and decided to go ahead with a scheme to approach the Government re-selling Diggers blocks of land in the snow country.’ After the 2020 Bushfires, my brother asked if I would find appropriate homes for some of my father’s old skis that had survived the fires. As Tom’s historic ski collection is in Corryong’s Man from Snowy River Museum, it seems appropriate that a remaining pair should go to The Falls Creek Ski Museum. I chose wooden edged skis as they reminded me of my first skis. As a five-year-old in 1958 at Dead Horse Gap, I soon discovered that wooden edges were no good in icy conditions. By the end of my first day on skis, I had fallen so many times that my homemade ski clothing was wet and cold. I was unhappy when Dad said that wooden edges would teach me to use my ‘edges’. At the end of our first day, Mum and Dad loaded us all into the back of the Land Rover together with our ski gear and drove us home. They had had a marvellous day, but I didn’t think much of the adventure. From the outset I knew my parents had steel-edged skis! Dad told me I’d have to ‘earn edges’. Trouble brewed when I said I hated skiing. I discovered I had to learn to like it! Eventually I graduated to steel-edged skis. By then Thredbo had built its first chairlift and it also had a rope tow. Meanwhile Tom had taught us to learn to ski the hard way and with steel edges, ski lifts and better ski clothing, I began to enjoy the sport. If there was any chance of finding the provenance of the skis, it probably burnt in the 2020 conflagration. All I can offer you is my story of my father teaching me to ski the hard way. The skis are a kind of memorial to the Tom Mitchell ski school and its enduring memories. Honor Auchinleck (Daughter of Tom and Elyne Mitchell)These skis are significant because they belonged to Tom Mitchell, a pioneer of skiing and ski resorts in Australia.A pair of vintage hickory wood skis, featuring a 7-foot length and rustic metal bindings. Hickory wood was preferred for its strength and flexibility. They feature early metal cable or "bear trap" style bindings, crucial for securing leather boots before the advent of modern plastic bindings. The skis feature a high, square-shaped tip referred tp as a sukkerbit (sugar cube).Beside Bindings- H9S HICKORY 7Fttom mitchell, ski equipment, australian skiing pioneers

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

This book records the history of skiing in Victoria with photos of places and people showing equipment used in the snow fields and used by skiers.Falls Creek and the Bogong High Plains are included in this book showing photos of local people and machinery etc. Dorothy Anderson (nee Ryder) owned and used this book. She lived at Tawonga.This is a bound pictorial book with a blue cover and white printed title.. The subject is Alpine resorts and ski areas in the Australian High Country in the 40s and 50s. 'To our very dear friends, Mr and Mrs Ryder, with our best wishes for a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year from Harold and 'Rel / Ril ?' 'snow, skiing, photography, pioneers, enthusiasts, heritage, st elmo, secv machinery, ryder family, bogong high plains, rope tow

The historical documented account of the first winter traverse from Mt Hotham across Mt Bogong. The extreme winter conditions of the region was a barrier for all except the three pioneers of this expedition.This book details the the determination and true spirit of the Australian psyche to overcome extreme hardships and have the endurance to fulfill an adventure in the early 1900's.A photo copy of a black spiral bound book written in 1933 covering the memoirs and photos of only the first (at the time of writing) winter climbing of Mount Bogong in1932. It was written by Jack K.Tulloh (a journalist), E.C. Robinson and W.D. Bertram. This book was photocopied and rebound for the 60th anniversary of the climb.The Climbing Of Bogong Mountain 1932. First page author's dedication: To Bill from Jack 17/2/1933. Second page address: To jack Eddie & Bill " In recognition of your epic journey 50 years ago" John, Helen, David, Iain, Andrew & Hamish, also written in freestyle underneath and in brackets "Bertrams all" underneath signed by Gwen Tulloh, Barbara Betram and Ann Robinson The third page written in free hand " Inscribed by those who lunched9WELL0 on the golden anniversary of the trip 17/8/82. Next to a photo of the three climbers their signatures.climbing mount bogong, victorian alps in winter, snow at mt bogong 1920's winter sports, skiing, mt bogong, book, snow, cross country skiing

