• Top: The SnowBow encapsulates the new Eagle Express Chairlift. Pic – Pete Sheridan. (Refer Fall Lines for detail)
•Left: How we like it! Steep and deep! Pic – Courtesy FCSL • Right: New smiles from Taiwan – Akigo and Jen. Pic – Mike @ Top Shots
FROM THE CEO
Let the Records Show…
Anyone who’s been reading my columns will know I love a good statistic. Particularly when they work in your favour. It looks like we’ll need to start following a new one, with #crabwatch2018 (read last week’s column) and the Blairgowrie crabs, Australia’s equivalent of Punxsutawney Phil (google it!).
In any case, I’ve dusted off the snow depth data that Resort Management has going back to 1988. The information provides a day by day, week by week, year by year comparison of just about every statistic imaginable compiled and managed by the Falls Creek Ski Patrol team.
From the spreadsheet, it’s official… as at the time of writing, the resort has an average snow depth above any previously recorded depth for the same time in the last 30 years. 82cms is the average magic number, even though the snow stake on Summit hit 90cms at the same time as the Summit chair began spinning!
Only, 2004 and 2000 come close to matching the current depth. Both had average depths of 68cm and 75cms respectively for the week ending June 22nd. In 2000, it wasn’t until June 24th, before we hit the same 82cm mark.
In these comparable periods, from those early dumps the resort got to a maximum of 226cm on August 15th in 2004, then in 2000 the resort hit a maximum of 224cm on August 31st. and in both seasons, accumulation was constant throughout.
As we all know, 2017 was also an extraordinary snow year, with the average depth just topping out above 217cms, and
suspiciously
cumulative snow of 475cm, thanks to the “Blizzards of Oz Version 1.0-3.0”.
Whilst history is no predictor of the future, let’s hope it’s a guide of what the season could lead to, as no snow season is ever the same. And no matter what, all snow seasons are excellent, just some more so than others. In any case, based on the above, we are certainly off to a record flying start.
With Summit and the Maze open, the “International Poma – Falls Creek – Should be National Heritage Listed” Facebook page is placing bets on when the Poma will start rolling. Early markers on the page are calling it start June 30th…only time will tell!
I did manage to get a quick cheeky opening session on Summit. To describe the snow quality as outstanding, is no exaggeration. It was ‘champagne’ powder as they say… Pockets of knee deep fluffy stuff on skiers left out towards the Y’s where knee deep and as fluffy as you’d find anywhere…
Hopefully, as you read this, the forecast won’t have changed too much, and the front predicted to hit this weekend will provide a nice top up ahead of the school holidays.
Visitor Information Centre
The Falls Creek Visitor Information Centre is located in the Resort Management Office, up stairs on the corner of Slalom Street and Bogong High Plains Road. Open 8am – 5pm daily for Visitor Information and Gym Memberships.
Ph: -3 5758 1202. (Map Ref: E4)
Resort Entry
Resort Entry is located at Howman’s Gap, approx. 4km before reaching Falls Creek. Day and Night Passes are at $54 on arrival per day, (or $49.50 on line). If arriving after 5pm and departing prior to midnight on the same day, entry is free. Visitors over 65 years of age receive a discount.
Season Passes are available at $525 (or $450 on line).
An ‘All Resorts’ permit, valid at all Victorian Snow Resorts is available for $740.00 Enquire at Visitor Information desk.
Resort Entry Fees fund essential services of:
Ski patrol
Snow Clearing
Waste Management
Car Parking
Water Supply
Visitor Information Services
Child Care – Hours & Rates
Falls Creek Child Care is located in the St Falls complex, at the base of the Halley’s Comet chairlift – open from 8:30am to 5pm, seven days a week for children from 12 weeks to five years old.
Hours & Rates
Morning: 8:30am – 12:30pm $85
Afternoon: 1:30pm – 5pm $60
Full Day: 8:30am – 5pm $130
Bookings are strongly recommended as places are limited. Make your booking at: www.fallscreek.com.au/childcare.
Accommodation Transfer Service
Operating from the Terminal Building on the Bogong High Plains Road, the Accommodatin Transfer Service will move you, your family and your luggage comfortably to your lodge or apartment.
Hours of Operation
Mon – Thurs & Sat: 8am – 10pm Friday: 8am – 12 midnight Sunday: 8am – 10pm
A Taxi Service is available in the Village during these hours. Ph: 03 5758 1203
A quick call out to all the teams across the mountain who managed to turn it on as quickly as possible. Going from zero snow to hero snow in just under four days and getting all aspects of the resort firing, is no easy feat. The challenges of such significant snow in a very short period requires everything being in overdrive to exceed expectations. Well done to all. Now the ‘cobwebs’ are dusted off, it’s onwards and upwards toward another great season tally.
Foodie Tip of the Week: As has become customary in the early part of the season, I start my ‘food journey’ at the top of the hill. Summit Ridge was the perfect place to settle in, try the new menu and peruse Keith’s comprehensive (exceptional) wine list. It was the trifecta! The food, wine and the company were superb. Don’t just wait for a special occasion to spoil yourself, Summit Ridge is a “must eat” venue… any time.
Now, get out there, explore the mountain and have some fun! •
Stuart Smythe, CEO Falls Creek Resort Management
Under Five:
Allowance
Two pieces of luggage, one pair of skis & boots or snowboard & boots and one piece of hand luggage per person.
Excess Luggage: $7 per item.
Ticket Sales – On Mountain & On Line
From 28.06.18 until 10.09.18 all visitors will be required to use the Accommodation Transfer Service. Visitor vehicles will not be permitted into the village during this period.
That looks
like the Inter Poma in the background – but when will it open? PS: That’s also great fresh snow!!! Pic – Lachy Keevers
DISABLED WINTERSPORT AUSTRALIA
Camps Coordinator
Ken Payne is the new Disabled Wintersport Australia Victorian Camps Coordinator for Falls Creek. Ken has been involved with Falls Creek for many years and until last year spent several years working as a Ski Instructor at Falls Creek Snowsports Ski School.
Ken is proud of his many years at Falls Creek and with the skills he learned as an instructor - assisting Skiers and Snowboarders - those skills will now be transferred to an adaptive on-snow experience. Giving participants the chance to be equal and involved in snowsports activities and to fall in love the sport. This includes access to camps, services, specialised equipment, training and education programs.
The establishment of Australia’s first dedicated alpine accessible accommodation for people with disability and athlete training at Howman’s Gap (4k from Falls Creek) with a 36 bed facility has totally revolutionised our opportunities. “This is more than just beds and recreation in a stunning location, this is an opportunity for us to change our practices and mindset with the whole community and all abilities in mind” said YMCA Victoria CEO Peter Burns.
As the DWA Camps Coordinator this winter, Ken will be responsible for the
Falls Creek Alpine Association (Inc.)
We are a not-for-profit organisation representing individuals, apartment owners, club lodges and commercial operators on alpine issues to FCRM and the Victorian government.
Visit www.fcaa.org.au to join and discover the benefits.
Travelling to Falls Creek this winter?
Leave the worries of hiring and fitting chains, coping with anti-freeze and icy roads behind you!
Park your car in the secure car-park in Tawonga South and ride our comfortable warm coach to Falls Creek!
Daily departures from Melbourne, Albury and Mount Beauty will have you on the slopes sooner – without the fuss!!
volunteer run training camps and eleven weekend volunteer disability camps that will allow all-abilities winter sport athletes to train and improve their skills while utilising the facilities at Howman’s Gap. Volunteers are the key to the DWA success to support the camps organised for disabled skiers and boarders. Volunteers are critical in the delivery of on-snow activities for people with a disability. DWA want participants with a disability to equally participate in snow sport activities, to laugh, enjoy and learn how the freedom of being on the snow can deliver selfsatisfaction.
