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AVA ATQUE VALE

L O CA L RAD I O

In the Kiewa Valley Alpine Radio 92.9

In the Harrietville area

Emergency

Mount Beauty Community Radio for good music, local news, snow reports and developing programs.

Ph: 5754 4554

Email: info@alpineradio.com.au

Website: www.alpineradio.com.au

Bernie Plohberger was born in Austria. He met his lovely wife, Trude in 1955 in Austria as they were both getting ready to emigrate to Australia. Mum was from Vienna and dad was from the country. They could barely understand each other's dialect. As a kid in Austria, Dad used to to make his own skis and wax and much to his father's disgust, would trek five hours up the hill – and then enjoy the ski down - which took only 15 minutes.

He was a ski instructor before he left Austria and ended up building the ski school at Falls Creek in 1957 – which we now know as the Frying Pan Inn.

Mum and dad married in 1958 and son Gerhard was born at the ski school in 1959. Daughter Monika was born in Geelong in 1960.

A sketch of the original Falls Creek Ski School which went on to become the famous Frying Pan Inn. Sketch by John Henderson and featured on the front page of this paper in the very early 80’s.

Bernie brought Hans Fischer out from Austria at about the tender age of 19 years. In the ski school he trained Malcolm Milne, Anita Martin while Barb Talbot/Smith (who described Bernie as a beautiful skier) followed him around the slopes continually – just a few names well known to locals. As is not unusual for social residents in those days, Bernie would enjoy a drink with Julian Brown, Cec Dobson, Ore Freauf – and then swing into singing ‘Oh Tannenbaum.’

FALLS CREEK – Coronavirus

May 20th 2020

To all our Stakeholders, Residents, Snow Sports and Mountain Adventure Enthusiasts,

The resort and industry are actively planning and developing their plans to address the challenges faced by the current restrictions. We are working with all the authorities on a way forward to manage the resort under COVID Safe practices for the safety of our users, guests, stakeholders and staff.

Under current public health restrictions placed across Victoria, Falls Creek Resort Management will keep all of the resorts’, public BBQ’s, playgrounds, tennis courts and other recreational facilities closed until further notice.

Anyone in an alpine resort is required to comply with the requirements of physical distancing, and gatherings of no more than five people indoors and 10 people outdoors. You may now leave you home to undertake essential maintenance on properties but must keep your time away from home to a minimum. Victorians can drive to a location to exercise, as always so please use common sense when it comes to travelling. If you can walk or exercise near your home, you should. We are all being asked to make sacrifices in order to save lives.

Any non-essential travel to the village during this declared period does not comply with the Federal and State directions. We ask members of the public to respect this government

directive and help to protect our community and themselves.

For the benefit of the community, our healthcare system and potentially the season, we encourage you download the COVIDSafe app.

In the meantime, stay safe, stay healthy, wash your hands regularly and act responsibility in relation to the advice that will help us all in the long run.

Kind Regards, Falls Creek Resort Management

Can I visit the Alpine National Park?

The Alpine National Park is open for day-use. Please note regular infrastructure such as day shelters, the Visitor Information Centre and other businesses will remain closed to visitors.

Under the new restrictions you cannot gather in groups of more than 10 people at a time. You must ensure that 1.5 metres distance can be maintained between yourself and others. Snowplay within the resort is currently not activated.

As always, Victorians are being asked to be considered and use common sense when it comes to their activities. You should only leave home if you really need to. We are all being asked to make sacrifices in order to save lives.

Both Trude and Bernie worked for Bob Hymans for a period at Grand Coeur Chalet

After leaving Falls Creek, Bernie and Trude moved to Canberra where Bernie took work on civil engineering projects such as the coal loader in Wollongong, the Vietnam memorial in Canberra, highway work on the Hume and Sugarloaf Dam in Victoria.

As a pioneer of Falls Creek he will be remembered fondly. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family. •

Frying Pan Inn

Offering pre-prepared meals for pick-up or home delivery in Falls Creek. Refer Notice in this Edition for menu. Ph: 0491 492 482.

