TNow, caution – this topic is always controversial and generally garners plenty of opinion.
he National Gravity Enduro Series acts as the qualifying series for the Enduro World Series. See mention in the article with Ben McIlroy.
Helmets – do you, or don’t you?
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.
As someone who’s follicly-challenged (yes, I don’t need to worry about helmet hair), the use of a helmet serves multiple purposes, primarily warmth, but also a bucket for gloves and goggles when at lunch and more generally, some cranial protection when on the slopes. I’m on to my eighth helmet (a combination of fashion, technological advancement and redundancy) and using one has saved my noggin four times since 2003. Twice through someone else taking me out (regrettably both snowboarders, but I won’t hold that against them…) and twice my own misadventures.
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.
For context, Helmet no. 1 – said boarder crashed above me, tomahawked spectacularly towards me at warp speed and split my helmet across the entire right hand
side. Whilst I was relatively unscathed, I can’t say the same for the poor boarder who continued his tumbling demonstration past me and needed a LOT of ski patrol assistance.
Helmet no. 2 – another boarder (in Japan) who clearly only just learnt or was in the process of learning how to crash badly and in the process, take out other poor unsuspecting victims… similar result for that helmet.
Helmet no. 3 – phenomenal yard sale on Glory Gulch (Alta Utah) followed by a standing ovation from the lunch crowd at Alps restaurant and bar… if not for the helmet… concussion was a certainty.
Helmet no. 4 – Falls Creek… back country traverse in spring, hit an ice patch on a steep gradient, onto my back then proceeded to slide 50m at pace head first into the remnants of a snow gum… Snow gum 1: POC Helmet in the bin… if only I had my trusty Black Diamond whippet I might have been able to self-arrest… although having said that, Newtons Second
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
Law of Motion dictates mass as the primary determinant of acceleration and resultant force… so stopping myself was probably unlikely!
My point of illustration in the above examples is to highlight how suddenly circumstances can change and over which you have no control, other than what you choose to put on your head… I choose to wear a helmet and it has performed brilliantly protecting me against others and my own risk taking.
There are too many unnecessary head injuries in all sports, and a plethora of movies/docos centred around traumatic brain injuries. All sports have risks, but participants have tools to reduce those risks – from mouthguards, back braces, shin and wrist guards, even heated ski boots (though this is cheating in my opinion), so why not include a helmet to reduce risk. It beats TBI, or worse!
Think of a helmet, like insurance. You’ve got it on your car, your house, your life… so what not your head! In all cases, you’re
Locate right beside the bottom station of Halley’s Comet Chairlift! Spend some time and take in the fabulous history that has earned this community so much respect!
Please try to allow 24hours notice.
And, talk to any member of our team about the rewards of volunteering in the Falls Creek Museum.
4 Slalom Street, southern end of the Panabode building.
Phone: 03 5758 1202 for further information
Wb: www.fallscreekmuseum.com.au
Em: info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au
Fb: facebook.com/fallscreekmuseum
For further information: www.fallscreekmuseum.com.au info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au Facebook/fallscreekmuseum
Alpha Lodge
A Resort Entry Permit is required for your vehicle when entering the resort between the 12th of June until the 3rd of October. The entrance to the resort is at Howman’s Gap, approx. 4kms below the village. Permits should be purchased online before arrival at the resort.
Open 365 days a year. Self cater accommodation $56 p/p p/n twin/dbl. $42 p/p p/n bunk room. Parallel Street. Ph: 5758 3488 or visit: www.alphaskilodge.com.au
Altitude Apartments
The day rate is $59.00. If you opt to print your permit at home you will receive a discounted fee. If arriving after 5pm and departing prior to midnight on the same day, entry is free.
Creek
This year operations are a little different and we ask that you plan ahead and book as much as you can online before you leave home.
1. Book Accommodation
2. Book Lift Tickets
3. Book Resort Entry
Apartment style luxury rooms, Pool & Jacuzzi, Sauna & Steam Room. On-site restaurant and bar. Open all year round - available for group bookings and functions. Ph: 03 5732 8000 Wb: www.qtfallscreek.com.au
4. Book ATS (if required)
5. Print, Pack, Park
Spacious fully self-contained accommodation open all year round. Bike storage and free wi-fi. On site bar & restaurant - Be Foodstore. Ph: 03 5758 3811 Wb: www.altitudefallscreek.com.au
Attunga Lodge
Season Permits are available for purchase online for $485 and can be collected at Howman’s Gap Ticket Box, the ATS building or Visitor Information Centre. Season Permit Holders must register their trip before arriving at the resort, print off the pass and place it on the dashboard of your vehicle when in resort. This is a Victorian government regulation for the 2021 season.
Open for comfortable bed & breakfast accommodation. Fully licensed. Arlberg Street, Ph: 03 5758 3255.
