Katharine and Michael (lft) and Sarah and Michael (rht),
THE PONDAGE
2017 GRAVITY ENDURO NATIONAL SERIES
A Major Recreational Facility
Round One - Falls Creek
The National Gravity Enduro Series acts as the qualifying series for the Enduro World Series. See mention in the article with Ben McIlroy.
The Mount Beauty Regulating Pondage (to give it its correct title) is the last point of water flow through the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. The Pondage regulates the flow of water back into the West Kiewa River - ironing out fluctuations in water flow when the scheme is generating and not generating power.
Mountain Bike Australia in conjunction with Falls Creek Resort Management are pleased to present Round One of the 2017 Gravity Enduro National Series. The series is Australia wide with Round Two being held at Stromlo Forest ACT in May. Round Three will be at Balingup WA in June; Round Four will go to Rockhampton in July and the final round will be held on Woodford Island, on the Clarence River in northern NSW in August.
Many aspects of the Kiewa Hydro scheme have been beneficial to this area – from the SEC tours through the power stations, to the recreational aspects of the four dams, Rocky Valley, Pretty Valley, Lake Guy and the Pondage. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to work out that these facilities have added untold wealth to the communities of the Upper Kiewa Valley and Falls Creek. And, very few of the towns or resorts around us have as much to offer as this area does.
The popularity of mountain biking continues to grow. From the great efforts of some Mount Beauty locals in the 90’s - to hosting the Nationals in Feb 2000 - to the point where we have some of the best tracks in the country - both in Mount Beauty and in Falls Creek. The growth and the success means we can continue to host fabulous events.
Another aspect of the Kiewa Hydro Scheme is that we built it. Not ‘us’ verbatim, but our friends, families, parents and grand-parents were part of a workforce that, in March
FALLS CREEK MUSEUM
1951 totalled 570 staff personnel and 3459 workmen. We have a sense of ownership over what was built - and we have every right to feel proud of the scheme – its construction and its operation.
Now to the issue at hand. On page six of this publication is a notice from AGL (who now ‘own’ the Pondage) seeking input from the community in regard to their application to reduce the speed limit on the pondage to five knots. This move is as the result of a boating accident on the Pondage last year when a young person was injured.
As mentioned, the Pondage is a fantastic recreational facility for this community and our visitors. The path around it is a fantastic for walking, jogging, cycling etc. The other facilities like BBQ’s, seats, playground, skate ramp, basketball courts, our sports ovals, the tennis club and the library are all benefactors of having this Pondage ‘on our doorstep.’
And the water adds another element – from swimming, kayaking, fishing, model boating and power boating in the form of water skiing. There are rules for power boating on the Pondage – like only two power boats at any one time and all must travel in an
Round One of the GE National Series will be staged this weekend, beginning with practice sessions from 11am Friday. During the course of the weekend, several of the trails will be closed to general riders although Blue Dirt will have shuttles running on Friday from 11am to 6pm and again on Saturday from 9am to 5pm. Cost is $50 per day or $90 for 2 days. Go to www.bluedirt. com.au to book. On Sunday the trails will be closed to the general public, but will progressively open as the different sections of the event are completed. Pretty Valley Road will also have closures and be subject to delays should anyone be travelling back from the horse yards or Pretty Valley Pondage. Now this Gravity Enduro is a different sort of mountain bike racing to what we know as Downhill or Cross Country. The Gravity Enduro is both. The athletes will start with a warm up ride from Slalom Plaza, out the Bogong High Plains Road, up the Pretty Valley Road and then across to the Trig
Point on the Frying Pan Spur. The aim of the game is to ride each section no faster than the fastest time allowed, and no slower than the set slowest time. Then they do the competitive bit, before riding to the start of the next competitive bit without beating or exceeding the times permitted. At the time of going to print, the final course had not been set, but they look like taking in High Voltage and Wishing Well, then heading to Flowtown, completing that before heading to Thunderbolt and then to Generator and Vortex before finishing in Slalom Plaza. Sound like a pretty easy day!!
Open when the flags are out!
Open by Appointment
anti-clock-wise direction. Experienced skiers would work together. One boat out doing a couple of laps while the other boat changed skier – and vice versa. But no matter what the rules are, there is always some-one who will misjudge – potentially doing something stupid – and that is what AGL are trying to protect themselves against.
For Groups, Clubs etc
Or phone 03 5758 1200 for further information.
For further information:
Wb: www.fallscreekmuseum.com.au
Phone: 03 5758 1200
Em: info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au
Please try to allow 24hours notice. For further information: www.fallscreekmuseum.com.au info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au Facebook/fallscreekmuseum
Fb: facebook.com/fallscreekmuseum
Trails, Tales & Tucker Guided Walks
First Sunday of each month – plus other popular days. Refer to: www.trailstalesandtucker.com.au
FALLS CREEK - Open For Business
Over the years, your editor has been a regular user of the lake – and I personally feel that the existing policy is fine – that the speed limit on the Pondage should remain unchanged so that water-skiing, jet skiing and other power boat activities can continue.
But it is up to the community to have their say this week. Send your comments via Email to: aglcommunity@agl.com.au. Let’s do the best thing by the community. •
The weekend’s program sort of goes like this. Saturday: 9am to 16:00 is compulsory practice. 10am to 18:30 is rider registration and Info Tent open. 17:00 to 17:30 is rider briefing. From 18:00 on there is a social evening at Last Hoot Restaurant and Bar in Slalom Plaza. Sunday: 8am to 9am Rider Briefing and Timing activation. 8:30am to 1430pm Trails Open for GE competition.1500 to 1630 Presentations. If you’re into biking and would like to enjoy some good action, be at Falls Creek this weekend. Further detail from 03 5758 1200. •
Accommodation
Accommodation
Alpha Lodge
Alpha Lodge
Open 365 days a year. Self cater accommodation $56 p/p p/n twin/dbl. $42 p/p p/n bunk room. Parallel Street. Ph: 5758 3488 or visit: www.alphaskilodge.com.au
Open for Summer. Self-cater accommodation. $66 p/p/n twn/dbl. $48 p/p/n bunk room. Parallel Street. Ph: 03 5758 3488.
