"The Australian Ski Year Book" was first published in 1928 by the Kosciusko Alpine Club and the Ski Club of Australia, which with the Kiandra Ski Club, were the oldest organisations for skiing in Australia. In later years organisations from Victoria, Tasmania and New Zealand were included. It was published on behalf of N.S.W. Ski Council, Ski Club of Victoria, Ski Council of Tasmania, Ski Council of the Federated N.Z. Mountain Clubs. It aimed to provide an annual record of the sport of ski running in Australia, and of events elsewhere which would be of interest to Australian ski enthusiasts. This publication was a guide to all major resorts operation at the time in New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania. Information about Falls Creek included a description of its location describing geographical features, its 12 ski tows and available services. The accommodation advertised included Winterhaven Lodge, Falls Creek Motel, Spargo's Lodge, Attunga Alpine Lodge, Nelse Alpine Lodge, Les Chalets, Julian Lodge and Koki and Karelia Alpine Lodges.

This item is significant because it is an issue of a long-running Australian ski publication which includes items about Falls Creek, Victoria..

The Australian Ski Year Book Resort Guide of 1981 includes information and advertising about resorts throughout Australia. Falls Creek information and Accommodation Guide featured on pages 10 & 11 of this issue.

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"The Australian Ski Year Book" was first published in 1928 by the Kosciusko Alpine Club and the Ski Club of Australia, which with the Kiandra Ski Club, were the oldest organisations for skiing in Australia. In later years organisations from Victoria, Tasmania and New Zealand were included. It was published on behalf of N.S.W. Ski Council, Ski Club of Victoria, Ski Council of Tasmania, Ski Council of the Federated N.Z. Mountain Clubs. It aimed to provide an annual record of the sport of ski running in Australia, and of events elsewhere which would be of interest to Australian ski enthusiasts. This edition includes an article about the first "Ski for Light" event held at Falls Creek in September 1980'. It took the form of a week of cross-country ski instruction blind and partially sighted skiers. The week was organised by Peter Rickards (Recreation Officer at the Association For The Blind in Melbourne. During the week, the participants were introduced to track skiing and touring without tracks, as well as some aspects of downhill technique. Peter Rickards said that the value of good tracks was clearly demonstrated, as although bad weather persisted throughout the week, the tracks cut by the Falls Creek Management Committee had made it possible for the partially- sighted skiers to ski unassisted. Coaching was provided by Peter Beckman, with the able assistance of several physical education students from the Ballarat College of Advanced Education. Peter Rickards described the week as "most successful" and said plans were being made to make it an annual event.

This item is significant because it is an issue of a long-running Australian ski publication which includes items about Falls Creek, Victoria..

The Australian Ski Year Book of 1981 contains images, articles and advertising to document the development of the Australian Ski Industry. This issue included an article reporting on the first "Ski For Light" event held at Falls Creek as well as an advertisement for the Sundance Inn.

australian skiing, "ski for light falls creek 1980

"The Australian Ski Year Book" was first published in 1928 by the Kosciusko Alpine Club and the Ski Club of Australia, which with the Kiandra Ski Club, were the oldest organisations for skiing in Australia. In later years organisations from Victoria, Tasmania and New Zealand were included. It was published on behalf of N.S.W. Ski Council, Ski Club of Victoria, Ski Council of Tasmania, Ski Council of the Federated N.Z. Mountain Clubs. It aimed to provide an annual record of the sport of ski running in Australia, and of events elsewhere which would be of interest to Australian ski enthusiasts. This edition celebrated the Golden Jubilee of the publication. It included an extensive article "The Girls Have Made It" about Australia's first Women's Ski Team written by Bill Bachman. The death of Falls Creek Ski Patroller Alexander Warrender in a car accident is also acknowledged.

This item is significant because it is a sample of Australia's earliest ski publications.

The Golden Jubilee Edition of the Australian Ski Year Book. The publication contains images, articles and advertising to document the development of the Australian Ski Industry.

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This magazine documented activities and images from the Australian Ski Industry. Its editor, George Stock was an instructor at both Perisher Valley and Falls Creek in the 1970s.

This item is significant because it documents developments in skiing in Australia.

