Skiing became a popular sport during the 1940s as access improved to the Bogong High Plains The Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme was constructed on the Bogong High Plains during the 1940s and 1950s. This group of men (possibly workers on the Scheme) are back country skiing during the 1940s prior to the development of Falls Creek and downhill skiing.Large photo of a group of six male skiers with snow gums and faded mountains in the background.skiers on the bogong high plains

During winter skiers skied on the Bogong High Plains. During the 1940's the State Electricity Commission of Victoria was constructing the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme and skiing was part of their employees recreation. Skippy St Elmo won ski races during the 1940's practising on the High Plains where she and her husband lived. Her husband worked for the S.E.C.V..Employees of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria were early skiers on the Bogong High Plains. The area is a well known tourist centre for skiers, bush walkers and bike riders.Black and cream photo glued onto thick cardboard with a label glued on at the bottom.L to R Wally Baldwin, Joyce Fisher, Dick Moore, / Chas Armada, Skippy St Elmo, Toni St Elmo / August 1946snow skiers; bogong high plains; state electricity commission of victoria; kiewa hydro electric scheme; skippy st elmo

MEYER COLLECTION - FALLS CREEK PHOTOS In 1947 a determined group of like-minded State Electricity Commission (SEC) staff including Ray Meyer, the chief surveyor of the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme, had a common interest that revolved around the skiing potential of the snow-covered high plains which included what is now the resort of Falls Creek. The six SEC employees, Toni St Elmo, Ray Meyer, Jack Minogue, Lloyd Dunn, Adrian Ruffenacht and Dave Gibson (together with their families) banded together to secretly build a 'hut' that was the first ski lodge at Falls Creek. Using a road built in 1930s to gain access to Falls Creek, their hut project was carried out in secret as efforts by other skiers were blocked by H.H.C. Williams – the engineer in charge of the Hydro Scheme. In 1946 Ray Meyer made a trip to the Lands Office in Melbourne. He came away with a 99-year lease on three acres that was ideally suited for a hut designed by Lloyd Dunn. Adrian Ruffenacht (Design Engineer for the KHS) had suggested where the group should build because of easy access to a spring for water. Much of the building material required was scavenged from derelict huts on the high plains. Due to the need for secrecy, the determined group worked on the hut in the evenings and weekends to avoid detection. During the building period the group had met at Echidna Rock (now known as Eagle Rock) where Skippy St Elmo announced, "This is my favourite ‘Skyline’.” And so the first lodge in the area at Falls Creek Ski Resort came into existence. With the development of the International Poma in the 1970s, the Skyline Lodge, which was sited between the ski-lift’s pole one and pole two, was demolished. However, the legacy of Ray Meyer, Toni St Elmo, Jack Minogue, Lloyd Dunn, Adrian Ruffenacht and Dave Gibson and Skyline lives on in the vibrant atmosphere of Falls Creek Resort. The MEYER COLLECTION documents developments on the Kiewa Hydro Scheme and their life at Falls Creek from the mid 1930s to 1960s.This image is significant because it depicts aspects of the life of a pioneering family of Falls Creek and the founders of "Skyline", the first lodge at Falls Creek.A skier, possibly H GIbbs, overlooking the Bogong High Plainsfalls creek, bogong high plains, h gibbs

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:- Page 256 - Explanation of the A.N.S.F. tests and results. Instructions for Test Judges are also included. Mrs. S. St. Elmo is listed as a judge. Page 263 - All skiers visiting Bogong High Plains must comply strictly with the requirements of the State Electricity Commission in regard to transport and general activities in the area. The detailed regulations were set out in the following page.schuss journal, the ski club of victoria, skippy st. elmo, sec regulations

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:- Cover - Rudi Wurth, winner of the National Slalom and Downhill titles at Kosciusko, 1954. Page 2 - Rover Scouts help injured skier on Bogong High Plains Page 3 - Cecil Dobson is a real asset to the village. Apart from provisions he also provides services including ski repairs, carpentering and plumbing. Page 5 - "Wongapussie" - a word for an overboot. Originally found in disposal stores as they were used for anti-gas purposes, but something similar is now being made in Albury and being used extensively at Falls Creek.rudi wurth, cecil dobson, rover scouts rescue, "wongapussie"

