Falls Creek is thrilled to see the return of the Mile High Dragon Boat Regatta to the shores of the Rocky Valley Dam this weekend. Following a one year hiatus due to the Black Summer Bushfires, the resort looks forward to welcoming nearly 250 paddlers from across the State and the border bubble. With this weekend’s event being the opening round of the State Series many teams are making the pilgrimage to what is considered one of the best venues in the country for dragon boat racing.
The National Gravity Enduro Series acts as the qualifying series for the Enduro World Series. See mention in the article with Ben McIlroy.
Whilst COVIDSafe measures, including social distancing will still be in place, organisers are confident the competition will be close! With 15 clubs in attendance all eyes will be on Victoria’s biggest club, Melbourne Flame. Despite a tumultuous year the team picked up club of the year in 2020 and will be looking to maintain their dominance. However, it won’t all be plain sailing for the club with the Yarra River Dragons headed by David Abel, Australia’s national Coach, also looking to claim glory.
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.
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.
These and many other clubs including our own Mount Beauty Dragon Boat club have been training hard and are looking forward to getting back out on the water. Our local Mount Beauty club now have a second boat and a looking forward to pushing very hard in the competition.
Head of Marketing and Communications at Falls Creek, Sarah Watt, said the resort was thrilled to welcome paddlers back -
SATURDAY & SUNDAY 10AM – 3PM MONDAY 10AM – 4:30PM & TUESDAY (AUSTRALIA DAY) 10AM – 2PM
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
Or phone 03 5758 1200 for further information.
PS: Volunteers needed to staff the museum. A normal shift is from 12-4pm. 4 Slalom Street, Falls Creek (beside Halley’s Comet)
Wb: www.fallscreekmuseum.com.au
Em: info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au
Fb: facebook.com/fallscreekmuseum
Please
Trails, Tales & Tucker Guided Walks
First Sunday of each month, plus Thursdays during Christmas and January.
Any time for groups of five or more with 48 hours notice. Refer to: www.trailstalesandtucker.com.au
www.fallscreek.com.au
“Following a turbulent year Falls Creek Resort Management is incredibly excited to welcome paddlers from across the State and in the border bubble to the Rocky Valley lake. Whilst the event may look a little different this year with COVIDSafe measures in place across the weekend we know the spirt and camaraderie of the event will be more than evident and we can’t wait to see the competition heat up!”
No time to be smelling the roses during this weekend’s Gravity Enduro. Pic - Jiri Cech.
Practice sessions will be running for paddlers on Saturday afternoon with competition taking place on Sunday morning from 7:30am. Further details from 03 5758 1202 or visit www.fallscreek.com.au/events. •
The 2021 Alpine Classic is coming up on January 24th.
After a cancelled year with bushfires, the organisers are now are hosting a smaller event without many NSW riders being able
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!!
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. •
to make it. Around 1300 Cyclists are set to hit the Alpine Roads and tackle the peaks of the Victorian High Country.
In its 35 year history the Alpine Classic has grown and now offers riders a range of classic events. The 60km Bright to Mount Beauty; the 70km Bright to Mount Buffalo; the 130km Bright to Falls Creek; the 140km Bright to Mount Buffalo & Mount Beauty; the original Alpine Classic 200km Bright to Falls Creek then Buffalo; the 250km Alpine Classic Extreme (the lap around Omeo) and the 320km Ultimate which is around the High Country loop through Omeo and then up Buffalo.
Events such as are vitally important to the Alpine Shire as they offer significant economic benefit to its townships.
Whilst the event has no major road closures, the roads around Bright, Mt Buffalo, Harrietville, Mount Hotham, Falls Creek and Mount Beauty will have an increased number of cyclists and motorists may experience delays, particularly if seeking to cross Tawonga Gap.
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.
Please note Howitt Park Carpark in Bright will be closed Sunday 24th of January, to cater for bike parking and the Start/ Finish of the event. Further details from: https:// www.alpineclassic.com.au/. •
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.
Looking beyond this weekend Falls Creek is heading into a packed summer events program following a successful Christmas period. With events taking place most weekends throughout Jan, Feb and March, the next event in the resort is Round One of the Victorian Gravity Enduro tour. The opening round of the state wide series has hit a record sell out for attendance over a month out from the event weekend benefitting from an unprecedented surge of interest.
