This Week in Falls Creek & Mount Beauty - 17 September 2021

www.thisweekinfallscreek.com.au

PRICELESS

SPRING EDITION FIFTEEN

FRIDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER 2021

Time To Appreciate!

Take a moment to enjoy our wonderful area… Another fabulous pic by Chris Hocking ​​​​The Tops Shots team are still doing chairlift shots and creating great photographic mementos of your snow experience.

Call into the shop in Cloud 9. Pics – Mike @ Top Shots

FROM THE CEO Coronavirus and Avalanche Education… how are they related?

O T

individual freedoms taken away. As I have something that in the current circumstance many are hoping for). But it is not the said previously, that is why I love skiing panacea. Speak to any of the snow making - backcountry especially. I get to paint a team to understand their frustration at canvas, my canvas with my tracks and my various times… rain, fog, wet bulb temps, choice of how I ride it. But, the voices of humidity readings, huge mounds of snowevery avi teacher I’ve had, the diagrams in making washed away by storms… they every book I’ve read about backcountry are all still combatants, not remedied, just risk, the routes taken where that choice was Oneconfirm of the to GE mitigated. theRound right one, meNational that doingSeries bething, staged this weekend, thewill right making the smarterbeginning choice, with practice sessions from 11am Friday. But with adversity comes ingenuity. This and for what it’s worth, doing what we are season is certainly adverse. Our resilient and allDuring now required to do,of is the right, irrespective the course weekend, several tenacious stakeholders – in particular the of of thethe losstrails of control weclosed feel wetohave been riders accommodation providers and the food and will be general stripped of. Blue Dirt will have shuttles runningbeverage venues have all worked overtime to although fromresorts 11am have to 6pm and again on ensure safety is their priority. To deliver this, Allon theFriday Australian grappled Saturday from 9am to 5pm.

Cost with this dilemma and worked throughis a$50 per they have also come up with innovations to day orof$90 for 2 days.

Go to www.bluedirt. deliver experiences differently. myriad externalities, unfamiliar to us com.au to book.

On Sunday the trails will all, to effectively be able to still deliver a Obviously, with limitations to venue No time to be smelling the roses during this weekend’s be closed general public, snow season.to Bythe externalities, I refer but to will numbers… getting Pic the- great grub (and Gravity Enduro.

Jiri Cech. progressively open thephilosophical different sections regional both the economic andasthe grog) that Falls Creek is renowned of the event are completed. Pretty Valley for…Point interpretation.

The aim of the needsontothe beFrying served Pan and Spur. delivered Road will also have closures and be subject todifferently. operation sittingthan the game isHours to rideofeach sectionand no faster Fordelays example, the capacity constraints that should anyone be travelling back from timesfastest have been increased at seated dining time allowed, and no slower than the set arethe being overlaid the Valley industry are horse yards across or Pretty Pondage. venues, there are new online ordering slowest time.

Then they do the competitive bit, commitments made to deliver a snow platforms to avoid waiting, take away menus Now this Gravity Enduro is a different sort before riding to the start of the next competitive season, safely… and to deliver a stimulus have bit erupted, ski beating thru pick-up windowsthe times of the mountain bike racing to what we know without or exceeding into region which has suffered terribly in have been installed and delivery servicesto print, the as Downhill or Cross Country.

The Gravity permitted.

At the time of going the last 18 months. have evolved.

Lounges have been Enduro is both. The athletes will start with final course had not been set, turned but they look like Snow quantity (andfrom quality – if you’re specialised boutique dining experiences a warm up ride Slalom Plaza, out the into taking in High Voltage and Wishing Well, then powder hound) always beenupanthe Pretty and chefs tables, private rooms and venues Bogong Highhave Plains Road, heading to Flowtown, completing that before industry externality.

Snowmaking to larger groups are being dedicated, Valleyspecific Road and then across to the Trig catering heading to Thunderbolt and then to Generator has been an innovation to counter this aprèsand hours have been extended (who doesn’t Vortex before finishing in Slalom Plaza. dilemma (consider it a vaccine if you will… come to a ski resort for the après)…

bscure as this might seem, I read a 2017 GRAVITY ENDURO NATIONAL SERIES piece from an expert whose opinion and insights I value. The fact that Round Falls Creek he is a friendOne who I’ve-backcountry toured

with in he Japan, and who is a professional National Gravity Enduro Series guide and inqualifying the field of series avalanche actsexpert as the for the education (and explosives) is an See aside.