Resort Entry Fees find the essential services of:
• Ski Patrol
Cedarwood Apartments
• Car Parking
• Snow Clearing • Water Supply
• Waste Management
Visitor Information Centre
Self contained accommodation open all year round with on-site management. Located in the Village Bowl. Ph: 5758 3356, or visit www.snowskiapartments.com.au
The Falls Creek Visitor Information Centre is located in the Resort Management Office, up-stairs on the corner of Slalom Street and Snowgums Lane.
Summit Ridge Lodge
Open for comfortable bed & breakfast accommodation. Fully licensed. Schuss Street. Ph: 03 5758 3800.
Open 8am – 5pm daily for Visitor Information and Gym Memberships. Ph: 03 5758 1200. (Map Ref: E4)
Viking Lodge
Accommodation Transfer Service (ATS)
Self-catering accommodation, all rooms with en suites. On site manager and secure bike storage and workshop. Free Wi-Fi. Ph. 03 5758 3247.
Point on the Frying Pan Spur. The aim of the game is to ride each section no faster than the fastest time allowed, and no slower than the set slowest time. Then they do the competitive bit, before riding to the start of the next competitive bit without beating or exceeding the times permitted. At the time of going to print, the final course had not been set, but they look like taking in High Voltage and Wishing Well, then heading to Flowtown, completing that before heading to Thunderbolt and then to Generator and Vortex before finishing in Slalom Plaza. Sound like a pretty easy day!!
The weekend’s program sort of goes like this. Saturday: 9am to 16:00 is compulsory practice. 10am to 18:30 is rider registration and Info Tent open. 17:00 to 17:30 is rider briefing. From 18:00 on there is a social evening at Last Hoot Restaurant and Bar in Slalom Plaza. Sunday: 8am to 9am Rider Briefing and Timing activation. 8:30am to 1430pm Trails Open for GE competition.1500 to 1630 Presentations. If you’re into biking and would like to enjoy some good action, be at Falls Creek this weekend. Further detail from 03 5758 1200. • No time to be smelling the roses during this weekend’s Gravity Enduro. Pic - Jiri Cech.
Mountain biking, road cycling, hiking and all other activities, visit the Visitor Information Centre (above the Slalom Street Day Shelter) for maps and info. Open 9am - 5pm weekdays. Ph: 03 5758 1202.
Falls Creek Foodworks
Village Access
From 5pm on
For all licensed supermarket lines - located in lower level, St Falls West. Open 10am - 5pm daily. Ph: 03 5758 3009.
• Visitor Information Services
Fully self contained apartment accommodation Schuss Street Ph: 5758 3393.
Falls Creek Country Club
For more details about Falls Creek Resort please visit fallscreek.com.au.
Fully self contained accommodation from $135 /dbl/night. Ph: 5758 3391 or www.fallscreekcountryclub.com.au.
Bogong High Plains Road.
Gebi’s Apartments
Falls Creek Resort Management can be contacted via info@fallscreek.com.au or 03 5758 1200 @fallscreekalpineresort
Fully self-contained comfortable apartments, located at the entrance to Falls Creek. Ph: 1800 45 35 25.
Nelse Alpine Lodge
Open for Accommodation, with Dinner, Bed and Breakfast options. Group bookings catered for. Comfortable lodge, pool and spa. Fully Licensed. Ph: 03 5758 3263
Operating from the Terminal Building on the Bogong High Plains Road, the Accommodation Transfer Service will transport you, your group and your luggage to your accommodation in the village. Tickets can be prepurchased online or at the ATS terminal.
BE Foodstore
Hours of Operation
Saturday - Thursday: 8am - 10pm Friday: 8am - midnight
Open for dining and drinks from 9am 7 days during Easter, then 5 days. In the Village Bowl. Ph: 03 5758 3222. Refer ad this edition.
Last Hoot Café
Falls Creek Child Care is open Mon - Fri and is located in Slalom Plaza next to Stingray. The Centre is open to children aged 12 weeks to 5 years old and is run by fully qualified educators and is eligible for government rebates.Booking is essential. Phone 03 5758 1244 or visit www.fallscreek.com.au/childcare.
Open daily from 4pm for drinks & meals. Slalom Plaza. Ph: 03 5758 3088. Refer ad this edition.
Stingray Restaurant @ QT
Open daily 8am - 8pm for drinks & meals. Slalom Plaza. Ph: 03 5732 8000. Refer ad this edition.
Upstairs Resort Management Office (above day shelter) Open 9am - 5pm weekdays and 10am - 3pm weekends and public holidays.
making a decision to protect yourself, your family and your friends from the unknown. I choose to keep my head warm, the rest is a bonus.
Comfort food personified, is the best way to describe the menu at Falls Creeks favourite pub. Every conceivable pub favourite is on offer, in an olde world English pub setting, with Guinness and Kilkenny flowing on tap. All the serves are generous, so you’d better be hungry. Mondays and Tuesdays are specials nights with Chicken Wings on Monday and Ribs served on Tuesdays, in proportions that are HUGE. A separate kid menu (under 12’s) is also available. Bookings essential: 5758 3225. Head in early and combine Happy Hour 5 - 7pm with a great meal.
