Historical information

This item is from the private collection of George Shirling of Red Onion, Falls Creek.
These pins were awarded at Koko between 1967 -1969. Two pins were awarded to guests at Koki each week for "'outstanding displays of eccentric or unusual behaviour" during their stay.

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 represents entertainment and activities at Koki Lodge in the late 1960s.

Physical description

Koki enamelled metal pins depicting the sun wearing glasses. The pin is accompanied by a typed sign.

Inscriptions & markings

On Sign
ITEM No.68 Koki pins 1967 to 1969
The Koki pin was never sold, and was only presented as the result of some very biased decision making. Unique award presentation ceremonies were conducted and two pins per week were awarded to guests for 'outstanding displays of eccentric or unusual behaviour during their stay at Koki. Pins could be earned on the slopes, at the bar, or in the bedroom. This collection of 5 pins has been returned by the recipients who were too embarrassed to admit having received them.