non-fictionChauvel Country is the history of a family whose roots can be traced into France, then England, and who came to Australia as pioneers of the Clarence River in New South Wales. It is the story of the individual members of that family, soldiers and sailors who fought their battles in the far places of the Empire. There are memories of the First World War of the author's hero father, and of the idyllic English countryside. In more recent times we share the author's experiences of riding through the Australian bush, of the lure of distant snow-capped mountains to be explored on skis, in the days before easy access roads, of skiing in North and South America, Europe and New Zealand. We also share the lonely years of the Second World War, when she carried on the family property while her husband was a prisoner of war in Changi prison. Elyne Mitchell is a remarkable woman, and in this book the reader is led on a unique journey through her life from childhood to an aware maturity and wisdom.elyne mitchell, clarence river (nsw)

A tourist guide for Alexandra, Marysville and Eildon produced by the Shire of Alexandra.A tourist guide for Alexandra, Marysville and Eildon produced by the Shire of Alexandra.alexandra, marysville, eildon, victoria, australia, shire of alexandra, visitor guide, danish coffee garden, maryton park, marysville hotel motel, beauty spot gardens, geoffrey pope & associates, australian bush pioneer's farm, marysville recreation and fun park, blackwood lodges, marysville newsagency & general store, the cumberland, marysville gallery, marysville gallery restaurant, mount cathedral lodge, cross country ski hire, menzes garage, marysville craft & gifts, esa camping & conference centre, el kanah, black spur motel and caravan park, marysville caravan park, buxton trout farm, the camel farm buxton, marysville golf and bowls club, taggerty general store, cathedral restaurant, marylyn guest house, beauty spot walk, tree fern gully walk, michaeldene track, keppel track, woods lookout track

A tourist guide for Alexandra, Eildon and Marysville produced by the Shire of Alexandra.A tourist guide for Alexandra, Eildon and Marysville produced by the Shire of Alexandra.alexandra, eildon, marysville, victoria, australia, tourist guide, steavenson falls, blackwood lodges, marysville hotel motel, the cumberland, gallery restaurant marysville, marysville gallery, cross country ski hire, marylyn guest house, marylands guest house, marysville crafts & gifts, hearts of oak antiques, geoffrey pope & associates, cedron house marysville, amber view holiday lodges marysville, marysville ski hire, lake mountain ski school, fruit salad farm, taggerty general store, arbor green galleries marysville, black spur roadhouse, black spur motel & caravan park, marysville caravan park, the hermitage narbethong, danish coffee garden, maryton park, buxton trout farm, lake mountain outdoor centre marysville, australian bush pioneer's farm, the camel farm and zoo buxton, marysville mountain view horse hire, marysville golf and bowls club, yarrolyn holiday park taggerty, riverland lodge taggerty, beauty spot walk, tree fern gully walk, michaeldene track, keppel track, woods lookout track

A tourist guide for Alexandra, Eildon and Marysville produced by the Shire of Alexandra.A tourist guide for Alexandra, Eildon and Marysville produced by the Shire of Alexandra.alexandra, eildon, marysville, victoria, australia, tourist guide, steavenson falls, blackwood lodges, marysville hotel motel, the cumberland, gallery restaurant marysville, marysville gallery, cross country ski hire, marylyn guest house, marylands guest house, marysville crafts & gifts, hearts of oak antiques, geoffrey pope & associates, cedron house marysville, amber view holiday lodges marysville, marysville ski hire, lake mountain ski school, fruit salad farm, taggerty general store, arbor green galleries marysville, black spur roadhouse, black spur motel & caravan park, marysville caravan park, the hermitage narbethong, danish coffee garden, maryton park, buxton trout farm, lake mountain outdoor centre marysville, australian bush pioneer's farm, the camel farm and zoo buxton, marysville mountain view horse hire, marysville golf and bowls club, yarrolyn holiday park taggerty, riverland lodge taggerty, beauty spot walk, tree fern gully walk, michaeldene track, keppel track, woods lookout track