Now – slide on that helmet and get out there. Current conditions are EPIC with the whole mountain skiable. •
Stuart Smythe, CEO Falls Creek Resort Management
e’ve all been there. Excited to get on the hill, we click into our skis and do a few turns and then we remember how annoying our boots are because our heel is lifting and moving around in the boot. There’s nothing worse than a loose heel, other than frozen toes, or sore shins, or cramped arches… okay so there are a lot of things that can go wrong with boots, but today we’re looking at heel lift.
Heel lift is when you feel you heel moving around in your boot or it doesn’t feel firmly held in, causing lack of control and performance, and occasionally blisters on the back of your heel.
A good fitting boot should feel like you have about 2cm of heel lift (it always feel like
OPEN FOR LUNCH 11:30am - 2:30pm daily
Mountain views, friendly staff, reasonable prices & delicious food! BOOKINGS RECOMMENDED www.fallscreekhotel.com.au Ph: 03 5758 3282
Falls Creek Rd, Falls Creek. Map Ref: M2 HAPPY HARVEY HOUR! Tuesday & Thursday 3:30pm - 4:30pm With Live Entertainment!
more than what it actually is - it’s actually about half of what you feel it is). And if you forcefully try to lift your heel when standing in your boot, you will always get excessive heel lift. So don’t do it.
You might think that heel lift is simply because the boot is too loose, and you’d be right, but you’d also be wrong. It’s usually not that simple.
Heel lift in a ski boot can be caused by the boot being too big AND too small. When it’s too big, you have too much space and your heel will swish around making you feel like you don’t have control. However, if the boot is too small, you’ll also find you have heel lift because you can’t get your heel down into the heel pocket properly.
You might also be in a boot that is the right length for you, but the heel pocket is too big and all loosey-goosey!
It could just as likely be because your ski boot is too stiff. Conversely it might be
Do you have heel lift? Can you pick which is the cause for you? Check this article and talk to Ortho Ski. Pic – Courtesy Ortho Ski
because it’s too soft. A boot that is too stiff will have you lifting your leg up and out of the heel pocket to try and get more leverage to bend the boot and control the ski. A boot too soft will have you pointing your toes down and trying to control the boot with your forefoot (you’ll also get really sore calf muscles from this because you’ll be sitting in the back seat and trying to let your calves control everything).
It might also be a case that you have limited dorsiflexion (ankle motion pulling your toes up towards your knee). If you don’t have enough dorsiflexion in your ankle, your heel will start to lift before you get any resistance from the front of your boot. This is why you need to have a boot with the right flex for your body.
What looks good on the shelf isn’t always the right ski boot. In fact, what feels good in the shop isn’t always the right ski boot. This is why an assessment and management plan for you boot fitting is key to getting the basics right and you skiing in heel-hold comfort. That’s why we do a full biomechanical assessment on all our boot fitting clients. •
Krista Sturday, Ortho Ski
Faced with international travel bans, not to mention domestic travel restrictions and Covid lockdowns, this year’s Kangaroo Hoppet, Australia’s Worldloppet ski marathon, will offer two options in August for what will be the 30th anniversary event.
The first option - Do It Our Way will be a ‘normal’ Kangaroo Hoppet on snow at Falls Creek on the fourth Saturday in August. Normal? … well if you consider normal to be an international cross country ski race with no internationals, (apart from those already in Australia when the borders were closed) and that it looks like the only NSW skiers will be those who live in the Border Bubble, ACT folk can all stay home, and we do not expect too many skiers from South and Western Australia, the Northern Territory, Tasmania or Queensland. On the bright side, for Victorian skiers this could be your best chance ever to win your age class. Entries are now open at www.hoppet. com.au and the early-bird rate has been extended to August 19.
But? ‘What about all those internationals, and other foreigners from across our wide brown land’ you might ask. ‘And what about all those non-skiers who took up the virtual Hoppet challenge in 2020.’
For these folk, the option is to Do It Your Way - and take part in a virtual Hoppet anytime between 1st and 29th August. And this invitation is not restricted to skiers. The idea behind the virtual event is that you pay up your $10 entry fee and choose to cover a 42km, 21km or 7km route of your choice, using a physical activity of your choice, wherever you like. Some examples from 2020 to get you thinking are the usual running, walking, mountain biking and cycling, together with activities such as canoeing, roller skiing, unicycling, exercise machines, and swimming. Entries are now open at www.hoppet.com.au and you can complete your activity any time over the next four weeks, so why not wait for a really nice sunny day with a gentle breeze.
And if you plan your route with a little care you can include food station stops at your favourite coffee shop.