Falls Creek as a community always has and continues to help and support WDA members and volunteers. Without the support of the Falls Creek community the ability to deliver the camps and independent programs would not exist. The WDA look forward in continuing to work with the local community and all local businesses, delivering the best experience possible.
DWA has a range of DWA Camps and Organisational Camps at Falls Creek to
support skiers and snowboarders with a disability. If you are interested in being a volunteer guide mid-week or at the weekend, or if you want to have a great onsnow experience and would like to know more about DWA’s Camps, volunteering, or anything else contact Ken anytime at kpayne@disabledwintersport.com.au. • Ken Payne, Victorian Camps Coordinator, Disabled Wintersport Australia - Falls Creek. Mb: 0418 527 083. www. disabledwintersport.com.au.
New Range of Salomon Ski & Snowboard Boots have just arrived!!
Discount for all June Boot purchases!
Master Boot Fitter’s on site to fit you up. Open Daily: 8am – 6pm FREE Pick-up & delivery for all ski and snowboard rental!
Be part of the team!
As a member of the Falls Creek Race Club, young members can...
• Learn life skills in a wonderful rewarding environment.
• Make friends for life – with opportunities to travel the world.
• Learn to ski and board in a family friendly surroundings. Programs from primary to late teens – including tertiary tuition for full-time athletes.
‘An integral part of Falls Creek and its history!’ Wb: www.fallscreekraceclub.com.au
Ex Demo Ski and Snowboard SALE – until June 30th
Fantastic Discounts on K2, Völkl & Rossignol skis and Capita, K2 and Ride Snowboards! Call in and check out our fabulous range and variety of new stock.
Victorian DWA Camps Coordinator, Ken Payne. Pic – Mike @ Top Shots
FROM THE GM Fresh Faces
Talk about a remarkable start to winter 2018! There’s little more exciting for us to kick off a new ski-season than to have mother-nature dump a mega-load of snow, 80cm of natural white stuff already! Early birds have been out there daily making the most of the North American style conditions… and it’s only JUNE!!
This past summer, regrettably, we received the resignation of long time Falls Creek identity and Snowsports School Director, Titus Gius. ‘Staatlicher’ qualified (the highest level awarded through the Austrian Ski Instructors Association) in 1980, Titus has dedicated his life to growing people’s love of Alpine skiing in Australia and Austria, with Falls Creek being the beneficiary of his
passion for the past 38 years. I would like to acknowledge Titus’ outstanding contribution in leading the Falls Creek Snowsports School Team and for helping shape what is widely recognised as one of the best Snowsports Schools in the country.
This leaves very big shoes to fill indeed, and I’m delighted to announce and introduce Scott Sanderson as incoming Snowsports Director, Falls Creek.
Having fostered a love of ski here at Falls Creek as a teenager and aspiring athlete, Scott brings with him an impressive international professional skiing career spanning more than 23 years. With 10 years’ experience as a Snowsports Director in Japan and 14 years as Racing and Events Manager at our other resort, Mt Hotham, Scott has a comprehensive engagement in the industry at local, national and international levels. It includes among others, training under the best at the Bundessportheim in St Christoph,
Austria; several years as an Olympic level alpine coach and currently, representation on the SSA National Alpine & Snowboard Committee, SSA National Interschools Advisory Committee, being a National Alpine Selector and is an International Technical Delegate (SX, SBX & Alpine).
Passionate about the sport and bringing a substantial background in both athlete and staff development, Scott is an enthusiastic supporter of staff training as a core to delivering a world class Snowsports team and he looks forward to building on the strong foundations already established by his predecessors.
Scott, we proudly welcome you and your family back home to Falls Creek and wish you every success in your new role. You truly are “Falls Creek for Life”. •
Sharon Raguse, GM Falls Creek Ski Lifts P/L
New Snowsports School Director, Scott Sanderson and his wife Kate and son Louis. Pic – Courtesy FCSL P/L
“Time
to get moving this Winter”
We all know someone who loves an excuse. “Ohh, it looks a little overcast, it might rain,” or “I don’t think I have time, I’ve got to make some calls” or my favourite when they say “I just don’t want to overdo it.” Something is always a little bit off and that is the reason they’re not heading out and doing what they know they want to do! This week, I’ll be making sure everyone from the absolute beginners to the elite international legends (like Anthony Evans!) know what’s going on this Winter in terms of Cross Country Skiing. A highlighter could do some good! For the beginners
Are you a parent and are desperately trying to keep up with your kids? Kids learn pretty fast these days, so it’s probably a good idea to check out what you can do to up your skill level.
Falls Creek has a huge range of events and even non-racing programs that are perfect for anyone looking to cross the first threshold. If you’re not quite sure yet that racing is your thing and want to master the skills first, and you’re a woman, Saturday 7th July is your day at the Nordic Bowl – contact fastandfemale@gmail.com to find out more. It is a great way to just dust out the cobwebs on the XC skis with some friends and enjoy the snow with fun games and activities. Fast and Female is an increasingly popular event held on the 7st July at Falls Creek for women of all ages and led by Australia’s very best Women Cross Country Athletes. That’s only two weeks away!
If you want to have a bit more fun Falls Creek, without a doubt, is home to Australia’s best racing program with different competitions and events for all ages and levels. This Sunday is the first of the Snow, Trek & Travel Mini Series events with distances of 0.5/1.5/2.5km. Contact Lynn-Maree Cullen on 0409 592 226 if you want to get amongst it. I highly
CROSS COUNTRY NEWS
recommend doing so with all the fresh snow we have.
Some longer and more contested but still fun and friendly races are looming also with the Birkebeiner Classic 2.5/5/10km races coming up on Sunday the 8th. July This is always one of my favourites. Visit the Birkebeiner Website for details.
Similarly, on the horizon is the Snow Trek & Travel High Plains Tour 2.5/5/10km on the 14th of July followed by the YMCA Howman’s Gap Vic Relay Champs 2.5/5km event on Sunday the 15th of July (my birthday) – contact Len Budge also for this one. Both of these are popular races and a fun way to get involved and even win some prizes. I’ll see you there.
Are you up for some solid racing?
Of course, while Falls Creek caters for the beginners and intermediates, it also provides great racing for the more advanced. Although it’s a couple of months away, Falls is hosting the Australian National Championships on the weekend of August 18/19th with a Skate sprint and a Classic 10km distance event on the Sunday. These championships will decide the National Champions and are part of the Australian/New Zealand Cup with other races in the circuit held in Perisher
NSW and SnowFarm in NZ! Be sure to check these champs by either racing or supporting.
A week later is the World Renowned Kangaroo Hoppet on the 25th of August. This is certainly not to be missed and is a great event to work towards during the season with three different events for different levels, a 7km, 21km or the full 42km. Racers travel from all over the world to make it to Falls for that weekend.
Finally, almost forgot to mention, if you’re a junior skier (under the age of 20) and enjoy XC skiing, a good idea is to try out the Victorian Championships held here at Falls Creek on the 21/22nd of July. Contact Ben Derrick on 0400 110 046 or the AUSXC. COM website to get involved.
Final words
There is certainly not a shortage of events to get involved in this winter at Falls Creek, and with snow already here in great numbers, there is nothing more exciting (there are probably a few more exciting things in life TBH). But nonetheless, can’t wait to see everyone out there together. As Helen Keller always says, “Alone we do so little, together we can do so much.” • Seve de Campo
Open for lunch daily from Saturday 23 June.