His Enduro World Series. mention perspective andwith the drawing in of risk to in the article Ben McIlroy. situations that wholly in reliant on personal Mountain Bikeare Australia conjunction with choices resonated with me.

Falls Creek Resort Management are pleased

to Round“IOne of the 2017 Hispresent piece stated am finding that Gravity the Enduro Series.

The series is Australia problemNational of virus risk management wide with Round Two being held atweStromlo directly analogous to the problems face Forest ACT in May. Round will be at in avalanche education; bothThree are relatively Balingup WA inhigh-consequence June; Round Four will go to low-frequency, events Rockhampton in July thea final where you can get awayand with lot ofround beingwill stupid it catchesIsland, up to on you. have be heldbefore on Woodford theWe Clarence foundinthat most people, even after taking River northern NSW in August. an avalanche course, continuebiking being continues careless The popularity of mountain with their choice of terrain, conditions, and to grow. From the great efforts of some Mount travel procedures until a close friend has Beauty locals in the 90’s - to hosting the a death, or they themselves near-miss”.

Nationals in Feb 2000 - tohave the apoint where we have‘avalanche’ some of the tracks in the country In the of best coronavirus -(COVID-19), both in Mount Beauty in Falls we’ve beenand faced with Creek. the The andortheregulate successbehaviour means we can needgrowth to enforce continue fabulous events. to achievetoa host desired outcome for the collectivist good. No one likes to have their

WHEN THE BRIGHT YELLOW FLAGS ARE OUT Open

by Appointment – WE’RE OPEN!

For Groups, Clubs etc Locate right beside the bottom station of Halley’s Comet Chairlift!

Phone: 03 5758 1200

Spend some time and take in the fabulous history that has earned this community so much respect!

And, talk to any member of our team about the rewards of volunteering the Falls Creek Museum.

Please try to in allow 24hours notice.

4 Slalom Street, southern end of the Panabode building.

For further information: Phone: 03 5758 1202 for further information www.fallscreekmuseum.com.au Wb: www.fallscreekmuseum.com.au info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au Em: info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au Facebook/fallscreekmuseum Fb: facebook.com/fallscreekmuseum

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.

NOW OPEN Sunday: 8am to 9am Rider Briefing and Timing For great coffee snacks! activation. 8:30am&totasty 1430pm Trails Open for From 8am six days a week GE competition.1500 to 1630 Presentations.

Closed Mondays If you’re into biking and would like to enjoy Located in Slalom Plaza some good action, be at Falls Creek this near the ticket box weekend. Further detail from 03 5758 1200. •

FALLS CREEK Open For Business

www.fallscreek.com.au Accommodation Alpha Lodge

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

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

Open for comfortable bed & breakfast accommodation.

Fully licensed. Arlberg Street, Ph: 03 5758 3255.

Cedarwood Apartments

Fully self contained apartment accommodation Schuss Street Ph: 5758 3393.

2

Falls Creek Country Club

Fully self contained accommodation from $135 /dbl/night.

Ph: 5758 3391 or www.fallscreekcountryclub.com.au.

QT Hotel Falls Creek

Outdoor Activities

Snowski Apartments

Shopping

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 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

Summit Ridge Lodge

Open for comfortable bed & breakfast accommodation.

Fully licensed. Schuss Street. Ph: 03 5758 3800.

Viking Lodge

Self-catering accommodation, all rooms with en suites.

On site manager and secure bike storage and workshop.

Free Wi-Fi. Ph. 03 5758 3247.

Dining & Bar BE Foodstore

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

For all licensed supermarket lines - located in lower level, St Falls West. Open 10am - 5pm daily. Ph: 03 5758 3009.

Child Care

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.

Visitor Information

Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Winter 2021 Edition FIFTEEN Upstairs Resort Management Office (above day shelter) Open for dining and drinks from 9am 7 days during Easter, Open 9am - 5pm weekdays and 10am - 3pm weekends

FROM THE CEO

Avalanches in Australia are more common than many realise.

That is why Avalanche Awareness courses are run quite frequently.

Pic – Courtesy Google

The ski industry is about innovation… some good (parabolic shaping, reverse camber, king pin bindings, gopro, avi airbags, Rossi S7’s, synthetic skins, GoreTex – will take it, as its changed weather proof gear despite being a medical invention), some bad (the mono ski, tandem skis, ski blades, onesies (except if you’re under 12), the buggy ski – google it!).

So, get behind our innovative operators. If you can’t get out to support them, they’ll come to you…

Now get online and order!!

