Historical information

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek.
It promoted information regarding Falls Creek which had become know as "The Happy Mountain". This issue reported the arrival of "An Eagle on the mountain". The new $500 000 plus Eagle Chairlift was officially opened on 15th June 980, by the Hon. L. Lieberman, M.LA.

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.
He also graduated in sport psychology in 1981 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 credited the success of Koki to “Baldy” Blackwell. “Baldy” and Phil Nowell started the Trackers Mountain Lodge in partnership during the 1980s.
In 1971 George sold Koki Lodge to Sigi Doerr. In 2024 the renamed Koki Alpine resort remains a highly popular destination in Falls Creek.

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 documents the opening of the Eagle Chairlift at Falls Creek.

Physical description

A small publication giving information about developments at Falls Creek "The Happy Mountain" for the 1980 winter season. It includes information and photos. An information card has been attached.

Inscriptions & markings

On card: ITEM NO. 96
The Happy Mountain News 1980
Announcing the opening of the new Eagle chair lift ..... with $14 day ticket!
Donation of Phyl Bridgford