Last Hoot Café

Open five nights a week for take away pizzas. Ph: 03 5758 3088. Refer Notice this edition.

Milch Café

Open Monday to Friday 9am – 1pm for coffees, brekkie rolls, burritos & burgers. Open for take-away dinner meals Wednesday to Friday. Check our website for details www. milchcafebar.com or Ph: 03 5758 3407.

Falls Creek FoodWorks

For all licensed supermarket lines & newspapers. Located lower level St Falls West. Open Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm & 10am - 3pm Sunday.

Childcare

Falls Creek Childcare 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.

Trude and Bernie Plohberger at Bernie’s 90th. Pic – Courtesy the family

CASH BOOST FOR ALPINE AREA

Positive All Round

Projects in the Alpine Shire will be pushed to start within six months following Premier Daniel Andrews’ $2.7 billion building works package announced earlier this week.

Tawonga Caravan Park Upgrade: Tawonga is a drawcard for those seeking a slower pace of life as it’s dotted with walking and cycling tracks and offers fly fishing on the Kiewa River. Soon, even more visitors will be attracted to the region, thanks to a $2.1 million investment to re-open Tawonga Caravan Park, which was closed due to water management issues. The park will be connected to articulated sewage and facilities will be upgraded.

numbers of personnel respect the scale re-occurred. now Vets and Middle maintained by supported spectator show dramatically. remains a very gratitude and in express ‘diggers.’ opportunities together with day that gratefulness expected location, 2017. 5:15am Park.

Stage five of the Falls Creek Mountain Bike Park will see an injection of $500,000 which will allow for the development of 11-kilometres of international standard mountain bike downhill and flow trails to increase event attraction and participation. Currently with 40km of excellent mountain biking trails and another 30km of aqueduct trails around the village in the National Park and the extensive management vehicle tracks, Falls Creek is set to continue to maintain its title of Mountain Biking Mecca!

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

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.

Mount Buffalo community and its visitors will benefit from the $1.5 million injection to build the wilderness pods, which will provide a unique mountain-top luxury accommodation option in the Alps.

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.

The eco pod investment comes as Parks Victoria prepares to instigate an Expression of Interest process to seek private investment for a cafe within the iconic Mount Buffalo Chalet. The EOI proposal is for a year-round café in the front part of the Chalet, which would offer regional produce

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

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.

along with self-guided tours of the Chalet ballroom.

Further details on the service from Mr Bob Williams, President, Mount Beauty RSL on 5754 1585, or 0427 784 499.

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. •

Mount Buffalo is a winter wonderland attracting more than 230,000 visitors a year and the addition of a new accommodation option and potential new café will attract more visitors in summer to hike, camp and kayak in the heart of the state’s beautiful north east, supporting the local economy and jobs.

Growing Mt Hotham – Alpine Gateway:

Mt Hotham and the Alpine region will benefit from $4.2 million to kickstart the first stage of works to create a new commercial and recreational precinct at the Mt Hotham Resort. The project will see the development of the architecturally designed Alpine Gateway.

This sort of injection of funds and services will go a long way towards the aim of continually improving services in the bush. •

Monday to Friday ~ 9am

Slalom Plaza (start of the bike trails) Ph: 03 5758 3088 At the base of

Slalom Plaza (Start of the bike trails) Ph:

Wednesday, Thursday & Friday we

Fish n Chip Friday

•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.

The good news is that a further investment in trails at Falls Creek will add to the community amenity, as will the security from knowing that the Towonga Caravan Park will remain a vibrant attraction for our valued guests.

Pic – Matt Hull

will be Wednesday Day.

require contact this would visitor general personnel for a to above please http://joprothero@fallscreek.com.au. there. •

LOCAL MOUNTAIN BIKING

It Keeps Getting Better

In the early 90’s, very few people had heard of mountain biking, let alone had tried it. A ‘hard tail’ or a ‘Dually’ were technical terms. The bikes had bigger tyres and funny straight handle-bars. Little did we then know the impact mountain biking would have on the community –pretty well world-wide – and especially in this community – where it has had a tremendous (and healthy) impact.