Altitude Apartments
Attunga Lodge
Accommodation from $150 / double room. $175 / Queen suites. Licensed Bar. Restaurant open Fri, Sat and Sun. Arlberg Street. Ph: 03 5758 3255
Cedarwood Apartments
Spacious fully self-contained accommodation open all year round. Bike storage and free wi-fi. On site bar & restaurant - Be Foodstore. Ph: 03 5758 3811 Wb: www.altitudefallscreek.com.au
Attunga Lodge
Fully self-contained apartment accommodation with great views. Schuss Street. Ph: 03 5758 3393.
Diana Alpine Lodge
Open for comfortable bed & breakfast accommodation. Fully licensed. Arlberg Street, Ph: 03 5758 3255.
Cedarwood Apartments
The place to base yourself for an alpine experience. Comfortable, friendly, meals available, licensed, spa, sauna. 6 Falls Creek Road. Ph: 0418 453 525.
Fully self contained apartment accommodation Schuss Street Ph: 5758 3393.
Falls Creek Country Club
Falls Creek Country Club
Fully self contained accommodation from $135 /dbl/night. Ph: 5758 3391 or www.fallscreekcountryclub.com.au.
Bogong High Plains Road.
Fully self-contained accommodation from $150/ dbl/night. Ph: 03 5758 3391 or visit: www. fallscreekcountryclub.com.au. 7 Bogong High Plains Road.
Snow Ski Apartments
Gebi’s Apartments
Fully self-contained comfortable apartments, located at the entrance to Falls Creek. Ph: 1800 45 35 25.
Self-contained accommodation open all year round with on-site management. Located in the Village Bowl. Ph: 03 5758 3356 or visit: www.snowskiapartments.com.au.
Nelse Alpine Lodge
Open for Accommodation, with Dinner, Bed and Breakfast options. Group bookings catered for. Comfortable lodge, pool and spa. Fully Licensed. Ph: 03 5758 3263 or Wb: www.nelselodge.com
QT Hotel Falls Creek
Dining & Bar
Apartment style luxury rooms, Pool & Jacuzzi, Sauna & Steam Room. On-site restaurant and bar. Open all year round - available for group bookings and functions. Ph: 03 5732 8000 Wb: www.qtfallscreek.com.au
Shopping
Outdoor Activities
Alp – Falls Creek
Mountain biking, road cycling, hiking and all other activities, visit the Visitor Information Centre (above the Slalom Street Day Shelter) for maps and info. Open 9am - 5pm weekdays. Ph: 03 5758 1202.
Snowski Apartments
Diana Food Food tastes better at altitude. Packed lunches; Picnic Hampers. Catering & platters for your venue also available. Em: bookings@dianalodge.com
Frying Pan Inn
Self contained accommodation open all year round with on-site management. Located in the Village Bowl. Ph: 5758 3356, or visit www.snowskiapartments.com.au
Summit Ridge Lodge
Go-Pro, MTB Gear – Swimwear. Plus discounts off winter gear! Lower level, Slalom Plaza – beside QT Reception. Check hours on the door for Opening Times.
Shopping
Falls Creek FoodWorks
Falls Creek Foodworks
Open six days a week for meals and drinks. Wed – Fri: 3pm – Close. Sat: 11am – Close. Sun: 11am – 4pm. In the Village Bowl. Ph: 03 5711 9105, Refer Advert this edition.
Open for comfortable bed & breakfast accommodation. Fully licensed. Schuss Street. Ph: 03 5758 3800.
For all licensed supermarket lines & newspapers. Located lower level, St Falls West (near Post Office). Open Mon – Sat 10am – 5pm and 10am –3pm Sun. Ph: 03 5758 3009.
For all licensed supermarket lines - located in lower level, St Falls West. Open 10am - 5pm daily. Ph: 03 5758 3009.
Child Care
Child Care
Last Hoot Café
Viking Lodge
Open daily from 4pm for drinks and meals. Slalom Plaza. Ph: 03 5758 3088. Refer Advert this edition.
Self-catering accommodation, all rooms with en suites. On site manager and secure bike storage and workshop. Free Wi-Fi. Ph. 03 5758 3247.
Dining & Bar
Milch Café Bar
BE Foodstore
Open for Summer – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Schuss Street. Ph: 03 5758 3407. Refer Advert this Edition.
Open for dining and drinks from 9am 7 days during Easter, then 5 days. In the Village Bowl. Ph: 03 5758 3222. Refer ad this edition.
Stingray @ QT
Last Hoot Café
Open daily 8am – 2pm for Breakfast, Lunch, coffee, snacks and drinks. Slalom Plaza. Ph: 03 5732 8000.
Open daily from 4pm for drinks & meals. Slalom Plaza. Ph: 03 5758 3088. Refer ad this edition.
Stingray Restaurant @ QT
Open daily 8am - 8pm for drinks & meals. Slalom Plaza. Ph: 03 5732 8000. Refer ad this edition.
Falls Creek Child Care is open Mon – Fri and is located in Slalom Plaza next to Stingray. The Centre is open to children aged 12 weeks to five years and is run by fully qualified educators, eligible for government rebates. Ph: 03 5758 1244 or visit: www.fallscreek.com.au/childcare.
Falls Creek Child Care is open Mon - Fri and is located in Slalom Plaza next to Stingray. The Centre is open to children aged 12 weeks to 5 years old and is run by fully qualified educators and is eligible for government rebates.Booking is essential. Phone 03 5758 1244 or visit www.fallscreek.com.au/childcare.
Visitor Information
Visitor Information
Falls Creek Visitor Information Centre is located above the Day Shelter, cnr of Slalom Street and Bogong High Plains Road. Open 9am – 5pm Weekdays and 10am – 3pm Weekends and Public Holidays. Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Ph: 03 575 1200.
Upstairs Resort Management Office (above day shelter) Open 9am - 5pm weekdays and 10am - 3pm weekends and public holidays.
