The SECV constructed the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme which included the building of Rocky Valley Dam on the Bogong High Plains near Falls Creek. H.H.C. Williams, construction engineer, Kiewa wrote to the Ski Clubs at Falls Creek outlining the dangers arising with the filling of Rocky Valley Dam. He lists 5 warnings in the interest of safety.The plan and letter provide the dates for the completion of Rocky Valley dam and its effect on the people living and working in the area including miners and ski clubs. It describes some of the features of Kiewa Works Area at the time.Plan No. K 6612 of Fall Creek showing Rocky Valley Dam's shape when it is full. Letter dated 6th April 1959 from H.H.C. Williams to Ski Clubs at Falls Creek re public safety as Rocky Valley fills. Refers to roads, transmission lines, pole lines etc in the Kiewa Works Area.Written in ink at top of letter - "Secretary / Mt Beauty and District Progress Association"rocky valley dam, falls creek ski clubs, h.h.c. williams, khes 1959, safety

Caps were a popular form of memorabilia for Falls Creek. The badges represents various Ski Clubs and Ski Schools. The badges on this cap include three Kids Ski Club Australia - Qantas Badges, two Falls Creek Ski Club Junior Racer badges and one Love Skiing Badge with the word love represented by a heart,. There are also seven other Falls Creek badges of various designs.This cap is representative of a range of memorabilia used to promote Falls Creek,Peak cap purple textile with geometric ribbon Falls Creek Australia in light blue 13 souvineer badgesFalls Creek AUSTRALIAfalls creek, ski school, qantas, badges, skiing

After World War II, the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme was started in the Kiewa River valley by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria. On land previously used only for summer cattle grazing in the natural alpine grasslands, the first ski lodge was built in 1948 by workers from the hydro scheme as skiing was a popular recreation. Many of the hydro employees were of European background and had grown up enjoying skiing and snow sports in their homelands and were keen to continue to pursue their winter sports interests. The first lift, a rope tow, was built in 1951 and the first chairlift in Australia was constructed there in 1957. Two T-Bars were opened in 1961. In 1964, the Victorian Municipal Directory recorded that Falls Creek had 29 ski club lodges and 16 commercial lodges.Employees of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria in the Kiewa River Valley were the earliest skiers on the Bogong High Plains and built one of the first ski lodges at Falls Creek. They were amongst those pivotal in the development of the skiing and tourist industry at Falls Creek and on the Bogong High Plains. Set of 10 black and white photographs of various skiers at Falls Creek Victoria1. From Left-John Robertson Myrtleford; Bill Bridgford, St Trinians; Girl not known; Roy Wolpole, Myrtleford; Fin McAuliffe, Myrtleford; Looking on foreground, Toni St Elmo 2. Falls Creek. Property of State Electricity Commission of Victoria Publicity Photo Negative No PB4046. Publicity Branch, 15 William St Melbourne. 3. Avic Lajons 4. No markings 5. Bill Bridgeford (lower person on slope) 6. Max Lawrence? Facing skiers 7. 6575. Indistinguishable red stamp on back 8. 6875. Ces Dobson on tractor 9. From left on tow. John Robertson (Myrtleford); Bill Bridgeford (St Trinians); Girl unknown; Roy Walpole (Myrtleford); Vin McAuliffe (Myrtleford); Looking on foreground Toni Beveridge. 10. From Left 1; 2; 3. Bill Bridgeford; 4. George McPherson ? (Myrtleford); 5. John Robertson (Myrtleford); 6. Elsbeth Rollenson? (Myrtleford); 7; 8; 9. 11. Bogong. Looking N.E from Big River fire track. Skiers on way to Falls Creek. Spion Kop on left. Going around Ropers Cerner near the 18 mile post falls creek, skiing, bogong high plains