After the running of the White Mud Classic (an event planned for Falls Creek – but it snowed) in 1993, the formation of a mountain bike club would be the next productive step. Keen members at the time included Scruff, Jo, Dean, Whispering Pete, the Panozzos, the Hatelys and quite a few others. When Bernie McArdle came back from a ride one day, two of his (and Joan’s) kids, Joey and Allison said “Congratulations Dad – you are now the President of our new club!” Various names were thrown around including ‘THROB’ – The Highland Riders of Bogong – or Team Mount Beauty – which is the name settled upon – and everyone is pretty happy with that name. The club was incorporated on 14th August, 1995.

A Life to Remember

Steve Killalea from Milestone Chemicals - just one of the many exhibitors that will be as this year’s Trade Fair @ Falls Creek. Pic - Elle Shaw.

A Life to Remember

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

In that 1995 to 99 era, several very good mountain biking events were staged by the club and supported by the community, combining Cross Country and Downhill to

for all members of the hospitality industry to prepare for winter and do some serious saving on product needs for the season.

the point where Mount Beauty was voted to have run the best mountain biking events in the country for three years in a row.

To be held at the Frying Pan Inn, in the Village Bowl at Falls Creek, the Trade Fair will take place on Tuesday 2nd May from 10am to 5pm and again on Wednesday 3rd, from 9am to 4pm.

for all members of the hospitality industry to prepare for winter and do some serious saving on product needs for the season. To be held at the Frying Pan Inn, in the Village Bowl at Falls Creek, the Trade Fair will take place on Tuesday 2nd May from 10am to 5pm and again on Wednesday 3rd, from 9am to 4pm.

The success of our events was largely due to the dedication of the volunteers and to the fact that members of the well organised Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club stepped in to help and also loaned the bike club much of their course lay-out equipment – providing (in those days) a much more professional looking event than other events around the country. The BNSC had been running well patronised XC skiing events for many years and were very supportive of our move into mountain biking.

Something of an institution since 1982, the Trade Fair @ Falls Creek is an opportunity

Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Phone: 5754 1270

MEDICAL SERVICES

Tawonga Crescent

Companies invited to exhibit include Bedding Suppliers, Linen, Manchester and Window Furnishing suppliers, Wine and Spirit merchants, Wholesale Food Suppliers, Chemical, Cleaning and Toiletry suppliers and equipment suppliers. Prepare for the season and save money. Visit the Trade Fair @ Falls Creek. Further details from: Mb: 0400 350 488. •

Then, because of the success of the mountain bike events that we had run, Mountain Bike Australia (Cycling Australia) awarded Team Mount Beauty the opportunity to run the Australian Mountain Bike National Championships – to take place in March of 1999 – prior to the Olympics in Sydney in September 2000.

at the time could best be described as ‘rudimentary’ to the point where the little shelter and fire-place that was there, the council wanted to demolish because campers were camping illegally during winter to go to the snow. “But hang on a minute, we need facilities to run mountain bike events – and we’re being recognised as running pretty good events.” Better facilities were definitely required.

About this time, the Rotary Club of Mount Beauty got involved – and, working with the shire, were able to secure some state Government grant money to extend, roof and add showers to the toilet block and add a storage area for the bike club.

8:30am - 5:00pm Mon - Friday

10:00am - 12:00pm Saturdays

8:30am - 5:00pm Mon - Friday 10:00am - 12:00pm Saturdays

FOR TAKE-AWAY

Ph: 5754 3400 for appointments 24 hours for emergencies

We have a full range of delicious take-away food!

Ph: 5754 3400 for appointments 24 hours for emergencies

Got a problem with pests?

We can help with:

• Pre-purchase home inspections

Open 4pm - 9pm Six Days (closed Mondays)

Drs Mark Zagorski, Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton & Anoop Pem.

Seafood, Swiss Chicken, Baguettes, heaps of Burgers and a full range of Pizzas. Plus Coffee, Milk Shakes, Thick Shakes, Ice-Creams and Desserts.

