This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It recognises his participation at the Winter Olympic Games in Albertville in 1992 where he was the team psychologist. 23 Australian athletes competed, participating in alpine skiing, biathlon, bobsleigh, cross-country skiing, figure skating, freestyle skiing, luge, short track speed skating, and speed skating. Steven Lee and Adrian Costa from Falls Creek were included in this team. 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 credited the success of Koki to “Baldy” Blackwell. “Baldy” with Phil Nowell started the Trackers Mountain Lodge in partnership during the 1980s. In 1971 George sold Koki Lodge to Sigi Doerr. He also graduated in sport psychology in 1981 and George later owned the Red Onion Chalet. 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 is representative of George Shirling's involvement with the Australian Winter Olympic Team.A framed certificate acknowledging George Shirling's membership of the Australian Winter Olympic Team at Albertville, France in 1992. It features the Australian Coat of Arms and the Olympic Rings in green. The remaining text is a combination of red, black and blue ink. A Sydney Olympics badge has been attached. The Albertville 1992 logo is at the bottom. AUSTRALIAN OLYMPIC TEAM George Shirling ALBERTVILLE 1992george shirling, australian winter olympics, albertville 1992, steve lee, adrian costa

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

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It recognises his participation at the Winter Olympic Games in Albertville in 1992 where he was the team psychologist. 23 Australian athletes competed, participating in alpine skiing, biathlon, bobsleigh, cross-country skiing, figure skating, freestyle skiing, luge, short track speed skating, and speed skating. Steven Lee and Adrian Costa from Falls Creek were included in this team. 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 credited the success of Koki to “Baldy” Blackwell. “Baldy” with Phil Nowell started the Trackers Mountain Lodge in partnership during the 1980s. In 1971 George sold Koki Lodge to Sigi Doerr. He also graduated in sport psychology in 1981 and George later owned the Red Onion Chalet. 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 is representative of George Shirling's involvement with the Australian Winter Olympic Team.A plastic coated ID pass issued to George Shirling at Albertville, France in 1992. It features Tignes, the name of the resort where the events were held, as well as the Albertville 92 logo and the Olympic Rings. TIGNES George Shirling ALBERTVILLE '92george shirling, australian winter olympics, albertville 1992, steve lee, adrian costa

Winter Olympics, Innsbruck, Austria. This uniform was donated to the Falls Creek Historical Society by Dr. Howard W. Farrow who was appointed as a Medical Officer for the Australian Olympic Games Team of 1976. Dr. Farrow's father, Dr. Claude Farrow was a founding member of the Edelweiss Ski Club of Australia which was formed in 1947. He was also the Founding President of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs (F.O.V.S.C) which produced the Ski-Horizon journal. Dr. Howard Farrow reported that "the Europeans laughed at us and called us the prisoners". Australia sent a team of eight athletes to Innsbruck, five men and three women. The team consisted of alpine skiers Kim Clifford, David Griff, Robert McIntyre, Joanne Henke and Sally Rodd; figure skaters Billy Schober and Sharon Burley and speed skater Colin Coates, who was competing in his third Winter Olympics. This uniform was designed by famous fashion designer Pru Acton OAM, in response to a request by athletes for a more colourful uniform than the standard green blazer previously worn by the Australian team at the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Games.This uniform is significant because it was a modern development of Australian Winter Olympic team uniforms created by a famous Australian fashion designer.The Australian Ski Suit for the 1976 Winter Olympic Games. It has patches of big bold black and white stripes, set horizontally and vertically, with panels of yellow. The Australian emblem of Olympic circles and a kangaroo are placed on the back and front of the jacket and on the arm and leg. A bib-and-brace overall in matching stripes was worn under the jacket.1976 winter olympics, australian winter olympics uniforms, pru acton, dr. howard farrow