A publication featuring a coloured image on the cover. Includes a selection of articles about skiing in Australia. The cover of this issue features the symbol of the Innsbruck Olympic Games.

australian ski magazines, australian skier

“Fall-Line” was one of a series of magazines published by the Victorian Ski Association. It was produced from 1979 until 1985. It superseded their previous publication, “Ski” magazine and was followed by the “Australian Skiing” magazine. The Victorian Ski Association was formed in 1955.

This magazine is significant because it documents developments in the ski industry in Australia.

A magazine featuring a coloured image on the cover and containing articles and advertising related to developments in skiing in Australia. This issue included an image of sightseers on the new Eagle triple chairlift at Falls Creek.

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“Fall-Line” was one of a series of magazines published by the Victorian Ski Association. It was produced from 1979 until 1985. It superseded their previous publication, “Ski” magazine and was followed by the “Australian Skiing” magazine. The Victorian Ski Association was formed in 1955.

This magazine is significant because it documents developments in the ski industry in Australia.

A magazine featuring a coloured image on the cover and containing articles and advertising related to developments in skiing in Australia. This issue included an extensive article discussing the possible of the development of Lakeside Resort on the shores of Rocky Valley Dam as well as an update on recent changes at Falls Creek. FALLS CREEK The ski patrol has been increased from seven to eight, under the leadership of Senior Patroller John McDonald, and two new radios have been purchased. A four wheel drive ambulance has been purchased to replace the old conventional drive model. It will provide free ambulance transport between Falls Creek and Mt. Beauty, and will be driven by trained volunteer personnel. A new 165 vehicle day visitor car park has been completed at Windy Corner, adjacent to the approved toboggan slope. The closest car park to Falls Creek's Nordic Preferred Area, its capacity will be doubled next summer. A planning permit has been issued to Treglor Pty. Ltd. for its proposed hotel/convention centre. Construction is expected to begin after the season. A new Mercedes 800 tractor with Schmidt Snowcutter recently arrived on the mountain and will be used to clear the car parking areas Falls Creek continues to be among Australia's most expensive resorts, with a high season day ticket price of $13.50. Falls Creek's newest commercial lodge, Lakeside Lodge, has opened with accommodation for more than 50 people and luxury facilities including private rooms with full ensuite, sauna, spa pool, and a dining room for guests. It is located at the top of Schuss St. just behind Imaj flats and very close to the village bowl.

australian ski magazines, skiing australia, victorian ski association

“Fall-Line” was one of a series of magazines published by the Victorian Ski Association. It was produced from 1979 until 1985. It superseded their previous publication, “Ski” magazine and was followed by the “Australian Skiing” magazine. The Victorian Ski Association was formed in 1955.

This magazine is significant because it documents developments in the ski industry in Australia.

A magazine featuring a coloured image on the cover and containing articles and advertising related to developments in skiing in Australia. This issue included an update on improvements being made at Falls Creek. FALLS CREEK The chairlift access area near the medical centre, long famous as the Mudpie Parlour of Falls Creek, has been sealed and Falls Creek itself, the waters of which have filled many an unsuspecting gum- boot, has been bridged, also near the medical centre. A lock-up storage shed will be built along Bogong High Plains Road, just below the oversnow terminal, for the use and convenience of all village commercial operators and site holders. Direct access will be possible by snowmobile. Falls Creek rates have risen to $82.50 per bed (less 10% discount if paid on time). The rise is the first in two years, and is less than the corresponding rise in the C.P.I. over that period. The access trail from the water tanks at the base of the Home Trail to the nursery slope has been smoothed and widened to 12 metres, and a new six metre wide access trail has been cut from Falls Creek Road, just behind Diana lodge to the chairlift bottom station. The Village Bowl comfort station is being extended and renovated, and the finishing touches are being put on the comfort station in the upper car park. Construction of an akja station/toilet block in Sun Valley will commence in 1980. The Management Committee is investigating the purchase of a Mercedes 800 series snow-clearing machine to supplement the CRB equipment in use in village parking areas The village water supply has been re- designed to ensure adequate supply at all times.