After World War II, the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme was started in the Kiewa River Valley by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria. On land previously used only for summer cattle grazing in the natural alpine grasslands, the first ski lodge was built in 1948 by workers from the hydro scheme as skiing was a popular recreation. Many of the hydro employees were of European background and had grown up enjoying skiing and snow sports in their homelands and were keen to continue to pursue their winter sports interests. The first lift, a rope tow, was built in 1951 at Falls Creek and the first chairlift in Australia was constructed there in 1957. Two T-Bars were opened in 1961. In 1964, the Victorian Municipal Directory recorded that Falls Creek had 29 ski club lodges and 16 commercial lodges. The area became a popular tourist destination for both winter and summer sports.: Employees of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria in the Kiewa River Valley were the earliest skiers on the Bogong High Plains and built one of the first ski lodges at Falls Creek. They were amongst those pivotal in the development of the skiing and tourist industry at Falls Creek and on the Bogong High Plains. Collection of 10 copies and original black and white photographs and printed articles relating to skiing on the Bogong High Plains. Some pieces have been enlarged to A3 poster size copies for display purposes 1. Copy of black and white photograph of group of skiers at Falls Creek 2. Copy of photograph of early skier on Bogong High Plains with temporary buildings and tents in the background 3. Copy of photograph of 3 skiers on Mt McKay 4. Copy of SECV photograph of Rocky Valley Camp under snow 5. Early sepia photograph of Falls Creek village with skiers in the foreground 6. Copy of a page from booklet (SECV?) promoting the benefits of owning a holiday home in the Bogong Village area 7. Copy of a page from booklet (SECV?) promoting the benefits of holidaying in and around Falls Creek/Mt Beauty 8. Panoramic view of ski fields with skis in the foreground 9. Photograph of young skier (identity unknown) 10. Photograph of 2 male skiers (identity unknown) performing a small jump 1. Bogong Ski Club Members & Friends 1944 2. Jack Neve – electrician. Rocky Valley 3. 17.5.55 Skiers ascending Mt McKay 4. State Electricity Commission of Victoria. Date:17.8.55 No:K8132 Kiewa Hydro Electric Works. Rocky Valley Camp – From Engineering Office 5 & 9 No markings 6 & 7 Short article relating to photos on each page 8. Handwritten signature on rear of photo (Sandra Conea) 10 Faded unreadable photographers stamp and handwritten numbers 6875 on rear secv; bogong high plains; skiers; falls creek; tourism

After World War II, the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme was started in the Kiewa River Valley by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria. On land previously used only for summer cattle grazing in the natural alpine grasslands, the first ski lodge was built in 1948 by workers from the hydro scheme as skiing was a popular recreation. Many of the hydro employees were of European background and had grown up enjoying skiing and snow sports in their homelands and were keen to continue to pursue their winter sports interests. The first lift, a rope tow, was built at Falls Creek in 1951 and the first chairlift in Australia was constructed there in 1957. Two T-Bars were opened in 1961. In 1964, the Victorian Municipal Directory recorded that Falls Creek had 29 ski club lodges and 16 commercial lodges. The area became a popular tourist destination for both winter and summer sports.Employees of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria in the Kiewa River Valley were the earliest skiers on the Bogong High Plains and built one of the first ski lodges at Falls Creek. They were amongst those pivotal in the development of the skiing and tourist industry at Falls Creek and on the Bogong High Plains. Black and white photographs of varying sizes mounted decoratively on heavy black Card. Some pages display a brief description printed in white ink 1. 4 photographs- displayed diagonally across page. 2 pictures of a group of men standing in the snow in front of a car with a loaded trailer behind. 1 photo of skiers. 1 photo of show hanging in tree branches. 2. 2 photographs- showing Upper Kiewa Road with snow in the background 3. 3 photographs- of skiers and 1 photo of 2 of men posing in the snow & 1 photo of 2 men posing shirtless in warmer weather. 4. 2 photographs- arranged diagonally on page showing early buildings and construction at Bogong Village 5. 2 photographs- 1 showing view of Bogong Village from higher up the mountain. 1 showing early Bogong High Plains road 6. 1 photograph- showing view down along Kiewa Valley from higher up in the mountains 1. Handwritten in white ink – A TRIP TO THE PLAINS 2. Handwritten in white ink – UPPER KIEWA ROAD MT FAINTER IN BACKGROUND 3 – 6. No markings bogong village; upper kiewa road; bogong high plains; falls creek; skiers

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 issue include:- Page 2 - 3:- Rations for working bees at Myrtleford Lodge have been supplemented by large quantities of trout- source undisclosed. Many lodges have taken on new colours. Skippy and Tonl St. Elmo have chosen red and yellow for the Nissen Alpine Club Tow House at Falls Creek where they will be living this year. Intervarsity races were to be held at Falls Creek. Page 5 - Myrtleford and Toni St. Elmo have set up a short tow for beginners beside the big tow at Falls Creek. The Bogong Ski Club will accommodate skiers from other clubs at the cost of 10/- per night (not including food)tom mitchell m.l.a., bogong ski club, toni st. elmo

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. The Victorian Ski Club Association was established in July 1955 to combine the interests of all Victorian ski clubs to advance the combined objectives of the clubs in the development of Victorian skiing areas and advancing the technical standards of the sport. The Association had 33 Foundation member clubs and a further five clubs joined in its first year, representing over 3,500 individual members. 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 is representative of the Association which coordinated and supported the development of snow skiing in Victoria from the mid 1950s.A sticker bearing the logo of the Victorian Ski Association printed in blue and green with a plastic coating. VICTORIAN SKI ASSOCIATIONgeorge shirling, victorian ski association, snow skiing in victoria 1950s