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
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.
This year will see the launch of a new and exciting ‘Urban Downhill’ stage on the Saturday evening that will see racers head from the top of the resort down through the Eagle Rock trail in the Falls Creek MTB park and then tackle a technical course down stairs, past lodges and off walls! Taking place on Saturday evening on Saturday 6th Feb this is sure to be as much of a spectacle for non-racers as it will be a challenge for the riders!
Falls Creek Event Supervisor Nick Buckley said “We’re super excited about the launch of our new Saturday Evening Race stage, thanks to the generous support of our brilliant onmountain stakeholders this urban inspired course will be a real challenge for the racers. We’ve a stacked field of top level racers and it is sure to be a real spectacle for the village and great way to kick start our MTB Racing for 2021.” Further details from 03 5758 1202 or visit www.fallscreek.com.au/events. •
ANZAC Day Dawn Service: 5:45am6:15am. Service at Eagle Rock - including
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 2021 Alpine Classic is coming up on January 24th.
the 33rd running of this fabulous event. There is a motorist speed reduction on Tawonga Gap Rd in place for Sunday Events.
Saturday 23rd January 2021
Sunday 24th January 2021
B500 Great Alpine Road between Bright and Omeo Light traffic 6:30am - 5pm
B500 Great Alpine Road - between Bright and Omeo 4am - 2:30pm
C534 Omeo Highway - between Omeo and Shannonvale 6:30am - 3:30pm
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 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.
B500 Great Alpine Road - between Porepunkah and Germantown 4am - 8pm
C536 Tawonga Gap Road - Germantown to Kiewa Valley Hwy 6:30am - 8pm
C531 Bogong High Plains Road between Falls Creek and Shannon Vale 7:30am - 6pm
Further details on the service from Mr Bob Williams, President, Mount Beauty RSL on 5754 1585, or 0427 784 499.
C535 Mount Buffalo Road - between Porepunkah and Dingo Dell 4am - 11:30am
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
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. •
For further information, Em: info@o2events.com.au Wb: https://www.alpineclassic.com.au/ Thank you for your courtesy and patience on the road, and for your support of this event
Asilver lining from COVID is the sudden realisation that working remotely is possible. City-based professionals can now holiday in regional Victoria whilst working thanks to a simple Wi-Fi connection, or even go one better and embark on a tree change - moving their families to the country to enjoy the best of both worlds.
One local business, however, has been ahead of the times, mastering remote working years before it became a necessity.
Growing up in the Mitta Valley before moving to Wollongong for university, Martin Kusz never thought he’d be able to move back to the country. For professionals such as himself - a structural and mechanical engineer - he assumed his work opportunities would always be in cities.
When Martin, with his wife, Jenny, and
Brekky
sons Matthew and William, relocated from Canberra to Eskdale to care for Martin’s ill grandfather in 2013, it was only supposed to be temporary - two months of housesitting before returning home.
Jenny, who was running her own personal training franchise in Canberra, said they soon realised it was a “pretty cool place to live” - especially for their boys, who loved the change of scenery.
“At that stage, I’d been travelling up and down the highway to keep my business going in Canberra, but Marty started making some calls from Eskdale and thought ‘maybe I could make this work’,” Jenny says.
And so they, in Martin’s words, decided to “just have a crack” - and KUSCH was born.
“I basically spent three months knocking on doors and talking to people,” Martin says.
“I spoke to the council and they saw I’d done some project management, and said they had a couple of buildings they were working on that I could help with, and a couple of people we spoke to said we could design their renovations - that’s how it started.
“After three months of knocking on doors, it kind of came alive and it’s just grown on a trajectory since then.”
Six months in, Jenny realised it was going to be a team effort to run the business, and traded in her own to join Martin at KUSCH.
They employed their first staff member in the first year, and started growing a team with many working remotely in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Auckland - something they continue to do today.
During this time, the family also decided to move to the Kiewa Valley when a place they were hoping to purchase in Eskdale sold. Left without another option, they found a home in Tawonga South.
“It was the best move,” Martin says. “There’s so much happening in this little valley - it’s just endless adventure.”
A shed in their backyard became an office space as their team continued to grow, before opening their office in Hollonds Street two years ago.