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

MEYER COLLECTION - FALLS CREEK PHOTOS In 1947 a determined group of like-minded State Electricity Commission (SEC) staff including Ray Meyer, the chief surveyor of the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme, had a common interest that revolved around the skiing potential of the snow-covered high plains which included what is now the resort of Falls Creek. The six SEC employees, Toni St Elmo, Ray Meyer, Jack Minogue, Lloyd Dunn, Adrian Ruffenacht and Dave Gibson (together with their families) banded together to secretly build a 'hut' that was the first ski lodge at Falls Creek. Using a road built in 1930s to gain access to Falls Creek, their hut project was carried out in secret as efforts by other skiers were blocked by H.H.C. Williams – the engineer in charge of the Hydro Scheme. In 1946 Ray Meyer made a trip to the Lands Office in Melbourne. He came away with a 99-year lease on three acres that was ideally suited for a hut designed by Lloyd Dunn. Adrian Ruffenacht (Design Engineer for the KHS) had suggested where the group should build because of easy access to a spring for water. Much of the building material required was scavenged from derelict huts on the high plains. Due to the need for secrecy, the determined group worked on the hut in the evenings and weekends to avoid detection. During the building period the group had met at Echidna Rock (now known as Eagle Rock) where Skippy St Elmo announced, "This is my favourite ‘Skyline’.” And so the first lodge in the area at Falls Creek Ski Resort came into existence. With the development of the International Poma in the 1970s, the Skyline Lodge, which was sited between the ski-lift’s pole one and pole two, was demolished. However, the legacy of Ray Meyer, Toni St Elmo, Jack Minogue, Lloyd Dunn, Adrian Ruffenacht and Dave Gibson and Skyline lives on in the vibrant atmosphere of Falls Creek Resort. The MEYER COLLECTION documents developments on the Kiewa Hydro Scheme and their life at Falls Creek from the mid 1930s to 1960s.This image is significant because it depicts aspects of the life of a pioneering family of Falls Creek and the founders of "Skyline", the first lodge at Falls Creek.Black and White Images of visitors at Cleve Cole Lodge. Photo 1. L to R:- Ray Meyer, H. Gibbs and Wal Johnson. Photo 2. Ray Meyer and Wal Johnson having photo taken. CLEVE COLE HUT was built in 1937 for the Ski Club of Victoria, to commemorate pioneer skier, Cleve Cole, who died on a disastrous ski trip across the high In August 1936 three men, Cleve Cole, Mick Hull, and Howard Michell, skied from Mount Hotham across the Bogong High Plains to Mount. On reaching the mountain they became trapped for four days on the summit ridge by appalling weather conditions. For three days they followed the Big River through rough country before deciding that Howard should continue alone to find help, leaving Mick to care for Cleve who was barely able to continue. Three days later a search party, raised after Howard had reached Glen Valley, found Cleve and Mick. Within two days the group arrived at Glen Valley where, tragically, Cleve Cole died later that night. In memory of Cleve’s life and his pioneering work in the Victorian alpine country it was decided to build a refuge hut on the mountain. It is called the Cleve Cole Memorial Hut.falls creek, bogong high plains, cleve cole hut