Ph: 03 5754 4422

223 Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga South be Day. require contact this would visitor general for a above please http://joprothero@fallscreek.com.au. •

Fully accredited General Practice with 37 years service to the Upper Kiewa Valley.

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.

• Pre-purchase home inspections • Sniffer dog tracking of Termites

• Sniffer dog tracking of Termites

• Rodents • Spiders

The facilities at the mountain bike park

• Rodents • Spiders

• Wasps - and all other pests that crawl or fly!

The grant also enabled the construction of a large day shelter with water, lights and power – with all of the above facilities enabling the town to host the 1999 Nationals. This work, also done by a great bunch of volunteers and professionals then provided a facility for mountain biking in the area for the next 20 years.

Then came the ‘Pick My Project’ opportunity – where the state government

Andrew Poulton

Ph: 1300 559 799 Mb: 0427 914 909 Em: Andrew@bugroffpestbusters.com

The Organic Touch

Andrew Poulton Ph: 1300 559 799 Mb: 0427 914 909 Em: Andrew@bugroffpestbusters.com

Take-Away Menu

MOTORING TIPS

Pumpkin Soup & Sourdough

Regular Servicing

Pea & Ham Soup & Sourdough

Regular Servicing

Tomato, Ginger, Chilli & Garlic Soup & Roll

Lamb Shank & Barley Soup and Sourdough

Our car is like our body. We must look after it all of the time - not just when something fails.

Chicken Spinach Pie & Salad

Spinach & Ricotta Cannelloni & Salad

Fully licensed restaurant ~ TAKE AWAY MENU ~

Our car is like our body. We must look after it all of the time - not just when something fails.

Beef Lasagne, Cheese Sauce & Salad

Salmon & Pea Quiche & Salad

Lemon Cheesecake

A range of take away pasta and other specials weekly. GF pasta available. Special meals can be cooked with notice on request.

PASTA DISHES

Bolognaise - with Pork & Beef

Creamy Chicken - with mushroom, sage & peas

Sticky Date Cake & Caramel Sauce

Choc Fudge Brownie

Regular servicing will identify when items are wearing (brake pads, tyres, filters, hoses etc). These and other wearing items can be replaced before they let us down on the road.

Plus: Coffee, Smoothies, Milkshakes & Kombucha

For Lunch & Dinner - Monday to Friday only

Imagine discovering (too late) that your Brake Pads had worn out - just as you’re heading for the tree.

Orders by Phone: 0415 813 763

Pick up: 10:30am - 1:30pm

Regular servicing will identify when items are wearing (brake pads, tyres, filters, hoses etc). These and other wearing items can be replaced before they let us down on the road. Imagine discovering (too late) that your Brake Pads had worn out - just as you’re heading for the tree.

The Organic Touch Day Spa

225 Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga South

Regular servicing is important for the good health of your vehicle - and for your good health and safety!

Home Delivery Available

A Motoring Tip brought to you by: Rick @ Mount Beauty Service Centre, Kiewa Valley

Calabrese - olives, salami, napoli, capers & roast garlic

Napoli ricotta & pork belly

Napoli - with beans, pine nuts, leek & zucchini

Ragu - slow braise of beef with carrot, onion, potato & carrot

~ Plus the occasional special ~ Available every night

Phone orders from 5pm | Pick up from 6pm - 7pm

Regular servicing is important for the good health of your vehicle - and for your good health and safety!

Order after 5pm on 03 5754 4495 & Roi will cook you something delicious!

177 Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga

Steve Killalea from Milestone Chemicals - just one of the many exhibitors that will be as this year’s Trade Fair @ Falls Creek. Pic - Elle Shaw.

Our new viewing deck at the Mountain Bike Park. Pic - Ken Bell

would supply funding to projects that were voted by the community as being necessary for the good of the community.

Now the good news! Team Mount Beauty and the many volunteers associated with mountain biking in the area have been hard at work delivering this project and to all intents and purpose – it is now complete!

The newly renovated shed includes two electric BBQs, heaps of bench space, a more usable concrete floor with better event access and a huge deck with an amazing view –with the benches and tables now installed. Please note that in accordance with DHHS rules, the BBQs and picnic areas should not be used at the moment. We will await further advice from the State Government for any changes.