Bar is open from 12 noon with bar snacks available all day.
Relax in comfort while watching the action on the Summit.
www.fallscreekhotel.com.au
Junior XC Skier girls having fun while out competing at Junior Nationals Last year. Pic – Seve de Campo
IT’S SNOW TIME!
Learn Your Resort
There are many loyal and wonderful regulars who just keep coming back to Falls Creek. Some are club members, some are property owners and some are just simply regular snow holiday makers. There are even a few people who love to have a holiday in the resort – and not even ski or board. They simply enjoy the atmosphere, the beauty and the environment. To kick back and read a good book – and take to a break to watch the skiers whistling past is a perfectly good holiday - away from the pressures of the big smoke.
A friend stated years ago that we should term the village ‘a holiday resort’ as opposed to ‘a ski resort’ – and the light came on straight away. Ski resort means you only go there to ski. Holiday means – well everything. It’s about enjoying the experience – and there are many. Regulars will be aware of the majority – but newcomers and staff may not be fully upto-date with everything that is available. To
get you in the mood as we get busier, here is a taste of what we can all look forward to this winter.
On the back of the handy pocket-sized Trail Map is a list of the Extra-Curricular activities that are on offer. This map is
available all around the mountain – ski shops, lodges etc. In fact, everyone should have one of these in their pocket when they head out the door.
2017 GRAVITY ENDURO NATIONAL SERIES
Round One - Falls Creek
T…and the Snow Gods answered!!!
he National Gravity Enduro Series acts as the qualifying series for the Enduro World Series. See mention in the article with Ben McIlroy.
This Week we can enjoy… Enjoyable dining over the weekend
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.
Mondays:
Milch Monday’s Burger Night & Triviabar tab to be won!
Tuesdays:
Kids eat free with each adult main purchase!
Wednesdays:
Curry Night – “ah delish!”
$15 Breakfast Special - All week!
$10 cocktail hour 5 - 6pm daily!
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.
Something for everyone @ Milch 4 Schuss Street, Falls Creek Map Ref: J3
For Bookings Ph: 03 5758 3407
Welcome to Winter 2018! Now Open Seven Days a Week From 10am
For relaxed long lunches, exceptional dinners, coffee, snacks and drinks!
Plus, we have a great balcony to enjoy the action in Slalom Plaza! Every Day Specials Large Pizza & Dry long neck beer - $35
Saturdays & Wednesdays
$15 Pizza & Beer
For Menu and further Information visit: www.snowlands.com.au/thelasthoot
For Menu and further info, visit: www.snowlands.com/thelasthoot
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
Once you have decided to take advantage of one or more of the activities, you may make a booking by phoning the toll free number, 1800 204 424, or by speaking with any of the staff in either of the Falls Creek Sport shops – one in the QT complex at the base of Halley’s Comet (Falls Express) chairlift, one in the Village Bowl, next to the Eagle and Summit Chairs, and the shop in Village Central at the rear of SilverSki beside Huski and Astra.
Snowmobile Tours
No time to be smelling the roses during this weekend’s Gravity Enduro. Pic - Jiri Cech.
The opportunity to ride you own snowmobile does not come along that often. It sure ain’t gonna happen in Collins Street – but it will happen on the slopes of Falls Creek and the Bogong High Plains. You can either ride your own machine
Slalom Plaza (start of the bike trails) Ph: 03 5758 3088
Slalom Plaza (opp Halley’s Comet) Ph: 03 5758 3088 Map Ref: F3
Point on the Frying Pan Spur. The aim of the game is to ride each section no faster than the fastest time allowed, and no slower than the set slowest time. Then they do the competitive bit, before riding to the start of the next competitive bit without beating or exceeding the times permitted. At the time of going to print, the final course had not been set, but they look like taking in High Voltage and Wishing Well, then heading to Flowtown, completing that before heading to Thunderbolt and then to Generator and Vortex before finishing in Slalom Plaza. Sound like a pretty easy day!!
Open by Appointment
Opening Hours
This Weekend, 23rd & 24th June
For Groups, Clubs etc
11am – 3pm Saturday and Sunday
Phone: 03 5758 1200
Check this space for longer hours during the season. Panabode Building, Slalom Street, Falls Creek
Please try to allow 24hours notice.
Map Ref: E4. Look for the Harvey Kat.
For Further Information:
For further information: www.fallscreekmuseum.com.au info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au Facebook/fallscreekmuseum
Wb: www.fallscreekmuseum.com.au
Em: info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au
Fb: facebook.com/fallscreekmuseum
Ph: 03 5758 1200
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. •
Another way to appreciate the magnificence of the Bogong High Plains is on a Snowmobile Tour. Don’t go home without one. Pic – Mike @ Top Shots
(you must have a valid, current drivers licence) or you can go out as the Pillion Passenger, on the back with a competent guide. The snow, the scenery, the fresh air – an experience you will not forget - you definitely ain’t gonna get in Collins Street. •
Back Country Tours
When the snow gets deep, and the slopes are steep, that’s the time to call Steve Lee and take advantage of one of his ripper back country tours. As you will know, Steve represented Australia at the Olympics three times. He also competed in World Cup, winning the Super G in Japan.
Steve will take you skiing in places you thought no-one should go – like the south face of Mt McKay - and it’s all here in Falls Creek. •
Slope Groomer Tours
Climb aboard a beautifully heated and exotic grooming machine (not unlike the cabin of a space rocket) and watch our grooming gurus in action. Get a whole new view of the resort while you watch and learn how we achieve that perfect corduroy finish.
Bookings must be arranged through the Activities Desk located at Falls Creek Sports in the Village Bowl. Other details are: Minimum age 18 years. Depart and return from Falls Creek Sports in the Village Bowl via a snowmobile transfer. One guest per 50 minute tour on Monday to Thursday & then Saturday evening. •
Helicopter Flights
Forest Air Helicopters are a local quality chopper service based in Albury. They offer several services including a ferry service from Albury to the slopes; from Mount Beauty to the slopes; the Heli Link from the slopes of Falls Creek to the slopes of Hotham for the day.
An exciting new leisure experience at the top of the mountain!
Boasting a bistro, wood-fired pizza, waffle station, bar & café.
Wood-fired Rotisserie, Deli and kitchen providing:
• Café & Deli selections
• Bistro meals
• Carvery share platters
• La Pizzaiola
• Waffle delights
Ph: 03 5711 9109
At the top of Halley’s Comet Chairlift Queen’s Birthday operating hours depending upon snow and chairlift operating hours.
Then there are the scenic flights. The Bell Longranger 206L3 can take six people and will give you the experience of a life-time. I mean – how often do you get the chance to enjoy the beauty of the Bogong High Plains from the comfort of a helicopter. No-one has ever come back to say they didn’t “love it!”
Contact Forest Air on 1300 731 450. Visit their website at www.forestair.com.au, or make a booking through our Activities Hotline 1800 204 424. •
The opportunity to get into the air – either for a scenic flight or a day skiing at our sister resort Mt Hotham is a fabulous thrill. Pic – Mike @ Top Shots
LOCAL HISTORY
DIY Skis!
The early days of skiing in the area go back to 1909, when Robert Wood Wilkinson visited Mt Buffalo on skis. The first party to cross the Bogong High Plains on skis in July 1926 included G Rush, RW Wilkinson, K Gibson, A Vanderstoel and E Robinson. They travelled from the original Kelly’s Hut on the Eastern fringe of the high plains to Mt Hotham and Mt St. Bernard. (from the book on Bill Waters compiled by Harry Stephenson)
In the 1930’s when skiing was growing in popularity, and imported hickory skis were very expensive, many enthusiasts took to making their own. Members of the early Bogong Rover skiing groups experimented using various local timbers. Blue prints and instructions were developed for shaping skis, constructing stocks and even making bindings. One such template was published in the March 1936 edition
17
Slalom St, (03) 5758 3263
Nelse Bar Open from 3:30pm daily. Welcome!