Participants in both events will receive a colourful ‘buff’ style neck-warmer/ headband thanks to ski accessory brands Rojo and Elude. •
The news on Tuesday was good - not ideal – but better than a poke in the eye with a pointed stick! The lift co announced the lifts are running and we all looking forward to that fabulous dump of snow – some of which has arrived – with more to come.
What we have listed here is what you – as a visitor - can do – or take advantage of – to add so much more enjoyment to your visit to Falls Creek. As we start winding back up to full operations, these activities should be up and running and available for all. A quick phone call or a check of the website should get you fully informed.
Mark ‘Macca’ McDonald has been around the industry for a couple of years now with several as a top instructor with the Falls Creek Snowsports School. He has also operated as the director of a snowsports
The opportunity to ride in a chopper doesn’t come along that often – and when it does - take it. It’s a fabulous experience – and over the Victorian Alps makes it even more special. Pic – Tim @ Top Shots
school in Japan for many of our summers. And, it would probably be fair to say that he can ski ‘anything!’
Macca’s love of the outdoors has lead him to change direction a bit, now operating Falls Creek Guides both summer and winter –providing a great opportunity for you, the visitor, to get out and explore much more of our fabulous country – whether it be covered in snow or wildflowers.
Check out his website at: https://www. fallscreekguides.com.au/product-tag/winter/ and book yourself and experience you won’t regret! •
A fast and scenic way to get to Falls Creek is with Alpine Helicopters. Meeting your flight at Albury Airport or they’ll fly you from Mount Beauty directly to the mountain. It’s only about a 10 minute flight from Mount Beauty Airport and 30 minutes out of Albury.
Alpine Helicopters offers a wide range of flights to make sure you find the experience you’re looking for. Their selection includes: Scenic flights - for a breathtaking tour of the snow-covered Victorian Alps.
Heli-Hop the Snow Resorts and ski or board two mountains in one day taking full advantage of an Epic Australia Pass.
Lunch flights can be enjoyed for those who are looking for a relaxing afternoon.
Have a browse through some of Alpine Helicopters most exciting tours. Contact them today and let them know if there is anything they can do to make your experience absolutely unforgettable.
Ph: 1800 189 686 or visit: www. alpinehelicopters.com.au. •
For weekly activities and fun, join in at the Village Bowl every week from 3:30 to 5:30pm for a great new variation of the ‘Street Party’ –Twilight Tuesdays taking place every Tuesday through July and August (weather permitting) You are welcomed to come along and join in the weekly activities for kids and for adults alike. There will be fire pits, marshmallows, games and music – it is also the best place to get all the info on what is on this week at Falls Creek.
Pete the Snowdragon will make an appearance from 4:30 to 5:00pm. Pete loves Twilight Tuesdays and is always up for a boogie and a selfie with the kids! •
Wombat's Ramble lights up on Wednesday and Saturday nights, from 6pm - 9pm, allowing you to continue your ski and snowboard adventures while the rest of the mountain relaxes. As Australia’s longest green run, Wombat's Ramble is a favourite of many skiers and snowboarders. The entire length has been carefully lined with high voltage Green Power floodlights, and lights up from the top of Halley’s Comet at Cloud 9, all the way downhill to QT in Slalom Plaza.
Every night, our dedicated slope maintenance team will maintain snow conditions to provide a skiing and snowboarding playground suited for beginners through to the more advanced that want to experience the thrill of night-time riding. •
Thursday nights are coming alive this winter, with the Fireworks Fiesta. Grab the kids, or a mate, and cap off your day by watching a magical fireworks show under the stars
brought to you by BMW. See the show from the comfort of your accommodation, or get up close to the action and head to the Village Bowl near the Frying Pan Inn each Thursday night at 7pm. •
None of that just sitting around in your accommodation – or worse – wasting time and money in a bar! Get yourself motivated and take advantage of the Ski Fit Yoga classes being put on by the beautiful Julia and Janine. These classes are designed for all levels and will help get you motivated for better health, fitness and enjoyment of life in general.
5:45pm on Tuesdays in the QT Boardroom. Bookings are essential, Ph 0402 212 607 and whilst they’re free, a donation to charity is requested. Just do it! •
Fat Biking trails are now open at Falls Creek. Fat Biking is the newest trend in both mountain biking and snowsports, combining the two with a specialised bike that is perfect for riding on snowy trails. On a fat bike you can ride the entire network of groomed cross country ski trails. Fat Bikes are currently not rented at Falls Creek, and need to be brought up the mountain. Bikes are able to only ride on groomed tracks when the temperature is a below 0°C. To ride on the cross country trails riders MUST give way to all skiers and ride in the middle of the trail only. Please note Fat Bikes are not permitted to be ridden within the village.
