This Week in Falls Creek & Mount Beauty - 12 January 2024

www.thisweekinfallscreek.com.au

PRICELESS

SUMMER EDITION SIX

FRIDAY 12TH JANUARY 2024

Many Wonderful Experiences!

​The view to Pretty Valley from the Summit of Mt McKay. Pic – Roslyn Ann Photography ​​Both bottom pics: Our ​​ fabulous XCO Mountain Bike Championship takes place this weekend. Pic – Matt Rousu

VICTORIAN MOUNTAIN BIKE XCO Championship Series

X

CO, or Cross Country Olympic Format is one of the most wellknown and exciting disciplines of mountain biking. Cross Country MTB became an Olympic sport in 1996 and is the only form of mountain biking practiced at the Olympics. With head to head racing, technical tracks and world class athletes, each even is action packed.

The rules for cross country mountain biking for the Olympics are actually pretty simple. The race has a mass start, with all of the riders starting at the same time, and the riders then have to finish a set amount of laps around a course between four kilometres and six kilometres in length.

The number of laps to be completed is dependent on the category entered.

Falls Creek is the major sponsor of the series – of which there are eight rounds and our village hosts Rounds Five and Six this weeekend.

Of the Eight Rounds, the competitor’s best five results will count – meaning if a rider misses a race, or has a mechanical problem, they are still in with a chance.

There are several great aspects of the XCO format. One aspect being the mass start and the close racing throughout the event.

Also the fact that the racing is mainly centred through the village. And if Tambo has anything to do with the course, it will be exciting and challenging.

There are 12 categories for the event coming Men and Women and classes for E-Bike and Recreational E-Bike. The current standard XCO format uses a course between 4km and 6km in length.

Depending on the category entered there will be a certain number of laps to be completed to create a race time within a given range.

HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON FROM US!

OPEN DURING SUMMER MONDAY TO FRIDAY: FROM 4PM DINNER: 4PM - 8PM HAPPY HOUR: 4PM - 6PM DAILY OPEN AUSTRALIA DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY FRIDAY 26TH JANUARY

FIND US AT THE TOP OF SCHUSS STREET

WE ARE OPEN BOOK NOW FOR NEW YEAR'S EVE! FOR DINNER WED-SUN UNTIL THE END OF JANUARY!

SUMMER MENU, KIDS MEALS, SUNSET VIEWS, BILLIARD TABLE BOOK AT: www.lakesidefallscreek.com.au Mobile: 0455 500 849

FALLS FREEDOM

A mass start in the village is always a great spectacle.

Pic – Matt Rousu

PRIZES: At each round: 1st, 2nd and 3rd in every category will be awarded a trophy. Any other ‘on the day’ prizes will be up to the individual event host.

For Series prizes there is a $7000 Falls Creek Resort prize pool which will be distributed across all categories with even amounts paid to each category (30% less for junior categories). To be eligible for the series prize money you must compete in a minimum of three rounds.

Previous XCO events have started in Slalom Plaza or in Slalom Street towards Halley’s Lodge. Just be there and make sure you support many of our local riders who will be competing. A fun weekend for all! •

FoodWor ks &Mt Beauty

are now open!

TY MT BEAUAYS D OPEN 7- 7p m 8am

REEK FALLS CIS WEEK

HOURS TH low!

See be

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE

· Grocery · Liquor · Produce · Meat · Hot Food · ATM · Phone recharge

Falls Creek FoodWorks Bogong High Plains Road, St Falls West Ph: 03 5758 3009 | Fx: 03 5758 3034 Em: fallscreek@stores.foodworks.com.au JANUARY HOURS: Monday – Saturday: 9am – 5pm Sunday: 10am – 3pm

Mt Beauty FoodWorks 4-16 Kiewa Crescent, Mt Beauty P: 03 5754 1400 F: 03 5754 4829 E: mtbeauty@stores.foodworks.com.au

2

Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Summer 2024 Edition SIX

VICTORIAN DOWNHILL SERIES Round Three

H

One of the factors that members of Team Mount Beauty (and this community) can be very proud of is the fact that the members have been dedicated and have all worked extremely hard over many years (since the early 90’s) to create a fantastic mountain bike venue and to host really successful events.

Briefly, the format of the event is:

With Falls Creek having just hosted the Victorian Mountain Bike XCO Championships, (this weekend) and all of our fascinating new trails, both here and up the hill, there is plenty to look forward to.