Ross Milne grew up on his family's tobacco property in Myrtleford, Victoria and started skiing at Falls Creek when he was 13. He went on to win the North-Eastern District Ski Association (NEDSA) Junior Championships for three years in a row. In 1961 Ross was a member of the Australian team which competed against New Zealand in the Inter-Dominion Championships. In 1963, he won the Downhill and Alpine Combined title at the Australian Championships, while placing second in the Grand Slalom event. Ross Milne was selected in the Australian team that participated in the 1964 Olympic Winter Games at Innsbruck, Austria. A few days before the opening of the Games, on 25 January 1964, he tragically lost his life when he crashed into a tree during a training run for the Men's Downhill. He was only 19 years of age. This item is significant because it shows the Olympic Team at Falls Creek and features Ross Milne who died tragically in a training run in Innsbruck, Austria shortly after this photo was taken.A mounted black and white photograph of the Australian Olympic team standing in front of the Falls Creek Ski School sign as well as an article "Ski Champion at 18" from Australian Women's Weekly Wed 9 Oct 1963. The image was taken while the team selected to represent Australia at the 1964 Winter Olympics at Innsbruck, Australia were in training. Left to right: Christine Smith, Simon Brown, Sigi Haberzettl (Coach), Judy Forras, John Wagner (Manager), Peter Wenzel, Peter Brockhoff, Ross Milne.australian winter olympians, winter olympics 1964, ross milne

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. The article is a flyer for the promotion of the release of his book "Exploding Sports Myths" in August 2010. 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 documents the publication of a book written by George Shirling.An article promoting the release of "Exploding Sports Myths" by George Shirling in August 2010. "For thirty years George has observed and listened to scores of players, athletes and coaches up to international level, including the Australian Winter Olympic Team, the NSW 'Waratahs', ACT 'Brumbies', and the 'Wallabies' rugby union teams. His experience is long, his perspective unique. Some may not like what he has to say, but few who are genuinely engaged in sport can afford to ignore him."george shirling, falls creek, exploding sports myths

Schuss was advertised as Victoria’s Official Ski Journal It was issued monthly from 1935 to 1961 except during the war when summer issues covered two months. This continued after the war, but it averaged 10 issues annually over its 25 year life. Schuss was published by the Ski Club of Victoria which had a membership of 38 Ski Clubs and demanded to be recognised as the prime authority on skiing in the state. The other 30 ski clubs with 85% of the members disagreed and the politics of skiing became heated. These clubs formed the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs with their own journal, Ski Horizon. With the establishment of the Victorian Ski Association, Ski-Horizon published its last issue in Nov - Dec. 1955 and the role of the official journal was fully taken over by “Schuss”. This item is significant because it contains stories, images and information documenting the development of the ski industry in Victoria.The journal features stories and events chronicling developments in Victoria and internationally. Items related to the Falls Creek Area in this issue include:- Cover - An image of the first Australian Winter Olympic Ski Team entering Bislett Stadium, Oslo during the opening ceremony on the February 15. Standard bearer is Gordon Day, followed by Australian Captain George Chisholm leading the team.schuss journal, australian ski team 1952 oslo, 1952 winter olympic ski team

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.This item is significant because it includes a wide range of products used to protect skis and improve performance from the 1920s until the present.A variety of brands of ski wax for maintenance of ski surfaces. The brands included are:- "TOKO", a Swiss company founded in 1916. The Swix colour wax system which was first marketed on November 28th 1946 in Sweden. Bratlie Wax established in the 1920s. In the early 1970s the company was purchased by Astra, the parent company of Swix. Wax by Østbye of Norway patented c1920 by Peter Østbye. His company manufactured tar-based waxes until the 1990s. Australalp Ski Wax made by Danbril Laboratories, Elsternwick, Victoria Each item bears its original logo and brandinggeorge shirling, red onion, ski waxes

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It is an early souvenir from Falls Creek Ski Village. 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.This item is significant because it is representative of changes in Falls Creek promotional material and souvenirs over time.A hessian belt with plastic and metal buckle. Woven into belt: SKI FALLS CREEK On Buckle: SKIgeorge shirling, nissen lodge

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It is an early souvenir from Falls Creek Ski Village. 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.This item is significant because it is representative of Falls Creek promotional material.A Falls Creek Sticker printed in black on a yellow and white background and including the Falls Creek logo on the right hand end. SKI FALLS CREEK plus logogeorge shirling, ski falls creek, falls creek souvenirs

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It is an early souvenir from Falls Creek Ski Village. 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.This item is significant because it is representative of Falls Creek promotional material.A Falls Creek Sticker printed in black on a purple and white background and including the Falls Creek logo on the right hand end. SKI FALLS CREEK plus logo Come up and ski us sometime!george shirling, ski falls creek, falls creek souvenirs