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 issue include:- Page 11:- Busy year for Falls Creek Instructors. Bob Hymans has been a great asset for the last three seasons. Milan Kovicic (previously instructing in Italy for 11 years) and Toni St. Elmo are instructing at the Nissen Ski School Page 13 - Toni & Skippy St. Elmo's Tow House canteen sells every provision a skier could ever want - hot meals, groceries, toilet and first-aid gear, stationery - even souvenirs. Page 20 - Falls Creek in Spring - Bogong Ski Club reports improvements in their facilities as well as around Falls Creek. Their lodge has been repainted and refurnische. The SEC has begun to allow private car convoys to travel to Howman's at set times. Regular trains are available from Melbourne connect with Hoy's Bus at Wangaratta. Overnight accommodation and parking can be arranged at Tawonga. The Tow House now provides two tows and food supplies. Snow conditions were lending themselves to a bumper year ahead. Members of other clubs could apply to stay at Bogong Ski Club at an overnight fee of 10/- for Melbourne clubs amd 8/- for N.E.D.S.A. Clubs plus 6d. per night for the Skiing Improvement Fund.tom mitchell m.l.a., bogong ski club, toni st. elmo

Wilkinson's Hut was built for the State Electricity Commission of Victoria in 1932 as a permanent residence for the snow research program manager, who was the resident engineer of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. The hut was sold in 1948 to the Ski Club of Victoria / Victorian Alpine Club and renamed Wilkinson Lodge. In 1958 it was sold to the Melbourne Bushwalkers Club. It was burnt down on 17th January 2004.Wilkinson Lodge was located at Wallace Gap on the Bogong High Plains and was the first S.E.C.V. permanent residence for the workers of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. It is also an early built lodge owned briefly 1946 - 1958 by the Ski Club of Victoria / Victorian Alpine Club and used by skiers before other lodges were built at Falls Creek. It was used by bushwalkers until it was burnt down thus in itself depicting part of the history of the area.5 pages of copies of photos of Wilkinson Lodge, 1 page of a copy of the destruction of Wilkinson Lodge (6 small photos), 1 page of a copy of a plaque titled 'This cottage' and 1 page of an article from the Border Mail (newspaper) dated 19th Jan. 2004.wilkinson hut; secv; ski club of victoria; melbourne bushwalkers club; fire

Myrtleford Ski Club is a non-commercial, family friendly club. It was one of the earliest lodges to be built at Falls Creek and was one of the earliest ski clubs formed and celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2013. In 1949, Myrtleford Ski Club obtained permission for occupancy and began planning the MSC Lodge. There were only three other huts on the mountain, Bogong Ski Club in an old Army hut, Skyline as the Ski Club of Victoria lodge and the Albury Ski Club lodge. The lodge was built mostly from donated materials. The basement was dug out and lined with stone from the Ruined Castle area, timber was cut (using cross-saws) from the Walpole properties and was milled then carted up to Falls Creek on either the Walpole or Calvert trucks. The iron on the roof was originally a tobacco kiln on Billy McNamara's property. The lodge has undergone many improvements over the years including a second storey added in the 1950’s, updating of accommodation, shower and toilet facilities to meet the changing needs of members. The lodge now caters for 38 people in a variety of shared rooms from two to eight beds per room. Toilet and shower facilities are also shared. The club has a Lodge Managers for the winter season. Myrtleford Ski Lodge was one of the earliest ski lodges built in the Falls Creek area in 1938. It is an excellent example of early sporting and community activities in the Upper Kiewa Valley area. Photograph shows family members, including women, involved in the construction.Sepia photograph of the building of the Myrtleford Ski Club about 1948Handwritten on the back of photograph in black pen - Building Myrtleford Ski Club (about 1948) Stamped on back of photograph - 6 2511myrtleford ski club, skiing, snow sports, victorian alps, falls creek

The Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club was formed in September 1977 when a group of enthusiasts met to discuss the idea. The club, located in Mount Beauty has conducted many activities and programs for its members and other cross country skiers at the Falls Creek Ski Resort, Alpine National Park and the Bogong High Plains. Club objectives are to promote the development of cross country racing, ski touring and associated activities. To assist in searches for persons lost in bushland areas and to maintain a Search and Rescue group. It also provides its members with opportunities for skiing and social activities. The Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club constructed a clubhouse at Falls Creek for the use of members in 1996. The club has conducted the annual Kangaroo Hoppet since 1991. Since its inception, the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club has been active in promoting cross country skiing including racing and touring in the Falls Creek, Alpine National Park and the Bogong High Plains areas and have actively participated in search and rescue in the alpine region. Birkebeiner members have represented Australia at five Olympic Games. A number of Kiewa Valley residents are active members or have been past members of the club over the years.Printed material from the internet with colour illustrations – History of the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club Inc. Sourced from http://birkebeiner.org.au/about/history/, 14/01/2016 7.45pmbirkebeiner ski club; nordic skiing; cross country skiing; falls creek; bogong high plains