Would a five knot speed restriction on the Pondage prohibit our visitors using their model planes and boats on the water? – as well as eliminating power boating activities. Pic – Ken Bell
THANKS TEAM
You’re a Great Community
We’re no strangers to the threat of bushfires here in the Kiewa Valley, and you can guarantee that when any kind of natural disaster comes along, the kind hearts in our valley step up. It’s not always publicly, and sometimes you’ll never hear about the wonderful things people do for one another in time of crisis. We did do a little digging over the past few weeks and wanted to share some stories, show some appreciation and shine a positive light on what has been a somewhat dark time. So in no particular order…
We saw a huge effort from Nikki and Grant Ryder and Candice Himsley, who organised a hay run for Corryong farmers affected by the fires and also collected food, water, clothing and other essentials. At the last count, we heard they had collected 800 bales of hay and organised dozens of trucks from across the state to deliver much needed food for livestock. An incredible effort and no doubt much appreciated by our friends in the Upper Murray.
ANZAC Day
The years flash by; the numbers of actual returned service personnel diminishes - and yet the respect increases. Fortunately conflicts of the scale of WW1 and WW11 have not re-occurred. New returned service personnel are now coming from the ranks of Vietnam Vets and those who have seen service in the Middle East. Numbers are being maintained by other service personnel and all are supported by the very appreciative public.
Roly and Julie from Mount Beauty Taxi, who worked with the local police and collected a list of 20 vulnerable people who were unable to relocate themselves - mostly elderly - and made sure they had welfare checks and were driven to safety when it was time to evacuate. We heard of one instance where they moved a 91 year old lady to Wodonga and then kept in contact with the people who were looking after her to make sure she was ok. This was all while looking after their own family also.
Over the years, the numbers of spectator supporters that have turned up to show their appreciation has grown dramatically. This, to me, says that there remains a very strong - yet unspoken - feeling of gratitude and respect among the community and in our quiet way, we just turn up and express our acknowledgement of our ‘diggers.’
ANZAC Day is the one of the few opportunities in the year where people can come together with a solemn and sincere purpose. It is a day that engenders pride and reinforces the gratefulness carried by the bulk of the nation. It is expected that this year will be no different. Falls Creek Service
A special mention to the Falls Creek CFA and the volunteers who stayed behind to defend Falls essential services, namely Adam Dannatt, Kristy McGrail, Anthony Johnson, Danny, Kenton Ford, Sam Perry, Rock, Di, Gary, Greg and Lachie. They also did a fantastic job wrapping and protecting our historical huts. From RMB, Katie Warren held the fort with all visitor information and assisting Callum and Ben with communication and preparation, whilst also having their homes under threat.
Join the Falls Creek locals at this unique location, Eagle Rock, for the Dawn Service 2017. Shuttle for ANZAC Dawn Service: 5:15am -6:30am Meet at Slalom Day Car Park.
Melbourne hip café meets the alpine, BeFoodstoreoffershealthiereating optionsutilisingtheregion’s abundanceofqualityseasonalproduce.
Specialty coffee, organic tea, super smoothies, fresh squeezed juices and healthy snacks complement our lunch & dinner offering.
Fully licensed with regional craft beers on tap.
Open Five days 9am - late.
Closed Tuesday & Wednesday.
Open for Trade Fair 2nd & 3rd May.
see us on facebook or phone 03 5758 3222
Located
Our local doctors who took the time to contact vulnerable people in our community to make sure they were safe and looked after, and neighbours in general who chose to stay in the valley checking in on one another to ensure everyone was ok - and we were told Michael and Rachel Whipps in particular took the time to care for those around them, as well as Jade Lane who put the word out that she was available to evacuate those who weren’t able to drive themselves, or check on family and friends of others if needed.
The community expressed their gratitude to Richie Kruezer from North East Water, and his background knowledge and commitment to protecting the town’s water supply by making sure we were all well informed to go easy on the sprinklers before the valley ran out of clean drinking water.
A TIME TO REMEMBER
ANZAC Day Dawn Service: 5:45am6:15am. Service at Eagle Rock - including a Bagpipe recital.. All friends and visitors welcome. For further information please call 03 5758 1202 or visit www.fallscreek. com.au/Events.
Mount Beauty Service
To the admins from the local Community Issues Facebook Group who live-streamed community meetings so those who weren’t at home or wanted updates on the valley could watch from a distance and still get the important information they needed, and to Carol Tonn for stepping back into an admin role in the What’s Happening Facebook Group to post regular updates on the bushfires and weather conditionsthank you.
Anzac Day Services are as follows. The Early Morning Service will take place in Bi-Centennial Park, Lakeside Avenue (beside the shire offices) beginning at 7am. A small informal service with a speaker from the local RSL. All welcome.
The Anzac Day March will come down Hollonds Street, starting from the assembly point in Park Street, near the Police Station at 10:45am, but marchers should be assembled and ready to go at 10:30am. Whilst Hollonds Street will not be closed, traffic movement will be restricted as the marchers come down the street.
A shout out to all of our business operators who remained open despite the threat so our community members that stayed behind had some sense of normality, or even just a place to go for a cuppa and a chat, despite needing to make sure their own families and properties were prepared and safe throughout it all.
One of the reasons we did not panic in 2006 is that we had resources in the area to assist. This year, the resources we here, or in Falls Creek, would rely upon were screamingly busy with other more urgent fires. Pic – Ken
although (for the latter) it is their job, there are many of our community members working overtime to keep us safe, whether it’s CFA, Police, Parks Victoria, paramedics, hospital staff and so forth. • Simone Dowel & Your Ed.
The address for the day will be offered by students from the Mount Beauty Secondary College. Speakers will be school captains, Katerina Trnka and Connor Vickers. At our local service, wreaths will be laid by many community representatives and members of the public are invited to do so if they wish. Further details on the service from Mr Bob Williams, President, Mount Beauty RSL on 5754 1585, or 0427 784 499.
And of course, we can’t thank our incredible volunteers and those whose job it is to be involved at times like these enough, because
The Commemorative Service will take place at the Cenotaph, beginning at 11am. The Motion of Loyalty will be offered by Councillor Tony Keeble of the Alpine Shire. Prayers will be led by Sister Eileen Reardon of the Catholic Church and the Guest Speaker on the day will be Flight L Richard Cornell ALTC Bandiana..
Now Open
Seven Days a Week
From 4pm
Dinner from 5:30pm
An exotic range of Pasta, Pizza, Salads & main meals with a truly Italian touch!
Happy Hours Daily: 5:30pm - 6:30pm Saturdays: $15 Pizza & Beer Specials!!
