Historical information

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek.
The article is a flyer for the promotion of the release of his book "Exploding Sports Myths" in August 2010.

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 publication of a book written by George Shirling.

Physical description

An article promoting the release of "Exploding Sports Myths" by George Shirling in August 2010.
"For thirty years George has observed and listened to scores of players, athletes and coaches up to international level, including the Australian Winter Olympic Team, the NSW 'Waratahs', ACT 'Brumbies', and the 'Wallabies' rugby union teams. His experience is long, his perspective unique. Some may not like what he has to say, but few who are genuinely engaged in sport can afford to ignore him."