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

Postcards were available at tourist destinations to promote the resort by enabling visitors to write to friends and family.The Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme hastened the development of Falls Creek as a popular destination for skiers. Roads, buildings including accommodation & chalets, ski clubs, snow vehicles, ski tows etc enabled visitors to live and ski in the snow. When construction of the KHES was completed Falls Creek continued to develop both as a winter and summer resort. Serrated edge colored postcards. 1. "On Langlauf Skis in the Australian Snowfields' - Photograph by Uwe Steinward 2. 'Ski-school and instructors at Falls Creek, Victoria' Photograph by Uwe Steinward x2 3. Overlooking the Victorian snowfields, Falls Creek, Victoria' Photograph by Uwe Steinward 4. 'Skiing down the slopes at Falls Creek, Victoria.' photograph by Uwe Steinward x3falls creek, snow, skiing, alpine sport, langlauf skmiing, uwe steinward

In 1977 a group of Mount Beauty cross country skiers formed the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club. In 1979, a version of the famous Birkebeiner race, the first Australian Birkebeiner was held at Falls Creek. In June 1990 representatives from Australia put their case for a southern hemisphere race in the series. Following a trial event in 1990. Australia became the 12th member of Worldloppet in the winter of 1991, with the first Kangaroo Hoppet. In 1991 a parade and commemorative torch lighting ceremony were organised in Mt Beauty as part of the celebrations to mark the first official Kangaroo Hoppett with participation from local community groups and commercial organisations, the Chamber of Commerce, local government representatives and individuals.Kangaroo Hoppet caters to diverse interests by offering a 42km and 21km event. It also offers a 7km event that attracts skiers, ranging from elite juniors to parents, grandparents, babies and first time skiers. It is recognised on the world cross country ski race calendar. It brings large numbers of participants and spectators to the area which support tourism, local businesses and employment. The 2018 event will be the 28th Kangaroo Hoppet, with cross country skiers travelling from across the country and overseas to compete.Set of 13 colour photographs of spectators lining both sides of Holland St in preparation for the Kangaroo Hoppet street parade. Photographs show the original hospital buildings and street-scape of the early 1990’sNo markingskangaroo hoppet; cross country skiing; ski race; bogong high plains, mt beauty, parade

In 1977 a group of Mount Beauty cross country skiers formed the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club. In 1979, a version of the famous Birkebeiner race, the first Australian Birkebeiner was held at Falls Creek. In June 1990 representatives from Australia put their case for a southern hemisphere race in the series. Following a trial event in 1990. Australia became the 12th member of Worldloppet in the winter of 1991, with the first Kangaroo Hoppet. In 1991 a parade and commemorative torch lighting ceremony were organised in Mt Beauty as part of the celebrations to mark the first official Kangaroo Hoppett with participation from local community groups and commercial organisations, the Chamber of Commerce, local government representatives and individuals.Kangaroo Hoppet caters to diverse interests by offering a 42km and 21km event. It also offers a 7km event that attracts skiers, ranging from elite juniors to parents, grandparents, babies and first time skiers. It is recognised on the world cross country ski race calendar. It brings large numbers of participants and spectators to the area which support tourism, local businesses and employment. The 2018 event will be the 28th Kangaroo Hoppet, with cross country skiers travelling from across the country and overseas to compete.PHYSICAL: Set of 22 colour photographs of the street parade to celebrate the first Official Hoppet race run at Falls Creek in 1991. Participants from a range of local community groups are traveling along Kiewa Cres. Photos are taken near the corner of Maddison St 1&2 – Horseman & accordion player leading the parade Sign reads ‘Falls Creek The Happy Mountain’ 3-4 Birkbeioner Nordic Ski Club with Chinese Nordic ski representatives 5 & 6- Girl Guides & Brownies 7, 8 & 9- Mt Beauty Primary School & Netball team 10 & 11- UKV Calisthenics Club 12- Lawn Bowls Club 13- Junior Football Club 14- Mt Beauty High School Band (on Wodonga Timber & Hardware truck) 15, 16 17 & 18- Mt Beauty Kindergarten 19,20, 21 & 22- Local Community Vehicles including Community Transport and Fire Brigade 23 & 24- Mt Beauty High School Band 25- Fiat 500 Topolino Vintage Car No markingskangaroo hoppet; cross country skiing; ski race; bogong high plains, mt beauty, parade