For Menu and further Information visit: www.snowlands.com.au/thelasthoot
Slalom Plaza (start of the bike trails) Ph: 03 5758 3088
Footnote: There appeared to be a lot of mis-information on Vent-Book in the early stages of the fire – much of it ill-informed and negative. This paper decided that we would only print positive stuff and thanks to Simone for putting it together.
Following the service, everyone is invited to the Mount Beauty Senior Citizens Rooms for a BBQ Lunch, refreshments and the traditional activities (read two-up), plus a couple of beers and a few old stories. •
At the base of the walking and mountain biking trails!
OPEN seven days a week...
8am to coffee, snacks and drinks!
Locals Tuesday - from 5pm
Kids Entertainment, Free Meat Raffles, Free Pool and Darts comp!
•Apartment style luxury rooms
•Pool & Jacuzzi
•Sauna & Steam Room
Available for Groups Bookings and Functions. Contact us for details!
Diggers marching down Hollonds Street last year, led by Jim Crebbin on his WW1 Motor bike. Pic - Ken Bell.
FALL LINES
Congratulations
Tim McKechnie (of Last Hoot at Falls Creek) and Amy Robertson (one of the beautiful smiles at Stockpot) welcomed their brand new son Lenox Stewart McKechnie into this world at 4:51pm on December 30th 2019.
Amy and Tim would like to give a huge thanks to all the staff at Wodonga Hospital as well as the Ronald McDonald House Charities for their wonderful accommodation and care.
The new family of (now) three are currently enjoying great support from friends and family from both Scotland and Australia and mum and dad are looking forward to Lenox growing up in this wonderful community – to be joining in the not-to-distant future – many of the other new-borns in town. Congratulations Amy and Tim. •
Congratulations
Back on the 23rd of November, at a lovely service at Red Earth Lodge, Porepunkah (with views up The Gorge to Mt Buffalo) Katharine Cooper (daughter of Kerry and Doug) and Michael Dayment (son of Robyn and Steve) were married.
Congratulations
TLOCAL TALENT
he beauty and serenity of Bogong Village has always made it a popular venue for weddings and so it was on 28th of December when Sarah Hinde (daughter of Di and Dennis) married Michael Maddison (son of Linda and Leo) at a ceremony conducted by Sarah's cousin, Wendy Graham.
Great Success
LThe bridal party then moved to the high plains where the photos were done around one of the historic huts that are dear to both – and thanks to the weather Gods for the great conditions!
The day was made extra special in the company of a large gathering of family and friends who then retired to the Tawonga Hall where Bec Thorpe of Alpine Catering excelled in the catering.
ocal lad Ben McIlroy is an up and coming Enduro mountain bike racer. Over the last two years he has progressed to be the fastest junior rider in Australia winning both the National Series and the National Championships in 2016. On March 26 Ben went and raced his first ever EWS (Enduro World Series) event in Rotorua, New Zealand. Prior to the event Matt Rousu caught up with Ben to chat about the race and his potential future in the mountain bike world.
MR: Is this your first overseas race?
Ben: Yep, first overseas race, first EWS (Enduro World Series), so it’s going to be pretty exciting.
Sarah's dress was made by White April. She reluctantly tried it on after some coaxing by her mother who knew it would be the one for her just by seeing it on the rack.
MR: Is it excitement or are you nervous?
Ben: I’m probably a bit more nervous than excited. Excited to race overseas, but nervous because it’s such a big event.
Fresh juices, smoothies, cakes, vegan options available, child friendly Monday ~ Burger night Wednesday ~ Curry night
Cold beer on tap
Bike hire out front
WHERE 2D Tawonga Crescent.
WHEN 8:30am – 5pm Mon – Friday. 10am – 12noon Saturdays. (for urgent medical issues only)
HOW Ph: 03 5754 3400 for appointments 24 hours for emergencies
WHO Drs Mark Zagorski, Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton, Lauren Cussen, Matthew McAlpine & Lachlan McKeeman
WHAT Fully accredited General Practice with 40 years service to the Upper Kiewa Valley.
Your Local Practice –supporting the local community!
The reception, for around 110 of the nearest and dearest, mainly from Melbourne but some from the Sunshine Coast and a couple from NZ, was held at the Wandiligong Hall – catered by Bec Thorpe of Alpine Catering Company.
Fabulously, the bride wore her mother’s wedding dress from 35 years back and her jewellery was made locally by Liz at Argent.
All of this was then followed by seven days in the Cook Islands for a honeymoon.
Congratulations Katharine and Michael and we wish you all the best for a wonderful future together. •
MR: Have you heard anything about the tracks over in Rotorua, NZ?
Ben: From what Chris (Panozzo) has said, they’re fast and there aren’t many rocks.
MR: How did you get into riding?
The honeymoon plans went out the window with the start of the fires and so while Michael is busy with plenty of work, Sarah is helping with the fire effort in Corryong – but a relaxing trip to Tasmania in April is something they are both looking forward to. Congratulations Sarah and Michael and best wishes for the many wonderful years ahead. •
Ben: three Canberra In Adelaide three on (with Brosnan MR: racing Gravity
Ben: Pretty much because of my Dad, when more the couple I then MR: raced?
Ben: state 15s dude. so I I remember a bit bottom race was just bottom.”
After to the that of the really invited first became
Welcome to young Lenox Stewart McKechnie with happy parents, Amy and Tim. Pic - Courtesy the family.
Wedding photos by Kylie Esler at Big Bright Photos
Gather Festival
When times are tough, our community comes together - and Gather Festival is the perfect opportunity for one big Kiewa Valley party after the start to 2020 we’ve had!
With just over three weeks to go, it’s time to get seriously excited for the inaugural Gather Festival which will offer 12 hours of live music, as well as food and drinks, market stalls and children’s activities at Big Hill Mountain Bike Park on Saturday, 8th February.
There are some big names on the lineup, including headliners Dallas Frasca and Sarah McLeod, alongside Mitch King, Tanya George, Richard Perso, Tom Richardson, Jessica Lorraine and Adam Grok - with even more artists to be added to the line-up in the coming weeks.