Elsewhere in this edition is the good news on the forthcoming Mountain Bike de Femme on March 22nd to 24th.

osted by Team Mount Beauty at the Big Hill Mountain Bike Park, Round Three of the series will see around 350 riders competing on our fabulous downhill course next weekend, the 20th and 21st of January. Among the entered Elite riders are several who are ranked in the top 20 in the World, with one entrant finishing 6th at the World Championships in France in August last year.

Saturday: Practice, with shuttles running 9:30am to 4pm from the bus bay opposite the golf course up the West Kiewa Power Station Road to the top of Mount Beauty.

Sunday: Qualifications will be running to establish seeding for the start of racing later in the day. Shuttles will be running from 7:30am until all racers have been lifted to the start – about 3pm.

Spectators welcome both days but racing starts at 11am Sunday!!

The Victorian Downhill Series rules are based on the Mountain Bike Australia (MTBA) DHI rules for a Category 3 event. Visit https://vdhs.com.au/rules for more detail.

Part of the success of these events is the commitment of the volunteers – and this year is no different. Team Mount Beauty are looking for Track Marshalls, Shuttle drivers to tow trailers with bikes (but not passengers) and car parking personnel.

Coffee, lunch and snacks provided during the day. Please Email your response to: info@tmb.org.au if you are available.

Members of the Rotary Club of Mount Beauty have taken on the role of providing Stop Go Marshalls on the road over the weekend – and this effort is appreciated. •

Mud is just a part of any event – and something to tackle hard. Pic – Matt Rousu

• Open 7 Days •

From 4pm For Dine-In or Take Away Full Menu, great Pizzas & Burgers Phone Orders & Bookings recommended. Fully Licensed!

Slalom Plaza, Falls Creek …the start and end of the mountain bike trails!!!

Music • Art • Comedy • Food

03 5758 3088

- The Temper Trap-

Thelma Plum • Holy Holy

The Grogans • Vaudeville Smash • The Maes

Savage Honey • Invictus • Geraldine Hickey • Jordan Barr Concetta Caristo • Ben Kochan • Tuck SHop Ladies Yours, Georgina • Zoe Neilson • Kentone • Frock Hudson Flying Fruit Fly Circus • Connected Circus

CAFÉ

&

BAR

January Trading Open 8am – 4pm Daily Brekky, Lunch, Drinks and Snacks Open for Dinner – Five nights Closed for Dinner Sunday & Monday

tickets on sale now!

Dinner Bookings Please Ph: 03 57322 8000

VISIT feastival.fallscreek.com.au FOR DETAILS

17 Bogong High Plains Road FALL CREEK Wb: https://stfallsresort.com.au/

February 16 - 18 2024 Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Summer 2024 Edition SIX

3

MTB de FEMME Fun For the Girls

M

TB de femme is back at is rightful home in 2024 after being relocated to Big Hill MTB Park, Mt Beauty this year due to the closure of the access road. The dates are Friday, 22nd - Sunday, 24th March.

Since the 2022 event the resort has built new trails, Skyline, Heavy Metal & Downtown which we can’t wait to ride. Similar to it’s winter snow product, Falls Creek has trails suitable for all riders, from beginners through to advanced.

The event weekend is specially designed for all females looking to get into mountain bike riding or learn new skills to become a more confident and safer rider.

What sets this apart from many MTB events is that is it purely social with no race aspect.

We believe that mountain biking isn't just a sport, it is a community. “To watch women supporting and encouraging each and forming friendships over the weekend is why we host the event.” says Jo Prothero from All Ride MTB, the event organiser. Participants connect with like-minded people and

Fully licensed restaurant

INTIMATE DINING EXPERIENCE Our intimate personal dinners for small group are proving to be a favourite with regulars and visitors.

Please feel free to contact us and discuss your requirements and timing.

Regards, Roi and Sue.

become instant riding buddies. And who doesn't love an excuse for a weekend away with girlfriends!

There are various ticket options, the full ticket (+ a first-timer no shuttle option) at $435 or $290, Saturday only $270, Sunday only $135 or take on the epic Fainters Backcountry 50km adventure ride from Falls to Mt Beauty at $165.

New in 2024 is a screening of the Big Bike Film Night, Fainters Backcountry ride, lunches are included, a night of Trivia and fun on the Pump Track.

The low down - Participants can join us from Friday afternoon for a cruisy warm-up ride, a mingle at the Falls Creek Museum which is a great opportunity to meet fellow riders. We’ll then screen the Big Bike Film Night, which brings the best cycling short films from around the world together.

Saturday will start with a leisurely coffee before participants join a skills session with the coaches from The Fastline Bikeadmy.

