Historical information

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek. It is an early souvenir from Falls Creek Ski Village.

George Shirling arrived in Falls Creek in 1962. He engaged Phil Nowell to build the original Koki Alpine Lodge which opened in 1965 with 14 beds. George operated the lodge with Michael “Baldy” Blackwell as manager.
In 1981 he graduated in sport psychology and was invited to become team psychologist for the Australian Winter Olympic team which went to Albertville, France, in 1992. He later owned the Red Onion Chalet.
George Shirling passed away on 27th February 2023. He had remained actively involved in Falls Creek and was generous with his time and knowledge, always an amazing supporter of The Falls Creek Museum and Falls Creek Village.

Significance

This item is significant because it is representative of changes in Falls Creek promotional material and souvenirs over time.

Physical description

A hessian belt with plastic and metal buckle.

Inscriptions & markings

Woven into belt: SKI FALLS CREEK
On Buckle: SKI