For the keen mountain biking and live music lovers, there’s also an opportunity to ride the trails before you hit up the festival, with Gather & Ride tickets available giving you access to shuttles earlier in the day, and entry to the festival afterwards.
The event is a collaboration between the Champagne Club Kiewa Valley, Riff Raffs and Team Mount Beauty, and following the devastating bushfires in Australia in late 2019 and early 2020, proceeds from this year’s event will be donated to our emergency services - and make sure you bring your gold coins too to donate to those collecting on the day.
So the only thing left to do? Buy your tickets of course! They’re available online at www.gatherfestival.com.au, and will be available to purchase in person late next week from Mount Beauty Hardware & Drapery, Sassy Road and Tawonga South Newsagency and Post Office. •
Back to School
In a blink of an eye, it will be time to pack school lunches and backpacks once again and send the kids off to school - so
don’t forget to organise all of your school booklists while you still have time!
Tawonga South Newsagency and Post Office are the official booklist providers for Mount Beauty Secondary College in 2020, so you can rest assured you can find everything students will need this year in store.
If you’re still after specific text books and missed the original deadline for orders, chat to Lynne in store and she can help you out.
Open seven days a week, and offering competitive prices, why go anywhere else when you can get everything you need right here in town at Tawonga South Newsagency and Post Office! •
Men’s Shed Expansion
More men in Mount Beauty will be building new friendships, skills and community connections, thanks to a Victorian Government grant for the expansion of the men’s shed.
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes announced the Mount Beauty Men’s Shed would receive $60,000 towards a 12m x 9m extension to the main shed.
Across Victoria, new men’s sheds will be constructed in eight communities, while 15 other sheds will be refurbished across Victoria, thanks to $879,000 in grants from the Victorian Government.
SMELL OF SMOKE...
Through your clothes?
Bring your blankets, linen and clothes down to
ARIEL'S LAUNDRETTE
8am - 8pm weekdays 9am - 7pm weekends & Public Holidays
Men’s sheds are safe and productive spaces for men to work on common projects, and actively participate in their local community. They also help improve the health and wellbeing of participants by promoting social inclusion.
There are more than 1,000 sheds across the country, with over 360 in Victoria.
“These grants have huge benefit to each area, helping build capacity, strengthen support networks and contributing to communities in an extraordinary way” said Ric Blackburn, Victorian Men’s Shed Association Executive Officer.
The extension to the existing shed will enable the team to move the welding and metal works aspect to its own area. •
Thursdays: Texas Hold ‘Em Poker - 7:30pm
Fridays: Community Raffles - from 5:30pm. Prizes donated by the community - to benefit the community. Support this great intiative!
Sundays: Live Music from 3pm. This week is ’Woven Hearts!’
ALPINE RADIO
To Inform and Empower!!
Did you know that more than 18% of adult Australians experience difficulty reading, making it harder for them to access standard printed material? These people may require audio, braille, large print or electronic text in order to access information. There is a national Radio Reading Network dedicated to informing and empowering the estimated 5 million Australians with a print disability.
Created in 1978, RPH Australia is the national peak body for the Radio Reading Network. Broadcasting to 70% of the Australian population, the Radio Reading Network provides access to people with a print disability by combining the depth of
print media information with the immediacy and far-reaching spread of community radio across Australia.
Local community radio station Alpine Radio, broadcasting on frequency 96.5FM in the Kiewa Valley, has been presenting RPH programs for several years, and this year received a grant to assist the station to promote and continue to run these programs. Alpine Radio believes in the rights of all people to access printed material, enabling equal participation in cultural, political and social life.
Alpine Radio runs two RPH sessions, each approximately an hour long, at 2pm on Wednesday afternoons and 7pm on Thursday evenings each week. Station Manager Michael Ahearn told ‘This Week’ that the two sessions
Do you or someone you know have a print disability?
Alpine Radio presents two one-hour RPH programs per week, reading from selected local and national newspapers – in-depth articles for those with a print disability. Wednesdays at 2pm & Thursdays at 7pm. Serving the local community, 96.5FM in the Kiewa Valley. Streaming on www.alpineradio.com.au
AGL Mount Beauty
AGL Mount Beauty
AGL Mount Beauty
AGL Mount Beauty
Notification of Application to reduce speed limit on Mount Beauty Regulating Pondage to 5 knots
Notification of Application to reduce speed limit on Mount Beauty Regulating Pondage to 5 knots
concentrate on newspaper and magazine articles with local, state and national news. These articles transform quick sound bites that listeners may have heard on the radio or on TV news broadcasts, into a more in-depth article that the listener with a print disability may not have been able to access.
RPH Australia is also working to extend the national reach of Radio Reading services to empower Australians with a print disability living in regional, rural and remote areas. Alpine Radio is proud to have been involved in this regional reach for several years.
Alpine Radio has several regular volunteer readers to provide this great service, but is always looking for more readers. If you would like to assist with reading, please call Station Manager Michael Ahearn on 03 5754 4554 during weekdays between 10am and 2pm to register your interest. And in the meantime, listen in to Alpine Radio’s RPH programs and enjoy the articles presented each week. •
Notification of Application to reduce speed limit on Mount Beauty Regulating Pondage to 5 knots
Notification of Application to reduce speed limit on Mount Beauty Regulating Pondage to 5 knots
AGL Energy, as waterway manager of the Mount Beauty Regulating Pondage, advises of its intention to apply to Maritime Safety Victoria to reduce the speed limit on the Pondage to 5 knots.
AGL Energy, as waterway manager of the Mount Beauty Regulating Pondage, advises of its intention to apply to Maritime Safety Victoria to reduce the speed limit on the Pondage to 5 knots.
AGL Energy, as waterway manager of the Mount Beauty Regulating Pondage, advises of its intention to apply to Maritime Safety Victoria to reduce the speed limit on the Pondage to 5 knots.
AGL Energy, as waterway manager of the Mount Beauty Regulating Pondage, advises of its intention to apply to Maritime Safety Victoria to reduce the speed limit on the Pondage to 5 knots.
The application will be submitted after consultation with the community from 26 December until 25 January, and submissions from the community are invited.
The application will be submitted after consultation with the community from 26 December until 25 January, and submissions from the community are invited.
The application will be submitted after consultation with the community from 26 December until 25 January, and submissions from the community are invited.