We ask participants to self rate their riding ability so they are comfortable with the group (side note, women always rate themselves lower than their ability!) but there is scope to move up or down. We'll stop for a lunch, which is included before heading back out on the trails to put into practice what they have learnt. In the evening, there will be a TRIVIA night which will include a few questions about the history of Falls and mountain biking.

For the more experienced riders, there is an option to take on the epic Fainters Backcountry ride from Falls Creek to Mt Beauty on Saturday. A 50km challenge of

Take Home Meals Thursday to Sunday during January Check our Socials for Menu All your favourites - Call ahead to order!

Phone: 03 5754 4495 177 Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga

Open:​Sunday to Thursday: 10am - 9pm ​Friday & Saturday: 1​ 0am - 10pm

ORY’S FALLS CREEK Open Six Days a week 8am – 2pm & 5pm till late!

Closed Thursdays

Ph: 03 5758 3899 • Em: dine@orysfallscreek.com.au Wb: https://www.orysfallscreek.com.au/ 4 Schuss Street, Falls Creek 4

ascents and descents that is rugged and raw and one for the bucket list. An e-bike may be the way to go for this one so you can truly take in the amazing views. Riders will be shuttled back up to Falls after the ride.

Sunday commences at a slower pace with a Pilates class before we step it up with a manoeuvre skills session which will include learning to bunny hop, jump and tackle the pump track. Alternatively, you can choose to head for a leisurely guided ride. Lunch will be provided before we have a fun pump track competition to round off the weekend.

For those who don't need to rush off, there will be another screening of the Big Bike Film Night.

“We truly hope the weekend ignites a passion in participants for mountain bike riding. From my own experience, the benefits extend much further than just the bike. It improves general fitness levels, connects you with nature, requires full focus (like meditation) and connects you with a community.” says Jo. •

Bistro open Tues to Sat from 5:30pm Bar open 7 days from 2pm DRIVE IN BOTTLESHOP​​​

Fully Licensed​​​​ Restaurant & Bar

​Not serious competition – just a lot of fun and laughs among friends – and lots of enjoyable learning.

Pic - Sam Purdie

Call in and take advantage of our great range of THIRSTY CAMEL Specials to save bucks!

Join the Thirsty Camel Hump Club for even better deals!

Vegitation is now offering home delivery, and click and collect orders for Mount Beauty, Tawonga South, Tawonga and Falls Creek!

Order online for the freshest produce delivered direct to your door or packed and ready to be picked up from our warehouse every Tuesday and Friday.

Register for an account and order online now at:

www.vegitation.com.au

PH: 03 5754 4888

KIEWA VALLEY HWY, TAWONGA SOUTH Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Summer 2024 Edition SIX

PUBLIC AWARENESS And Responsible Communication

A

BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) facility has been proposed at Dederang by a company called Mint Renewables. The community was informed when neighbouring landholders to the proposal received notification by mail on Friday 20th October. We also discovered that a second Dederang landholder has signed with a company and three other landholders near Mount Beauty have been approached.

The Kiewa Valley has transmission towers and we have been advised that power can be fed in anywhere along the route. This puts the whole valley at risk.

Our community held a public meeting on 16th November, to which Mint Renewables was invited but refused to attend. Mint Renewables appear to have a divide and conquer strategy. They only want to meet with direct neighbours individually. Their strategy is now to hold drop-in sessions and call this community engagement. As a result, we have formed a group Friends of the Kiewa and Alpine Valleys to fight against the project. Our group is advocating for responsible renewables.

BESS installations are not without problems and there have been many well documented around the world. We are concerned for the environment, danger from bushfires (the Kiewa Valley is surrounded by bushfire management overlays), danger from thermal runaway incidents within by BESS facilities including emission of toxic gasses, our strategic agricultural land, the iconic landscape of the Kiewa Valley - it compares with some of the best in the world, the liveability of our homes and the ongoing viability of our businesses - not to mention the devaluation of property values and a potential impact on tourism.

The Kiewa Valley is home to diverse flora and fauna, and the installation of a BESS poses a threat to the delicate ecological balance of the region. The potential disruption to local wildlife habitats, the possible impact on water sources, and the alteration of the landscape could have longlasting consequences for the environment and our local tourism industry. The Kiewa Valley landscape will be forever changed if industrialised by Renewable developments.

We are custodians of the land and need to ensure if remains healthy and vibrant.