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Brigade Magazine is issued to members of the Victorian CFA. The Spring edition of 2016 includes an article to acknowledge 21 years of service by the Falls Creek CFA. The article was written by Joy Nowakowski on behalf of the Falls Creek CFA with information provided by the Falls Creek Historical Society. Falls Creek Fire Brigade protects Falls Creek Village from fires throughout the year and supports other brigades to fight bushfires nearby and further away. In 2016 the brigade had 23 year-round volunteers. At a celebratory function at Falls Creek in June 2016, alpine pumper and brigade snowmobiles were on display. Falls Creek’s alpine pumper was the first of its kind in Australia. It had a pumping capacity of 4,000 litres a minute and its tracks enabled it to access areas of the village and ski fields. Until 2016 Falls Creek Village has been threatened by two major fires, the worst being in 2003 when CFA crews saved the village and the adjoining ski field infrastructure right at the boundaries. Snow making equipment was used to create a water/fog barrier that helped stop the fires from taking the village. The team that saved the village was considered heroic Support for fighting fires at Falls Creek dates back to 1956 but this support came from Mount Beauty, 30 kilometres down the mountain. Falls Creek locals were concerned by this, so used six available hydrants and a canvas hose to fight any fires on the mountain. In 1964 the SECV gave the village a trailer which could be used with both wheels and skis for summer and winter operations. But this trailer only lasted two years. In the early 1970s, the village was given a 2,000-gallon Ford Blitz 4WD truck, and additional equipment was quickly acquired by the village including a new locally-constructed trailer with a pumper unit. In the 1990s, a change in land status meant the Falls Creek area became the responsibility of CFA. This status was formalised in 1995 by a public meeting that formed Falls Creek Fire Brigade.

This magazine is significant because it contains an article celebrating 21 years of Falls Creek CFA.

A publication for CFA members which includes stories about recent incidents, brigades, training, events, community safety, health and safety and general CFA news.

falls creek cfa, alpine firefighting, falls creek cfa 21 years

A description of efforts to fight the bushfires in Gippsland in 2003, including maps and illustrations. This volume was published as a tribute to the work of staff and volunteers who put themselves at risk to protect local communities. It shows the impact on those communities in Victoria and the support they gave to those involved in fighting largest bushfires in Victoria for 60 years. The Alpine bushfires started on 8th January 2003, a day of Total Fire Ban. Lightning ignited 87 fires in the North-East and East Gippsland regions. Eight of these fires were unable to be contained; they joined together to form the largest fire in Victoria since the Black Friday fires in 1939. The majority of the area burnt in Victoria was public land, 1.19 million hectares of parks and forests, including 60 per cent of the Alpine National Park and 81 per cent of the Mt Buffalo National Park. Firefighting efforts were made difficult in hard-to-access, remote forest terrain. Approximately 90,000 hectares of private land was burnt.

This book is significant because it documents the 2003 Victorian Bushfires and serves as a tribute to the CFA staff and volunteers who fought them.

This publication of 119 pages features text, colour images, maps and detailed information related to the 2003 bushfires in Victoria.

At bottom of front cover:- CFA Victoria Logo Victorian Government Logo

victorian fires 2003, cfa (vic)

Falls Creek 2006 included a wide range of new developments and activities. Some of these were Pete the Snow Dragon shows, Fox Trail, Women's Program, the Mouse Trap. Monkey Bar and Bungy Trampolining as well as night-time activities. The purchase of a Park Bully Kassbohrer snow groomer ensured an international standard freestyle terrain was maintained. The Falls Creek snowmaking system and snow farming also was given a huge boost with Wombats Ramble going on-line in 2006.

This booklet is significant because it introduces a wide range of new activities and facilities at Falls Creek in 2006.