Enjoy our Apres ski drinks, evening get-togethers and daily specials! Restaurant open for bookings off ering a well-priced hearty Winter cuisine
The home of fabulous food… specialty coffee, organic teas, super smoothies, shakes & fresh juices!
All day eats & treats made with love!
Be sure to pop in for one of our ripper June weekly specials: Sundays – Warm it up with a Curry & Schooner $15
Tuesdays – Recover with a Vegan feast & Schooner $15
Thursdays – Fuel up with a gourmet Pizza & Schooner $15
Local craft beers on tap + extensive wine list & cocktail menu!
Open daily 8am till late PM for breakfast, lunch & dinner.
of the Ski Club of Victoria’s ‘Schuss’ magazine.
For the worker on the Kiewa Hydro scheme, the cost of a pair of skis was prohibitive. Fred Vines wrote that “wages were £2-10-0 ($5) per week from which I paid about half for meals” so skis costing £2 ($4) a pair, required saving for. His first skis were made of mountain ash and had no steel edges, “the latter were a luxury which came only on imported hickory skis at great cost.”
Patricia Dunn, a hostel staff member at Bogong Village in 1941 recalled that “making skis was a tricky and frustrating business. We obtained some ‘blanks’ cut roughly to shape from local hardwood. These were then placed into a piece of pipe and steamed for many hours until they were pliable, put over a template to create the camber and the curved front end, they were clamped into position and left to dry out once more. Sounds so simple, doesn’t it? I can tell you it was a nail biting business getting them clamped down. Just when you thought that all was going well, there could be a nasty cracking sound and you knew that the curve in the front had split and you had to start all over again. Perseverance was the answer. Eventually we had a pair of skis each. After much sanding and waxing metal pieces were fitted with a rawhide straps across the top into which the boot went snugly. Side hooks went into the slots and held the rawhide straps, which went around the heel of the boot and were adjusted with metal-clamp to one side.”
The Kandahar binding had become popular in the late 1930‘s but it too was also too prohibitive for Fred, “costing £3-10-0 ($7). They had a lever attached to the ski in front of the toe piece and lugs on the side of the ski below the foot. A cable went from the lever to the heel but passed under the lugs so that the heel could be held down; these gave excellent control but many were the legs broken and sprained in heavy falls.” In fact these bindings were referred to as “bear traps” because of their deathlike grip.
feathertop
Instead he settled for a Grasshoppa binding. According to Fred “the bindings were an adjustable steel toe piece and an attached greased rawhide leather strap with a lever system to tighten and secure it around the grooved boot heel.” The downside of these bindings was when the leather thongs became wet they stretched!
In 1943 Fred upgraded his skis. “I was fortunate to buy a second-hand pair of hardly used imported hickory skis from an ex-commando who had contracted Dengue Fever in New Guinea. He was invalided out of the army and moved into the cubicle opposite mine in the camp. He was almost constantly sick and didn’t stay long. The skis were my pride and joy and cost me £7.”
(That’s seven quid, or $14).
W.F. (Bill) Waters, one of the pioneering Bogong ski tourers of the 1930’s who continued to be involved with the Rover Scouts, was keen to make skis more
Be sure to pop in and sample local goodness with super friendly service. See us on Facebook & Instagram. For reservations, call: 03 5758 3222
Located in the Village Bowl, below Altitude Apartments. Map Ref: N2
Sunday: Carvery Roast
Ribs & Rump
Indian Curries
Nonna Pasta
Dumplings
Oyster Shots & Bubbles
Historic Skis located in Scott’s Cape Evans Hut, Ross Island, Antarctica. Pic - courtesy Diana Patterson
affordable and persuaded Andy Broad to trial the manufacture of skis. As part of this experimentation the steam bending was carried out by the Tasmanian Timber Bending Company. The success of this venture can be evidenced from two advertisements for ski blanks in Schuss in 1955.
In 1948 Gordon Smith, a Rover Scout, set about making a pair of skis using mountain ash blanks instead of blackwood, “as blackwood was described as having a ‘carroty’ grain and being more prone to splitting than mountain ash.” He wrote “I vowed that this pair would be better than the last pair I made, especially in the fitting of the steel edges, for which I purchased a rebating plane to make the job easier. I made the bindings for the first pair of skis myself from mild steel plate, copying them from a pair of Alpina bindings of a member of our crew. They had worked very well, as had the skis, but I decided to get new bindings for these skis I was making, as they were an improvement on the design of the bindings I had copied. I purchased both the bindings and a set of steel edges and screws from Andy Broad, and set to work.” Skis made, the next challenge was making the cane stocks and then, as this was before the ski tows, preparation of the ski bases, purchase or making of skins for the uphill slopes or the application, even making of base waxes. Then there was boots, clothing – et al.
The Falls Creek Museum has a on display
a set of locally home-made skis and poles circa 1940’s; various blanks and wooden skis and bindings, including a skis manufactured in the late 1920’s by L.H. Hagen in Oslo, the company that supplied skis and sledges to the Nansen, Amundsen, and Byrd expeditions to Antarctica.
The Museum is keen to contact Fred Vines or his descendants if anyone can assist. If so Email: Info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au. •
Volunteers
As we move in to the busy season, the Museum committee are looking for volunteers who can help staff the museum during winter. From school holidays, the museum will be open from 11am to 3pm six days a week, Tuesday to Sunday. If you can help, please email: info@ fallscreekmuseum.com.au. •
LOCAL HISTORY
The Falls Creek Museum has examples of early handmade skis for your interest. Pic – Courtesy FC Museum.
OUR COMMUNITY
And its People
Audrey Pischetsrieder is a custodian of knowledge at the Mount Beauty Library. We had a quiet chat one Wednesday evening.
TW: “Hi Audrey, what happens at the Library?”
Audrey: “The Library is an information service. People either want to come here to get on-line or to borrow books. Also, because it’s a small town they do like to chat as well. And we offer help – a lot of technical help or choosing a book. However it’s not just books. People can come here to pay their Shire rates, their dog registration - things like that.”
“There is Storytime on Thursdays at 2:30pm for children up to 5 years old. We also have a Lego group on Tuesday afternoons at 3:30pm, and that’s quite popular at the moment. That’s for children five years and up.”
TW: “Are there resources here that many people don’t know about?”
Audrey: “Possibly they aren’t aware of just how good they can be. There is all the audio stuff: we’ve got audiobooks and audio eBooks, and you can borrow those and put them onto your own devices. And they’re quite good! If you’ve got a boring job for instance, it’s perfect! You just put the earphones in and off you go, or if you’re driving. We also have free Wi-Fi during opening hours, three desktop computers and two iPads.
Fully licensed restaurant
TW: “How important is the Library to the community?”
Audrey: “Very important. We have families who choose not to have TVs for their children, and home-schooled children who benefit from ordering books. There a quite a few elderly who are home bound who also appreciate our library. Generally most people want a proper book to hold.”
Another programme is our ‘1000 Books Before School,’ to encourage parents to read to their children from birth. Registration can be at any library and a free library bag and information pack is all included.
TW: “What do you enjoy most about working here?”
Audrey: “I like serving the customers and being able to help them. That’s the best part – to actually help someone. You get rewarded just by doing that.”
TW: “Where did you grow up?”