Next to the shed is our new bike wash - an important and long-awaited addition to the Park. It will reduce the spread of weeds and minimise damage to bikes and cars during transport. It will also be a great asset during events. It has permanent capacity for three bikes but we can expand this during events. The custom-built Whipps surround is designed to surface rust with time. Watch this space! Until signage goes up, we remind you that the water ends up in our rivers so if you must use something please ensure it is biodegradable and appropriate to go into our waterways. No harsh chemicals and be water-wise please.

You may have also noticed the repositioned trailhead map, including steel arches from past local hydro projects and timber posts from circa 1850s.

TMB would also like to take this opportunity to again thank the team involved with delivering this project.

Team Mount Beauty Pick My Project sub-committee: Michael Whipps, Rachel Whipps, Joel Panozzo, Jim Taylor, Sven Eriksen, Damian Heman.

Team Mount Beauty Committee: Michael Whipps, Liam Panozzo, Turi Berg, Carli Emond, Rachel Whipps, Joel Panozzo, Peter Hull, Richard Wilson, Blair Hume, Rob Vandenberg, Bernie McArdle, Leighann Gnyla.

Neighbourhood Centre News:

We are open from 10am to 2pm Monday-Friday for essential services of Centrelink & emergency relief resources, as well as takeaway food & other needs. Take-away High Tea. If you are feeling excited about having a few friends to visit, we have the perfect way to celebrate. Thursday 28th May, come and collect your savoury box and sweet box of treats.

Step 1. Ring and order by Tuesday 26th May. $20pp min 2 per order.

Step 2. Decide if you want to hire our teacups, teapots or cake stands. $10 extra.

Step 3. Pick up your order Thursday 28th May between 11am-12pm.

Step 4. Log into the zoom virtual morning Tea for catch up with friends, guest speaker and see if you have won a prize.

LOCAL MOUNTAIN BIKING

Volunteers who have all contributed considerable time, equipment, material, expertise: Justin Hams, Mike Smith, Jack Cottrell, Sian van Gastel, Ben Truan, Tom Courtice, Josh Tanzen, Bernie McArdle, Bruce Addinsall and Don Shields.

Consultant and contractors who have also made in-kind contributions: Andy Mero (sendit.archi), Kusch Engineers, Simon Jones (Horizon Studios), Duggan and Hanlon, Foresight Engineering, Quickie (Falls Creek Electrics), Dom Glass (Bogong Engineering).

And, of course, our government: Pick My Project – courtesy the Victorian State Government and the Alpine Shire.

Perhaps the most important peoplebecause without them we wouldn’t have a project - the community near and far who voted for us. And almost as important, Skye for giving Damo the extra time needed to drive this project.

And the most wonderful aspect of this project over the years is that it would not have happened without the community volunteers. To everyone who has had even the slightest input, you can feel justifiably proud of your contribution – because without you we would have nothing. That’s what makes this a great community to be involved with. Thankyou! •

Other activities to keep away that isolated feeling are:

Zoom Strength Training Classes Tuesdays & Fridays 9:30am $20 per (4 sessions).

Zoom Tai Chi Classes Fridays 11am.

Enquire about our FREE “Fit for Fun” program and register for your personal fitness assessment, set to start sometime during June.

TAKE OUT

For Great Take-Away

TAKE-AWAY MENU

Coffee / Burgers / Fish n Chips Hot Food / Cakes / Curries

Roast Dinners / Fruit Salads / Sushi Rice Paper Rolls / Cold Drinks

TRADING HOURS: 9am - 3pm: Thurs to Mon Plus: 5:30 - 8pm: Fri & Sat Closed: Tues & Wed

PHONE ORDERS: 0411 695 546

Please do not text - make sure you talk to a person! Check our Facebook page for updates in what's happening in Kiewa Valley FB: Mt Beauty Take Out

Tennis Court Avenue, Mount Beauty Phone: 03 5754 1166

From left, Joel Panozzo, Jim Taylor, Sven Ericsson, Damian Heman, Club President Mike Whipps and Rachel Whipps. Pic - Ken Bell

LOCAL HISTORY

Tom Mitchell - Ski Champion & Visionary.