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

Martin Romuld was born near Trondheim in Norway on September 26, 1905. He started jumping on skis at age 6 or 7 and became very good at it. He completed his degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Trondheim and decided to come to Australia. He arrived on 7 March 1928 and found a job with the SEC. The SEC wanted to investigate the possibility of a hydrological surveys necessary to determine the flow of water over a period of years. These surveys started in 1934 and continued until 1941. He lived at Wilkinson’s hut for most of the time during those years both in summer and winter. In his role with the SEC, Martin visited all the various creeks to measure water flow rates as often as was necessary. These skis were used on his winter rounds during the time he spent in the area. Martin also competed in skiing during the 1930s. He won the combined Australian title 3 or 4 times. He was unbeatable in cross country, probably due to the continual practice in his job. Before migrating to Australia, Martin had been runner up in the 1926 European Jump Championships held in France. Jumping was his favourite thrill and he would often construct a jump for practice near the Scout Hut (or Rover Chalet) quite near to Wilkinson’s. In 1941 Martin joined the Royal Australian Air Force and after the War skied mainly at Mt Buller. He maintained his involvement in competitive skiing as an official. In 1958 Martin was the main judge of the National jump which was held to the left of the Nissen tow. He also designed the jumping course at the Donna Buang snow fields. Martin Romuld was Co Vice-President of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs in 1949, along with Tom Mitchell M.L.A. Martin Romuld died on 14 July 1998 in Prahran, Victoria,These skis are significant because they belonged to a pioneer of Falls Creek and the sport of skiing in Australia.A set of skis made for Martin Romuld. They are made from American hickory which arrived in Australia via Norway in October 1933. Andy Broad made the skis and they were furnished with steel edges. There was enough hickory for 18 pairs of skis and a pair of competition cross country skis were also made for Martin Romuld. martin romuld', falls creek pioneers, australian skiing history

Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The were 26 original member clubs which included Albury Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club and Wangaratta Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this publication include:- Page 2: Albury Ski Club is set for a positive year. Present membership of the club is 130 and officials. recently elected are: -President, Mr. Fred Griffith; Vice-President and Booking Officer, Bob Howe; Secretary. Nell Newton; Asst. Sec., Angela Bowler; Treasurer. Sam Roxburgh; Social, Bruce Colquhoun: Trips, June Watson; Bus, Len Egan; Building. John Perger; Equipment, Peter Hadow. Page 3 Toni St. Elmo is planning the monster party the Bogong Ski Club will give at their Falls Creek Lodge on 4th August to the visiting N.Z. team. Page 8 - 9 Article - The Old Order Passes on the Bogong High Plains - an extensive response to the State Development Committee's Report "The Alpine Regions of Victoria; Skiing and Tourist Resorts" and suggestions for the construction of roads, ski tows and other facilities. A sketch map of Falls Creek Village is included.ski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, development of falls creek

Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The were 26 original member clubs which included Albury Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club and Wangaratta Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this publication include:- Page 2: Reference to ski instructors and Ski Schools in Victoria including Bob Hymans' School and Ernst and Auriel Forras who operate the Nussen School with Max Denham. Page 5 Bogong High Plains locality map, with construction areas and power lines marked. It is accompanied by a notice regarding safety and access from H. H. C.Williams, Construction Engineer. Page 12 An article referring to Tom Mitchell's stallion "Debtor" and Ernest Forras, Ski Instructor. Page 13: Continuation of Ernest Forras' profile. Page 22 Comment by Toni St. Elmo and the Myrtleford Ski Club Tow. ski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, ernest forras, nissen ski school

Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The were 26 original member clubs which included Albury Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club and Wangaratta Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this publication include:- Page 3. Reference to association between Tom and Elyne Mitchell and prominent American skier, Mr. Averell Harriman. Also members of the Albury Ski Club fined for swearing. Page 5 A half page advertisement for Nissen Ski School with instructors, Ernest and Aurel Forras and Max Denham. It includes the slogan "Speed is the Thrill, Control the Art".ski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, ernest forras, nissen ski school, tom mitchell m.l.a.

Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The were 26 original member clubs which included Albury Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club and Wangaratta Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this publication include:- Page 2: - Falls Creek was the focus of many important visitors including Hon. T. W. Mitchell, Victorian Attorney General. Tom Mitchell delivered a message of welcome to the New Zealand visiting Ski Team from the Premier of Victoria, - The Albury Ski Club team returned from New Zealand in August. Their team of Bob Howe, Skippy St, Elmo and Mr & Mrs. Bob Cutts were winners of the friendly race competition. - Joking report about Kevin McDonald getting himself fully equipped an attached to the tow at Falls Creek - except for his skis! - A successful meeting at Toni St Elmo's cottage with N.E.D.S.A. officials.ski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, skippy st elmo

Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The were 26 original member clubs which included Albury Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club and Wangaratta Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this publication include:- Page 2: Concerns about progress in Falls Creek in the coming year with programme cuts in SEC Copperhead snake killed in snow on High Plains similar to a feat by Elyne Mitchell in 1936. Tom Mitchell visits the NSW Snowy Hydro Electricity Authority. Nissen Ski Tow worked "well enough" at times. Page 11 Reminiscences of the Inter Dominion Ski Tour by New Zealand with planning underway for the next year. Australia to send a small team to the Winter Olympics in Oslo in early 1952. Falls Creek Village Advisory Committee establishedlski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, oslo olympics 1952, falls creek advisory committee

Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The were 26 original member clubs which included Albury Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club and Wangaratta Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this publication include:- Page 2: The road to Falls Creek from Howmans Gap likely to be closed while activities on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme are restricted due to VIctoria's lack of finance for public works. Page 5 - A note from Fred Griffith (President, Albury Ski Club) gave plans for the club's annual Ski Ball on Friday, 30th November. It will be held in the Toonallook Woolshed. Fred says you are welcome to bring your sleeping bag and stay the night (what's left of it) at Toonallook where the recovery from hangover can be spent very pleasantly on the property or swimming and boating on the Hume Weir nearby. - N.E.D.S.A. officials are getting preparations in hand for the visit next year of a N.E.D.S.A. team to New Zealand. John Robertson, of Myrtleford Ski Club, is the Trip Secretary and Toni St. Elmo is acting at present as Manager.ski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, ernest forras

Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs which began publication in 1949. The were 26 original member clubs which included Albury Ski Club, Bogong Ski Club, Myrtleford Ski Club, Tallangatta and District Ski Club and Wangaratta Ski Club. Two pioneers of Falls Creek, Tom Mitchell, M.L.A., and Martin Romuld were Vice-Presidents of the Federation.This Journal is significant because it documents the early development of skiing in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this publication include:- Page 5 - A general reminder about fire safety in the summer. - The Albury Ski Club Ball was a great success. - Some race results not hitherto published. Bogong Ski Club Open Championship: A. Lejins 1, F. Sik-tane 2. S. Hooke 3. Albury Ski Club Championship Combined: Bob Howe 1. Bob Scott 2, Skippy St. Elmo 3.ski history victoria, federation of victorian ski clubs, ski results skippy st elmo, bob scott

Judith (Judy) Forras and Christine Smith both represented Australia at the 1964 Winter Olympics in Innsbruck. Judy was a National Ice-Skating champion before becoming an Olympic Alpine Skier. She had already won the Victorian skating title she met her future husband Ernest Forras, owner of the Kooroora Chalet and ski instructor at Mt. Buller. After having four children, Judy came back to skiing, winning every major State and National Title in all three disciplines, Slalom, Downhill and Giant Slalom, therefore gaining automatic selection to the Olympic team for Innsbruck in 1964. The only other Australian woman selected to that team was Christine Smith. She was born in Cooma NSW, Christine learned to ski at an early age. She won the 1961 NSW Junior Champion title before being selected in the Australian Team to ski against New Zealand. Christine gained selection for the 1962 St. Moritz Commonwealth Winter Games. In the 1964 Innsbruck Olympic Winter Games she placed 27th in the Downhill and 28th in the Slalom. Before departing for Innsbruck, members of the team including Ross Milne, completed some of their training at Falls Creek, Victoria where this photograph was taken.This image is significant because it represents two women who were pioneers in the Winter Olympic movement in Australia.A black and white image showing two female skiers, representatives of the Australian Winter Olympic team of 1964.winter olympics innsbruck, judy forras, christine smith