The Alpine Shire has strict rules about land use to encourage preservation of the landscape. The Shire has only 8% land that is not state forest. The Kiewa Catchment is considered to be some of the most productive land in North East Victoria. One wonders why are we destroying the environment to save the environment? The Victorian Farmers Federation are putting land impacted by renewables at 70%.

We have been writing to Mint Renewables asking them to provide information about their discussions with various authorities, (CFA, Shire, CMA etc.) so that we can have a more meaningful community meeting with them to understand more about the project. To date they have refused to provide any information, but we are continuing to push them for it. For example, from a CFA perspective we would like to know how they plan to provide enough water if an incident occurred and how that water would be contained. Given at the VBB fire they used 900,000L to contain the fire for two battery units. This is a critical issue.

Fire at Tesla giant battery project near Geelong 2021 was likely caused by coolant leak. Google Image

Sharon McEvoy is the elected spokesperson for the group. She can be contacted on Ph: 0438 289 the6maccas@bigpond.com • There is something seriously wrong here – the first being the Mint Renewables have failed to date to communicate clearly with our community – and every decision must be based on clear communication and a planned outcome that benefits everyone. We’ll keep you posted. Ed.

FANCY A NEW AUDIO VISUAL HOME THEATRE? WITH FANTASTIC SURROUND SOUND… AND MORE! We have the Expertise – and promise to deliver the best in Hi Fi Audio & Video at the right price!

Em: gerardo@vaudioarchitect.au Ph: +61 1800 828 346 Fb: https://www.facebook.com/vaudio.architect Wb: https://vaudioarchitect.au/ Yt: https://www.youtube.com/@vAudioArchitect

Servicing Falls Creek; Mount Beauty; Tawonga South; Tawonga; Bright; Dederang; Wodonga; Albury and surrounding areas.

Visitor Information Centre - OPEN FOR BUSINESS -

Mondays to Fridays | 9am – 5pm Weekends & Public Holidays 9am – 3pm

We're changing recycling for the better!

Located upstairs in the Resort Management building, cnr Slalom Street & Bogong High Plains Road.

Providing all of your local knowledge to help you enjoy your visit.

Lots of books on wildflowers, walks, the Australian Alps, birds, fishing and local small creatures!

NEXT HARD WASTE DISPOSAL DAY SUNDAY 28TH JANUARY 2024

Falls Creek Alpine Resort is committed to the sustainable management of rubbish and recycling. We now have the resort-wide implementation of a 4-stream system: rubbish, organics, glass and mixed recycling.

For more information and to access your free resources please visit our website or contact FCAR directly.

Purple Glass Recycling bags now available at the VIC

On-Line Shopping for Gifts & Collectables

Open for major events over summer!

Wb: https://idreamofsnow.com/ Ph: 0412 185 463 Level One, St Falls West (above FoodWorks)

Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Summer 2024 Edition SIX

Drop Off Location: Snow Clearing Depot, Howman’s Gap. Contact: 4Site Freight – 0437 306 799

Ph: 03 5758 1200 Em: info@fallscreek.com.au Wb: www.fallscreek.com.au

5

THE SKIING SWAGGIE A Touch of History

L

ate afternoon on 21st August 1936, four ski tourers stumbled into Cope Hut. Their journey from Fitzgerald’s Hut had been a ‘white hell.’ Their entry in the Cope Hut visitor’s book provides some insight of their experience: “Terrific N.W. wind with maddening drift snow as well as snowing intermittently.

Owing to hard icy patches we had often to shoulder our skis. Never will the members of the party forget the ordeal of literally crawling over the ice to this hut from the pole line.”

got a load for the tip? call

The men, members of the Ski Club of Victoria (S.C.V.), were dismayed to discover that they were immediately compelled to venture back out in the blizzard to collect wood. The scarcity of firewood was totally unexpected as it was tradition that hut users ensured ample supplies were always left for those that followed. The lack of firewood was attributed to a ‘hobo’ found in the hut when the group arrived.

Four days later another entry provided some details of this lone occupant. He was, according to Bill Robertson, “surely the most extraordinary snow traveller in existence.” The description of the man was akin to that of the swagman who walked the roads of rural Australia, getting by on transient labouring jobs and living off the land.

He was literally dressed in rags, and although he carried a self-made wheat-sack

WELCOME TO

SUMMER

Time to get plan work around the home.

pack, he had very little food. His skis were a couple of slabs hewn out of snow gums with the natural bend from the trunk to limb forming the upward toe turns. Each was over seven feet long, one being a few inches shorter than the other. The bindings were an indescribable mixture of wombat hide (self-tanned), rope and wire, and his ‘ski boots’ were rubber waders. For stocks he used a couple of sharpened snow gum sticks with cross-pieces tied on with wombat hide for handles.