Martin said while they didn’t start with a vision to build a team of 22 people operating in different countries, they’ve continued to respond to demand, and opportunities have continued to roll in with work locally, nationally and internationally.
“Locally, we serve the construction industry with structural design and certification, but then we work in a couple of niche fields where we design the infrastructure that goes into hospitals for earthquakes,” Martin says.
“We make sure the pipe work for mechanical services, and duct work and machinery is robust enough that a rare catastrophe is not going to cause that hospital to stop functioning. Because there are very few structural engineers that actually focus on that, we have been able to grow and work throughout Australia and overseas.
“We also work in the field of pre-fabrication for what we would call non-structural services - mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, fire systems - in large projects that are happening in cities.”
This involves helping contractors build pieces that eventually form large skyscrapers in modular form off-site. It replaces a building process that would normally be done slowly, piece by piece, 100-odd metres into the air with lots of safety risks. With the help of engineers such as KUSCH, those elements can instead be built in a factory, and put in place using a crane.
On a local level, KUSCH has worked on projects including the new Eagle Chair Lift at Falls Creek and Eddy the ‘floating’ slide at Bicentennial Park in Mount Beauty.
Initially, Martin and Jenny said they struggled to find engineers already living and working in the country, but soon realised the solution was to find engineers who love the mountains and lure them here - an approach that worked surprisingly well.
“We realised there were a lot of structural engineers that came here for holidays and never imagined they could work here,” Martin says.
“We now have a team of people who really love being here. We’ve all got a love of adventure and sports in common,” Martin says, with Jenny adding, the team goes mountain bike riding together every Tuesday, and there’s often motorbike rides, and camping and skiing trips together.”
Martin says he and Jenny have very different skill sets that complement one anotherhe’s involved in the technical niche, and attributes the business’ growth to the soft skills Jenny brings (and ones that engineers aren’t necessarily known for).
“Jenny looked at our core values, purpose and vision, and once we actually defined all of that, it gave us a great deal of direction,” Martin says.
“We largely built the whole culture around those and it’s just worked so phenomenally well. We want to be a fun place to work; after all, people are going to spend a large portion of their lives with us.”
If one thing’s for sure, it’s that Mount Beauty is where they plan to stay.
“There are so many professionals, especially with COVID, that you’ll see around town and they’re working on their holidays and that kind of thing. They’re all thinking how can I make this permanent - and it’s not all that difficult,” Martin says.
“We’re both country born and bred, so we’re just really stoked to be living and working in the country.” • Simone Dowel
Falls Creek to Mount Beauty via Mt Fainter. There are only a few mountain bike adventure rides in the country as epic as this one. Nestled in the heart of the Bogong High Plains, the Fainter trail begins on the shores of Pretty Valley Pondage (just a short drive/ride outside Falls Creek) and winds its way up above 1800m and into the wilderness.
The beginning of the ride is a steep and rocky altitude induced, lung busting, leg burning climb up above the tree line followed by a quick descent down into Tawonga Huts. This 4km is the entrée of what’s to come for the next 40km - so if you’re not feeling up for an adventure, it’s the best place to turn back. Take a moment to soak in some history at Tawonga Huts, visit the loo (the only one on the trail), fill up your water bottle/bladder in the creek and savour the feeling of being in a true alpine landscape.
From Tawonga Huts the riding becomes very technical. Awkward rocky climbs, mud holes and shrubs that will scratch your legs and grab your handlebars are frequent as you traverse below the Jaitmathang's. You’ll be riding an old fire road that has been slowly reclaimed by nature, it’s now purely single track as it winds it’s way through snow gums and alpine grass.
After one final steep, rocky climb that will challenge the very best riders, the trail opens up again into double track. You’ll find a
couple of shady snow gums on the edge of what seems like an alpine desert of grass. The view is of The Jaitmathang’s and Mt Feathertop behind you and The Fainters in front of you. This is also the last shady area for quite some time so it’s the perfect spot for an extended snack.