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

Australian Magazine (A.M.) published a special three page article about Falls Creek and the Bogong High Plains on 24th August 1954. The article was titled "Australia's playground of the future". Written by Muir Maclaren, it referred to the Bogong High Plains as a comparatively new and unexploited winter playground which could be one of the best snow resorts in the world. There were 13 huts which were at Falls Creek which were there due to "hard work, the grace of God, and the permission of the Victorian State Electricity Commission". A brief history of the Albury Ski Club Lodge was included. In 1954 the Lodge was run byLes Meikle and had the Club had a membership of 200 people. Lodges with accommodation established at this time, with the ability to house a total of 280 people, included Albury, Skyline, Bogong, Myrtleford, Hymans, Dawn, Galleon, Kiewa Valley, Snowden, Nelse, Moroma, Trowalla, St, Trinian's, Bowna and Nissen. Fred Griffith, as a member of the Albury Ski Club and owner of Bowna Lodge escorted the reporter and explained the potential of Falls Creek and the surrounding area to become a year-round playground, a paradise for tourists and a great income-earner for the State.This article and accompanying images are significant because they capture early information about the Bogong High Plains, Falls Creek and its pioneers.A centre spread from a monthly publication featuring text and colour imagesBeside photo of Albury Ski Club: An early morning scene outside the Albury Ski Club Lodge, Falls Creek. The lodge is packed every weekend by ski enthusiasts.albury ski club, bowna ski club, fred griffith

Australian Magazine (A.M.) published a special three page article about Falls Creek and the Bogong High Plains on 24th August 1954. The article was titled "Australia's playground of the future". Written by Muir Maclaren, it referred to the Bogong High Plains as a comparatively new and unexploited winter playground which could be one of the best snow resorts in the world. There were 13 huts which were at Falls Creek which were there due to "hard work, the grace of God, and the permission of the Victorian State Electricity Commission". A brief history of the Albury Ski Club Lodge was included. In 1954 the Lodge was run byLes Meikle and had the Club had a membership of 200 people. Lodges with accommodation established at this time, with the ability to house a total of 280 people, included Albury, Skyline, Bogong, Myrtleford, Hymans, Dawn, Galleon, Kiewa Valley, Snowden, Nelse, Moroma, Trowalla, St, Trinian's, Bowna and Nissen. Fred Griffith, as a member of the Albury Ski Club and owner of Bowna Lodge escorted the reporter and explained the potential of Falls Creek and the surrounding area to become a year-round playground, a paradise for tourists and a great income-earner for the State.This article and accompanying images are significant because they capture early information about the Bogong High Plains, Falls Creek and its pioneers.A centre spread from a monthly publication featuring text and colour imagesBelow photo Johnny Robertson points out the route of a long, downhill follow-my-leader to expert skiers Bob Howe, Norm Douglas (Albury dentist and President of the Albury Ski Club) and Dick Walpole.albury ski club, bob howe, dick walpole

Australian Magazine (A.M.) published a special three page article about Falls Creek and the Bogong High Plains on 24th August 1954. The article was titled "Australia's playground of the future". Written by Muir Maclaren, it referred to the Bogong High Plains as a comparatively new and unexploited winter playground which could be one of the best snow resorts in the world. There were 13 huts which were at Falls Creek which were there due to "hard work, the grace of God, and the permission of the Victorian State Electricity Commission". A brief history of the Albury Ski Club Lodge was included. In 1954 the Lodge was run byLes Meikle and had the Club had a membership of 200 people. Lodges with accommodation established at this time, with the ability to house a total of 280 people, included Albury, Skyline, Bogong, Myrtleford, Hymans, Dawn, Galleon, Kiewa Valley, Snowden, Nelse, Moroma, Trowalla, St, Trinian's, Bowna and Nissen. Fred Griffith, as a member of the Albury Ski Club and owner of Bowna Lodge escorted the reporter and explained the potential of Falls Creek and the surrounding area to become a year-round playground, a paradise for tourists and a great income-earner for the State.This article and accompanying images are significant because they capture early information about the Bogong High Plains, Falls Creek and its pioneers.A centre spread from a monthly publication featuring text and colour imagesBelow photo The ski tow at the foot of Bogong High Plains, an area of 280 square miles of unequalled ski-ing country.fred griffith, falls creek pioneers