In 1977 a group of Mount Beauty cross country skiers formed the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club. In 1979, a version of the famous Birkebeiner race, the first Australian Birkebeiner was held at Falls Creek. In June 1990 representatives from Australia put their case for a southern hemisphere race in the series. Following a trial event in 1990. Australia became the 12th member of Worldloppet in the winter of 1991, with the first Kangaroo Hoppet. In 1991 a parade and commemorative torch lighting ceremony were organised in Mt Beauty as part of the celebrations to mark the first official Kangaroo Hoppett with participation from local community groups and commercial organisations, the Chamber of Commerce, local government representatives and individuals.Kangaroo Hoppet caters to diverse interests by offering a 42km and 21km event. It also offers a 7km event that attracts skiers, ranging from elite juniors to parents, grandparents, babies and first time skiers. It is recognised on the world cross country ski race calendar. It brings large numbers of participants and spectators to the area which support tourism, local businesses and employment. The 2018 event will be the 28th Kangaroo Hoppet, with cross country skiers travelling from across the country and overseas to compete.Set of 13 colour photographs of the street parade to celebrate the first Official Hoppet race run at Falls Creek in 1991. Participants were from a range of local community groups and local industry representatives. Photos were taken on Holland St. opposite the old hospital building. Following the parade, a market stalls were set up on the green outside the Community Centre on Holland St. as part of the Hoppet celebrations. 1 & 2- Boy Scouts and Cubs 3- UKV Lions Club 4 & 5- Local children representing the history and fauna of the High Plains 6- Ambulance Services 7, 8, 9 & 10 – Representatives and equipment from local forestry industry 11- Vintage truck by Vintage Charms Tours providing tours of the local area for visitors 12 & 13- Market stalls set up on the green outside the Community Centre on Holland St. as part of the Hoppet celebrations. kangaroo hoppet; ski race; cross country skiing; bogong high plains, mt beauty, parade,

In 1977 a group of Mount Beauty cross country skiers formed the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club. In 1979, a version of the famous Birkebeiner race, the first Australian Birkebeiner was held at Falls Creek. In June 1990 representatives from Australia put their case for a southern hemisphere race in the series. Following a trial event in 1990. Australia became the 12th member of Worldloppet in the winter of 1991, with the first Kangaroo Hoppet. In 1991 a parade and commemorative torch lighting ceremony were organised in Mt Beauty as part of the celebrations to mark the first official Kangaroo Hoppett with participation from local community groups and commercial organisations, the Chamber of Commerce, local government representatives and individuals.Kangaroo Hoppet caters to diverse interests by offering a 42km and 21km event. It also offers a 7km event that attracts skiers, ranging from elite juniors to parents, grandparents, babies and first time skiers. It is recognised on the world cross country ski race calendar. It brings large numbers of participants and spectators to the area which support tourism, local businesses and employment. The 2018 event will be the 28th Kangaroo Hoppet, with cross country skiers travelling from across the country and overseas to compete.Set of 21 colour photographs of the Opening Ceremony and Commemorative Torch lighting to celebrate the first Official Hoppet race run at Falls Creek in 1991 1-3 - John Konrads (1956 Olympic Swimmer) lighting the Commemorative Torch with the original torch used at the 1956 Olympics at the MCG in Melbourne. 4-13 – Official opening ceremony and torch lighting by Liberal representative for Indi Mr Lou Leibermann. MC’d by Mr Ken Bell, representing the Chamber of Commerce 14 – Parachute fly over by Mr Ross Schult 15-18 – Photographs of the Multi National flags displayed in the commemorative garden in front of the SECV administration buildings. Flags represent the countries participating in the Kangaroo Hoppet. Snow-capped Mt Bogong in the background. 19-21 – Commemorative torch, erected by SECV to commemorate the first official Kangaroo Hoppet held at Falls Creek. No markingskangaroo hoppet; cross country skiing; ski race; bogong high plains; opening ceremony, mt beauty, parade

The Ski-Horizon is the official journal of the Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs. Articles refer to Jim Curtis, Honorary Secretary of Bogong Ski Club - nightly fees are 8/6 for members and 10/6 for non members, the 6d being for the Ski-ing Improvements Fund. Tensing and Sir Edmund Hillary succeeded in climbing Mt Everest in that year. Advertisements include Accommodation at Falls Creek for Skiers only, Instruction , Day Tours and Coaching etc. contact Bob Hymans c/o Bogong P.O.Member Clubs of the Federation of Victorian Ski clubs included Bogong Ski Club which was located at Falls Creek. This journal includes articles and advertisements that give an insight into the history of the ski industry and resorts.Small journal with shiny white and reddish cover with 24 pages and writing on the back of the cover. It includes short and long articles a few photographs and advertisements.skiing. bogong ski club. bob hymans. jim curtis. victorian ski clubs. falls creek.