MEYER COLLECTION - FALLS CREEK PHOTOS In 1947 a determined group of like-minded State Electricity Commission (SEC) staff including Ray Meyer, the chief surveyor of the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme, had a common interest that revolved around the skiing potential of the snow-covered high plains which included what is now the resort of Falls Creek. The six SEC employees, Toni St Elmo, Ray Meyer, Jack Minogue, Lloyd Dunn, Adrian Ruffenacht and Dave Gibson (together with their families) banded together to secretly build a 'hut' that was the first ski lodge at Falls Creek. Using a road built in 1930s to gain access to Falls Creek, their hut project was carried out in secret as efforts by other skiers were blocked by H.H.C. Williams – the engineer in charge of the Hydro Scheme. In 1946 Ray Meyer made a trip to the Lands Office in Melbourne. He came away with a 99-year lease on three acres that was ideally suited for a hut designed by Lloyd Dunn. Adrian Ruffenacht (Design Engineer for the KHS) had suggested where the group should build because of easy access to a spring for water. Much of the building material required was scavenged from derelict huts on the high plains. Due to the need for secrecy, the determined group worked on the hut in the evenings and weekends to avoid detection. During the building period the group had met at Echidna Rock (now known as Eagle Rock) where Skippy St Elmo announced, "This is my favourite ‘Skyline’.” And so the first lodge in the area at Falls Creek Ski Resort came into existence. With the development of the International Poma in the 1970s, the Skyline Lodge, which was sited between the ski-lift’s pole one and pole two, was demolished. However, the legacy of Ray Meyer, Toni St Elmo, Jack Minogue, Lloyd Dunn, Adrian Ruffenacht and Dave Gibson and Skyline lives on in the vibrant atmosphere of Falls Creek Resort. The MEYER COLLECTION documents developments on the Kiewa Hydro Scheme and their life at Falls Creek from the mid 1930s to 1960s.This image is significant because it depicts aspects of the life of a pioneering family of Falls Creek and the founders of "Skyline", the first lodge at Falls Creek.Black and White Images taken at Cleve Cole Hut Photo 1 Outside Cleve Cole 1951 - From Left: Ray Meyer, Wal Johnson and other people from a visiting group Photo 2 Cleve Cole Hut Mt. Bogong CLEVE COLE HUT was built in 1937 for the Ski Club of Victoria, to commemorate pioneer skier, Cleve Cole, who died on a disastrous ski trip across the high In August 1936 three men, Cleve Cole, Mick Hull, and Howard Michell, skied from Mount Hotham across the Bogong High Plains to Mount. On reaching the mountain they became trapped for four days on the summit ridge by appalling weather conditions. For three days they followed the Big River through rough country before deciding that Howard should continue alone to find help, leaving Mick to care for Cleve who was barely able to continue. Three days later a search party, raised after Howard had reached Glen Valley, found Cleve and Mick. Within two days the group arrived at Glen Valley where, tragically, Cleve Cole died later that night. In memory of Cleve’s life and his pioneering work in the Victorian alpine country it was decided to build a refuge hut on the mountain. It is called the Cleve Cole Memorial Hut.falls creek, bogong high plains, ray meyer, cleve cole hut

This booklet was produced to advertise Mt Beauty, the Kiewa Scheme & surrounding areas to visitors / tourists. The photos cover Falls Creek with snow, lifts and skiers - one with Spion Kopje Lodge. Also Tawonga Camping ground, Bogong Village, Mt Beauty Chalet, the Control panel at Kiewa Power Station, Clover Dam at No. 3 Power Station, the road to Falls Creek and a view of Mt Beauty township. The photos indicate what Mt Beauty and the Kiewa Valley and High Plains looked like c1950's during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. The area was recognised and encouraged as a tourist attraction especially Falls Creek enabling comparison with later photos and ideas. A fold down booklet postcard size of 12 colored photos - back to back of Mt Beauty, the Kiewa Scheme & surrounds. They fold in to form a front photo with title and a back card for stamp & address of addressee. On the back of the front photo are a few paragraphs describing the beauty, history and 'things to do' in the area for the visitor / tourist. mt beauty; kiewa scheme; tawonga; bogong; clover dam; kiewa valley; bogong high plains

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

Ski skins and webbing were introduced into the Victorian Alps by European skiers. Enthusiasts travelled to enjoy the snow and to explore the Victorian Alps including the Bogong High Plains. This equipment enabled them to travel over snow without slipping when going up hills. They took the skins off when they wanted to slide down hills. In later years waxes were used for cross country skiing and then 'fish tail' markings on the back of skis to enable skiers to travel distances up and down mountains. Later developments also included motor transport (replacing horses to get to the snow line) and roads to take skiers to the ski fields and mechanised tows to take skiers up mountains so they could ski down (downhill skiing).Skiers visited the Bogong High Plains especially during the years of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria's construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme from the 1930's onwards. Tourists to the area increased during this time and influenced the development of Falls Creek.Long cream strips with soft short 'fur' on one side and a type of strong hessian on the back with the length of the middle and sides stitched. At one end an adjustable strap is attached to a steel, hinged clasp and at the other end is a loop that fits over the ski. A quarter of the way from each end is a steel attachment for fastening over the ski - the 'toe' end with a rubber embossed flap and the other with a short and long strap each with a steel ring at the end.On the rubber attachment: 'vinersa/pat uno'ski skins; bogong high plains; falls creek

Metal toe bindings clipped onto specially made boots with 3 holes at their toe on the sole enabling the cross country skier to be attached to the skis and to be able to lift their heel when skiing on flat ground.These bindings were used by skiers on the Bogong High Plains.Blue and white metal toe ski bindings with white toe clip and 3 blunt 'nails' sticking up at the front to enable a boot with 3 holes in the sole to fit on them. Two holes in the steel enable it to be fitted onto the ski. The sides are at angles narrowing towards the front."nordic norm 75 / ski lom / made in norway" inscribed between the nails and holesski bindings; bogong high plains; cross country skiing