A glossy publication of 48 pages promoting Falls Creek all year round. It includes detailed information of activities at Falls Creek, images and advertising.

falls creek activities, snow grooming, snow making at falls creek

Falls Creek featured several new programs and activities in 2010. Australia's ultimate skiing tour was launched with Back Country Tours guided by Steve Lee, Falls Creek's most famous local and Australian Olympian. The full length of Wombats Ramble was also lined with lights to provide night skiing and boarding on Wednesday and Saturday nights throughout the season. Pete the Big Blue Dragon was also a Falls Creek celebrity and had his own weekly stage show at the Village Bowl and often frequented the Fox Trail Terrain Park. He also had his own website full of games, stories, merchandise and a snow safety video. 2010 also saw the introduction of the Snow Rewards Loyalty Program. Members had access to cheaper Lift Passes and a range of exclusive discounts at both Falls Creek and Hotham. Corporate sponsors in 2010 included ANZ Bank, Milo, Ten TV, Snow Australia and Where IS maps.

This booklet is significant because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek in 2010.

A booklet of 56 pages promoting Falls Creek for the Winter season 2010. It includes text, images and advertising printed on glossy paper with a heavier card cover.

falls creek marketing, back country tours, wombats ramble

This publication was a major item in the Falls Creek marketing program for 2005. Promoted as Australia’s only truly ski-in ski-out village, activities included snow bikes, the purpose built snowtube park, tobogganing, touring the back country on a snowmobile or joining the Snow Shoe Shuffle. Less active pastimes were indulging in natural therapy treatments and spas, catching a movie at Glo Cinema or attending the Second Annual Falls Creek Film Festival. Corporate Partners in 2005 were Bilia Volvo, SKYY BLUE, Milo and Ten TV.

This booklet is significant because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek in 2005.

A glossy publication of 40 pages promoting Falls Creek all year round. It includes detailed information of activities at Falls Creek, images and advertising.

falls creek 2005, falls creek marketing

This publication was a major item in the Falls Creek marketing program for 2004. A major feature of 2004 winter season was the opening of Drover’s Dream, arguably Australia’s most picturesque chairlift. Taking over from Panorama Poma, the new four-seat high-speed chairlift would open up more top to bottom riding. This was a multi-million dollar resort investment and expanded the Sun Valley area. It was over 700 metres long and added an additional 7.4 hectares of beginner and intermediate terrain. It was predicted to reduce queues on the Towers Chairlift as it had a capacity of 2,400 riders per hour. XC Skiing was strongly promoted including Cross-Country Trail Passes, Lessons and Ski Hire available from Falls Creek Nordic Hire at Windy Corner, Gebi’s Ski Hire, Viking Ski Hire and Koki Ski Hire. Accommodation rates for 43 different venues were included. Corporate Partners in 2004 were Bilia Volvo, Nursing Australia, Milo and Ten TV, with Hewlett Packard sponsor of the Falls Creek Racing and Events Department.

This booklet is significant because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek in 2004 and the opening of the Drover's Dream Chairlift.

A glossy publication of 40 pages promoting Falls Creek all year round. It includes detailed information of activities at Falls Creek, images and advertising,

falls creek activities 2004, drover's dream falls creek, falls creek marketing

A collection of newsletters including news items, cartoons, stories, staff information, advertising and reports about staff activities at Falls Creek in the 1990s.

"Towie Times" is a collection of newsletters compiled for tow operators at Falls Creek in the 1990s. It contained articles including anecdotes, employee of the week, serious reports and staff information, cartoons and advertisements capturing life as a "towie" at Falls Creek.

falls creek staff, falls creek social life, falls creek activities

Part of yearly marketing and information material promoting the Falls Creek Ski School. This publication includes detailed information about the Falls Creek Snowsport School Program for 2010. An introduction Francis Jackson and the Snowsports team states "Falls Creek Snowsports School is committed to enhancing your skiing and snowboarding experience. Think of our Snowsports School instructors as personal trainers for your snow adventure... they're here ready to elevate you to the next level. With a great attitude, endless patience and always up for fun, our instructors take pride in offering you their very best. From beginner to advanced, whether skiing or boarding, Falls Creek Snowsports School has a program to suit you. Our expert instructors will have you skiing and snowboarding to the best of your ability in no time. Have a great holiday and see you on the slopes!" Corporate Partners in 2010 were Milo, Ten TV and the ANZ Bank.

This item is important because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Snowsport School in 2010.

A glossy booklet featuring images and information about programs to be offered at Falls Creek in the 2010 winter season. The front cover features a group of downhill skiers and three smaller images. The back cover includes a map showing meeting places, lesson times and contact details.