Details: Groomed Trails Only! Temperature below 0°C! Give Way to all cross country ski traffic! No riding on set tracks! Wheels must be greater than 3.75cm! Trails are free to access! Further details at: info@fallscreek.com. au, or ph: 03 5758 1202. •
elcome to the second instalment of ‘Meet the National Team’. This week we will be catching up with Hannah Price. While Hannah now lives in Canberra, the recent lockdown has seen Hannah ‘stuck’ at Falls Creek. I guess you could say there are worse places to spend the last two weeks. Make sure you keep an eye out for this talented skier and podcaster (find out more below) out on the XC trails, especially as the team prepares for the Australian National XC Championships (31st July- 1st August).
1. How did you get involved in XC skiing? How long have you been a member of the National Team?
Hannah: I first XC skied when I was eight: My big sister had just joined her high school’s XC team and because I copied everything she did, I decided I had to give it a go too. Interschool competitions and family ski adventures
gradually turned into higher-level racing until I made the National Team in 2019 when I was in year 12. It’s been a pretty awesome ride.
2. What is your favourite XC event or place to race?
Hannah: The Boulder Mountain Tour in Sun Valley, Idaho USA, is a 34km pointto-point race that I took part in while I was training there a few years ago. The course runs all the way down the valley with some of the most spectacular peaks in the Rockies on either side. It also starts at a higher elevation than it finishes so there are lots of long downhill cruises along the way. That, plus the ridiculously tasty soup at the finish line, make it one of my favourite races. That being said, the Kangaroo Hoppet is always one of the best days of the year!
3. Where is your favourite place to ski at Falls Creek?
Hannah: The top of the Paralyser on a still, bluebird day: it feels like you’re skiing on another planet.
4. What is your go-to training snack when on the trails?
Hannah: Dried mango or homemade energy balls (they tend to contain at least 50% peanut butter because I’m a little bit obsessed).
5. What do you do when you’re not skiing?
Hannah: Studying (I’m in my second year of law at the moment!), cooking, reading, re-watching the Great British Bake Off and hanging out with fun people outside!
6. Did you pick up any new hobbies/skills during lockdown?
Hannah: I started a podcast with one of my friends where we tried to read the entire VCE English Syllabus …maybe we just didn’t want to move on from high school? Check out @ solittle.time on instagram if you’re intrigued.
7. What are your goals for the up and coming race season?
Hannah: At the moment, the dream is to qualify for the World University Games and World U23 Championships and hopefully, race in Europe again over the Northern Winter. I also just want to train consistently and stay mentally fit regardless of how many spanners COVID throws in the works.
8. If you could ski anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Hannah: I’ve always wanted to ski on the glaciers in Alaska and Northern Canada. The idea of skiing in the middle of summer is pretty cool to me plus I’d like to see them before they’re irreversibly damaged by climate change.
9. Three things you pack in your bag on race day?
Hannah: Glitter for my face (inspired by Jessie Diggins), a few pairs of extra-warm gloves, extra-tasty snacks to look forward to once my race is over.
10. If you weren’t a skier what sport would you do?
Hannah: I’m pretty passionate about trailrunning and rogaining. I love going on adventures, plotting out new routes and using my brain while on the go. Someday, I’d love to run ultras or uphill races for a different kind of challenge. •
The Victorian Junior and Senior Championships scheduled for this weekend have been postponed to a later date in the season.
The Birkebeiner Race Committee regrets to inform you that they are unable to run the Australian National Championship scheduled to be run at Falls Creek this weekend. This also applies to the Victorian Junior Championships which the club offered to also conduct. We hope that this is just a postponement and will announce a new date soon.
The club decided that due to the requirement to provide proof of a COVID test within the previous 72 hours (very difficult to be tested here in Mount Beauty) we would not be able to get enough volunteers. Also, the weather for the weekend is predicted to be 'bad'. •
Thanks to the Birke Club for this notice.
Enjoy the comfort and safety!
A skeleton timetable will operate until Friday 25th June – when the full timetable will come in to operation. Refer to our website for further details. www.fallscreekcoachservice.com.au
But remember, the same convenient service applies!
Leave the worries of pre-purchasing Resort Entry, Hiring and fitting Chains, coping with Anti-Freeze and Icy slippery roads behind you.
Park your car in the Secure Car-Park in Tawonga South and enjoy the comfort of our modern warm coaches and experienced drivers for your holiday at Falls Creek.
Check the Website for services from Melbourne, Albury and Mount Beauty Group bookings and private transfers are also available for the entire 2021 winter season.
233 Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga South Phone: 03 5754 4024
We have lots to keep you warm! Clothing, Boots, Work wear, Insulation, Heaters! If you need it, we have it – or we’ll get it!