Audrey: “I’m from Northern Sydney. My father built a holiday home down here back in the 1970s, so we’ve been coming here every school holidays. I moved here in 2005. My brother lives here now in the snow season, also.”
TW: “Outside of work, what do you like to do in town?”
Audrey: “I’ve got a seven year old son, and I work five days a week. It doesn’t leave much time! But we like to go on bike rides and bush walks. We just love the outdoors. Skiing in winter, swimming when the pool’s open or in the rivers. We’ve got kayaks and we love to go out.”
“I like getting out to the bush and away from everyone. We’re not exactly ‘team players’! We like the solitude! I do like serving at the Library, though.”
TW: “How do you feel about the Valley, Falls Creek, and the community?”
Audrey: “I am just drawn to it. It sounds weird, but I feel like this is where I’m meant to be. This is home, and nowhere else gives me this feeling. Especially when I drive back into the Valley, I feel like I’m home. It just has this aura about it. It’s like a magnet. I’ve travelled a fair bit, and I’ve moved around in different spots, but I can’t wait to come back here.
TW: Thanks Audrey, we appreciate your time.
Renowned Dining and Wines
Hand-made Pasta ~ Slow-braised meats ~ World’s best Pork Chop ~ amongst other un-worldly delights by Roi! Hand-churned fruit ice-cream - to die for!
Hand-made Pasta ~ Slow-braised meats ~ World’s best Pork Chop ~ amongst other un-worldly delights by Roi!Hand-churned fruit ice-cream.
Open until Saturday February 17th. Then closed for three weeks.
AGE Good Food Guide since 1998 Lonely Planet Guide Bookings Please! – Gift Vouchers available
Re-Opening Friday March 9th Ph 03 5754 4495 177 Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga
FALLS CREEK MEDICAL SERVICES MOUNT BEAUTY
Bottom of Gully Chairlift.
Open Daily 10am – 12:30pm & 2pm – 5pm (Map Ref J6) Ph: 03 5758 3238 all day.
24 hours for Emergencies.
General Practitioners experienced in Family and Snow Sports Medicine.
First fully accredited snowfields practice in Australia based on 33 years experience.
WHERE WHEN HOW WHO WHAT
Tawonga Crescent. 8:30am – 5pm Mon – Friday 10am – 12noon Saturdays. Ph: 03 5754 3400 for appointments
Drs Mark Zagorski, Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton & Lauren Tanzen. Fully accredited General Practice with 39 years service to the Upper Kiewa Valley.
“You’ve only got one head – put a lid on it!”
For any questions about the Library and its services, you can call on 5754 4305. • Struan Jones
Our New Frying Pan…
• Rustic, industrial and chic.
• Bar and grill in the heart of Falls Creek’s famous Village Bowl.
• Enjoy classic craft beers and superbly prepared BBQ dishes in an elegant rustic-inspired pub atmosphere.
LOCATED IN THE VILLAGE BOWL AT THE BOTTOM OF SUMMIT
Our Librarian, Audrey Pichetsrieder. Pic – Ken Bell
PROERTY OF THE WEEK
Cedarwood Apartment 26
This apartment 26 is a spacious, light-filled 78.19sqm two bedroom, two bathroom selfcontained unit and is one of the largest apartments in the Cedarwood complex. The vendor is also motivated and will consider all reasonable offers.
This property has excellent natural light and lovely views of the natural alpine bush. There is a large outdoor secure storage space which is ideal to house mountain bikes during the summer and a private BBQ area.
A major redeeming feature is that it has easy access on the entry level with no stairs. The apartment can accommodate six people in comfort. There are two spacious bedrooms. The master has a king-sized bed and private ensuite and the second bedroom also features a king sized bed. Both beds can be converted to two single beds.
The spacious kitchen and dining area is well equipped with an oven, four burner electric cooktop, dishwasher, microwave and ample bench space. This large apartment will provide plenty of room to relax after a big day of mountain bike riding, fishing or skiing.
There are a number of excellent restaurants a short walk from the front door. This is a quiet area and is an ideal retreat in summer as well as winter.
In the summer months, (we describe as everything not winter), the location can be easily accessed by car with adequate parking out front or nearby.
While the quality of your enjoyment of Falls Creek as a winter resort is undoubted, it is the growing suite of summer activities that adds untold value to a purchase in the village.
Over the last decade, much work has gone into developing and securing summer trade. The resort now boasts in excess of 40km of mountain bike trails – with some being accessed from the Village Bowl. Add to these the many kilometres of aqueducts
Welcome to Lilli Pilli
Wholefood café
Open 7:30am to 4:30pm.
‘Grab & Go’ Juice and Smoothie Bar
- Open 7:30am to 4:30pm
Day Spa
- Open 8am to 8pm seven days by appointment.
Bookings:
Mb: 0439 551 051
10 Slalom St, Falls Creek
and management vehicle tracks and your exploring, whether on foot, on a horse or on your bike is endless. The Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing is an iconic Australian walk of international standard being promoted by Parks Victoria.
The afore-mentioned suite of summer activities includes the Alpine Challenge, the Mile High Dragon Boats, the Bicycle Network Peaks Challenge Falls Creek, the Easter Festival as well as regular mountain bike shuttles. And to quote our CEO from a recent article “Falls Creek has the highest total visitor days of any Alpine Resort in Victoria.”
Winter’s Calling!
Blankets are warmer! Get everything ready for winter now at...
Cedarwood has an onsite manager and the current alpine head lease length is until 2052. At $270,000, Cedarwood apartment 26 is definitely worth having a look at. To arrange an inspection, call the agent, Christa at Zirky Real Estate on Mb: 0402 277 808. •
The Good News…
Refuse and Recycling
Falls Creek is one of the first resorts to recycle organic matter! We recycle:-
• Cardboard – baled and sold for re-manufacture.
• Co-mingles – plastic, glass and paper – in the clear plastic bags with the RED print.
• Organics – anything that has ever lived – food, paper, oyster shells, bones – in the clear plastic bags with the GREEN print – all sent to be composted.
Falls Creek Garbage is collected seven days a week during winter. If you require supplies of bags, have a question, or see a problem, Phone us on:
Mb: 0437 306 799
Open plan living, dining and lounge area make this a wonderful family apartment. Pic – Courtesy of the agaent.
FALL LINES
Bush
TDance
he Tawonga District Community Association are inviting everyone to their Winter Solstice Bush Dance to be held at the Tawonga Hall tis Saturday evening from around 6:30pm, with the Tawonga CFA team providing a fundraising sausage sizzle from 6pm.
This is a family friendly event – and evening of traditional bush dancing to the music of local legends ‘Squid Jig!’
The deal is, bring your own drinks and nibbles. A light supper and tea and coffee will be provided. Cost is: Family - $25. Single - $10.
Congratulations
It is with great pleasure that this publication congratulates a long time local resident, Helen L’Huillier on being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the recent Queen’s Birthday Honours List. Helen was recognised for her service to Cross Country Skiing and for her involvement in the community. The list is extremely extensive and comprehensive and your Ed is happy top share it with the community.
If you need further information, please contact Barb Talbot on Mb: 0419 615 732 or Trish Ryder 0409 568 678. Guaranteed to be a fun night – be there!!! •
Local hirer of steel KWIKSTAGE SCAFFOLD
Domestic & commercial use. Our professional team is fully licensed and offers a competitive rate for hire, transport, erect and dismantle of local scaffolding jobs. For a free quote, call 0418 578 500
MOTORING TIPS
Drive to the Conditions
mishap - like losing your steering because your front wheels lock-up when you put the brakes on - and you slide in to a ditch (at best).
Get rid of all the snow from your car - it’s dangerous!
