Historical information

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.

Significance

This item is significant because it documents actions taken by the Falls Creek Tourist Area Management Committee in their role overseeing the Tourist Area.

Physical description

This letter accompanied a policy for Public Risk Insurance with the Insurance Company of North America. The policy had been increased to cover a further £10,000. However the Management Committee felt this may need to be increased by an additional £10,000 if Mr Hymans was to go ahead with further development of Site 4A. It also requested that Mr Hymans sign and return lease documents which had been sent to him.

Inscriptions & markings

Hand written at bottom of letter:
Ski Lodge and Site 4
5 Flats 4A
& Burnt out
Shell of Chalet
Dan (?) 512663