Skiers used this binding to hold their foot onto the ski.The Bogong High Plains has been a skiing destination for Cross Country and Downhill skiers since the 1930's and especially during and after the State Electricity Commission of Victoria's construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. The steel plate indicates it is for the Bogong High Plains area.Dirty metal binding with a leather adjustable strap on each side and a flexible coil joining the two straps at the back. There are 4 holes on the steel plate allowing for attaching it to the ski.Inscribed on the metal plate at the front. "Bogong / toe iron / pat app for / Australia"ski binding; bogong high plains; cross country skiing

After World War II, the Kiewa Hydroelectric 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 scheme. The first lift, a rope tow, was built in 1951 and the first chairlift in Australia was constructed there in 1957. Falls Creek Post Office opened on 9 June 1958 (with telegraph and telephone facilities only until 1964) .Despite strong opposition from the head of the Kiewa scheme, who didn't want tourists clogging up his roads and destroying his "dry" construction camps by bringing in booze, Falls Creek boomed as much as Hotham, partly owing to its relatively good access road. Early lodges included Bogong (c.1946), Skyline (1947), Albury (1949), Myrtleford (1949) and Dawn (c.1950).The souvenir postcard photographed and produced by an enterprising local businessman Mr S K Pearce, was produced as a memento for skiers and other visitors to the Falls Creek and Mt Beauty area to send to family and friends as a reminder of their visit to the region, or to keep as a personal souvenir. It presented an excellent promotional opportunity for enterprising local businessmen to promote the area to skiers and tourists near and far. It also presents an excellent pictorial history of the falls creek area around the late 1950’s to early 1960’sColour postcard folder (unused) containing 13 photographs of the Falls Creek ski area and surrounds. Inside cover has a brief description of the area and the services available to visitors Printed on front cover- FALLS CREEK SKI VILLAGE. Your Souvenir Folder Photo of skiing slopes of the village Inside front flap - a brief description of the Falls Creek area and the services available to visitors 1. Diana Lodge parking area and Spion Kopje 2. Winterhaven Lodge 3. Ski Hirage Centre and skiing slopes 4. Ski Lodges from main road 5. Nelse and Arundel Lodges 6. Day visitors’ shelter and parking area 7. Summit T-Bar lift 8. Spur T-bar looking towards Village and Spion Kopje 9. T-bar lower station and Snow Crystal Inn 10. ‘Akja’ rescue sled in use 11. Falls Creek road and Grand Coeur Lodge annex 12. Rope tows and beginner slopes 13. Back cover- Published by Nucolorvue Pty Ltd Mentone Vic. Printed in Australia For S.K.Pearce Pty Ltd Tawonga and Mt Beauty falls creek, snow, bogong high plains, victorian alps

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

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

The arrival of explorers Hume & Hovell in 1842 brought about the widespread clearing of land in the valleys for pastoral uses and the displacement the original inhabitants in the high country which became a boon for cattlemen due to extensive lush summer grazing for cattle. High country cattlemen built a variety of huts for shelter and storage, when driving cattle up to the plains in summer, during mustering and bringing the cattle down from the mountains before winter closed in. These same huts now provide shelter from the elements for hikers, bush walkers and skiers. Wallace’s Hut is the oldest of the Cattleman’s huts still standing in the Alpine National Park and is classified under the National Trust. Due to their age and the ravages of the elements, including bush fires, many of the huts have been destroyed, or are falling into disrepair. Groups of willing volunteers are now working to preserve as many of the huts as possible with restoration or rebuilding.The numerous cattleman’s huts of the Alpine National Park and the colourful characters who erected them represent a significant part of the history of the high country area and early cattle grazing, which has been the theme for many poets and film-makers alike. They also have a significant role in the early days of the SECV when they were used by surveyors and other workers for shelter and temporary accommodation. More recently the huts have functioned as shelter for hikers and skiers caught out in the elements and a refuge along the long trek for bush walkers. They are a popular attraction for tourists and feature prominently in much of the tourist information of the region. Black and white double page Newspaper article from the Herald Sun Newspaper of February 18, 2006 regarding the efforts of Mr David Oldfield to preserve Victoria’s remaining High Country Huts through his photography and efforts to restore old and Re-build missing ones. Article shows a photograph of David Oldfield and some of his photographic work of the huts. Page number and date printed at top of each page 30 Herald Sun, Saturday, February 18, 2006 Herald Sun, Saturday, February 18, 2006 83 cattlemen's huts; david oldfield; bogong high plains; wallace's hut; high country; alpine national park