Carr y chains (for your drive wheels), gloves (for your hands), mat (to kneel on), torch (to see) and knowledge (to know how and when to fit chains).
A Motoring Tip brought to you by: Rick @ Mount Beauty Service Centre, Kiewa Valley Hway, Mount Beauty, Ph: 5754 4261
For service to cross country skiing, and to the community. The service includes: Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club: Race Secretary, Kangaroo Hoppet Ski Race, since 1991. Past President. Past Secretary. Founder, Ski de Femme event, since 1994. Coach, Junior Squad, 1989-1994. Founding Member, since 1977. Founding Member, Telemark Nordic Ski Club, 1972.
Australian Red Cross: Publicity Officer, Tawonga Branch, since 2017. Chairman, Tawonga Branch, 2016-2017.
Emergency Services Volunteer, since 2015. Member, since 2011.
Mount Beauty Swimming Club: Coordinator, 2004-2010. Coach, 1990-2008.
Mount Beauty University of the Third Age: Treasurer, Since 2013.
Involved with Bushwalking and Italian language programs.
Department of Education, Victoria:
Teacher, Dederang Primary School, 2005. Teacher, Falls Creek Primary School, 20002003. Teacher, Mount Beauty Secondary College, 1996-1999. Teacher, Mount Beauty Primary School, 1995. Teacher, Mount Beauty High School, 1978-1980. Teacher, Bogong School Camp, 19731976. Teacher, Alexandra High School, 1971-1972. Teacher, Bacchus Marsh High School, 1970.
On behalf of the community, we say congratulations and thank you. Ed. •
Open Mike Night
Are you openly funny? Or, do you nurse a dream to be outed as funny? Do you spend toime sending up life among friends – or hone a comedy routine in the shower? Then this night may just be for you.
This is your chance to compete in the first Open Mike UKV Comedy Cup to be held at the legendary Arby’s Place next Thursday 28th June. This unique competition is open to Stand Up, Comedy Sketch, and Vaudeville performances and you will be judged by audience response – promise! –so bring your supporters.
A bonus on the night is that it will feature the popular Peter Denahy as Master of Ceremonies and all funds raised will go to an excellent local cause – The David Vigo Youth Music Scholarship.
LOCAL RADIO
Your MC for the UKV Comedy Cup night, Peter Denahy. Pic – Courtesy the Artist.
The details are: Comedy Cup, Thursday 28th June 7pm. Arby’s Place. $20 pp BYO refreshments.
For more information, please call Faye on 0410 738 266. •
Friends For Life
“Amigos Para Siempre” is the title of the song from the 1982 Barcelona Olympics by Sarah Brightman and José Carreras– and it still moves people!
FALL LINES
Hard Waste Collection
Falls Creek would have to be a shining example of how friendships are formed –and more importantly - how long they last!
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.
LOCAL TALENT
Great Success
LThis little item concerns friendships that began 45 years ago. Jacqui Brown, Bev Thomas, and later Terry Dimond. Jacqui and Bev started in 1973 at Attunga Lodge with Bob and Noelene Lee for seven years, Terry started a few years later. Bev moved on to manage the old Nelse Lodge with Jacqui working with her and also working part-time with Ski Patrol. Bev continued managing Nelse Lodge after its redevelopment for seven years, and Jacqui went on to ski patrol professionally, with herself and Katusha being the first female professional patrollers in Australia. Bev and Jacqui were both members of the SES. Jacqui moved to London and married Chris Brown whom she had met at Falls Creek. Terry moved to Melbourne and now runs her own business. Bev moved on to manage the new Astra Lodge when it was built, for Roy Morris.
Therefore you are invited to join the relevant Resort Management personnel and other members of the community for a summer season debrief meeting. This meeting will take place on Wednesday 26th April from 9:30am to around 11:30am in the Boardroom above Foodworks in QT.
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.
If you have any specific agenda items, please email http://joprothero@fallscreek.com.au. We look forward to seeing you all there. •
MR: Is this your first overseas race?
Front Page Shot
Falls Creek was treated to a rare weather phenomenon known as a fogbow earlier this week, setting a stunning scene for early risers at Falls Creek.
A Life to Remember
Dubbed ‘the snowbow,’ the weather phenomenon perfectly encapsulated the top station of the brand new Eagle Express chairlift when shot early on June 19 by Ski Patroller Pete Sheridan.
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. I then stared racing the national series. MR: How many national events have you raced?
As a note of explanation, we have pinched this from Wikipedia – with thanks:
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. •
In many cases, when the droplets are very small, fog bows appear white, and are therefore sometimes called white rainbows. This lack of colour is the feature of a fog bow that distinguishes it from a glory, which has multiple pale-coloured rings caused by diffraction. When the droplets forming it are almost all of the same size, the fog bow can have multiple inner rings, or supernumeraries, which are more strongly coloured than the main bow.
Just another of those beautiful reason to visit Falls Creek. Pic - Pete Sheridan •
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.
Ben: Yep, first overseas race, first EWS (Enduro World Series), so it’s going to be pretty exciting.
Sunday 28th May 5pm
MR: Is it excitement or are you nervous?
The next move was to manage Falls Creek Central Reservation for 10 years, for the Falls Creek Chamber of Commerce. Bev is now retired and living at Port Elliot, coming to Falls Creek each year for a ski. And this Queen’s Birthday weekend, the girls got together for a fun friendly catch up and a couple of quiet ones with other friends at Attunga Lodge. Told you –friends for life around this place. •
Mount Beauty Information Centre Auditorium. BYO drinks and nibbles.
Ben: I’m probably a bit more nervous than excited. Excited to race overseas, but nervous because it’s such a big event.
Tickets: Mount BeautyNewsagency Ph: 5754 4204
MR: Have you heard anything about the tracks over in Rotorua, NZ?
Pantry Staples.
Ben: From what Chris (Panozzo) has said, they’re fast and there aren’t many rocks.
$25, $20 (members), $10 (students)
MR: How did you get into riding?
Ben:
Trade Fair @ Falls Creek
Ben: My first national year in 2015. I raced three events, Toowoomba, Adelaide, and Canberra and placed 3rd overall for the series. In 2016 I raced the Bright, Perth and Adelaide National series events winning all 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).
A fog bow, sometimes called a white rainbow, is a similar phenomenon to a rainbow; however, as its name suggests, it appears as a bow in fog rather than rain. Because of the very small size of water droplets that cause fog—smaller than 0.05 millimeters (0.0020 in) - the fog has only very weak colours, with a red outer edge and bluish inner edge.
Something of an institution since 1982, the Trade Fair @ Falls Creek is an opportunity
MR: How did you end up travelling and racing alongside Chris Panozzo (2 time Elite Gravity Enduro Australian champion)?
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
LOCAL JP’s
of the races he was doing.
MR: What are your goals for this year, more EWS or is going to be too hard to juggle school?
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. •
Ben: I’m racing the EWS in New Zealand and in Tasmania but this year I want to finish Year 12 and get out alive, do as much riding as I can and stay fit. It’s probably not the best year to be going into my first EWS because Year 12 takes up such a massive chunk of my time.
MR: Have you got any plans for further studies such as University, or depending on how these two EWS events go, would you like to chance it and try to become a professional racer?
Regular Servicing
Ben: about it. Becoming a professional mountain biker would be pretty sick but you sort of do have to have another profession once you come out the other side.
Our car is like our body. We must look after it all of the time - not just when something fails.
MR: Do you think you’d be able to develop a career and race at the same time?