On front cover Snowsport School 2010 skifalls.com.au

falls creek marketing, falls creek snowsport school., francis jackson

Part of yearly marketing and information material promoting the Falls Creek Ski School. This publication includes detailed information about the Falls Creek Snowsport School Program for 2006. An introduction by the School Director, Benny Pregenzer states "Falls Creek Snowsports School is committed to enhancing your skiing and snowboarding experience. Think of our Snowsports School instructors as personal trainers for your snow adventure... they're here ready to elevate you to the next level. With a great attitude, endless patience and always up for fun, our instructors take pride in offering you their very best. From beginner to advanced, little tackers to adults and everyone in between, Falls Creek Snowsports School has a program to suit you. Our expert instructors will have you skiing, snowboarding, telemarking and cross-country skiing to the best of your ability in no time. Have a great holiday and see you on the slopes! Corporate Sponsors in 2006 were Milo and Ten TV.

This item is important because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Snowsport School in 2006.

A glossy booklet featuring images and information about programs to be offered at Falls Creek in the 2006 winter season. The front cover features a group of downhill skiers while the back cover explains lesson times and contact details.

On front cover Falls Creek and the school logo fallscreek.com.au Snowsport School

falls creek marketing, falls creek snowsport school., benny pregenzer

Part of yearly marketing and information material promoting the Falls Creek Ski School. This publication includes detailed information about the Falls Creek Snowsport School Program for 2004. An introduction by the School Director, Benny Pregenzer states "Falls Creek Snowsports School is committed to enhancing your skiing and snowboarding experience. Think of our Snowsports School instructors as personal trainers for your snow adventure... they're here ready to elevate you to the next level. With a great attitude, endless patience and always up for fun, our instructors take pride in offering you their very best. From beginner to advanced, little tackers to adults and everyone in between, Falls Creek Snowsports School has a program to suit you. Our expert instructors will have you skiing, snowboarding, telemarking and cross-country skiing to the best of your ability in no time. Have a great holiday and see you on the slopes!" Corporate sponsors for 2004 were Milo, Nursing Australia and Ten TV.

This item is important because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Snowsport School in 2004

A glossy booklet featuring images and information about programs to be offered at Falls Creek in the 2004 winter season. The front cover features a group of downhill skiers while the back cover includes lesson times and contact details. Coloured images are included throughout the booklet.

On front cover Falls Creek and the resort Logo fallscreek.com.au Snowsport School

falls creek marketing, falls creek snowsport school., benny pregenzer

Part of yearly marketing and information material promoting the Falls Creek Ski School. This publication includes detailed information about the Falls Creek Snowsport School Program for 2002. An introduction by the School Director, Benny Pregenzer states "Our motto is improving our guests skiing and boarding in a fun and safe environment. The most important facets of a good instructor are patience and empathy. These are qualities that our instructors display in every lesson and together with successful teaching methods, will ensure you experience fast improvement. Our instructors are carefully selected from Australia and all over the world to provide the highest quality service possible. Have a great holiday and see you on the slopes." The brochure bears the logo of Nursing Australia, proud sponsors of the Falls Creek Snowsport School.

This item is important because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Snowsport School in 2002.

A glossy booklet featuring images and information about programs to be offered at Falls Creek in the 2002 winter season. The front cover features a group of downhill skiers while the back cover is illustrated with an image of a female snowboarder. Coloured images are included throughout the booklet. The centre page includes a map of trails at Falls Creek.

On front cover Falls Creek and the resort Logo fallscreek.com.au Snowsport School

falls creek marketing, falls creek ski academy, falls creek race club, falls creek snowsport school.

A foldout flyer promoting activities and programs to be offered by the Falls Creek Ski School in 1997. Falls Creek Ski School is described as "one of Australia's best, with highly qualified instructors for all disciplines. Combined with that, the mountain's terrain is hailed for its quality and variety as a teaching environment. Rapid improvement for accomplished skiers and unbelievable accomplishments for first timers - that's what lessons are all about."

This item is important because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine Resort across all age groups.