The application will be submitted after consultation with the community from 26 December until 25 January, and submissions from the community are invited.
Have your say by emailing AGLCommunity@agl.com.au
Have your say by emailing AGLCommunity@agl.com.au
Have your say by emailing
RPH volunteer presenters, Helen McDougall, Gillian Harrowfield and Cath McDowall. Pic – Courtesy Alpine Radio.
For Everyone’s Benefit
Pet Care
Brought to you by Sue White.
The Recall. Being able to call your dog back from any potentially dangerous (or non-dangerous for that matter!) situation is the most important of all obedience cues to teach your dog. Stopping them chasing a roo or running across a busy road might save their life. So here's a simple breakdown. The essence is that you must be more exciting to the dog than what’s happening in the environment.
1. Start with a low distraction environment - like your dining room or backyard. Wait until your dog is distracted. Call his name. When he looks at you say “Come” and run excitedly backwards and when he reaches you, deliver a high value treat to him. It might be hot chicken skin, ball play or praise - whatever floats his boat. Repeat for five minutes a day. Don’t repeat “Come” over and over, or you'll train him to wait for the 10th “Come” before he does it.
2. Once you achieve reliability at this level, take it on the road - to an environment like the park and try the same thing. Having him on a long lead may assist.
3. Once the “Come” command is reliable you can gradually fade the treats, or not, as you please. But never forget the secondary reinforcement of praise every time.
TRADING POST CLASSIFIEDS
Email your adverts to us and you don’t pay until you sell the goods – or until your Advert achieves the desired results. Em: kencbell@bigpond.net.au
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
Prominent location within the Falls Creek Alpine Village, with good access from Slalom Street. Suit retail outlet, restaurant or licensed premise. Square meterage of 98m2. Please contact Barry on Mb: 0418 578 500.
CLOTHING REPAIRS
Call Marilyn Sparks, Mb: 0411 335 326. Also on Facebook private message.
FOR SALE
One brand new pair of ASICS Tennis shoes, size 46 Euro (11.5 US). Worn once. Too tight for me. Retail Price: $159.95. Will sell for $120. Ph: 0400 350 488.
ALTERATIONS, DRESSMAKING & REPAIRS
Call Kerry 0407 814 114 for all sewing needs.
BOWEN THERAPY & MASSAGE
Tawonga South. Ph: Heather 0428 993 125.
BUILDING & ELECTRICAL
Duggan & Hanlon, your complete building service, please call Justin on 0458 220 879.
CAKE MAKING & DECORATING
Elene Wood at www.studioecakes.com.au in Tawonga – for all occasions. Mb: 0409 673 192 or Em: studioecakestawonga@bigpond.com
CIVIL CELEBRANT - HEATHER MULL
Quality Ceremonies - All Types. Mb: 0428 993 125. www.celebrant-ne-vic.com.au
guidelines on the website, or if you require any additional information, please contact the FCRM Office on 03 5758 1200. • Summer Debrief
OUR ENVIRONMENTAL
4. Never Ever punish your dog if he is tardy in coming back. This is counter-productive!
It has been a record year for visitation this summer and Resort Management would like to get your feedback on events, visitor demographic, mountain biking and general observations.
5. Consider a “Life reward.” Example: Call him back and put him in the car - then as a life reward, let him out again. This keeps him guessing that he may not actually be ending his play session and increases the chances of him coming to you.
Therefore you are invited to join the relevant Resort Management personnel and other members of the community for a summer season debrief meeting. This meeting will take place on Wednesday 26th April from 9:30am to around 11:30am in the Boardroom above Foodworks in QT.
So, please ask any questions you have for me through Facebook and I'll do my best to answer them. Next time I'll be talking about behaviour and diet. •
A Greener Pantry
Brought to you by Lee and Caroline at Gather & Harvest in Hollonds St.
UKVRA presents…
BUSH
1. Have a clear vision of your goal and why you want to achieve it. This will keep you encouraged when you have days that aren't as energised or motivating.
Steve Killalea from Milestone Chemicals - just one of the many Falls Creek. Pic - Elle Shaw.
A Life to Remember
2. Don't overcomplicate getting started - the main thing is you start in some way, and continue your commitment. Consistency is key in the long term!
If you have any specific agenda items, please email http://joprothero@fallscreek.com.au. We look forward to seeing you all there. • for to saving To Village will 10am 3rd, Companies Bedding and and Suppliers, suppliers Prepare Visit details
GOTHIC
Sunday 28th May 5pm
Mount Beauty Information Centre Auditorium. BYO drinks and nibbles.
We can green up our pantries with a few simple steps. Buy food in bulk to eliminate the packaging used - or at least buy items with less packaging or with paper/cardboard options. Store your food appropriately in airtight jar and containers to prevent wastage. 35% of Australia’s household waste is food! Read labels and make sure what you are buying doesn’t contain palm oil. It’s environmental impact is catastrophic. •
Health and Fitness
Tickets: Mount BeautyNewsagency Ph: 5754 4204
3. Preparation promotes an easier ability to stay focused on fitness goals and achievements, whether it be planning and preparing nutritionally wholesome meals for the week to support your activity levels, body and recovery, or scheduling in your exercise or training sessions each day amongst other activities.
4. Celebrate all achievements along the way towards your goal - no matter how small. These will create a ripple effect towards your overall goal!
A celebration of Lyn’s Life will take place on Friday the 28th April 2017 in the Village Bowl at Falls Creek for anyone who wishes to attend and pay tribute. Commencing at 12 noon, the afternoon will reflect Lyn’s enormous contribution to Falls Creek. Some wine and a light BBQ will be provided, but we ask that you bring other beverages and also a plate to share. In the case of wet weather, a contingency plan will be in place. Friends are welcome to pass this invite on and it is understood that members of Lyn’s family will be in attendance. •
Trade Fair @ Falls Creek
5. Enjoy the exercise you choose to do. Get your body moving daily to reap the amazing health benefits of exercise! •
$25, $20 (members), $10 (students)
Brought to you by Emily and Lee at Mountain Gym Fitness & Massage. To achieve your strength and fitness goals, there are a few ways to motivate yourself and stay on track.