The extraordinary circumstances of the encounter with the solo traveller above the snowland led to one of the S.C.V. party talking to the press. An article titled ‘The Mystery Man of the Bogongs’ appeared in the Sydney illustrated magazine, ‘Smiths Weekly’ on 12 September (http:/nla.gov. au/nla.news-page25420477). The ‘skiing swagman’ identified as H Price, was a “sterling bushman… quite self-contained in a Robinson Crusoe fashion.” He had made his two bowie knives, ski bindings, leggings and carried a rifle, frying pan, billy and a possum-skin sleeping bag.

Hardware, Homewares, Workwear, Clothing, Boots, Garden gear, Gifts & Outdoor supplies!

Gift vouchers and free gift wrapping available.

Mount Beauty Hardware & Drapery Store Mon – Fri: 9am –5:30pm Saturday: 9am –4pm Sun & Public Hols: 9am –2pm

Qualified Arborists & Tree Climbers, Tree Pruning, Stump Grinding and Mulch Sales

12 – 14 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty

Ph: 0409 958 5991

Ph: 03 5754 1999

EMERGENCY EMERGENCY Ambulance EMERGENCY BROADCASTER Alpine Radio (Fires & Floods) ELECTRICITY Faults & Emergencies FIRE Falls Creek/Mount Beauty/ Tawonga HOSPITAL Mount Beauty MEDICAL CENTRES Falls Creek (closed in summer) Mount Beauty

000 000 96.5 FM 13 17 99 000 5754 3500 5758 3238 5754 3400

POLICE (non-emergency) Falls Creek Mount Beauty Wangaratta REGIONAL ROADS VICTORIA Falls Creek RACV Falls Creek/Mount Beauty BURN OFF NOTIFICATIONS CFA STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE Falls Creek WILDLIFE RESCUE

131 444 5758 3424 5754 4244 5723 0600 133 778 5758 3287

PHYSIOTHERAPY Kiewa Valley Sports & Spinal Physiotherapy

5750 1230 1800 668 511 13 25 00 0421 553 527

5A Hollands Street, Mount Beauty

Phone: 5754 1270

2023-2024 PUBLICATION SCHEDULE & RATES PUBLICATION SCHEDULE:

Ed 06 * 12.01.24 * MTB XCO Championships. Mile High Dragon Boats. Vic Enduro.

Ed 07 * 25.01.24 * Mile High Dragon Boats, Vic Enduro, Fly Fishing State Champs.

Ed 08 * 09.02.24 * Fly Fishing Vic State Champs. Feastival Falls Creek. Dederang Races Ed 09 * 23.02.24 * Australian Grand Traverse. Bendigo Community Bank Dederang Races.

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

ADVERTISING RATES:

• 1 column (6cm wide) = $16.00 per cm. 4cp = $21.00 per cm.

• 2 column (12.5cm wide) = $26.00 per cm. 4cp = $37.00 per cm.

• 3 column (19cm wide) = $36.00 per cm. 4cp = $49.00 per cm.

CLASSIFIEDS: • Like the Trading Post. Send in your Classifieds and pay when you sell.

BUSINESS DIR.: • $6.50 per line per Edition.

DEADLINE: • Friday 2.00pm prior to publication date CONTRACT: • A Green Season Contract is available for advertising in all 14 editions of the Green Season offering a 15% Discount – invoiced four editions in advance. Invoice Dates are: 20.10.23; 21.12.23; 16.02.24 & 12.04.24.

DISPLAY:

ENQUIRIES For Information on Advertising or Editorial Contributions please contact: Ken Bell Mob: 0400 350 488 Email: kencbell@bigpond.net.au

6

For Payment, Placement of Adverts or Subscriptions, please forward to: Ph/Fax: 03 5754 1346 Office Address: Suite 2, 41 Bogong High Plains Road, Mount Beauty Postal Address: P.O. Box 325, Mount Beauty 3699. ABN: 22 171 749 807

Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Summer 2024 Edition SIX

THE SKIING SWAGGIE Since he set out alone in early June from the Crooked River area in Gippsland Price had covered over 160 kilometres. Following the Wongungarra River to the foot of Mt Selwyn he had made his way to Mt St Bernard and Mt Hotham. A route via Whiskey Flat then took him down over the Cobungra River to the Bogong High Plains.