Once leaving the safety of the snow gums, the views are spectacular - a 360 degree vista of the Bogong High Plains without a trace of humanity in sight. No power lines, roads, electricity or farmland. It’s a truly magical place to explore. The ride itself remains challenging but not as technical as you wind your way up onto the shoulder of Mt Fainter South, the first glimpses of civilisation are seen way down the valley as you ride along the ridge line between Fainter South and Fainter North, this is the highest elevation point of the ride (1849m). On a clear day you can see Albury/Wodonga some 100km away…
Falls Creek Resort Management will be collecting hard waste on Wednesday 26th April - the day after ANZAC Day. Please see our Hard Waste Collection guidelines on the website, or if you require any additional information, please contact the FCRM Office on 03 5758 1200. • Summer Debrief
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.
Therefore you are invited to join the relevant Resort Management personnel and other members of the community for a summer season debrief meeting.
This is where you open up your suspension and tighten your helmet to prepare for the steep and rocky descent down into Bogong Jack’s, it’s a wild one!
This meeting will take place on Wednesday 26th April from 9:30am to around 11:30am in the Boardroom above Foodworks in QT.
After a short recovery at Bogong Jacks (your hands will need it), there’s one more fire road climb before a super-fast descent down into Spring Saddle. From here there are two options: you can either go for the shorter but steeper climb up to the Big Hill fire towers or the longer ride around Big Hill on the flat fire road. They both meet up at Bench 5 lookout where Team Mount Beauty’s famous Big Hill DH track begins.
UKVRA presents…
Rest assured after 35km of hard alpine riding you can ride the fire trail the whole way down into Mount Beauty, or there are a multitude of single track trails in the mountain bike park to finish off a magnificent adventure.
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
EMERGENCY 000
Ambulance 000
EMERGENCY BROADCASTER
Alpine Radio (Fires & Floods) 96.5 FM ELECTRICITY
Faults & Emergencies 13 17 99
FIRE Falls Creek/Mount Beauty/ Tawonga 000 HOSPITAL
Mount Beauty 5754 3500
MEDICAL CENTRES
Falls Creek 5758 3238
Mount Beauty 5754 3400
PUBLICATION SCHEDULE:
Sunday 28th May 5pm
Mount Beauty Information Centre Auditorium. BYO drinks and nibbles. Tickets: Mount BeautyNewsagency Ph: 5754 4204
RACV Falls Creek/Mount Beauty
BURN OFF NOTIFICATIONS CFA
$25, $20 (members), $10 (students)
A high quality mountain bike. Spare tubes, pump, zip ties, allen keys etc. A good first aid kit. At least 2lt of water. (You can refill at Tawonga Huts if needed). High energy food, snacks. Sunscreen!
The ride is for moderate to advanced riders. It will take 3 - 8 hours depending on fitness/experience. Once you leave Tawonga Huts it is difficult for emergency services to reach you so be prepared for anything including unexpected alpine weather. Let someone responsible know where you are going and what time you expect to finish the ride. Enjoy! • Matt Rousu
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
Something of an institution since 1982, the Trade Fair @ Falls Creek is an opportunity
5A Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Phone: 5754 1270
Ph: Em:
Ed 09 * 05.02.21 * Victorian Enduro Tour. Round One. Dragon Boat Wrap. (C)
Ed 10 * 19.02.21 * Interschools XC Championships and XCO State MTB Championships. (C)
Ed 11 * 05.03.21 * Peaks Challenge Falls Creek. Falls Creek Longest Lunch. (C) Ed12 * 19.03.21 * Wrap of Longest Lunch. Lead up to Easter Activities Autumn Activities. (C)
ADVERTISING RATES:
DISPLAY: •
Affordable skiing in your own backyard!
DISTRIBUTION: • All accommodation houses, restaurants, businesses, club lodges & apartments in Falls Creek, Bogong Village, Mount Beauty, Tawonga South, Tawonga & Dederang, plus the RMB’s between Dederang & Tawonga & selected venues in Bright & Myrtleford.
ONLINE: • Available in PDF form at: www.fallscreek.com.au/whatson/ WEBSITE: • www.thisweekinfallscreek.com.au
CLASSIFIEDS:
•
• Like the Trading Post. Send in your Classifieds and pay when you sell.
Take advantage of the value packed* Local Pass - exclusively offered to local residents.
BUSINESS DIR.: • $5.90 per line per Edition.
DEADLINE: • Friday 2.00pm prior to publication date
CONTRACT: • A Summer Season Contract is available for advertising in all 16 editions of
$250 per Adult + $45 per Day
$140 per Child + $35 per Day
** More Benefits in 2017**
All orders in by Sunday 30th April.