Gift vouchers and free gift wrapping available
Mount Beauty Hardware & Drapery Store
Mon – Fri: 9am 5:30pm Saturday: 9am 4pm Sun & Public Hol.s: 9am 2pm
12 – 14 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 1999
Local Community Defibrillators Accessible 24/7 Locations
• FCRM Office – inside downstairs door
• Limlimbu Apartments – in Foyer
• Village Bowl Playground
• Accommodation Transfer Service – inside queueing area
• Wagga Wagga Ski Club – near main entrance
• YMCA Howman’s Gap – entrance to main dining hall
Please feel free to advise this publication of any further defibrillators we may have missed. Email: kencbell@bigpond.net.au with any details.
in Slalom day carpark at the bottom of Halley’s Comet Chairlift. Tel: 57 583 009 For pick and pack deliveries please visit www.foodworkshighcountry.com.au
Local Community Defibrillators Accessible 24/7 Locations
• Alpine Health Mount Beauty
• Mount Beauty CFA
• Mount Beauty Golf Club
• Mount Beauty Neighbourhood Centre
• Big Hill Mountain Bike Park Day Shelter
• Tawonga CFA
• The Outdoor School, Bogong
• Dederang CFA
Located Inside Facility (Available Opening Hours only)
• Mount Beauty Bendigo Bank
• Mount Beauty Evolution Fitness Gym
• Mount Beauty CFA (2 in the trucks)
• Mount Beauty Cricket Clubrooms
• Mount Beauty Men's Shed
• Mount Beauty Pool/Stadium
• Mount Beauty Senior Citizen's Hall
• Mount Beauty Primary School
• Tawonga Bowls Club
Watching the 11am news today (27.07.2021) I released a whoop of joy at the news. Lockdown restrictions are easing, and life consequently is good! Phones are ringing with people wanting to book accommodation, equipment hire and tables in restaurants, and no doubt the online reservations for the Snowsports School are running hot.
Race Clubbers will be happy campers with the resumption of programs as the lifts start turning on Wednesday 28 July. Couple this news with the big snow dumps of the past few weeks and the world feels like it’s almost rotating in the right direction once again.
Almost! The world is still just a little bit off-kilter in my corner of our lovely little village. As well as being the Administrator for Falls Creek Race Club, I’m the Secretary for the Falls Creek Historical Society. I’m a bit of a sucker for a volunteer role. Seriously, someone work out how to help me stop because I’m over-committed and underavailable all the time.
Over the years I’ve been involved in Special Interest Groups, Committees of Management, and Non-Executive Boards for industry bodies, kindergartens, schools, sporting clubs and charitable organisations and I love it. I love helping because it makes me feel good. Not 100% of the time. Let’s be honest, raking the tan bark or cleaning ovens at Kinda isn’t high on anyone’s list of pleasurable activities but it needs to get done
and the chat coupled with a post working bee morning tea or afternoon drinks are usually well worth it.
Zappal (2000) tells us that volunteering is an activity that is freely chosen, does not involve remuneration, and helps or benefits strangers. It is estimated that in Australia 5.897 million people formally volunteer each year, almost one third (29.5%) of people being aged 15 years and over. Formal volunteering is when a person volunteers through an organisation (Volunteering Australia 2021).
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.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ 1996 Survey of Voluntary Work shows us why people volunteer. The survey shows us that people volunteer for a wide variety of reasons, and consistent with other studies, the 'altruistic' reasons tend to top the list. In Australia, volunteers contributed 596.2 million hours to the community in 2019 and the main reason people first became involved in volunteering was that they knew someone who was involved or that they were asked to volunteer (Volunteering Australia 2021).
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.
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on volunteering. Research commissioned by Volunteering Australia from the Australian National University estimated
that two thirds of volunteers (65.9%) stopped volunteering between February and April 2020 (Volunteering Australia 2021).
If you have any specific agenda items, please email http://joprothero@fallscreek.com.au. We look forward to seeing you all there. • for to saving To Village will 10am 3rd, Companies Bedding and and Suppliers, suppliers Prepare Visit details
This data stacks up with my personal experience, and that of Falls Creek Historical Society President Karen Smythe, earlier in 2021 said. “We have seen a big drop this year in the number of people volunteering their time at the Museum run by the Historical Society. In 2019 the Museum was open 4 (or 5) afternoons a week over winter, with a fabulous roster of 10 magnificent people from all corners of the village.”
In 2021, when the museum committee put out the call for winter volunteers to open the museum, we only had one response.
A celebration of Lyn’s Life will take place on Friday the 28th April 2017 in the Village Bowl at Falls Creek for anyone who wishes to attend and pay tribute. Commencing at 12 noon, the afternoon will reflect Lyn’s enormous contribution to Falls Creek. Some wine and a light BBQ will be provided, but we ask that you bring other beverages and also a plate to share. In the case of wet weather, a contingency plan will be in place. Friends are welcome to pass this invite on and it is understood that members of Lyn’s family will be in attendance. • Trade Fair @ Falls Creek
Something of an institution since 1982, the Trade Fair @ Falls Creek is an opportunity
Birkebeiner and Joey Hoppet! (C)
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
DISPLAY:
CLASSIFIEDS: • Like the Trading Post. Send in your Classifieds and pay when you sell.