This bell was used by the public to ring encouragement to participants competing in the Kangaroo Hoppet. The Kangaroo Hoppet has its origins in the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club's 21 km Australian Birkebeiner, first held in 1979 at Falls Creek. In 1991 the first Kangaroo Hoppet of 42 km was conducted and became part of the Worldloppet being the first and, at the time, the only one in the southern hemisphere. It continues (2024) to be held on the fourth Saturday in August. It also includes the Australian Birkebeiner 21 km and the Joey Hoppet 7 km.Used by local family to cheer on relatives competing in the 1995 Kangaroo Hoppet at Falls Creek.Metal cylinder fastened with 3 metal rivets with metal ring handle on metal top. Attached is a metal ringer and a white ribbon with blue writing and boomerang and skis logo. Handmade.Ribbon: "AASF Falls Creek 1995"kangaroo hoppet; ski race; cross country skiing; bogong high plains, snow sports, metal bell

Falls Creek is a resort town in northeastern Victoria. Its development began during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme by the SECV in the late 1940s. The resort continued to develop becoming a destination all year round for skiing, bush walking and cycling. Falls Creek began to develop during the construction of the KHES.2 Black and white photos of Falls Creek during winter. 1. 5 buildings in Falls Creek Bowl including the Frying Pan Inn, Bogong Ski Club and Cummings Ski Hire and about 20 skiers on the slopes. Photo is taken from the bottom of the Summit T-bar looking towards the Gully chair and part of the Village T-bar. 2. View taken from Falls Creek village looking towards Spion Kop. 1960s cable binding skis in the foreground.On the back reference to Laurie Richards photographer.falls creek village, skiing, snow sports, laurie richards

Nissen Lodge was built by 1953 at Falls Creek. The first lodge at Falls Creek was built in 1947 by SECV staff members. By the 1954 Ski Season, Falls Creek Alpine Village had 10 club lodges, plus a ski tow house and a commercial lodge that both provided skier accommodation. Several other club lodges were under construction. The Nissen Alpine Club operated a rope tow with a 240m rise in altitude..Ski lessons were also available. Re: Tony and Skippy St Elmo Beveridge See KVHS 1113 By 1953, the SECV was issuing entry permits for private cars used by skiers with bookings in a Falls Creek lodge.The Nissen Ski Lodge was one of the early ski lodges at Falls Creek. Toni St Elmo Beveridge was involved in the early development of skiing at Falls Creek including assisting with the building of the early lodges, and establishing the Nissen Ski School. See KVHS 1113. The book was later used for visiors to the KVHS museum located in the old Tawonga South School.Deep red, bound, thick cardboard book with gold outline of Australia and 'Visitors" on the centre front. Many pages each with a column for Date, Name in Full and Address in Full. Written in ink and pencil both sides of each page with the first date being 14 - 6 - 1953 to 17th September 1960. Entries follow from 1985 to 1994 when the closure of the display at the old South Tawonga Primary School is noted by the KVHS Secretary. The book also has 'Tony & Skippy St Elmo Beveridge' on its cover page. nissen ski lodge, visitors book falls creek, nissen school

Bogong Ski ClubBogong Ski Club - SECV employeesBlack and white photo of 14 skiers from Bogong Ski Club 1944bogong ski club

In the early 1950s snow skiing was becoming more popular as indicated by these two books of 94 pages covering the snow fields in N.S.W., Victoria and Tawmania. The first publication was limited to the Kosciusko Alpine Club in 1928. The 1952 edition being the 25th issue. Due to the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme many SECV employees had access to the Bogong High Plains including Falls Creek. These books are of historical value as indicated by the advertisements for the resorts, the equipment in the snow eg. tows, skis and clothes being used at the time, the results of ski races, etc. The accommodation has also developed and attracted a variety of people. The articles include disasters, people involved in the sport and overseas updates. In the 1952 book relevant pages for the Bogong High Plains and Falls Creek are pages 36, 38, and 68-69. In the 1953 book relevant pages are 62 and 71-72 and for aborigines 66 - 69Both books have a greyish photo as a cover with the title and year. Each book has 94 pages of soft paper. The books consist of advertisements, a Contents page and articles. Photos and diagrams are in black and white. On the front covers is written: "K. Mills"bogong high plains, skiing, falls creek, aborigines