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It is an early souvenir from Nissen Lodge which was constructed in 1952 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.This item is significant because it is a souvenir from one of the oldest lodges at Falls Creek Ski Resort.A glass beer jug with gilt trim around lip. It is inscribed with "Nissen Falls Creek" in gold script. It is accompanied by a typed sign explaining its origin.On glass in gold lettering: Nissen Falls Creek On sign: Item No. 126 Glass Beer jug - inscribed in gold - 4" x 3" "Nissen" - Falls Creek Purchased by the Donor in 1953george shirling, nissen lodge

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It is typical of the range of souvenirs used to promote Falls Creek in the 1950s. 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.This item is significant because it is representative of souvenirs used to promote Falls Creek in the 1950s.A green ceramic ash tray with gilt trims and printing. A typed display card is included.Across centre in gold - Falls Creek Makers Mark underneath: C. R. Hose within a map of Australia On Card: ITEM No. 127 Ceramic Ash Tray - green and gold - 3" X 3" - inscribed in gold "Falls Creek" Purchased by the donor in 1953george shirling, falls creek souvenirs

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 photo is significant because it captures an image of two pioneers of pioneers and active members of Falls Creek Village.A black and white image of George Shirling with two motorbikes on the bank of the West Kiewa River.george shirling, koki lodge

George Shirling arrived in Falls Creek in 1962. He engaged Phil Nowell to build the original Koki Alpine Lodge which opened in 1965 with 14 beds. George operated the lodge with Michael “Baldy” Blackwell as manager. He also graduated in sport psychology in 1981 and was invited to become team psychologist for the Australian Winter Olympic team which went to Albertville, France, in 1992. He later owned the Red Onion Chalet. George credited the success of Koki to “Baldy” Blackwell. “Baldy” and Phil Nowell started the Trackers Mountain Lodge in partnership during the 1980s. In 1971 George sold Koki Lodge to 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 image is significant because it documents staff at a successful and popular establishment at Falls Creek, Victoria.A coloured photo of staff at Koki Lodge sitting on edge of balcony railkoki lodge, falls creek, george shirling, sigi doerr

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 has clear links to an iconic business established in Falls Creek, VictoriaThese antlers were on display on the wall above the balcony at Koki Lodge.koki lodge, george shirling, falls creek businesses, sigi doerr

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 connected to an iconic business established in Falls Creek, VictoriaA flyer produced to promote Koki Alpine Lodge for the Winter Season 1968, including tariffs and activities available. It is printed in black, sepia tones and small touches of blue and brown. Part of the text includes the quotation from Paul Gauguin featured on other Koki advertising:- "For I too am beginning to feel an immense need to become a savage and create a new world." PAUL GAUGUIN, 1887koki lodge, george shirling, phil nowell, "baldy" blackwell, sigi doerr

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 photo is significant because it captures an image of two pioneers of pioneers and active members of Falls Creek Village.A black and white image of George Shirling and Michael "Baldy" Blackwell on the Koki Skidoo,On the front of the skidoo: Koki Alpine Lodgegeorge shirling, koki lodge

These stamps were issued by Australia Post in 1984 to commemorate the sport of skiing in Australia. This was the year of the Winter Olympics held in Sarajevo. The 1984 Australian Winter Olympics team at Sarajevo consisted of 10 athletes. They were;- Steven Lee competing in the Downhill and Giant Slalom Alistair Guss in the Downhill Marilla Guss in the Downhill and Giant Slalom Andrew Paul in the Biathlon over both 10 kilometres and 20 kilometres David Hislop in the 15, 30 and 50 kilometres X-Country events Chris Allen in the 15, 30 and 50 kilometres X-Country event Cameron Medhurst in Figure Skating Vicki Holland in Figure Skating Mike Richmond in the 500 metres, 1,000 metres and 1,500 metres speed skating Colin Coates in the 1,500 metres, 5,000 metres and 10,000 metres speed skating Colin Coates was the flag bearer at the Opening Ceremony in recognition of the Sarajevo Winter Olympics being his 5th Winter Olympics team. He went on to compete in his final Olympic Team at Calgary, Canada in 1988. These stamps are significant because they recognise the sport of snow skiing as an important and developing Australian national sport.A set of four coloured stamps featuring different styles of competition skiing. The stamps have been mounted in a white frame. australian postage stamps, skiing in australia stamp series

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

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 photo of George Shirling with his Golden Labrador at the dam. A title label has been added to the image.On Label: George Shirling 1938 - 2023 Falls Creek - 1962 - 2023george shirling, koki lodge, red onion