Price reportedly had intended to go to Tawonga Hut, but after erring with the pole line had spent a night in the snow near No. 1 Pole. From there he made for Cope Hut. Unrelenting blizzards kept Price at Cope Hut for at least five days, conditions which also confined the S.C.V. party to Fitzgerald’s Hut and were to have disastrous consequences for another party of three ski tourers on Mt Bogong.

The weather improved the morning after the S.C.V. party arrived and Price set out for Kelly’s Hut. He evidently prolonged his sojourn above the snow line by availing himself of stores cached at the huts prewinter for touring parties! By midday the blizzard had been rekindled and Price, having mended a broken ski at the S.E.C Hut, reappeared. In the meantime, two of the S.C.V. men collected stores from Middle Creek Spur. They learned from Tom and Brendan Fitzgerald from Shannonvale of the death of Cleeve Cole after he, Mick Hull and Howard Michell had been caught out in the blizzard on Mt Bogong.

Despite the dire news the next morning in driving sleet and wind Price again set out for Kelly’s Hut, according to Robertson,

“refusing our offer to accompanying him part of the way - thus continuing a meandering of the mountains which appears to be so aimless.”

After two more days of strong winds, heavy rain and driving snow the party at Cope Hut decided to curtail their trip, but first committed to replenishing the wood supplies. On the 25 August their last entry in the Cope Hut book recorded that “we had the only decent fire since our arrival last Friday. There is plenty of wood for the next party. We only hope the hobo we have found here does not return to burn what we have left.” •

GOT A PROBLEM WITH PESTS?

VALLEY FUN & FITNESS CLASS Every Tuesday at 9am at the Ladies Facility, Dederang Recreation Reserve. Bring a drink bottle and towel. $10 per session. Classes by Narelle Jones. Enquiries: Sharon McEvoy 0438 289 293 (the6maccas@bigpond.com) POSITION VACANT Mash Accommodation Services is gearing up for exciting growth, but we need help. We're on the lookout for a casual, reliable individual to join our team as a cleaner. Enjoy very flexible hours – Hoping for a local who resides in the valley year-round.

If you're a dedicated individual that wants to join a growing business and thrive in a flexible and friendly atmosphere, we want to hear from you! Call Ashleigh on 0484 908 606.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY I thought the dryer was shrinking my clothes. Turns out it was the refrigerator all along!

MISSING BOOK A hard-bound copy of Dr Ruth Lawrence’s Thesis titled ‘The Interaction between Land Use, the Environment and the Hydrology of the Bogong High Plains between 1850 and 1985’ was given to this community in the care of the late Bill Sutton. It has been loaned out – and not returned. This is a vital piece of the history of this area and it would be fabulous to have it returned.

If you are going through your old bookshelves, keep an eye out for it. Fortunately your Editor has obtained a Digital Copy form the Melbourne University for reference. Any news, please call 0400 350 488.

THE CLEANEST LAUNDRY IN TOWN ...and we're proud of it!

ARIEL'S LAUNDRETTE

• Pre-purchase home inspections • Spiders • Sniffer Dog tracking of termites • Rodents

OPEN: 8am - 8pm weekdays 9am - 7pm weekends & Public Holidays

Andrew Poulton | Mobile: 0427 914 909 409 Buffalo River Rd, BUFFALO RIVER VIC 3737 Email: admin@northeastpestsolutions.com.au

41 Bogong High Plains Road, Mount Beauty · Ph: 0400 350 488

We can help with:

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE ROLA Roof Racks to suit Commodore VB, VC, VH, VK & VL. Were anodized black but faded, so I had them powder coated. $350 ono. Ph: 0400 350 488.

A recent image of Cope Hut with the front door on the northern side. The original door, store room and wet area are on the south side, but all too often were covered in snow drift to be useable. Pic – Courtesy Falls Creek Museum

BUSINESS DIRECTORY ARBORISTS A fully insured, GST Registered, ethically minded local business. Alpine Valley Arborists. Call Kane 0428 287 814 or Hayley 0427 272 777 – for all things trees!

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 Mb: 0409 673 192 or Em: hello@studioecakes.com.au CAR DETAILING Give Steve a call in Tawonga South. Ph: 0423 499 086.

CARPET CLEANING Call Nathan of NatWest Home Maintenance, your local Carpet Cleaning Service. 0410 480 697.