Australian Magazine (A.M.) published a special three page article about Falls Creek and the Bogong High Plains on 24th August 1954. The article was titled "Australia's playground of the future". Written by Muir Maclaren, it referred to the Bogong High Plains as a comparatively new and unexploited winter playground which could be one of the best snow resorts in the world. There were 13 huts which were at Falls Creek which were there due to "hard work, the grace of God, and the permission of the Victorian State Electricity Commission". A brief history of the Albury Ski Club Lodge was included. In 1954 the Lodge was run byLes Meikle and had the Club had a membership of 200 people. Lodges with accommodation established at this time, with the ability to house a total of 280 people, included Albury, Skyline, Bogong, Myrtleford, Hymans, Dawn, Galleon, Kiewa Valley, Snowden, Nelse, Moroma, Trowalla, St, Trinian's, Bowna and Nissen. The reporter also interviewed Skippy and Toni St. Elmo and gave a description of the tow and its fees. He outlined Toni's earlier background with the SEC and noted that Toni had recently named a peak in the area Mt.. Hillary in honour of the success of Edmund Hillary in conquering Mt. EverestThis article and accompanying images are significant because they capture early information about the Bogong High Plains, Falls Creek and its pioneers.A centre spread from a monthly publication featuring text and colour imagesBeneath photo Toni St. Elmo and his wife, Skippy, who run the ski tow and a ski school. Skippy won the Albury Club Club Championship against men.bogong high plains, skippy st. elmo, toni st. elmo

Steve Lee is a three time Australian Olympian who competed at Sarajevo 1984, Calgary 1988 and Albertville 1992. He also achieved 1st in the Furano World Cup Super G in 1985. Steve Lee grew up in Falls Creek and had skis on his feet when he was just two years old. He later became a member of the Falls Creek Race Club and at the age of 14 won State and National Junior titles. After repeated success, Steve was selected to race overseas in the Australian Junior team. He won the Australian Open Championship at the age of 17. For 10 years, Steve never missed a race in the World Cup Circuit. Overall, he claimed 20 top 15 finishes in Downhill, Super-G and combined events. Towards the end of his career Lee swapped the World Cup circuit for the World Pro Tour in the USA, winning the Pro Downhill Tour ‘King of the Mountain’ title. He was also running a photography business in Falls Creek and was also involved in sports commentating on Australian television. This included commentating Alpine Freestyle events at four Winter Olympics and several World Championships. Steve co-founded Chill Factor Ski magazine and spent a decade as a National Selector and President of Falls Creek Race Club. He also became involved in movies, working with Roger Moore and Jackie Chan as a stuntman. As well as these activities Steve started guiding in the mid-90s and established Back Country Tours at his home area in Falls Creek Australia and also in Hakuba, Japan in 2011.This image is significant because it captures an Australian Winter Olympian and pioneer of the Falls Creek Ski community.A colour photo of Steve Lee in his uniform featuring the logo of the Albertville Winter Olympic Gamessteve lee, australian olympians

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 photo collection belonged to Bob Hymans and primarily documents the building of his chalet, Grand Coeur.This album is significant because it documents the building of an important chalet at Falls Creek and the work of one of its pioneers.Two black and white photographs of Bob Hymans.bob hymans, grand coeur chalet, falls creek pioneers

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

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 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