A glossy booklet featuring images and information about programs to be offered at Falls Creek in the 1997 winter season. The front cover features a photo of ski lesson in progress with five skiers and an instructor.

On Cover: Ski School 1997

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Part of yearly marketing and information material promoting the Falls Creek Ski School. This publication includes detailed information about the Falls Creek Ski School and its wide range of programs for 1994. Activities include Kids Ski Land, NASTAR Recreational racing, Ski School Race program as well as an extensive snowboarding program. Family night skiing was available for the first time. Special events included the Ski School International Ball, a TELEMARK and Powderhound Women's program as well as a Kangaroo Hoppet Preparation Clinic.

This item is important because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine Resort across all age groups.

A glossy booklet featuring images and information about programs to be offered at Falls Creek in the 1994 winter season. The front cover features a photo of two downhill skiers at Falls Creek Ski School. Coloured images are included throughout the booklet. Each page has a different coloured background and black or white text.

On Cover: 1994 Falls Creek Ski School SSS FALLS CREEK SKI SCHOOL INFORMATION

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Part of yearly marketing and information material promoting the Falls Creek Ski School. This publication includes detailed information about the Falls Creek Ski School and its wide range of programs for 1993. Activities include Bumps and Snowboarding as well as the Falls Creek Alpine Ski Academy.

This item is important because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine Resort across all age groups.

A glossy 14 page booklet featuring images and information about skiing and snowboarding programs to be offered at Falls Creek in the 1993 winter season. The front cover features a photo of two downhill skiers at Falls Creek Ski School. Coloured images are included throughout the booklet.

On Cover: 1993 SAFE SIMPLE STYLISH Falls Creek Ski School SSS

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Part of yearly marketing and information material promoting the Falls Creek Ski School. This publication includes detailed information about the Falls Creek Ski School and its wide range of programs for 1992. An Event Timetable is included.

This item is important because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine Resort across all age groups.

A glossy 14 page booklet featuring images and information about skiing and snowboarding programs to be offered at Falls Creek in the 1992 winter season. The front cover is blue with coloured text and features a photo instructors and skier at Falls Creek Ski School. Both colour and monochrome are featured throughout the booklet.

On Cover: S S S SAFE SIMPLE STYLISH Falls Creek Ski School 1992

falls creek marketing, falls creek ski school, falls creek ski academy, falls creek race club

Part of yearly marketing and information material promoting the Falls Creek Ski School. This publication includes information about the Falls Creek Ski School and the Triple 'S' Principle of Safe, Simple and Stylish which was the underlying focus of its programs. An outline of different programs available and the Ski School Timetable are included.

This item is important because it documents seasonal activities at Falls Creek Alpine Resort across all age groups.

A glossy coloured booklet featuring images and information about skiing and snowboarding programs to be offered at Falls Creek in the 1998 winter season. Featured text is printed in black on a white background and white print over coloured images.

On Cover: SKI FALLS CREEK SKI SCHOOL SAFE SIMPLE STYLISH QANTAS logo at bottom

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These stamps were issued by Australia Post in 1984 to commemorate the sport of skiing in Australia. This was the year of the Winter Olympics held in Sarajevo. The 1984 Australian Winter Olympics team at Sarajevo consisted of 10 athletes. They were;- Steven Lee competing in the Downhill and Giant Slalom Alistair Guss in the Downhill Marilla Guss in the Downhill and Giant Slalom Andrew Paul in the Biathlon over both 10 kilometres and 20 kilometres David Hislop in the 15, 30 and 50 kilometres X-Country events Chris Allen in the 15, 30 and 50 kilometres X-Country event Cameron Medhurst in Figure Skating Vicki Holland in Figure Skating Mike Richmond in the 500 metres, 1,000 metres and 1,500 metres speed skating Colin Coates in the 1,500 metres, 5,000 metres and 10,000 metres speed skating Colin Coates was the flag bearer at the Opening Ceremony in recognition of the Sarajevo Winter Olympics being his 5th Winter Olympics team. He went on to compete in his final Olympic Team at Calgary, Canada in 1988.

These stamps are significant because they recognise the sport of snow skiing as an important and developing Australian national sport.