For further information contact: Falls Creek Ski Lifts P/L Ph: 03 5758 1000
*Conditions apply
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.
Tuesday 26 January 2021 in Hydro Park beside the swimming pool and hosted by Upper Kiewa Valley Lions Club.
Fabulous BBQ breakfast from 7.45am (gold coin donation) and family entertainment provided by the Mount Beauty Community Band with stickers and face painting for the kids.
Official ceremony including flag raising, national anthem, affirmation ceremony, guest speaker (Tim Cope) and Alpine Shire Australia Day Community Award presentations from 9:30am.
Cr Tony Keeble will be representing Alpine Shire Council during the ceremony.
This is a CovidSafe event; all attendees are asked to check in and sanitise upon arrival and observe physical distancing requirements during the event. BYO chair or picnic rug. Please stay home if you are unwell. •
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
FOR SALE
White metal bunk with inner spring mattresses - double lower, single upper, ladder at foot end. In very good condition - photos available. $100. Ph: 0477 443 964. 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 neg. Ph: 0408 466 790. 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.
ALTERATIONS, DRESSMAKING & REPAIRS
Call Kerry Mb: 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 cal Justin Mb: 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 Mb: 0466 990 862.
CIVIL CLEBRANT – HEATHER MULL
Quality Ceremonies – All Types. Mb: 0428 993 125. www. celebrant-ne-vic.com.au
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
Altitde Electrical – no job too big or too small. Domestic, Commercial & Industrial. Ben Svarc Mb: 0419 801 109.
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.
when I was about 12 I started showing more interest in racing. I went to a few of the Victorian Enduro events but after a couple of years that series kind of fell apart.
Back in 1966, Melbourne born singing sensation, Helen Reddy, won the Bandstand Talent Contest and was given a ticket to New York including a recording session with Mercury Records.
This single mother and young daughter left Australia with high expectations –but things didn’t work out as promised. However, she stayed in the USA and rose to global stardom – her defining song being ‘I am Woman’ which she wrote. It became the anthem for women in the 1970s.
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.
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?
three and the U19 series overall. I then went on to win U19 National Champs in Adelaide (with a time that would have knocked Troy Brosnan off the elite podium).
eradicating Polio in the world that we need to make this final push to get the job done!
MR: How did you end up travelling and racing alongside Chris Panozzo (2 time Elite Gravity Enduro Australian champion)?
of the races
MR: What more EWS juggle
Though the movie has been shown on TV’s Stan, Rotary has been given exclusive rights to screen it in cinemas - nationwide. The movie is this year’s fundraiser for Polio Plus and is being run as a tribute to Sir Clem Renouf who began the fight to end polio in 1979.
There will be two screenings at the Sun Cinema, Bright. Monday 8th February @ 5:30pm & Monday 15th February @ 7:30pm. Tickets: $20 pp ($8 pp goes to End Polio). Seating: 51 capacity per session (please book early if you want a seat).
Ben: From what Chris (Panozzo) has said, they’re fast and there aren’t many rocks.
MR: How did you get into riding?
Ben: Pretty much because of my Dad,
Rotary, with its partners, is SO close to
FOR SALE
2011 Model VW Tiguan, Gold in colour, Reg till April 2021, new tyres, VGC. 146,000kms. $12,000. Ph: 0455 173 442.
OPTOMETRIST - MOUNT BEAUTY
1997 Toyota Land/Cruiser LX (Troupe carrier). Reconditioned Turbo Diesel engine in 2018 – has done approx. 10,000k on this new engine. Paperwork for work done available. $25,000. Ph: 0408 466 790.
CORONA HUMOUR
Kelly Gibbons from Wodonga Eyecare consulting at the new rooms in the Mount Beauty Medical Centre, Tawonga Crescent. Full eye examinations including Glaucoma tests, Diabetes and Macular Degeneration screening. Children welcome. To arrange an appointment: Ph: 02 6056 4000
Visits Mount Beauty Fortnightly Next: Fri 10th Nov then Fri 24th Nov
If 2020 taught us anything, it would be that stupidity travels faster than any virus on the planet!
The spread of COVID-19 is based upon two factors:1. How dense the population is. 2. How dense the population is.
Fancy a Clean Laundrette? It is here!