In the annals of the history of Falls Creek, there is one man who is often overlooked. He did not set up the first ski tows or lifts; he did not operate a commercial lodge; nor was he a ski instructor. Nevertheless Tom Mitchell played a significant role in the development of the village and is deserving of recognition for the role he played, if not as a ‘founding father’ but as a guiding ‘godfather.’

The Mitchell family were among the early settlers in the Upper Murray area and it was at the family property Towong Hill that Thomas Walter Mitchell was born in 1906. Tom Mitchell first learned to ski on a family holiday at Klosters in Switzerland when he was seven years old. It was fourteen years later while studying law at Cambridge University that he developed his passion for skiing. In the 1930’s he was four time Australian champion in slalom, twice in downhill events and four times combined champion. On a number of occasions he captained the Australian team in interdominion competitions with New Zealand. He made a strong impression when he won the 1932 NZ national championships on Mt Ruapehu, “his high standard of skiing an inspiration to the local skiers,

MEDICAL SERVICES MOUNT BEAUTY

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

WHAT Fully accredited General Practice with 40 years service to the Upper Kiewa Valley.

Your Local Practice –supporting the local community!

demonstrating techniques not previously seen on the mountain.”

In 1937 Tom published Ski Heil, the first Australian handbook on skiing technique. The same year he was instrumental in establishing the Australian National Ski Federation. Tom Mitchell married in 1935 and taught his wife Elyne to ski. She, too, became a champion - winning the Canadian downhill championships in 1938. However it was as an author that she is most remembered, especially for her ‘Silver Brumby’ series for children set in the Snowy Mountains.

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?

At the outbreak of World War II Mitchell joined the AIF. After the fall of Singapore he became a prisoner of war; one of the founding members of the ‘Changi Ski Club’. Interest in skiing had not diminished during the war years; in fact membership of the Ski Club of Victoria (SCV) had grown from 459 members in 1940 to 1,000 by 1945. Of this number 200 were serving in the armed forces.

OLD SCHOOL HARDWARE

EMERGENCY

Ben: Yep, first overseas race, first EWS (Enduro World Series), so it’s going to be pretty exciting.

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.

MR: Have you heard anything about the tracks over in Rotorua, NZ?

The November 1945 edition of the SCV’s magazine, Schuss, included an article about the Changi A.I.F. Ski Club of which “Capt T.W Mitchell, with his usual enthusiasm for all skiing affairs, was president.” At a meeting of the club on 5th February, 1943, the subject was about “increasing and improving accommodation and conditions in the snow areas of Australia.” Mitchell led the discussion proposing the development of alpine villages, suggesting that ski clubs should adopt one particular resort and spend their energy in developing that particular resort.”

Ben: From what Chris (Panozzo) has said, they’re fast and there aren’t many rocks.

MR: How did you get into riding?

After the war Mitchell returned to the family property near Corryong, becoming a member of the Victorian Parliament

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

Tony St Elmo and Tom Mitchell ski out across Bakers Spur to plant a flag on Mt Hillary in 1953, north of Mt Nelse, and which now seems to have been lost off the map. Pic – The St Elmo Collection.

in 1947. His passion for skiing had not waned, nor had his vision for the development of alpine villages. In her memoirs, Skippy St Elmo writes about Mitchell’s visits to Falls Creek and the discussions held about the potential for the area to develop as a ski resort. By this time the members of two ski clubs, Bogong Ski Club and the newly formed small Skyline Club, had become enthusiastic about ski racing and joined the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A).

In 1948 Mitchell organised a bus trip for the other member ski clubs (from Albury, Bright, Myrtleford, Wangaratta and Beechworth, Tallangatta and Benalla) to visit Falls Creek. Shortly thereafter Albury applied to build a club lodge followed by Myrtleford.