Article quoted is by Bill Glude – Alaskan Avalanche Specialists (and ripper guide/ photog too). • Stuart Smythe, CEO Falls Creek Resort Management

~ OPEN DAILY ~ From 10am – 3pm Snacks, Lunch, coffee & drinks From 6pm Dine In or Take Away Goodies available on the website: www.milchcafebar.com Phone: 03 5758 3407 4 Schuss Street, Falls Creek

www.milchcafebar.com Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Winter 2021 Edition FIFTEEN

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LOCAL HISTORY Tom Mitchell - Ski Champion & Visionary.

I

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

The Mitchell family were among the early settlers in the Upper Murray area and it was at the family property Towong Hill that Thomas Walter Mitchell was born in 1906. Tom Mitchell first learned to ski on a family holiday at Klosters in Switzerland when he was seven years old. It was fourteen years later while studying law at Cambridge University that he developed his passion for skiing.

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

]

summit ridge restaurant

~ Open Six Nights a week ~

For Great Take-Away

Two sittings nightly 6pm - 7:30pm & 7:30pm till late!

TAKE-AWAY MENU Coffee / Burgers / Fish n Chips Hot Food / Fruit Salads / Cakes Sushi / Rice Paper Rolls Cold Drinks

A la carte menu Five course degustation menu only available for the 7:30pm sitting.

Our popular souvlakis are still available for take away only!

Closed Tuesdays Phone: 03 5758 3800 for reservations book through the website!

For Or reservations call 03 5758 3800 Web: www.summitridge.com.au or Em: Email: ski@summitridge.com.au ski@summitridge.com.au Schuss Creek Ref: K3 8 Street, SchussFalls Street, FallsMap Creek

Map Ref: K3

In the 1930’s he was four time Australian champion in slalom, twice in downhill events and four times combined champion.

On a number of occasions he captained the Australian team in inter-dominion competitions with New Zealand. He made a strong impression when he won the 1932 NZ national championships on Mt Ruapehu, “his high standard of skiing an inspiration to the local skiers, demonstrating techniques not previously seen on the mountain.”

In 1937 Tom published Ski Heil, the first Australian handbook on skiing technique.

The same year he was instrumental in establishing the Australian National Ski Federation. Tom Mitchell married in 1935 and taught his wife Elyne to ski. She, too, became a champion - winning the Canadian downhill championships in 1938.

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

PHONE ORDERS: 0411 695 546 Please do not text - make sure you talk to a person!

Check our Facebook page for updates in what's happening in Kiewa Valley FB: Mt Beauty Take Out

feathertop

• Open 7 Days • Full menu, great pizzas and burgers

alpine lodge | restaurant | bar

If the lifts are turning, we’re open @ 11am!

If no Lifts, we’re open @ 5pm!

Take Away available also.

Bookings Essential Ph: 03 5758 3232 4

+ warm ambience + chilled tunes + relaxing and cozy + beautiful wines + amazing food

Bed & Breakfast Full a la carte menu Complimentary Pick-up Service

Ph: 03 5758 3232 14 Parallel Street

For bookings or orders Map Ref: G2

Happy Hour 4pm Dinner 5pm - late

03 5758 3088 Slalom Plaza (opp Halley’s Comet) Map Ref: F3

Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Winter 2021 Edition FIFTEEN

LOCAL HISTORY However it was as an author that she is most remembered, especially for her ‘Silver Brumby’ series for children set in the Snowy Mountains.

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

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

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

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

•

OPEN

•

This Weekend From 4pm FRIDAY TO SUNDAY Experience the fabulous views & relax in the lounge whilst enjoying warm hospitality

10 Arlberg Street ph: 03 5758 3255 www.attungalodge.com.au

OPEN FOR LUNCH

Chair photos: 8:45 to 10:30am!

11:30am - 2:30pm daily Mountain views, friendly staff, reasonable prices & delicious food!

BOOKINGS RECOMMENDED www.fallscreekhotel.com.au Ph: 03 5758 3282 23 Falls Creek Rd, Falls Creek. Map Ref: M2

Shop is now located inside Cloud 9.

Ph: 0407 855 265

Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Winter 2021 Edition FIFTEEN

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LOCAL HISTORY In 1948 Mitchell organised a bus trip for the other member ski clubs (from Albury, Bright, Myrtleford, Wangaratta and Beechworth, Tallangatta and Benalla) to visit Falls Creek.

Shortly thereafter Albury applied to build a club lodge followed by Myrtleford.

During his time as a politician (1947 to 1976), and as Victorian Attorney General (1950-52) Mitchell was able to have a direct influence on the development of Falls Creek.