FREIGHT – ALB – MTB – FALLS CREEK
Remo’s Transport fromAlbury/Wodonga to Mount Beauty and Falls Creek Tue to Fri inclusive. Refrigeration available. Ph: John or Esther 0417 414 320.
Clean, comfortable, well-lit and carpeted - with flat screen TV, folding bench, efficient washing machines, cost effective driers and industrial water filters to give you the cleanest wash possible.
HAIRDRESSER
Open 8am - 8pm weekdays 9am - 7pm weekends & Public Holidays.
Laundrette
Natalie Raymond, Birds Nest Salon, 26 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty. Open Six days a week and evenings by appointment. Ph: 03 5754 1177.
LD’S HOME PET CARE
Mount Beauty
Pet Care and Dog Walking. Ph: Lisa 0407 541 695
Ph: 0400 350 488
PAINTING SERVICES
Interior/Exterior, Domestic/Commercial. Obligation Free Quotes. Quality & Service Guaranteed. KLM Alpine Painting Services. Ph: Laif: 0437 023 921.
PHYSIOTHERAPY
Kiewa Valley Sports & Spinal Therapy, 5A Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty. Out of Hours & Home visits available. HiCaps. Ph: 03 5754 1270.
For more information, please contact Maria Pantling at eandm@iprimus.com.au or 0402 821 319. •
Ben: I first met Chris at a Victorian Enduro state round at Barjarg, I was still like Under 15s or Under 17s and I knew that he was a fast dude. I wanted to hang out with the fast guys so I wanted to hang out with Chris Panozzo. I remember at Barjarg the shuttles were always a bit delayed, we were hanging out down the bottom for so long that we nearly missed our race runs. When we got to the top, everyone was wondering where we’d been. He was just like “Ah we’ve just been chilling at the bottom.” So that felt pretty cool.
After that he invited me to travel with him to the next round at Narbethong. During that trip we decided not to race any more of the Vic series. I thought that I wouldn’t really continue racing but then Chris invited me to Toowoomba. That was my first national race and from then on we just became mates and he invited me along to all
Alpine Radio 96.5 FM
In the Kiewa Valley Alpine Radio 92.9 FM
In the Ovens Valley Alpine Radio 94.5 FM
In the Harrietville area
Emergency Services Broadcaster Mount Beauty Community Radio for good music, local news, snow reports and developing programs.
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.
Ph: 5754 4554
TRADING POST CLASSIFIEDS
Email: info@alpineradio.com.au
Website: www.alpineradio.com.au
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
SAFETY SCAFFOLD
Ben: I’m and in to finish as much probably my first such a
MR: Have studies on how you like professional Ben: I about it. biker would do have come out
MR: Do a career Ben: Yeah,
Mount Beauty and Falls Creek area. Ph: 0418 578 500.
SECURE STORAGE
Hand-made Pasta ~ Slow-braised meats ~ World’s best Pork Chop ~ amongst other un-worldly delights by Roi!
From 2m x 2m through to 3m x 7m. Ph: 0418 578 500.
SOLAR POWERED SKY-LIGHTS
Hand-churned fruit ice-cream - to die for!
Age ‘Good Food Guide’ since 1998 Lonely Planet Guide
A unique and locally developed product supplied and installed by a fully-qualified electrician. Also available for all other electrical work. Reg No: 20917. Ph: Mal 0419 884 668.
SPORTS MASSAGE
Bookings please - Gift Vouchers available Ph 03 5754 4495
Book On-Line: impactmassage.com.au
177 Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga
STORAGE
Caravans, Vehicles, Pallets, Large Lock-Up Units. Ph: 0428 361 497. www.alpinewarehousing.com
TAXI & 4WD SERVICE
Covers Falls Creek & Albury. The On-Demand Taxi Hours are now 8am – 9pm Mon – Thurs; 8am - 1pm Fri & Sat. No Taxi Service Sunday. Special Bookings outside these hours may be made by prior arrangement. Ph: 0409 573 909 or 131 008.
Kirrily Anderson is a visual artist based in Chiltern and she has a little request for those interested.
In 2021 I will be creating a body of work to be exhibited at the Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA). This work will be in response to the bushfires of 2019/20 and will focus on national parks in North East Victoria as a place of solace. I will be investigating the human response to both the loss and damage of national parks due to the bushfires, as well as the regeneration. My aim is to create a reflective body of work to acknowledge not only the loss and damage, but also the hope that comes with regeneration.