During his time as a politician (1947 to 1976), and as Victorian Attorney General (1950-52) Mitchell was able to have a direct influence on the development of Falls Creek. Indeed, he was instrumental in the easing of barriers placed by the SEC powers-that-be on accessing the ski fields, be it on receiving permits to build lodges or permits to use the road. By 1951 the village as had been envisioned by Mitchell as a POW was taking shape. He too had committed to building a small Dawn Ski Club lodge with Dale Crookes.

Mitchell continued to encourage and support the trans-Tasman ski competitions

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.

Orbea Avant M20D Disc road bike: Carbon frame, size 60, colour- Carbon-Blue: $1,950. Nelo Viper 51 Kayak: $1,500. K1 ERGO paddling machine: $600. Athlegen Massage table: (as new) $200. Taskmaster electric cement mixer. Price negotiable. Ph: 0408 466 790.

Men’s Bicycle Diamond Back ‘Outlook’ nearly new –with helmet (unused). $75.00 Ph: 03 5754 1215.

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

CARPENTRY & BUILDING SERVICES

Oztek Property Maintenance. Let us look after your home. We do bathrooms, decks, pergolas, and all handyman needs. Call Dave: 0466 990 862.

CIVIL CELEBRANT - HEATHER MULL

Quality Ceremonies - All Types. Mb: 0428 993 125. www.celebrant-ne-vic.com.au

and in the early 1950’s visits by local clubs became more commonplace. In 1953 a team from New Zealand visited Falls Creek for the first time. This was some months after Edmund Hillary and Nepalese Sherpa Tenzing Norgay became the first climbers confirmed as having reached the summit of Mount Everest. Aware of this, Tom Mitchell and Toni St Elmo had proposed that an unnamed mountain to the north of Mt Nelse be named Mt Hillary to honour the event. (Although the naming was apparently gazetted it has been lost over time in reproduction of maps of the area).

LOCAL HISTORY

‘Ski Heil! Tom Mitchell, ski champion and champion of skiing!’ •

(Note: The Falls Creek Museum volunteers are currently collecting memoirs and stories from the early days of visitation to the Bogong High Plains and the history of Falls Creek for a forthcoming publication. Contributions are most welcome.

Contact Ken Bell on 0400 350 488, Em: info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au).

TRADING POST CLASSIFIEDS

with added rubber protective sole. Almost brand new. Size 9 G. Retail $309.95 will sell for $250. Ph: 0400 350 488.

MISSING BOOK

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.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

Altitude Electrical - no job too big or small. Domestic, commercial & industrial. Ph: Ben Svarc 0419 801 109.

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.

PAINTER

Pat Co Painting – Commercial and Residential, for Mount Beauty and surrounds. Ph: Pat: 0459 433 886.

PAINTING SERVICES

Interior/Exterior, Domestic/Commercial. Obligation Free Quotes. Quality & Service Guaranteed. KLM Alpine Painting Services, Ph: Laif 0437 023 921

FOUND

Wedding ring in the vicinity of Tawonga South Newsagent and Post Office. If someone has lost a ring give me a call on 0400 350 488 and provide a description of the ring.

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

PHYSIOTHERAPY

Kiewa Valley Sports & Spinal Physiotherapy. 5A Hollonds St Mt Beauty. Out of hours and home visits available. HiCaps. Ph: 5754 1270.

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.

SPORTS MASSAGE

Book online. impactmassage.com.au

STORAGE

Caravans, Vehicles, Pallets, Large Lock-up Units. Ph: 0428 361497 ww-w.alpinewarehousing.com

TAXI & 4WD SERVICE

Covers Falls Creek and Albury. The on-demand taxi hours are now 8am to 9pm Monday to Thursday. 8am to 1am Friday and Saturday. No taxi service on Sunday. Special Bookings may be made outside these hours by prior arrangement. Ph: 0409 573 909 or 131 008.

RM Williams Cuban Heel Boots, Bushman Tan,

A young Tom Mitchell preparing to load the rope tow beside the Nissen Ski School. Pic – the Griffith Collection

OUR COMMUNITY PAGE

For Better Living

COVID-19 has meant that church services have not been able to go ahead. This paper is pleased to be able to support our local community and offer a contribution for this week. Ed

Greetings everyone and welcome to reflections for 17th May

Announcements – A reminder of Songs of Praise on ABC TV at 11:30 am Sundays and Praise in the Alps at 5pm on local radio.

