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 die 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

The financial review conducted by a representative of the SEC has recommended the implementation of property rates for the coming year and information regarding this levy were included. Though several applicants were received there was no successful submission for the establishment of a hotel. An advisory committee has determined that any future development is dependant on augmentation of the sewerage and water systems. The Village T-Bar was very popular during the season but the need for improvement of the slopes was noted. Finally, an expression of thanks from the outgoing Committee to Mr. Jack Andrew for the excellent work he had done as Manager to maintain Falls Creek as the foremost ski resorts in the country.