Ben: Yeah, looking at someone like Paul
Regular servicing will identify when items are wearing (brake pads, tyres, filters, hoses etc). These and other wearing items can be replaced before they
Ben McIlroy with bike - and a ‘can-do’ attitude. Pic - Matt Rousu.
Bev Bowie Mb: 0401 456 448
Rob Spargo Mb: 0419 544 615
These folk serve the needs of the community as Justices of the Peace.
mobiles
Located in front of Karelia Lodge on Parallel St Open 12noon – 2:30pm & 4pm - 6pm Best Glühwein in Falls. now also serving coffee!
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.
The girls, Bev Thomas, Terry Dimond and Jacqui Brown – ‘Friends for Life’ circa early 80’s Pic – Courtesy Tracy Lee Clauss
TIPS FOR SNOW DRIVING
To be Safe
1. Give Yourself Distance– Most people follow the 2 (or 3) second rule of thumb to calculate the minimum distance they should keep behind from the car in front so that there is adequate time to stop. In the
snow, you want to at the very least double this distance. Ideally, triple it. If you do slide or skid on the snow, the farther away you are from other vehicles the safer you’ll be.
2. Lights– ALWAYS have your lights on when driving in the snow. With the
WHAT’S ON – JUNE
23rd TDFNL Rd 11. Dederang Mount Beauty V Thurgoona at Dederang.
23rd Winter Solstice Bush Dance, 6:30 for a 7pm start at Tawonga Hall. A family friendly evening of traditional bush dance to the music of Quid Jig – courtesy the Tawonga & District Community Association. BYO Drinks and Nibblies. Supper tea & coffee provided. Ph: Barb: 0419 615 732
24th Snow Trek & Travel Mini Series 1. 11am FC
Nordic Bowl. Ph: Lynn-Maree 0409 592 226. 28th Open Mike Comedy Muster, Thursday 28th June, from 7pm at Arby’s Place, cnr Kiewa Valley Highway and Mountain Creek Road, Tawonga. All Welcome! Ph: 0410 738 266 29th Friday Night Karaoke @ Zak’s Wine Bar (Allamar Motel) from 7:30pm. All Welcome. Mb: 0403 163 622
30th TDFNL Rd 12. Split Round. Played on 7th July – Wodonga Saints V Dederang MB.
WHAT’S ON – JULY
7th Mount Beauty Community Market. From 9am to 1pm Top end of Hollonds Street and Kiewa Crescent. For enquiries or to book a stall, phone Bev 03 5754 4097.
7th Fast & Female 10am Nordic Bowl. Visit: www.fastandfemaleaus@gmail.com
7th Snow Trek & Travel Mini Series 2. 1pm FC Nordic Bowl. Ph: Lynn-Maree 0409 592 226. 7th TDFNL Rd12. Wodonga Saints V Dederang MB. 7th Falls Creek Race Club Auction. From 7pm in the Board Room. Excellent food and a great night. Em: ski@fcrc.com.au.
7th & 8th SnowRacer Series, for schools, teams or individuals to gain race experience. From 9am on the NASTAR Course. Call the Events office on 5758 1025.
8th Birkebeiner Classic 10:30am Nordic Bowl. Anne Bellingham 03 5754 1815.
12th Regular Monthly meeting of the Upper Kiewa Valley Community Association. 7:30pm at the Auditorium beside the Mount Beauty Visitor Information Centre. All Welcome. For more information please Email: info@ukvcommunity.org.au.
13th Rossignol Cup Children’s Race. From 9am on the NASTAR Course. Ph: Race Club on 03 5758 3663. Followed by BBQ and Presentations at the Race Club. Em: ski@fcrc.com.au
14th Regular monthly meeting of the Mount Beauty Diabetes Support Group. 10am. Lakeside Community Centre. All Welcome. Ph: 0427 544 824.
14th Snow Trek & Travel High Plans Tour 11am, Nordic Bowl. Len Budge 0417 352 845. 14th TDFNL Rd 13. Dederang MB V Chiltern.
15th YMCA Howman’s Gap Vic Relay Champ.s 11am Nordic Bowl. Len Budge 0417 352 845.
15th – 20th South Australian Snow Sports Championships. Ph: 03 5758 1026.
17th Regular monthly meeting of the Mount Beauty Anxiety Self Help Support Group, 7pm –8:30pm at the Mount Beauty Neighbourhood Centre. Gold coin donation appreciated. Phone the Anxiety Recovery Centre Vic on 03 9830 0533.
20th Regular monthly meeting and BBQ Lunch at the Mount Beauty Men’s Shed, Tennis Court Avenue, Mount Beauty – from 11:30am.
21st Vic Junior Sprint Champ.s. 9:30am Nordic Bowl. Ben Derrick 0400 110 046.
21st TDFNL Rd 14. Tallangatta V Dederang Mount Beauty.
22nd Vic Junior Distance Champ.s 10am Nordic Bowl. Ben Derrick 0400 110 046.
27th Wombats Rambler Night Race from 5pm on Wombats Ramble. Ph: 03 5758 1026.
27th Friday Night Karaoke @ Zak’s Wine Bar (Allamar Motel) from 7:30pm. All Welcome. Mb: 0403 163 622
28th TDFNL Rd15. Barnawartha V Dederang MB. 28th Champagne Club SNOW BALL – a Black Tie Mid-Winter Ball – from 8am at the Mount Beauty Community Centre. Theme – B&W Masquerade. Tickets at Eventbrite.com
reduced visibility, you’ll want to make your surroundings as visible as possible. On the side, you’ll want other drivers to be able to see you as well. But, do not use high beam in fog or snow as it reflects back at you and reduces visibility.
3. NEVER Use Cruise Control- You’ll need extra vigilance and extra control when it comes to driving in the snow. Not only do you need to adjust your speed more frequently when driving in the snow, you’ll also need much more control over steering, even if you’re driving on a straight road. Never use cruise control when driving in the snow. Ever.
4. Avoid Slamming on the Break– If your tires start to skid, most people’s first instinct is to panic and slam on the break- don’t do this. Instead ease off the accelerator and try to steer the car out of potential collisions. Slamming on the breaks once your tires have already locked up and lost traction won’t help. Skidding out can be frightening, but try to stay as calm as possible in order to safely slow down and come to a stop.
PUBLICATION SCHEDULE:
Ed 04 * 29.06.18 * Fast & Female XC; Mini Series Two; Start Vic School Hols. (C)
Ed 05 * 06.07.18 * Snow Trek & Travel Mini Series Two. Race Club Auction (C)
Ed 06 * 13.07.18 * Rossignol Cup; XC High Plains Tour & Vic Relay Champ.s (C)
Ed 07 * 20.07.18 * Vic Junior XC Champ.s; Wombats Rambler Night Race. (C)
DISTRIBUTION: • All accommodation houses, restaurants, businesses, club, 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: • $4.90 per line.
BUSINESS DIR.: • $5.90 per line.
FORMAT: • Logos and images 300dpi> as jpg attachment
DEADLINE: • Friday 2.00pm prior to publication date
CONTRACT:
Information on Advertising or Editorial Contributions please contact: Ken Bell Mob: 0400 350 488 Email: kencbell@bigpond.net.au For Payment, Placement of Adverts or Subscriptions,
That’s the Key
One of the greatest attractions this resort has – is that under normal circumstances, guests can ski from their lodge/apartment /club down to the lifts, and then when the time has come they can ski from the slopes back to the lodge. This feature has been a key element for many years - and it still works.
Your Ed met a group of young racers from Buller (where?) as they staggered up the road from Halley’s Comet lift carrying skis and trying to walk in boots. It turned out they had been staying in accommodation close to the centre of the village – and noone had explained the ski home trails. It is not uncommon for accommodation staff to go out skiing with their guests and help them familiarise themselves with the slopes and the ski home trails. This is a simple service and is something that is greatly appreciated by our guests.