Indeed, he was instrumental in the easing of barriers placed by the SEC powers-that-be on accessing the ski fields, be it on receiving permits to build lodges or permits to use the road.

By 1951 the village as had been envisioned

by Mitchell as a POW was taking shape. He too had committed to building a small Dawn Ski Club lodge with Dale Crookes.

Mitchell continued to encourage and support the trans-Tasman ski competitions and in the early 1950’s visits by local clubs became more commonplace. In 1953 a team from New Zealand visited Falls Creek for the first time.

Falls Creek Village Map 1951 from Ski-Horizon of June 1951. Image - Courtesy Falls Creek Museum.

This was some months after Edmund Hillary and Nepalese Sherpa Tenzing Norgay became the first climbers confirmed as having reached the summit of Mount Everest.

(Although the naming was apparently gazetted it has been lost over time in reproduction of maps of the area).

Aware of this, Tom Mitchell and Toni St Elmo had proposed that an unnamed mountain to the north of Mt Nelse be named Mt Hillary to honour the event.

This article kindly prepared for this paper

by Diana Patterson, ex FCRM Board Member and a current member of the Falls Creek Historical Society.

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

Personalise your next adventure with

Local hirer of steel Kwikstage

Summer & Winter

SCAFFOLD

Licences Park Operator

Mobile: 0412 250 873

https://www.fallscreekguides.com.au/

SPRING CLEAN TIME! Clean your Doonas, Blankets and winter clothes ready to store for summer

1 Bogong High Plains Rd

ARIEL'S LAUNDRETTE

Coffee, Breakfast & Lunch

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

open daily from 8am 03 5758 3615 6

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

WE'RE STILL HERE! We have lots to keep you warm & secure!

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

Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Winter 2021 Edition FIFTEEN

BOGONG VILLAGE A Note from AGL

A

fter holding our Bogong Village Transition Forums recently, we heard a lot of stories, opinions, and thoughts on the role that Bogong Village will play in the next chapter of its life. It was moving to hear about our community’s connection to this place, and it clearly holds a special place in a lot of our hearts.

We recognise that, and we have heard the community. The feedback was clear, there needs to be a life and soul in Bogong Village throughout the transition period whilst we continue our discussions with potential new operators.

AGL is currently working hard on some near-term and long-terms options to address these very valid concerns.

AGL has developed a Project Plan that sets the path for assessing the viability for an activation of the village. The overriding message from the Forums was to seek future operating models that are financially sustainable for the village operator.

As discussed at our forums, there is a consensus that there are two broad areas underpinning any future activation of the village: 1. Understanding the long-term operation and capital expenses 2. Assessing the viability of various commercial models The development of a stand-alone Asset Register will likely take the next three months to put together. AGL is currently seeking market quotes from organisations that can develop the municipal-style asset database to identify end-of-life, replacement and maintenance costs for the continued delivery of all the utility services and built assets and improvements.

The market viability project is looking at various activation models. For example, these may range from long-term tenancy to short-term tourism to the development of new markets.

AGL Representatives at the Bogong Village Transition Forum earlier in winter. From left: Lachlan Sturt (Community Relations Manager, Gas and Renewables), Simon Kelley AGL Head of Hydro and Ben Derrick Project Manager, Bogong Village Transition. Pic – Ken Bell

AGL has remained engaged with all layers of government for the various stages of the project.

In response to meeting our community’s aspirations to see some level of activation in the village, as well as to alleviate some of the significant pressure on available rental houses in the Upper Kiewa Valley, AGL is exploring options to facilitate medium-term tenancy in the village over the summer period.

It won’t be in a commercial capacity we have always maintained that as an energy company, we’re not in the holiday accommodation business – but we hope this goes some way to reintroduce some vibrancy in the village and potentially help relieve the rental market stresses that are having an impact on our community.

AGL Hydro is also still keen to have more members of our Community Dialogue Group. After some exceptional applicants, we are extending the Expression Of Interest period so that we can gather even more momentum. Our first meeting will be held in early October. If you’re interested, or if

HOME DELIVERY NOW AVAILABLE! ~ Falls Creek & the Upper Kiewa Valley ~

We will use this information to assess the compatibility for a new land reservation and new land manager to assume authority for the village. There are a number of options, but we know that they have to be economically viable if there is going to be a successful activation of the village.

If you can't get off the mountain, or are finding it hard to get to the shops during lockdown, you can now order everything you need from the butchery online, and we'll deliver it to your door!