BUSINESS DIR.: • $5.90 per line per
This year, the Museum is only able to open post lockdown two days a week thanks to the commitment of two wonderful ladies: Karen Smythe and Karen Henville.
So, this article is a shameless call out for Museum Volunteers. Much like the barefaced Museum membership drive I did on Facebook and Instagram last week, and the unabashed Volunteer call outs I do for Race Club every year for gate keepers and second-hand sale helpers.
If you are looking to get involved in the Falls Creek community but can’t commit to the CFA or the SES, and if Race Club isn’t for you right now, why not volunteer at the Museum every now and then? You’ll learn lots about the village and its history; get to flog some great museum merchandise and will meet some lovely people along the way who are keen to stop and shoot the breeze as they while away an afternoon. Plus, we actively encourage zoom drinks when we meet online. Email Karen Smythe on info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au if you’re interested in finding out more.•
Be safe and be kind to yourselves. Cheers, Nyree Fiddes
FOR SALE
Ski Gear – Pre-loved - in good condition. • Skies – cross country and downhill – men’s, ladies. • Ski boots - cross country and down hill – men’s, ladies. • Jackets and clothing - cross country and down hill – men’s, ladies. To make a time to come and look please ring: 0408 466 790. One brand new pair of ASICS Tennis shoes, size 46 Euro (11.5 US). Worn once. Too tight for me. Retail Price: $159.95. Will sell for $120. Ph: 0400 350 488. Orbea AVANT M20 DISC road bike, Carbon frame, size 60, colour- Carbon-Blue. $1,950. * Nello Viper 51 kayak. $1,500. * Ph: 0408 466 790.
RM Williams Cuban Heel Boots, Bushman Tan, with added rubber protective sole. Almost brand new. Size 9 G. Retail $309.95 will sell for $250. Ph: 0400 350 488.
ALTERATIONS, DRESSMAKING & REPAIRS
Call Kerry Mb: 0407 814 114 for all sewing needs.
ALTITUDE PHYSIO & MASSAGE
Frueauf Village (below Milch Café) Grnd Flor, Rm 2, 4 Schuss St. Falls Creek. Ph: 03 5758 3766. Em: fallscreeek@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 cal Justin Mb: 0458 220 879.
CAKE MAKING & DECORATING
Elene Wood at www.studioecakes.com.au in Tawonga – for all occasions. Mb: 0409 673 192 or Em: hello@studioecakes.com.au
CARPENTRY & BUILDING SERVICES
Oztek Property Maintenance. Let us look after your home. We do bathrooms, decks pergolas and all handyman needs. Call Dave Mb: 0466 990 862.
CIVIL CLEBRANT – HEATHER MULL
Quality Ceremonies – All Types. Mb: 0428 993 125. www. celebrant-ne-vic.com.au
FOR SALE
Snowmobile Yamaha VK 540 and trailer. Hi/Low gear, widetrack/longtrack, elec start, forward and reverse. Goes well. Powerful workhorse. Located at Falls Creek. $850. Ph: 0456 022 211.
Snowmobile 2004 Polaris Trail Touring. Electric start and electric reverse. Only travelled 240km, always housed undercover at Wang Ski Club and regularly serviced. Comes with service manual and supplement. Located Mount Beauty, all offers considered. Contact Chris 0457 410 933.
BUSINESS FOR SALE
General and Refrigerated Freight, Kiewa Delivery Service, established 2001. Delivers to and from Albury Wodonga to Mount Beauty and Falls Creek five days a week. For further details, Ph: 0409 744 621.
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
Altitude Electrical – no job too big or too small. Domestic, Commercial & Industrial. Ben Svarc Mb: 0419 801 109
FREIGHT – ALB – MTB – FALLS CREEK
Remo’s Transport fromAlbury/Wodonga to Mount Beauty and Falls Creek Tue to Fri inclusive. Refrigeration available. Ph: John or Esther 0417 414 320.
HAIRDRESSER
Natalie Raymond, Birds Nest Salon, 26 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty. Open Six days a week and evenings by appointment. Ph: 03 5754 1177.
LD’S HOME PET CARE
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
PAINTING SERVICES
Interior/Exterior, Domestic/Commercial. Obligation Free Quotes. Quality & Service Guaranteed. KLM Alpine Painting Services. Ph: Laif: 0437 023 921.
PHYSIOTHERAPY
Kiewa Valley Sports & Spinal Therapy, 5A Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty. Out of Hours & Home visits available. HiCaps. Ph: 03 5754 1270.
A copy of Dr Ruth Lawrence’s Thesis titled ‘The Interaction between the Environment, Land Use and Hydrology of the Bogong High Plains between 1850 and 1985’ was left for this community in the care of Mr Bill Sutton. Bill was happy to lend the book – until now when it has not been returned. This is a valuable piece of the area’s history and we hope this notice may prompt some-ones memory. Your Editor has purchased a digital copy from Melbourne University for reference, but we would love to have the original bound copy returned. Ph: 00400 350 488.