From the top of Scotts and Eagle, it is not hard to get around and down ‘Days End,’ turn left at the Junction and down
MISSING BOOK
A copy of Dr. Ruth Lawrence’s Thesis on the Bogong High Plains was left in the care of Bill and Yvonne Sutton. It has been lent to some-one and not returned. If any knows anything please touch base with Bill or phone Ken Bell on 0400 350 488.
MINI EXCAVATOR HIRE
Boldly goes where no other excavator goes! Post holes, trenches, landscaping etc. Ph: Mike: 0417 438 450.
FOR SALE – SNOWMOBILE
Red BRP V800. New Condition, 1,100kms, regularly serviced, many options. $7795 Ph: 0447 583 255.
ALTERATIONS, DRESSMAKING & REPAIRS
Call Kerry 0407 814 114 for all sewing needs. Services include hems & complete design solutions.
ALTITUDE PHYSIO & MASSAGE
Frueauf Village, (below Milch Café) Ground Fl, Rm 2, 4 Schuss St, Falls Creek. Ph: 03 5758 3766. Em: fallscreek@altitudephysiotherapy.com.au. Wb: www.altitudephysiotherapy.com.au
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.
CIVIL CELEBRANT - HEATHER MULL
Quality Ceremonies - All Types. Ph: 03 5754 4395. Mb: 0428 993 125. www.celebrant-ne-vic.com.au
COMPUTERS & SERVICE
Custom built computers, Upgrades, parts, laptops, troubleshooting, virus removal, data recovery, back-ups. Ph: Michal Trnka 5754 4637 or Mb: 0417 163 601
DRIVING INSTRUCTION
Summit Driver Training. Tawonga based driving instruction and re-assessment. Ph Craig 0427 722 287.
SKI THROUGH VILLAGE
‘Broadway’ to access the Village Bowl and Falls Creek Road or Final Muster and the Gully.
Those wanting to access the centre of the village should come down ‘Broadway’ a little and then turn right and swing down ‘Ory’s Trail’ which brings you out at Frueauf Village – but you can access Parallel Street, (to the right) Schuss Street (to the left) and Arlberg Street. You can even slide along the aqueduct to access lodges in Parallel Street and Schuss Street from above.
If you elect to come down ‘Last Hoot’ you can access the eastern end of the village by turning left onto the aqueduct and then sliding down to the eastern end of Parallel Street.
Taking a trip down Wombat’s Ramble gives you easy access to the top Windy Corner day car park and many people base themselves there. Put the skis on, slide down to Halley’s Comet – ski for the day and cruise back to the car.
Yes, Falls Creek is an easy village to ski out and ski in to and from. Have a study of the Trail Map (that should be in your
CLASSIFIEDS
FOR SALE
RM Williams Cuban Heel Boots, Bushman Tan, with added rubber protective sole. Almost brand new. Size 9 G. Retail $309.95 will sell for $200. Ph: 0400 350 488.
FOR SALE
Super King sized Supreme Quilts Doona, Baffle Box stitched, Four blanket warmth, Hungarian goose down. Brand new, never been used. $390. Ph: 0400 350 488
HOUSE TO RENT
Three bedroom, massive master bedroom, large bathroom, R/C heating and cooling, quite location, huge yard, gardener and water included. $275 per week. Existing tenant needs to break the lease for personal reasons.
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
ELECTRICAL
All Electrical Services. Ph: Rick 0418 698 491. Reg No: 7923.
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
Altitude Electrical - no job too big or small. Domestic, commercial & industrial. Contact Ben Svarc 0419 801 109.
FREIGHT - ALB - MTB - FALLS CREEK
Remo’s Transport from Albury/Wodonga to Mount Beauty & Falls Creek Mon 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 5754 1695.
PAINTING SERVICES
Interior/Exterior, Domestic/Commercial. Obligation Free Quotes. Quality & Service Guaranteed. KLM Alpine Painting Services, Ph: Laif 0437 023 921.
pocket), talk to our Guest Services Team (in the Lime Green Jackets) and also talk with your host. They will do their best to get you moving around the mountain – as opposed to staggering up from the bottom of Halley’s to find your lodge.
Have a great day!!! •
Do you need linen, TV, or a bedside table, call in to the Hospital Op Shop, 1A Tawonga Crescent. Another option for clothing is the Uniting Church Op Shop on Hollonds Street. Ph: 0419 615 732.
HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR Experience needed. Full board & lodgings available. Good wage & conditions. Please call Barry Jones on Mb: 0418 578 500. Em: barry@prettyvalley.com FOR
Three Tonne Tipper and mini Excavator. Ph: 0427 942 171.
PHYSIOTHERAPY
Kiewa Valley Sports & Spinal Physiotherapy. 5A Hollonds St Mt Beauty. Out of hours and home visits available. HiCaps. Ph: 5754 1270.
PLUMBING & GASFITTING
David Batson – Servicing Mount Beauty, Tawonga and beyond. No job too big or small! Domestic, commercial or industrial. Ph: 0488 552 239.
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
Mowing, Painting, Carpentry, Roof Repairs and Landscaping. Ph: 0415 545 646.
REMEDIAL MASSAGE/NATUROPATH
38 St Bernard Dv, Tawonga Sth. Ph: 0419 519 275.
STORAGE
Caravans, Vehicles, Pallets, Large Lock-up Units. Ph: 0428 361497 www.alpinewarehousing.com
TAXI & 4WD SERVICE
Mt Beauty Taxi Service. Covers Falls Creek & Albury. Ph: 0409 573 909 or 13 10 08.
A couple of our fabulous Guest Services team, Cherie and John – all smiles and ready to help. Pic – Courtesy FCSL
CFA WINTER ADVICE
Know The Procedure
Winter is now upon us at Falls Creek. Every year the CFA attends more than 2000 Structure Fires in Residential Buildings across Victoria. Common causes of Structure Fires are unattended cooking facilities, faulty electrical equipment and fires caused by heating equipment such as wood heaters and boilers.
Any structure fire has the potential to harm guests and residents no matter how small or large the building. The greatest risk to life from fire at Falls Creek is during the winter period. Compounding this risk is the likelihood that people are unfamiliar with their specific location, environment, density of accommodation and the harshness of the external environment should a building need to be evacuated.
Effective preparation and planning for evacuation can significantly reduce this risk. An effective Fire Evacuation Plan is simple to develop and easy to implement during an emergency. A Fire Evacuation Plan must include:
1. A system of warning building occupants (typically a smoke alarm or fire system) to ensure all occupants evacuate as soon as required.
2. Actions to take on leaving a building.
3. Notification of the fire brigade with accurate building address/location.
4. A designated place of assembly and shelter; and…
5. A method of accounting for building occupants
As a guest staying in accommodation in Falls Creek during winter, it is important when checking in, that you make yourself familiar with the emergency evacuation plan that is specific to your accommodation. This plan will tell you how to safely evacuate from the accommodation
VILLAGE MAP
and where the evacuation assembly point is. This is a safe place where the occupants of the building will meet in the event of an emergency.
If there are any questions relation to fire evacuation planning or general questions relating to Fire Safety please contact Operations Officer James Wong on Ph: 0402 013 228, or the Fire Station on: 03 5758 3642. •
PS: The Thrifty Link North East Home Improvement Co in Mount Beauty now has Flu Kits for those that want to do a bit of timely maintenance on their chimney. •
Prevention is better than this. Take all the right steps and be safe. Pic - Courtesy CFA