I am looking to meet up with a range of people who have a connection with National Parks in the north east region (BurrowaPine Mountain National Park, the Alpine National Park and Mt Buffalo National Park) - rangers, farmers, CFA, RFS, First Nations people, photographers & artists, community volunteers, nature lovers etc. to discuss their experience and response to both loss and regeneration. We would ideally meet for half an hour or so in the national park, so I can collect photographic inspiration of the environment, but this isn’t essential.
If interested and able to assist, please get in touch via email, phone or socials. Em: hello@kirrily anderson.com. Mb: 0431 123 825. Wb: www.kirrilyanderson.com. Is: @ kirrilyanderson. Fb: @kirrilyandersonartist. •
TIME TO GET OUT THERE!
➤ A full range of gardening accessories
➤ Sun hats, River shoes, Scooters, fishing licences and bait!
➤ Pet Food also in stock!
➤ Gift Vouchers Available
Beauty Hardware & Drapery Store
Monday: 3pm – 10pm • Dinner from 5:30pm
3pm - late • Dinner from 5:30pm. Community Raffles from 5:30pm.
Saturday: 12noon - late • Lunch 12 - 2pm • Dinner from 5:30pm. Live music 3pm - 6pm.
Sunday: 12noon - 10pm • Lunch 12 - 2pm • Dinner from 5:30pm.
WHERE 2D Tawonga Crescent.
WHEN 8:30am – 5pm Mon – Friday 10am – 12noon Saturdays.
HOW Ph: 03 5754 3400 for appointments
WHO Doctors: Mark Zagorski OAM, Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton, Lauren Cussen, Matthew McAlpine, Brett Goodsall & Damian Heman
~ FUTURE 2021 EVENTS ~
JAN 23-24 Mile High Dragon Boat Regatta. Rocky Valley Dam. www.dragonboatvictoria. com.au, or Ph: 03 5758 1200. Refer Write-up Page 2.
JAN 24 Alpine Classic. Approx. 1500 cyclists will be climbing their way up the hills of this beautiful area and an event that has been running for around 35 years. https://www.alpineclassic.com.au/
FEB 6-7 Round One – Victorian Enduro Tour. A multi-stage Enduro event over the high plains with lots of great riding. www.vicendurotour@wordpress.com. Em: events@fallscreek.com.au. Ph: 03 5758 1202.
FEB 8 I Am Woman Movie, 5:30pm Sun Cinema Bright. Raising money for Rotary International End Polio program. Tickets $20. Bookings: Ph: Maria: 0402 821 319.
FEB 15 I Am Woman Movie, 7:30pm (refer to details above).
FEB 26 Falls Creek MTB Interschools – hosted by Falls Creek and Mount Beauty Secondary College. Further details at Ph: 03 5758 1200.
FEB 27 Falls Creek hosts the State XCO Championship Series. XCO or Cross country Olympic Format is one of the most well know and exciting disciplines of mountain biking and the guns will be here. Wb: vicchampseries.com.au. Em: info@entryzone.com.au. Ph: 03 5758 1200.
MAR 7 Peaks Challenge Falls Creek. Almost 2000 cyclists will visit Falls Creek for one of the greatest and challenging rides in the Southern Hemisphere. https://www.bicyclenetwork.com.au/
MAR 13 Dederang Picnic Race Day –A Fun family day out! Further enquiries to: Ph: 0499 357 688 Em: dederangraceclub@gmail.com
APR 2-5 Easter Celebrations at Falls Creek. Ph: 03 5758 1200.
APR 17-18 Alpine Challenge has been postponed to this weekend in April 2021. Refer: https://www.runningwild.net.au/
WHAT Fully accredited General Practice with 41 years of service to the Upper Kiewa Valley.
CONTACT Ph: 03 5754 3400
Em: enquiries@mbmc.com.au
Wb: https://www.mbmc.com.au/ Falls Creek Medical Centre is currently closed! To make an appointment, please phone 03 5754 3400. You will be directed to a doctor for a Tele-Health appointment. Our Doctors are on call 24 hours a day, Seven days a week from Mount Beauty!
Your local practice – supporting the community!