5A Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Phone: 5754 1270
TRADING POST CLASSIFIEDS
FARM SHED SALE
2017 LOCAL PASS
FOR SALE
MEDICAL SERVICES MOUNT BEAUTY
December 14th & 15th (after 8:30am) 6358 Kiewa Valley Highway, Coral Bank. Items for sale include: Compressor, Fire Pump, Hydraulic Ram, Horse Gear, Storage Units, Chainsaw, 6’ x 4’ Calf Crate, Fencing, Vet Gear, Gun Locker, Tools and Boxes of bits!
Affordable skiing in your own backyard!
MISSING BANNERS
Take advantage of the value packed* Local Pass - exclusively offered to local residents.
Men’s Bicycle Diamond Back ‘Outlook’ nearly new –with helmet (unused). $75.00 Ph: 03 5754 1215.
FOR SALE
RM Williams Cuban Heel Boots, Bushman Tan, with added rubber protective sole. Almost brand new. Size 9 G. Retail $309.95 will sell for $250. Ph: 0400 350 488.
MISSING BOOK
$250 per Adult + $45 per Day
$140 per Child + $35 per Day ** More Benefits in 2017**
All orders in by Sunday 30th April.
Three display banners constructed by the Saturday Stitchers in 2004 (16 of them were made) for community events and used by many Kiewa Valley community groups since then. The poles and bags for them have been returned to Upper Kiewa Valley Regional Arts, who lend out these banners, but the actual sewn material banners for ‘Mount Beauty,’ ‘Heath’ and ‘Leaves’ are missing. Please contact Rollo Kiek on 03 5754 1750, or see Penny Goebel at the Neighbourhood Centre, if you can help recover them.
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
For further information contact: Falls Creek Ski Lifts P/L Ph: 03 5758 1000
Altitude Electrical - no job too big or small. Domestic, commercial & industrial. Ph: Ben Svarc 0419 801 109.
*Conditions apply
FREIGHT - ALB - MTB - FALLS CREEK
Remo’s Transport from Albury/Wodonga to Mount Beauty & Falls Creek Tues to Fri incl. Refrigeration available. Ph: John or Esther 0417 414 320.
HAIRDRESSER
Natalie Raymond, Birds Nest Salon, 26 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty. Open Six days a week & evenings by appointment. Ph: 03 5754 1177.
LD’S HOME PET CARE
Pet Care & Dog Walking. Ph: Lisa: 0407 541 695.
PAINTING SERVICES
Interior/Exterior, Domestic/Commercial. Obligation Free Quotes. Quality & Service Guaranteed. KLM Alpine Painting Services, Ph: Laif 0437 023 921
A copy of Dr Ruth Lawrence’s Thesis titled ‘The Interaction between the Environment, Land Use and Hydrology of the Bogong High Plains between 1850 and 1985’ was left for this community in the care of Mr Bill Sutton. Bill was happy to lend the book and until now it was always returned – until this last 18 months. This is a valuable piece of the area’s history and we hope this notice may prompt someone’s memory. Please contact your Ed on 0400 350 488.
WHERE WHEN HOW WHO WHAT Tawonga Crescent 8:30am - 5:00pm Mon - Friday 10:00am - 12:00pm Saturdays Ph: 5754 3400 for appointments 24 hours for emergencies Drs Mark Zagorski, Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton & Anoop Pem.
Fully accredited General Practice with 37 years service to the Upper Kiewa Valley.
PHYSIOTHERAPY
Kiewa Valley Sports & Spinal Physiotherapy. 5A Hollonds St Mt Beauty. Out of hours and home visits available. HiCaps. Ph: 5754 1270.
YOUR LOCAL PRACTICESUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY!
SOLAR-POWERED SKYLIGHTS
A unique and locally developed product supplied and installed by a fully qualified electrician. Available for all other electrical work. Reg No 20917. Phone Mal: 0419 884 668.
Something of an institution since 1982, the Trade Fair @ Falls Creek is an opportunity Falls Creek & Mount Beauty
SPORTS MASSAGE
Book online. impactmassage.com.au
STORAGE
Caravans, Vehicles, Pallets, Large Lock-up Units. Ph: 0428 361497 www.alpinewarehousing.com
TAXI & 4WD SERVICE
Mt Beauty Taxi Service. Covers Falls Creek & Albury. Ph: 0409 573 909 or 13 10 08.
NEW BOUTIQUE BREWERY
JANUARY
Weekly Mount Beauty Park Run. 8am Saturdays. Bicentennial Park, Lakeside Avenue. Ph: 03 5754 1118.
24th-27th Alpine Quest Adventure Race. Three days of hard-core running, cycling, paddling. Visit: www. alpinequest.com.au
25 & 26th Falls Creek Dragon Boat Regatta – with teams from all over the state battling it out for the Mile High Trophy. Visit: www. dragonboatvictoria.com.au or www. fallscreek.com.au/events.
26th Alpine Classic – the challenging cycling event that has been an institution over 30 years and attracts several thousand riders each year. Visit: www.alpineclassic.com.au.
26th Trails, Tales and Tucker. A fascinating three kilometre walk along the Wallace’s Heritage Trail while listening to the stories of the characters, the myths and legends and how they have shaped the Bogong High Plains. The walk concludes with a delectable lunch of tastes of the North East Victoria and stunning views across the High Plains. Visit: www.trailstales andtucker.com.au for further detail and to book.
FEBRUARY
Weekly Mount Beauty Park Run. 8am Saturdays. Bicentennial Park, Lakeside Avenue. Ph: 03 5754 1118.
1st Mount Beauty Community Market. 9am - 1pm. Top end of Hollaonds Street and Kiewa Crescent. You make it, you bake it, you grow it - you're welcome! New stall holders welcome. Enquiries or to book a stall, phone Bev: 0419 289 672, or Em: bevbantick@gmail.com.
1st & 2nd Victorian Enduro Tour Round Three at Falls Creek. Practice Saturday, racing Sunday. Further details: 03 5758 1202.
