Bob Hymans was a pioneer of Falls Creek. 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. Grand Coeur was never rebuilt, but Bob modified his annexe to be used as accommodation and later also operated Southern Cross and the Four Seasons. 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.These items are significant because they document the building of Bob Hymans' Grand Coeur Chalet and its destruction by fire in 1961.A collection of images and a newspaper article about the fire which destroyed Grand Coeur Lodge in August 1961.Label for newspaper photo Three of the refugees from the fire: From left, Mrs. C. O'Connell, Five- dock, N.S.W.; Miss N. Pollock, Taringa, Queensland; and Miss N. Taylor, Earlwood, N.S.W... who have been going to Falls Creek for eight years. Each estimated that they had lost more than £100 worth of equipment in the fire.bob hymans, grand coeur chalet, grand coeur fire

Bob (Herman) Hymans (a former member of the Royal Netherlands Navy) was born in Bloemendaal, Holland on 30th September 1922. During World War II he fought against the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was imprisoned in Changi and on the Burma Railway. After gaining qualifications as a Ski Instructor, Bob arrived in Falls Creek in July 1950. Working as an Instructor and Supervisor at Bogong Lodge, Bob decided his future was in accommodation. He was successful in negotiating an indenture for land from the State Electricity Commission (SEC). It took Bob two years to build his Grand Coeur Chalet but, tragically, it was burned down in August 1961. Bob also built the first Chairlift in Australia. This was a single chairlift and the structure was built from wooden electricity poles. He was constantly full of new ideas and proposals for the village. Bob Hymans died on 7th July 2007. This Collection of documents and letters tells the story of Bob's endeavours to develop Falls Creek into the ski village it is today.This letter is significant because it reflects the relationship between Bob Hymans and the Management Committee.A letter from the Management Committee expressing sympathy for the loss of Grand Coeur Chalet by fire. They also request to be informed of Mr Hymans' intentions regarding rebuilding.falls creek tourist area management committee, grand coeur chalet