The history of the Ski Club of Victoria is also a history of skiing in Victoria. The Club was founded in 1924 when most of the skiing was done on Mt Buffalo. Members of the Ski Club of Victoria fostered and developed Victorian skiing. The book includes chapter 8 "Falls Creek", chapter 9 "Bogong High Plains" and chapter 10 "Mount Bogong"Historical account of skiing in Victoria and in particular the Bogong High Plains, Mt Bogong and Falls Creek all of which are part of the Kiewa Valley and its history. "Cecil Dobson" lived in Mt Beauty.Thick hard covered black book with a bright pink dust cover.731 pages with index and lists, mostly black and white photos and a Contents page including all Victorian Skiing resorts. Published by the Ski Club of Victoria."Many Happy / Birthday / from Cecil Dobson"snow skiing, ski club of victoria, bogong high plains, ski resorts

The post World War II migration of European "snow skiiers" into Australia combined with the construction of Hydo Electricity Schemes in both the N.S.W.and Victorian Alps regions, opened up these winter snow areas to a greater influx of tourists and holiday adventurers interested in "winter" sports. The ability to project, on a global scale, skiing facilities of international standards to those in the northern hemisphere during their summer has opened up the Australia ski resorts and their facilities to a much greater winter sport orientated population. These cross country skis were purchased by a member of the Bogong Ski Club and were part of a bulk ski stock consignment from Finland in 1966/67. They were introduced into the Victorian Alps to encourage skiers to take up cross country skiing both at Falls Creek and Mount Buller. This initiative spurred on the now annual 42 kilometre cross country "Kangaroo Hoppet" race at Falls Creek. This race is currently the biggest cross country snow skiing race in Australia. These snow skis were made in Finland. They are wooden (hickory) skis and made from four strips (glued and shaped) pieces of wood that are not laminated. There is a painted blue flash on the top of the skis that extends the full length of the skis. The face of the underside of the skis is flat and is coated in black Stockholm tar. Glider or grip wax was applied onto this base. The top body of the skis is tapered from shoe position to both front and back tips.Tapered curvatures from foot radiating to all sides provides the required aerodynamics. Metal boot bindings consisting of a toe plate with adjustable toe clip and a heel plate, both of which are screwed onto the skis. "KILPA, KARHU URHEILUTARPEITA SPORTART1KLAR, Karhu-Valtz Finland. Hickorypohjin"snow skiing, cross country skiing, falls creek winter tourism

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

The Kangaroo Hoppet is Australia’s premier long distance cross country ski race, and a member of the Worldloppet series of international cross country ski events. The first race at Falls Creek was held in 1979 under the name of “Australian Birkebeiner”. It was a 21km race with about 80 participants organised by the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club of Mount Beauty. The course started and finished at Falls Creek Alpine Resort and took participants out into the Bogong High Plains. After running the event for 10 years, it was decided they should become part of the Worldloppet series of marathon ski races. Representatives from the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club and the Australian Ski Federation attended the Worldloppet Annual Meeting in Finland in June 1990 to put the case for the acceptance of an Australian event into the Worldloppet series. Before being admitted, they had to demonstrate that the Birkebeiner Club could run a world class event, so three months later in August 1990 a 42km event named the Australian International Ski Marathon was held at Falls Creek together with a 21km Birkebeiner race and a 7km event called the Birkebeiner Lite. The event was approved by delegates from USA, Norway and Austria, in 1991 Australia became the 12th member of Worldloppet, with the condition that there had to be a name change. After some late night discussion allegedly involving red wine from North East Victoria the main event became the 42km Kangaroo Hoppet, with the minor events being the 21km Australian Birkebeiner, and 7km Joey Hoppet. In the winter of 1991, the first Kangaroo Hoppet was held. It was a great success and has been a regular fixture on the international ski calendar ever since. It features the main 42km event as well as a 21km event and a 7km event. The Hoppet brings the Australian snowfields to an international audience. In 1991 the Men's Winner was John Aalberg from USA in a time of 1:56:12. The winner of the Women's event was Betsy Youngman of USA in a time of 2:16:55.This poster is significant because it documents an event which brings international attention to Falls Creek and the surrounding region.A large coloured poster featuring several images: from top:- Kangaroo symbol: a large group of cross country skiers; sunset over the mountains; mountains in the daytime with a skier on the right and the central image of a skier superimposed over the other images. The logo for Worldloppet is in the centre beneath the main image beside the logo for QANTAS. This was the poster for the first Kangaroo Hoppet held as an international event.Above image: AUSTRALIA' S SKI MARATHON / FALLS CREEK VICTORIA / Kangaroo Hoppet Beneath image: 31 AUGUST 1991 / 42/21/7 km DETAILS FROM RACE SECRETARY BOX 192 MT. BEAUTY 3699 AUSTRALIAkangaroo hoppet, worldloppet events, falls creek, mt. beauty