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

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

Falls Creek is a Ski Resort in the north east of Victoria. This brochure has been produced to encourage tourists to visit throughout the year.Tourism to the Kiewa Valley is an important industry for the area. Falls Creek is a ski resort with accommodation during winter for skiers, snow boarders and other snow sports. It involves entertainment, restaurants and associated workers. This brochure is produced to promote the resort throughout the year to increase the occupancy of these lodges. The tourist industry has increased steadily with fishing, cycling and bush walking increasing numbers in the area.Glossy square brochure folded in in half and half again. Front page is yellow on the left with black print on the far left. The right side has the title with blue, green and grey background with yellow, orange and white as part of the title. The back is a man standing in front of a sunset with print in a column towards the right side. Inside includes a map with advertisements for accommodation surrounding it.falls creek ski resort; alpine region in victoria; mountain lodges;

There are 2 maps: 1. Broadbent's Makers of Maps since 1896, No. 323 Across the Alps/Official Copyright Map./ The cover is blue, green and orange with advertising for Ólympic' and 'Bosch' and there is further advertising on the fold out covers/ 2/-. 2. Robinson's Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme & Hotham Heights Map No. 613, with Insets of: Bright, Mt Beauty, Falls Creek Ski Village, Hotham Heights Ski Village/ the cover is blue, green and orange with image of skier, hydro tower and locality map./Other fold out sides have advertising and information for tourists./ 4/-.maps, tourism, kiewa hydro electric scheme, victorian alps, skiing

Made at Bogong Village by a Swiss Carpenter. Used by Sylvia Hogan-Edwards (nee McMahon). a student at Bogong Primary School in 1941 as an 8 year old. She has included a photo of a group of skiers at the School at Howmans Gap dated 26th July 1946. This photo was also in the Sun Newspaper. Sylvia is wearing a 'pixie hat'. Sylvia says she was 11 years old which would make it 1944. Photo is located in Photo Folder Snow Sports.Wooden cross country snow skis with steel bindings shaped to attach, with 6 screws, to the wooden ski and to hold on the sides a ski boot to slide in. It has remnant leather strap bindings attached to the steel to hold the ski boot. There is a woven cotton tie strap holding the pair of skis together.

Mt Bogong is visited all year round. In 1936 Cleve Cole died after having been lost in a blizzard close to its summit. This resulted in the erection of snow poles and the Cleve Cole Hut.Mt Bogong, the highest mountain in Victoria, used by skiers in winter and bushwalkers in summer. The weather is variable.1. Article includes 'New Summit Hut' & includes effect of cattle on skiing conditions - 4 pages stapled top left corner 2. The Mt Bogong Disaster, 1936 Cleve Cole, Rescue. 10 pages stapled top left cornercleve cole, mt bogong, summit hut, snow, skiing disaster.

With the onset of WWII, the Victorian State Emergency Council of Defence printed this book for the volunteers who kept watch for enemy aeroplanes flying in the skies during the day and night. For success, training was necessary.During WWII the SECV township of Bogong had an Air Observer's Hut used to monitor the skies overhead for enemy planes. Men and women working on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme volunteered to be rostered on duty. See also KVHS 0937 (photo) and KVHS 0938 (certificate)Small book grey with black print and a red binding with 64 pages. issued by the Victorian State Emergency Council for Civil Defence.Pages 26, 48 & 49 have pencil marks / notes.air raid, wwii, secv, kiewa hydro electric scheme, bogong, victorian state emergency council

An Air Observers Hut was used by volunteers 24 / 7 at Bogong to monitor the skies for enemy aircraft during WWII. Bogong was built by the SECV during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. See also KVHS 0937 (photo), KVHS 0938 (certificate), KVHS 1259 (book)This book informed the volunteers of First Aid posts, ambulances, rescue teams etc.Cream coloured book with black print on cover. 31 pages printed on both sides and with some black & white photos. Bound by 2 staples.air raid, wwii, bogong air observers hut, khes

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