A set of four coloured stamps featuring different styles of competition skiing. The stamps have been mounted in a white frame.

australian postage stamps, skiing in australia stamp series

Ross Milne grew up on his family's tobacco property in Myrtleford, and began skiing at Falls Creek at an early age. He was taught by Austrian Sigi Haberzettl, who was chief coach at Falls Creek for 17 years. Ross went on to win the North-Eastern District Ski Association (NEDSA) Junior Championships for three consecutive years. In 1961 Ross was a member of the Australian team which competed against New Zealand in the Inter-Dominion Championships. In 1963, he won the Downhill and Alpine Combined title at the Australian Championships, while placing second in the Grand Slalom event. Ross was selected in the Australian team that participated in the 1964 Olympic Winter Games at Innsbruck, Austria. A few days before the opening of the Games, on 25th January 1964, he tragically lost his life when he crashed into a tree during a training run for the Men's Downhill. He was only 19 years of age. The construction of the Ross Milne Memorial Ski Jump was first discussed and built between 1964 and 1966. It was located at the top of Gully, Site 99, heading down the gully and ending with a run out onto Falls Creek Road. The Jump was constructed by the Nordic Committee of the Victorian Ski Association. Problems plagued the construction of the Jump and continued until 1974 when it was deemed unsafe. Problems such as construction methods and materials, snow loading and soil foundations and footings were some of the issues which the VSA Nordic Committee faced. On top of this there was discontent with Resort Management and the Lift Company of the day with respect to safety of the Ski Jump and its effect on adjoining chair lifts if an emergency should occur. The cost of reconstruction was prohibitive and an order was given that the SkiJump was not to be used during the 1974 ski season. The Jump was dismantled not long after.

These items are significant as they document the development of a memorial to an Australian Olympic Skier, Ross Milne.

A collection of documents and photographs documenting the construction of the Ross Milne Memorial Ski Jump built at Falls Creek in 1966. A display board including photographs and explanatory text is part of this collection.

ross milne, ross milne memorial ski jump

Diana Lodge was built and operated by Kevin Shoebridge as a family lodge in the 1950s and it has grown and evolved over 60 years to become Diana Alpine Lodge. After Mr Shoebridge moved to Wodonga he leased Diana Lodge to Bob Scott and it also became the Post Office and Telephone Exchange. From early 1967 until about 1975, Diana Lodge was owned and operated by John and Gwyn van Burck. It was then purchased by a group of 12 families operating as Swan Hill Alpine Holdings. Diana Alpine Lodge has operated under several owners and was sold again as recently as 2023. This pennant was used in the early 1960s as a souvenir to promote Diana Lodge.

This item is significant because it promotes Diana Lodge, a long standing accommodation venue at Falls Creek.

A black and white triangular banner including an image of a skier and a second person on a chair lift.

ALPINE VILLAGE DIANA SKI CLUB LODGE FALLS CREEK, VIC

diana alpine lodge, falls creek accommodation

Helmut Fendt was a ski instructor at Falls Creek in 1966. Many of the earliest instructors at Falls Creek came from Austria at that time. The Austrian-made sweater was made by Carlo Gruber. These sweaters became part of the uniform for the Falls Creek Ski School. Carlo Gruber was an Austrian designer who specialised in winter wool ski wear. He was a ski instructor and later teamed up with Adidas to develop a wide range of clothing items and snow boots. Many of his designs were reissued by Adidas in 2005.

This item is significant because it was part of the Falls Creek Ski School uniform in the 1960s.

A pale blue wool knit sweater manufactured by Carlo Gruber of Austria. It has an embroidered logo on the upper left sleeve. The cuffs and hemline have a two-toned blue striped edge.

helmut fendt, falls creek ski school, snow apparel

These mid-1960s Peacock and Gold brand lighter fuel hand warmers were used in Falls Creek to keep out the cold. The concept behind the hand warmer is that through combustion (ignition) of lighter fluid (light petrol distillate) it becomes a catalytic heater, relying on a catalysed chemical reaction to break down molecules and create heat. The devices could get quite hot, not hot enough to set paper on fire, but hot enough to give a nasty burn if sustained contact against your skin occurred. The construction of the device is very simple. There is very fine rolled wire mesh which fits on top of the reservoir body. After you fill the reservoir with lighter fluid, vapor pressure builds up. The device ignites by heating the grill with a match or lighter until it glows red. There is no open flame. The hand warmer also had a velvet bag to place it in after igniting to prevent direct skin contact. They were able to generate heat for up to a whole day. The Japanese company Yamato Shokai Ltd was founded in 1923 in the city of Osaka. Destroyed during air raids in 1945, the factory was rebuilt in 1946. They manufactured the Peacock brand pocket-warmer and sold it internationally.