The Australian Secondary Schools Snowsports Team Championship (ASSSTC) began in 1967 and has run every year since. The Championship originated from an idea instigated by Tom Mitchell, an Australian Winter Olympian, Member of the Victorian Parliament and pioneer of Australian skiing. The competition gives participants a unique opportunity to perform in a team environment where skills in the various disciplines of alpine, cross country and snowboard are required. This championship is unique as there are no individual winners, but each participant contributes points to the team result. The maximum size of any team is 16, made up of alpine skiers, cross country skiers and snowboarders. To score the most points, the majority of team members need to compete in at least two disciplines, with only a handful being able to specialise in any one discipline. The disciplines include Grand Slalom, Ski-X, Snowboard-X and Cross-Country Classic technique and the Freestyle Relay events. Students needing to compete in their non-preferred discipline means that the pressure is off competitors to enter only if they are highly talented. The event is usually a four day carnival that welcomes Professional Race Training with Falls Creek Ski School Trainers on the Tuesday, Skier Cross and Boarder Cross events on Wednesday, Giant Slalom Events for Skiers and Snowboarders on the Thursday and Cross Country events held on the Friday. The carnival concludes on the Friday, with a luncheon and presentations.This vest is significant because it represents an important School Skiing Competition which fosters and supports the development of skiing and snowboarding in Australia.A sleeveless navy blue vest with silk textile lining. The vest has two zip pockets and a front zip closure. Cloth badges representing A.S.S.S.S.T.C championships have been hand-stitched on to the front of the vest in a vertical row. A badge representing the maker is at the lower left hem.A.S.S.S.S.T.C badges for 1979, 1980 and 1981.australian secondary schools snowsports team championship, school skiing competitions

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. George Shirling arrived in Falls Creek in 1962. He engaged Phil Nowell to build the original Koki Alpine Lodge which opened in 1965 with 14 beds. George operated the lodge with Michael “Baldy” Blackwell as manager. In 1981 he graduated in sport psychology and was invited to become team psychologist for the Australian Winter Olympic team which went to Albertville, France, in 1992. He later owned the Red Onion Chalet. George Shirling passed away on 27th February 2023. He had remained actively involved in Falls Creek and was generous with his time and knowledge, always an amazing supporter of The Falls Creek Museum and Falls Creek Village. Patricia “Patsy” Sydney Russell Finlayson was born on 17 March 1915. In 1935 she was selected for the NSW Ski team and competed at the Australian Championships. Patsy was runner-up in the individual slalom and giant slalom and became the Australian combined champion. In that year she also won the Summit Ski Race at Mount Kosciusko with a time of 9 hours and 37 minutes, breaking the women's record by 1½ hours. In 1936 Finlayson earned national selection for the first Inter Dominion Championship between Australia & New Zealand. She was then selected to represent Australia at the 1939 Nordic World Ski Championship at Zakopane, Poland but was injured during training. She returned to Australia in August 1938 and had to compete in the men's event (placing 4th) as the women's event had been cancelled. In 1969 Finlayson won all her events in the Australian Ski Championships. In 1941, Finlayson was appointed Australia's first female ski instructor. However, she had to resign from the Australian Women's Ski Club as she was no longer considered to be an amateur. This made her ineligible for the Australian or NSW ski championships and the Olympic Games. In 1949, the International Ski Federation (FIS) changed the rules governing amateur standing and Finlayson was allowed to compete at the NSW and Australian Championships. She went on to win all events in both 1949 and 1950. She retired from competitive skiing in October 1950.This item is significant because it features a pioneer of women's skiing in Australia.A black and white image of Patsy Finlayson with her skis and poles. george shirling, red onion, patsy finlayson, women's skiing pioneer

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. 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. In 2024 the renamed Koki Alpine resort remains a highly popular destination in Falls Creek. George Shirling passed away on 27th February 2023. He had remained actively involved in Falls Creek and was generous with his time and knowledge, always an amazing supporter of The Falls Creek Museum and Falls Creek Village.This item is significant because it is a portrait of George Shirling, a significant pioneer of Falls Creek and the ski industry in Australia.A framed colour portrait of George Shirling. A title label has been added to the image.On Label: George Shirling 17/1/38 to 27/2/2023 Falls Creek - always in his heartgeorge shirling, koki lodge, red onion, accommodation falls creek