6th Herald Sun Tour visits Mount Beauty and Falls Creek. Men's Stage Two starts in Keegan's Bridge, back road through Mongan's Bridge, Damms Road (sprint), Lakeside Avenue and then to Falls Creek for a King of the Mountain sprint finish (approx. 1pm). The Women’s Stage Two starts in Falls Creek at 2:30pm, with riders descending to Mount Beauty, Tawonga South, Tawonga, Damms Road (sprint), Lakeside Avenue, then back up to Falls Creek for the Queen of the Mountain sprint finish (approx. 4:30pm). Check out: www.heraldsuntour.com.au.
8th Gather Festival – a Celebration of our community and friends featuring Dallas Frasca, Sarah McLeod, Mitch King, Tanya George and Richard Person – to name a few. Go to: www.gatherfestival.com.au.
9th Open Mic Afternoon at the Ranga – the Dederang Hotel – from 3:30pm Great gear, great set-up. Be there! Ph: 02 6028 9325.
12th Regular Monthly Meeting of the Probus Club of Mount Beauty. 10am at the Mount Beauty Neighbourhood Centre. Regular Guest speakers and plenty of healthy activities. All Welcome. Enquiries to: Mb: 0419 514 399.
13th Regular Monthly Meeting the Upper Kiewa Valley Community Association, 7:30pm at the Auditorium, next to the Mount Beauty Visitor Information Centre. All Welcome. For more info, phone: Mb: 0428 226 922.
14th Mount Beauty Men’s Shed Regular monthly meeting and BBQ Lunch. From 11:30am at the Shed in Tennis Court Avenue.
15th Regular Monthly Meeting of the Mount Beauty Diabetes Support Group. 10am Lakeside Community Centre. All Welcome. Ph: 0427 544 824.
16th Falls Creek XCO – Victorian State Championships. XCO or Cross country Olympic Format is one of the most well know and exciting disciplines of mountain biking. For further detail, call 03 5758 1202.
18th Regular monthly meeting of the Mount Beauty Self Help Anxiety Support Group 7pm – 8:30pm at the Mount Beauty Neighbourhood Centre. Gold coin donation appreciated. Ph: 03 9830 0533.
21st-23rd MTB de Femme at Falls Creek. A weekend event for all ladies, girls and women interested in Mountain Biking. Each year has grown to be better than the last – so join us this year. Ph: 03 5758 1200.
28th Falls Creek Interschools Mountain Bike Championships. Now in its second year, this event hosted riders from as far as Mansfield, Shepparton and Wodonga. This year is sure to be better. Ph: 03 5758 1200.
Alpine Ale | Porter | English Special Bitter & American Pale Ale
All brewed on the premises! ...complemented with A range of Dal Zotto wines & Alpine Cider ...plus
Tasty Snacks & Burgers
Open: Tue - Thur: 3pm to 8pm Fri - Sun: 11am to 8pm Closed Mondays
211 Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga Sth Ph: 03 5754 4443
Em: mick@crankhandlebrewery.com.au Wb: www.crankhandlebrewery.com.au
MOUNT BEAUTY POOL
SUMMER HOURS
SUMMER HOLIDAY HOURS
Holiday Season
The Mount Beauty Pool will continue to operate during the normal hours listed below unless conditions dictate that it is unsafe or unhealthy for staff and visitors.
24th Dec 2018 – 27th Jan 2019
HOLIDAY SEASON
Closed Christmas Day
23rd December 2019 – 28th January 2020
Lap Swimming: Mon – Fri 6:15am – 10:30am
Closed Christmas Day
Lap Swimming: Mon – Fri 6:15am – 10:30am
General Admission: Weekdays 1pm – 7pm Weekends 1:30pm – 6:30pm
Normal Season
General Admission: Mon – Fri 1pm – 7pm Sat & Sun 1:30pm – 6:30pm
28th January – 31st March 2019
NORMAL SEASON
29th January – TBA *
Lap Swimming: Mon – Fri 7am – 10:30am
10:30am
Lap Swimming: Mon – Fri 7am – 10:30am
General Admission: Weekdays 3:30pm – 7pm Weekends 1:30pm – 6:30pm
General Admission: Mon - Fri 1pm -7pm Weekends 1:30 - 6:30pm
Normal Season
30th January - 26th April
General Admission: Mon – Fri 3:30pm – 7pm Sat & Sun 1:30pm – 6:30pm Aqua Fit: Tue & Thu 6pm – 7pm Saturday 9:30am – 10:30am
Aquafit: Tue & Thu 6pm – 7pm Saturday 9:30am – 10:30am.
Programs
Seniors Hour Tues/Thurs 10:30am Arthritis Warm Water Exercise Group Tues/Thurs 10:30am AquaFit Tues/Thurs 6:30pm Sat 9am
Season, Family and Concession Passes available. NB! The Pool will not be open on CODE RED Days Further Details: Enquire at Reception. Service Drive Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 1181
NB: The Pool will not Open on CODE RED Days! Further Details: Enquire at Reception. Service Drive, MOUNT BEAUTY Ph: 03 5754 1181
2019-2020 SUMMER PUBLICATION SCHEDULE & RATES
Ed 07 * 24.01.20 * Mile High Dragon Boats, Alpine Quest Adventure Race and Alpine Classic. (C)
Ed 08 * 07.02.20 * Falls Creek XCO Champs. MTB de Femme. Interschools MTB. Gather Festival. (C)
Ed 09 * 21.02.20 * MTB de Femme. Falls Creek Interschools MTB Champs. Peaks Challenge. (C)
Ed 10 * 06.03.20 * Peaks Challenge and Junior Peaks Challenge. Regional Longest Lunch. (C)
DISTRIBUTION:
• All accommodation houses, restaurants, businesses, club lodges and apartments in Falls Creek, Bogong Village, Mount Beauty, Tawonga South, Tawonga and Dederang, plus the RMB’s between Dederang and Tawonga and selected venues in Bright and Myrtleford.
ONLINE:
• Available in PDF form at: www.fallscreek.com.au/whatson/
INSERTS: • Not Available
ADVERTISING RATES:
CLASSIFIEDS:
Season, Family & Concession Passes available. Further details: Enquire at Reception. Service Drive, Mount Beauty Phone: (03) 5754 1181 1 Col x 11cm
• Like the Trading Post. Send in your Classifieds and pay when you sell.
BUSINESS DIR.: • $5.90 per line per Edition.
DEADLINE: • Friday 2.00pm prior to publication date