Call to Worship: Ps. 66: 8 & 20 Praise our God O peoples, let the sound of his praise be heard; Praise be to God, who has not rejected our prayers or withheld his love from us.

AHB 80- Immortal, invisible, God only wise, In light inaccessible hid from our eyes, Most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days, Almighty, victorious, thy great name we praise.

Readings set for today ; Acts 17: 22-31; Ps 66: 8-20; 1 Pt 3: 13-22; Jn 14: 15-21.

every situation. The amazing truth is that God is love. Consider each of these points: “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you;” “You will see me,” “Because I live, you also will live” “I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you,” “He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him/ her.”

Vs. to remember – Jn 14: 27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

In our gospel passage, Jesus introduces us to a triune God; Father, Son and Spirit. In Jn 4: 24 Jesus tells a Samaritan woman that “true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth.” Then in 14: 6, responding to a question from Thomas, says, “ I am the way and the truth and the life.” Now from vs16-17, we learn of the Counsellor, the Spirit of truth.

The unity of the three is truth. Truth is a stumbling block for many, because truth remains the same in any and

PUBLICATION SCHEDULE:

During his interrogation of Jesus, Pilate asks the rhetorical question, “What is truth?” Many today still ask the same thing, which is the question you ask when you don’t want an answer or you have already made up your mind and are determined not to change. In Acts 17 Paul finds an alter with the inscription, TO AN UNKNOWN GOD, and says “Now what you worship as unknown I am going to proclaim to you. Then the verse after the set ones, reads “When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some sneered, but others said, “We want to hear more.” Jesus said, “the world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him.” Therefore we need to accept is that what we know as part of our everyday lives, the many do not. And again, as part of our loving others, we need to be conscious of that and sensitive in our manner towards them. Peter puts it well in vs 15 “But in your hearts set Christ apart as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience.”

During these difficult days, may our hope in Christ Jesus remain strong and vibrant.

May the Lord bless and protect you, may the Lord’s face radiate with joy because of you; may he be gracious to you, show you his favour and give you his peace. •

Shalom, Rob

WHATS ON

MAY

May is Red Shield Month

May is Red Shield Month. But collections are not taking place –so Google Salvation Army and click on their site to make a donation. At the moment, they are swamped and the team need all of the help they can get to continue their fabulous work. https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/

FUTURE EVENTS

Something to look forward to!

JUN 1st It’s a Monday and it is also the date of the traditional ‘Falls Creek Ice Plunge’ – the welcoming of the winter with a dip in the chilly Rocky Valley Dam. At this stage, all being well, the next Ice Plunge in Rocky Valley Dam will be 10am Tuesday 1st June, 2021. Hang in there!!

JUN 5th The Official Opening of the Ski Season would normally take place this weekend. Keep your eye on the website: www. fallscreek.com.au for updates on the COVID-19 restrictions and changes to those restrictions.

The Bogong Power Station Information Centre is closed until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic

For more information: agl.com.au/hydro AGLCommunity@agl.com.au 03 5754 3222

2020 SUMMER PUBLICATION SCHEDULE & RATES

Ed 01 * 05.06.20 * Queens Birthday Weekend Activities. What can we look forward to? (C)

Ed 02 * 12.06.20 * At this stage, due to COVID-19, this paper will only publish fortnightly. (C)

Ed 03 * 19.06.20 * Hopefully we’ll be reporting on a great season of activities. Stay Cool! (C)

Ed 04 * 26.06.20 * Publishing fortnightly – until we get the good news. (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:

• 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

CONTRACT:

ENQUIRIES

• A Season Contract for 15 editions of Summer is available offering a 15% discount. The contract is secured by payments made four editions in advance. Due Dates: 25.10.19, 20.12.19,

Great views and heaps of healthy exercise for everyone to enjoy. Pic - Ken Bell.