The Kangaroo Hoppet is Australia’s premier long distance cross country ski race, and a member of the Worldloppet series of international cross country ski events. The first race at Falls Creek was held in 1979 under the name of “Australian Birkebeiner”. It was a 21km race with about 80 participants organised by the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club of Mount Beauty. The course started and finished at Falls Creek Alpine Resort and took participants out into the Bogong High Plains. After running the event for 10 years, it was decided they should become part of the Worldloppet series of marathon ski races. Representatives from the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club and the Australian Ski Federation attended the Worldloppet Annual Meeting in Finland in June 1990 to put the case for the acceptance of an Australian event into the Worldloppet series. Before being admitted, they had to demonstrate that the Birkebeiner Club could run a world class event, so three months later in August 1990 a 42km event named the Australian International Ski Marathon was held at Falls Creek together with a 21km Birkebeiner race and a 7km event called the Birkebeiner Lite. The event was approved by delegates from USA, Norway and Austria, in 1991 Australia became the 12th member of Worldloppet, with the condition that there had to be a name change. After some late night discussion allegedly involving red wine from North East Victoria the main event became the 42km Kangaroo Hoppet, with the minor events being the 21km Australian Birkebeiner, and 7km Joey Hoppet. In the winter of 1991, the first Kangaroo Hoppet was held. It was a great success and has been a regular fixture on the international ski calendar ever since. It features the main 42km event as well as a 21km event and a 7km event. The Hoppet brings the Australian snowfields to an international audience. In 1992 the Men's Winner was Gudmund Skjeldal from Norway in a time of 1:47:17. The winner of the Women's event was Beatrice Grunenfelder of Switzerland in a time of 2:12:49. This poster is significant because it documents an event which brings international attention to Falls Creek and the surrounding region.A large coloured poster featuring an aerial photo of cross country skiers from the 1991 event. The logo of the Kangaroo Hoppet is in the centre top position and the Worldloppet logo is in the bottom left corner.At top: AUSTRALIA' S WORLDLOPPET SKI RACE / FALLS CREEK VICTORIA / 29TH AUGUST 1992 Beside Worldloppet logo: Details from Race Secretary Box 192 Mt. Beauty 3699 Australia Photo: Ken Bell, PhotoMotionkangaroo hoppet, worldloppet events, falls creek, mt. beauty

The Kangaroo Hoppet is Australia’s premier long distance cross country ski race, and a member of the Worldloppet series of international cross country ski events. The first race at Falls Creek was held in 1979 under the name of “Australian Birkebeiner”. It was a 21km race with about 80 participants organised by the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club of Mount Beauty. The course started and finished at Falls Creek Alpine Resort and took participants out into the Bogong High Plains. After running the event for 10 years, it was decided they should become part of the Worldloppet series of marathon ski races. Representatives from the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club and the Australian Ski Federation attended the Worldloppet Annual Meeting in Finland in June 1990 to put the case for the acceptance of an Australian event into the Worldloppet series. Before being admitted, they had to demonstrate that the Birkebeiner Club could run a world class event, so three months later in August 1990 a 42km event named the Australian International Ski Marathon was held at Falls Creek together with a 21km Birkebeiner race and a 7km event called the Birkebeiner Lite. The event was approved by delegates from USA, Norway and Austria, in 1991 Australia became the 12th member of Worldloppet, with the condition that there had to be a name change. After some late night discussion allegedly involving red wine from North East Victoria the main event became the 42km Kangaroo Hoppet, with the minor events being the 21km Australian Birkebeiner, and 7km Joey Hoppet. In the winter of 1991, the first Kangaroo Hoppet was held. It was a great success and has been a regular fixture on the international ski calendar ever since. It features the main 42km event as well as a 21km event and a 7km event. The Hoppet brings the Australian snowfields to an international audience. In 1994 the Men's Winner was Peter Schlickenreider from Germany in a time of 1:41:02. The winner of the Women's event was Antonina Ordina of Sweden in a time of 1:53:19.This poster is significant because it documents an event which brings international attention to Falls Creek and the surrounding region.A large coloured poster featuring a central image of competitors in the Kangaroo Hoppet with dates and logos.At top: Logo for Holden Light Commercials on either side of text KANGAROO HOPPET and WorldLoppet Logo Across bottom of image: AUSTRALIA'S WORLDLOPPET SKI RACE/ 27th AUGUST 1994, FALLS CREEK VICTORIA Race Secretary / Phone: (057) 57 3103 / Fax (057) 57 2475 / P.O. BOX 400 Mt. Beauty 3699 Australia Photograph: Glen Tempest/Open Spaces Bottom Left: Logo of the BERKENBEINER NORDIC SKI CLUB Bottom Right: Kangaroo Hoppet Logokangaroo hoppet, worldloppet events, falls creek, mt. beauty