These items are significant because they were commonly used at Falls Creek.

The pocket warmer is a small, relatively flat device with a tank at the bottom and a burner mechanism a t the top. "PEACOCK/MADE IN JAPAN" is engraved near the burner. The warmer fits into a metal case which features a series of ventilation holes in the shape of a peacock's tail.

JAPANESE PAT. 237413.483177 MADE IN JAPAN

hand warmers, ski equipment 1960s

This vehicle, an Axtrack is located outside the Falls Creek Museum. It was built by Axel Andre who worked in Falls Creek as a mechanic for several years in the early 1970s. Axel was an engineer by trade. He built this small twin track vehicle for Ivan Spargo at the Falls Creek Hotel and then progressed to building bigger and better models. This included one for Ziggy Doer at Koki and Neville Mashford at Snowland purchased two of them. Some of these machines were also exported to America. Axel Andre later established a company Axtrack Engineering in Melbourne. There are still three of these Axtrack vehicles on the hill at Falls Creek in 2024. The vehicles were used for commercial purposes such as transporting supplies and staff around the mountain. The Spargo family from the Falls Creek Hotel used this vehicle for oversnow transport and it advertised Harvey Wallbanger Happy Hour. Ivan and Joy Spargo relocated from Melbourne to Falls Creek in 1965. They purchased a piece of leasehold land and built Spargo Lodge. This was a dorm style chalet built to accommodate large groups and families. Their son Rob Spargo met his future wife Blanche in 1967 when she was on holiday in Falls Creek. They married and purchased the site where the Falls Creek Hotel is today. The steep gradient of the site was a challenge to build on but was the best location available in the village. In 1970 Rob’s sister Leonie and her husband Glenn joined the business, and they started operating the hotel in 1972. The family played a critical role in the growth of the Falls Creek community and were involved in the foundation of Falls Creek Primary School and Falls Creek Search & Rescue. Rob was also involved in the start-up of Ski Victoria and has served as a member of the Chamber and Resort Management Board. Rob’s eldest daughter Lisa competed with the Australian Ski Team from 1985 to 1989 and has worked as a ski instructor in Australia, Austria & Colorado. In 2010 Lisa and her husband Damien Allport joined the family business and her parents retired to Tawonga South in 2014. Their children are now the fourth generation of the Spargo family living at Falls Creek enjoying the alpine lifestyle and providing outstanding hospitality. The 40 year tradition of Harvey Wallbanger Happy Hours held on Tuesdays and Thursdays continues at Falls Creek Hotel in 2024.

This item is significant because it depicts an important form of transport at Falls Creek, Victoria

A coloured photo of a black Axtrack oversnow vehicle decorated with red and yellow advertising.

FALLS CREEK HOTEL APRES ENTERTAINMENT HARVEY HOUR TUES & THURS 3.30 PM LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

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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. Unfortunately in 2023 due to poor snow conditions it was decided that a fair and safe competition could not be held on the course and the Kangaroo Hoppet was cancelled.

This poster is significant because it documents an event which brings international attention to Falls Creek and the surrounding region.

A poster featuring an image of female two skiers after a previous Hoppet presentation. Logos of Worldloppet, AGL, Falls Creek, Alpine Shire Council, Victorian State Government, the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club. FIS, Bendigo Bank and Kangaroo Hoppet are across the bottom of the poster.

Text: KANGAROO HOPPET Australia's Premier X-Country Ski Race 26 August 2023 Below the logos: 26 August 2023 FALLS CREEK AUSTRALIA 7 km 21 km 42 km hoppet.com.au

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