Email your adverts to us and you don’t pay until you sell the goods – or until your Advert achieves the desired results. Em: kencbell@bigpond.net.au
POWER GENERATOR SERVICE & REPAIR
Services and repairs for Standby and Prime Power generating sets. eg Diesel, Petrol and or Gas Power Generators. We also offer a 24/7 call out service if needed. Locally located at the base of the Kiewa Valley. Ph: 0407 235 891. Em: info@cogenplus.com.au
SAFETY SCAFFOLD
Mount Beauty and Falls Creek area. Ph: 0418 578 500.
SECURE STORAGE
From 2m x 2m through to 3m x 7m. Ph: 0418 578 500.
SPORTS MASSAGE
Book On-Line: impactmassage.com.au
STORAGE
Caravans, Vehicles, Pallets, Large Lock-Up Units. Ph: 0428 361 497. www.alpinewarehousing.com
TAXI & 4WD SERVICE
Covers Falls Creek & Albury. The On-Demand Taxi Hours are now 8am – 9pm Mon – Thurs; 8am - 1pm Fri & Sat. No Taxi Service Sunday. Special Bookings outside these hours may be made by prior arrangement. Ph: 0409 573 909 or 131 008.
The red and gold has gone, The trees stand bare and tall, Beyond the Alpine valley, The first white snowflake falls.
Soon a coat of snow Sparkles everywhere you glance, While under twisted snow gums, Frosted fairies dance.
Up the chairlift creeps. Down the skiers go. Everywhere you look Is white, white, white, white snow.
The expert skiers fly!
The novice skiers stumble! While sweet hot chocolate dreams, Make children’s tummies rumble.
The winter winds blow on Around the mountain peaks. For the snow is always falling At beautiful Falls Creek.
Julie-Anne Sykley
WHERE Bottom of Gully Chairlift.
WHEN Open Daily 10am – 12:30pm & 2pm – 5pm (Map Ref: J6)
HOW Appointments Only.
Ph: 03 5758 3238
24 hours for Emergencies. COVID-19 Restrictions are in place for winter season. Numbers are limited. Bookings only! Refer to: www.mbmc.com.au for further information
WHERE Tawonga Crescent.
WHEN 8:30am – 5pm Mon – Friday 10am – 12noon Saturdays.
HOW Ph: 03 5754 3400 for appointments
WHO Doctors: Mark Zagorski OAM, Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton, Lauren Cussen, Matthew McAlpine, Brett Goodsall & Damian Heman.
WHAT Fully accredited General Practice with 42 years of service to the Upper Kiewa Valley.
Phone consultations are an option. Call either number for an appointment!
Lock-Down changes and weather may impact some of these events. Please check with the organiser for the most up-to-date information.
JULY 31 TDFNL Rd 14 Dederang Mount Beauty V Wahgunyah @ Dederang
AUS Open Sprint Championships (C) CC & FIS. 9:30am. FC Nordic Bowl. Ph: 0400 333 846. Postponed
AUG 1-29 Virtual Kangaroo Hoppet. Do it Your Way! Entries Now Open. https://hoppet.com.au/ virtual-hoppet.html
AUG 3 Twilight Tuesdays! The Village Bowl 3:30 to 5:30pm for our ‘Street Party’ with fire pits, marshmallows, games and music! Weather & COVID-19 Restrictions may apply.
AUG 5 Fireworks Fiesta powered by BMW. 7pm in the Village Bowl.
AUG 4-6 Aus Secondary Schools Ski Teams Championships.
AUG 7 TDFNL Rd 15 Dederang Mount Beauty V Wodonga Saints @ Dederang
AUG 10 Twilight Tuesdays! The Village Bowl 3:30 to 5:30pm for our ‘Street Party’ with fire pits, marshmallows, games and music! Weather & COVID-19 Restrictions may apply.
AUG 12 Fireworks Fiesta powered by BMW. 7pm in the Village Bowl.
AUG 14 TDFNL Rd 16 Beechworth V Dederang Mount Beauty @ Beechworth
AUG 17 Twilight Tuesdays! The Village Bowl 3:30 to 5:30pm for our ‘Street Party’ with fire pits, marshmallows, games and music! Weather & COVID-19 Restrictions may apply.
AUG 19 Fireworks Fiesta powered by BMW. 7pm in the Village Bowl.
AUG 24 Twilight Tuesdays! The Village Bowl 3:30 to 5:30pm for our ‘Street Party’ with fire pits, marshmallows, games and music! Weather & COVID-19 Restrictions may apply.
AUG 26 Fireworks Fiesta powered by BMW. 7pm in the Village Bowl.
AUG 31 Twilight Tuesdays! The Village Bowl 3:30 to 5:30pm for our ‘Street Party’ with fire pits, marshmallows, games and music! Weather & COVID-19 Restrictions may apply.