CARPENTRY & BUILDING SERVICES Oztek Constructions Pty Ltd. We do local building work, renovations, extensions and maintenance. Email Dave at: oztekconstructions@gmail.com. Or Ph: 0466 990 862 CIVIL CELEBRANT – HEATHER MULL Quality Ceremonies – All Types. Mb: 0428 993 125. www.celebrant-ne-vic.com.au COLLECTABLES & HOMEWARES I Dream Of Snow - Vintage snow collectables & brand new homewares. Open on-line all year round. www. idreamofsnow.com ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Altitude Electrical – no job too big or too small. Domestic, Commercial & Industrial. Ben Svarc Mb: 0419 801 109.

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Electrik Charge – Cade Piera – Licensed Local Electrician.

Mb: 0400 827 060.

Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Summer 2024 Edition SIX

FREIGHT – ALB – MTB – FALLS CREEK Remo’s Transport from Albury/Wodonga to Mount Beauty and Falls Creek Tues to Fri inclusive.

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 and evenings by appointment. Ph: 03 5754 1177.

LANDSCAPING Design and landscaping - quality work. Contact Hamish at External Solutions: Em: admin@externalsolutions.com.au.

Mb: 0400 160 532.

LD’S HOME PET CARE Pet Care and Dog Walking. Ph: Lisa 0407 541 695.

LOCKSMITH & HANDYMAN Codi Coutts – servicing the Kiewa Valley & North East Victoria.

Ph: 0475 388 990. Em: kiewavalleylocksmith@yahoo.com MAINTENANCE For general property maintenance, small renovations, plastering, painting and more contact. ALL SMART MAINTENANCE - João Joaquim - 0429 474 535 jpjoaquim@outlook.com 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 St, Mount Beauty. Out of Hours & Home visits available.

HiCaps. Ph: 03 5754 1270.

PILATES Reformer, Group or Individual for a better quality of life.

Wildflower Pilates Ph: 0433 017 660.

SPORTS MASSAGE Book On-Line: impactmassage.com.au STORAGE Caravans, Vehicles, Pallets, Large Lock-Up Units.

Ph: 0428 361 497. www.alpinewarehousing.com

7

WHAT'S ON IN 2024

THE BOGONG RANGE RATS Growing Interest

F

rom the late 1920s the Bogong High Plains had become a popular summer and winter destination for young adventurers. A proposal from the Ski Club of Victoria resulted in the State Tourism Committee providing the funding for Cope Hut which was finally built in 1929 and nick-named ‘The Menzies of the High Plains’ because it was very ‘flash’ for a hut in the Bogong High Plains.

Park Run. 8am at Bicentennial Park, beside the library in Lakeside Avenue. Enquiries to 03 5754 1118.

JAN 13-14

Victorian Cross Country Mountain Bike Championships Series Cross Country Olympic Format. https:// www.fallscreek.com.au/listing/ falls-creek-xco-victorian-statechampionship-series-falls-creek/ Ph: 03 5758 1200.

JAN 20-21 ​Victorian Downhill Series Round Three at Big Hill Mountain Bike Park hosted by TMB. https://vdhs.com.au/

​SEC Cottage was built in 1933 to house hydrologists working on the high plains prior to the beginning of construction of the Kiewa Hydro Scheme. The hut was used by the SEC until 1946, where-upon it was later handed over to the Melbourne Bushwalking club.

Such was the passion for ski touring bookings for the hut were essential. Toni St Elmo, who, with his wife Skippy, was to become the first all year resident of Falls Creek was one of the skiing enthusiasts. In a caption under a photograph of him sitting outside the hut with his skis he wrote, “We were known as the Range Rats, Cope Hut was our base camp. We moved across the plains to Hotham and Bogong exploring as much of the plain as possible.”

Another reference to the Range Rats was found in the 1942 Australian and New Zealand Ski Year Book.

During Second World War, the 1st Australian Ski Corps was formed in the Middle East under the command of Major R.W. Savage. Training began in the Lebanon Ranges over the 1941 Christmas period. Excerpts from a letter from Savage

revealed that one of the instructors was Lieutenant Dan McCaw. According to Savage “dangerous Dan” was a Bogong High Plains “Rat” who would rather live in a hut than a place with “mod cons.” • These Interesting items were compiled and supplied by Diana Patterson, a member of the Falls Creek Historical Society and former board member of Falls Creek Resort Management Board.

AGL Hydro 03 5754 3222

BAR & BISTRO

WED TO FRI: 3pm to Late.

Meals from 5:30pm – 8pm.

SAT & SUN: 12noon to Late.

Meals from 12noon – 2pm & 5:30pm – 8pm.

SPECIAL FUN

SAT 20th: Karaoke Beach Party 8pm – till Late!