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. The first nutcracker tow at Falls Creek was the Nissen Tow. Operated by Toni and Skippy St. Elmo, it had a capacity of five people at one time and cost 6/- day in 1951. The Nissen Tow was powered by a Buick engine and operated from 1951 until 1960. 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.This item is significant because it is connected to one of the early ski tows established in Falls Creek.A woven hessian belt with leather and metal buckle. The metal fork enabled the skier to attach to the rope tow. A display card is included. On card: Item No. 115 Nutcracker - Nissen Rope Tow - 1950sgeorge shirling, nissen lodge

This photo 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 photo is significant because it features "Baldy" Blackwell of Trackers Mountain Lodge, Falls Creek, Victoria.A framed photograph of "Baldy" Blackwell standing outside the front of "Trackers". A fabric souvenir patch and a label have been included in the frame.On Label 'Baldy 'came to ski at Falls Creek in 1962. From 1965 to 1971 he was the Manager of Koki Alpine Lodge. In 1980 he built Trackers Lodge which he owned and operated for some 14 years. An always kind and ever sincere host ....well ahead of his time. "Baldy Blackwell" 1937-1995george shirling, "baldy" blackwell, trackers lodge

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 provides an early view of Falls Creek, Victoria.A colour photograph of a man standing near the sign at the entrance to Falls Creek. The photograph has an explanatory note attached at the upper left corner.On added note: ITEM No. 150 Village "Welcome' sign - Falls Creek. 1959 Lodges (Clockwise from top left): Galleon, Gundamurra (burnt 1960), Bowna, Winterhaven (the Store), Diana and Kiewa Valley.george shirling, falls creek village 1959, falls creek accommodation

These items are 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 documents progress being made at Falls Creek.A set of tickets for the Nissen Poma Ski Lift for 1965 & 1966 mounted in a frame behind glass.george shirling, nissen ski tow, poma lift 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. Sigi was a long time resident of Falls Creek, owning and operating Koki Lodge for many years with his wife, Lee. He was Falls Creek CFA Captain from 1995 until 1998 although he served in the Fire Brigade for much longer. Sigi had many involvements in the community. In 2023 the renamed Koki Alpine resort remains a highly popular destination in Falls Creek.This item is significant because it shows an entertainment event at a well-loved Falls Creek Lodge.A framed black and white photograph of guests enjoying "Tom Jones Night" at Koki Lodge in 1968. Guests include:- Foretable - George Shirling, Geoff Henke, Gweneth Henke (Maloney) who competed in figure skating in the Oslo Winter Olympics 1952, Sigi Haberzetti, Phyllis Bridgford, Bill Bridgford (back to camera)koki lodge, george shirling, sigi doerr

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It is an early souvenir from Nissen Lodge which was built c1952. 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 rare souvenir from one of the early lodges at Falls Creek, Victoria.A small enamelled badge depicting a skier dressed in green and white. Text is included on a red strip above and beneath the figure. A typed sign is included.Above the skier: NISSEN Below the Skier: FALLS CREEK On Sign: ITEM NO. 106 Very rare badge - "Nissen - Falls Creek" c1953 Donated by "Diana" of Diana Lodgegeorge shirling, nissen lodge

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It is an early souvenir from 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 rare souvenir from Falls Creek, Victoria in the 1950s.A small enamelled badge depicting a skier descending the slopes. The badge is blue, white and black with gold trim. It has an accompanying typed sign.In top section of badge: FALLS CREEK 5080 ft On Sign: ITEM NO. 105 Very rare badge - "Falls Creek 5000" c1952 Donated by "Diana" of Diana Lodgegeorge shirling, nissen lodge

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It is an early souvenir from 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 souvenir from Falls Creek, Victoria.A small Snow Globe containing a snowman. Falls Creek is printed on the blue base. Fallscreekgeorge shirling, falls creek souvenirs

This photo is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It is an early image of the Summit T-Bar which operated from 1961 until 1991. 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 photo is significant because it was taken in the early years of operation of the Summit T-Bar at Falls Creek, Victoria.A black and white image of a group of skiers at the top of the Summit T-bar. Taken in winter there is good snow cover. A typed label has been attached.On Label: TOP STATION - SUMMIT T-BAR Winter 1962george shirling, summit t-bar, falls creek t-bars