COMMUNITY RAFFLES

JAN 27-28 ​Victorian Enduro Tour – Falls Creek Round. Em: victorian.enduro.tour@ gmail.com. Ph: 0468 362 823.

FEB 10-11

Fly Fishing Australia present the Victorian State Championships.

Rocky Valley, Pretty Valley & surrounding streams.

FEB 16-18

Feastival Falls Creek – A celebration of all things good in the high country.

Further details: Ph: 03 5758 1200.

FEB 24

Australian Grand Traverse – Falls Creek (Slalom Plaza 7am) to Hotham (The General). Further details: https:// www.peakadventure.com.au/agt.

FEB 24

Bendigo Community Bank Mount Beauty & District Dederang Picnic Races https://country.racing.com/ dederang or Ph: 0418 114 751.

MAR 2

Mount Bogong Conquestathon – the 43rd staging of this great event.

Further details coming.

MAR 10

Peaks Challenge Falls Creek – by Bicycle Victoria and hosted by Falls Creek. 03 5758 1200

MAR 15 ​Falls Creek Longest Lunch. Gourmet delight. Ph: 03 5758 1200. Em: events@fallscreek.com.au. Wb: https://www.fallscreek.com.au/listing/ the-long-lunch-falls-creek/

AD PROOF

LOCALLY BREWED BEERS ON TAP: Mountain Monk Pale Ale; Hazy Pale Mid Strength; Pilsner; Indian Pale Ale; Mountain Monk Sour. Do the Tour with a Tasting Tray!

1 LAKESIDE AVE, MOUNT BEAUTY 3699 PHONE : 03 5754 4985

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

SAT 13th: ​​Dean Hatani | 4 – 7pm SAT 20th​​: Paul Gibbs | 4 – 7pm www.mountainmonkbrewers.com.au/ mountainmonkbrewers/

MEDICAL SERVICES - Upper Kiewa Valley ------------------------------- MOUNT BEAUTY MEDICAL CENTRE ------------------------------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, Damian Heman, Daniel Florisson & Andrew Mason.

JAN 26-27 ​​Mile High Dragon Boar Regatta – Rocky Valley Lake – Falls Creek.

Ph: 03 5758 1200.

MAR 22-24 Mountain Bike de Femme – a weekend EDITION for the ladies with riding for SUMMER TWO all standards, instruction, film, social events and https://www.fallscreek. com.au/listing/mtb-de-femme-fallscreek-2024-falls-creek/

PRICELESS

Giving back to our community!

FRI 12th: ​Mt Beauty Golf Club FRI 19th​​: Mt Beauty Swim Club

WHAT

Fully accredited General Practice with 42 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!

If you need to see a doctor please contact Mount Beauty Medical Centre on 03 5754 3400. You may 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!

8

JAN 13, 20 27

For further details on coming events, got to: https://www.fallscreek.com.au/whats-on/events/

MOUNT MOUNT BEAUTY BEAUTY POOL POOL

SUMMER OPENING SATURDAY SUMMER HOURS HOLIDAY HOURS

Mon 18th December - Sun 28th January 12TH NOVEMBER Monday toFamily Friday: Season 6.15am –Pool 10:30am Early Bird Pass Holiday Season - $85 on sale until November

1pm – 7pm 20th.

24th Dec 2018 – 27th Jan 2019 Saturday Season - Sunday: 12noon – 6:30pm Normal Closed Christmas-Day 12th November 20th December * Featuring an intermediate pool, a 33 metre pool,

Lap Swimming: Mon –- Fri 6:15am – 10:30am Lapas Swimming: Montoddler well as an outdoor pool7am with- 10:30am ample General Admission: Weekdays 1pm – 7pm General Mon -the Fri pool 3:30pm-7pm lawnAdmission: area surrounding plus a great Weekends – 6:30pm Weekends 1:30pm 1:30pm - 6:30pm kiosk and Aquafit programs.

Holiday Season Normal Season Further Details:-Enquire at Reception.

21stJanuary December January 28th – 31st29th March 2019 Service Drive, MOUNT BEAUTY Closed Christmas Day Lap Swimming: Mon – Fri 7am – 10:30am

Mon - Fri 3:30pm 6:15am– -7pm 10:30am Ph: 03Weekdays 5754 1181 Mon - Fri 1pm -7pm

Lap Swimming: General Admission: General Admission:

Weekends 1:30pm – 6:30pm Weekends 1:30 - 6:30pm Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Summer 2024 Edition SIX Aquafit: Tue & Thu 6pm – 7pm

Normal Season

Saturday 30th January - 26th April9:30am – 10:30am.

F