Got a problem with pests?

 https://bit.ly/2XHzpze 

We can help with: • Sniffer dog tracking of Termites • Rodents • Spiders • Wasps - and all other pests that crawl or fly!

Andrew Poulton

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

Simply head to the link below, fill out our online form and include all your contact details and any products you'd like to order.

Once we've received payment over the phone, your order will be on its way to you on your nominated delivery date!

Free delivery available to Falls Creek addresses on Wednesdays & Fridays. Mount Beauty, Tawonga South & Tawonga addresses on weekdays.

you know someone who may be, feel free to get in touch. The more people we have involved, the better outcomes we can achieve for the community.

To find out more information, head to agl. com.au/hydro or email AGLCommunity@ agl.com.au Kind regards, Lachlan Sturt Community Relations Manager, Gas and Renewables

Helen Mathew m 0419 399 737 Mount Beauty | www.mountaincreekarch.com

Falls Creek

Open 10am 8am –- 7pm 6pm Daily · Extensive grocery range · Bottle shop: beer, wine, spirits · Fresh fruit and vegetables · Hot pies and sausage rolls · Heat and eat meals ·Phone re-charge ·ATM ·Newspapers and magazines

Located 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

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to give Will a call at the shop on 03 5754 1888.

211 Kiewa Valley Hwy, Tawonga South

Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Winter 2021 Edition FIFTEEN

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QT HOSPITALITY ASSETS John Castran

|

0411 502 424

|

john@castran.com.au

are as follows and can be purchased individually or in one line.

1. Bazaar Restaurant - Being sold as a going concern and sits on its own ‘strata sublease ER4’ 2. Stingray Bar - Being sold as a going concern and sits on its own ‘strata sublease WR9 & WR10’ 3. FIXX Cafe & Function Area - Being sold as a going concern and sits on its own ‘strata sublease ER7 & ER6’ 4. Slalom Plaza Pop Up Licensed Area - A very funky 3m x 3m pop up space known as ‘ER8’ 5. SOLD - The Pass (leased to an operator) - Known as WR12 6. Day Spa Facility - Known as WR7 7. 2 bedroom 2 bathroom Managers Apartment in St Falls West - To be sold with vacant possession, known as ‘W01’ 8. Snowdrift Lodge - 15 Falls Creek Road - Comprising 23 en-suited rooms, commercial kitchen, lounge/dining area, ski room, drying room & extensive storage areas. To be sold with vacant possession, known as ‘site 91’ 9. Management Rights over 38 apartments in St Falls East & West + management rights over day spa, reception area & transit rooms - To be sold as a going concern.

www.castran.com.au 8

Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Winter 2021 Edition FIFTEEN

SNOWDRIFT LODGE John Castran

|

0411 502 424

|

john@castran.com.au

15 Falls Creek Road - 25 bedrooms, 25 bathrooms.

Expressions of Interest closing Thursday 30th September at 4pm.

Comprising 23 en-suited rooms, commercial kitchen, lounge/ dining area, ski room, drying room & extensive storage areas to be sold with vacant possession, known as ‘site 91’ • • • • • •

23 ensuited rooms which could be converted into individual units by way of consolidation of the rooms Commercial kitchen Lounge/dining area Ski room Drying room & extensive storage areas The site has a 35.5 approx frontage to Falls Creek Road.

The assets are being sold on the basis of a 10% deposit with settlement up to 6 months.

www.castran.com.au Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Winter 2021 Edition FIFTEEN

9

LOCAL BIRD LIFE Close to Home

S

urvival is a never-ending search for food. Some birds go for the nectar and pollen of flowers, others for seeds, or for grubs or insects. Our raptors are out for reptiles, mice, rabbits, fish or adult birds and chicks. The flocks of Sulphur-crested Cockatoos spread out on the grass are probably digging up the bulbs of onion grass. Some birds have adapted to humans and scrounge for our crumbs or hollow out the oranges growing in our yards.

But we've made it harder for them, with the feral cats and foxes we've brought in, and the destruction of habitat. Large water birds such as herons, egrets and darters have dropped in number by about 80% in the Murray-Darling basin due to the way we've mismanaged its water.

FALL LINES Hard Waste Collection

F

alls 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 A Laughing Kookaburra flies between to get your feedback visitor perches from which to scan the ground…

Satin like Bowerbirds are pretty shyon butevents, this one mountain takes demographic, a risk in a Tawonga Southbiking yard…and general Steve Killalea from Milestone Chemicals - just one of the many e observations. and finds a grub in disturbed soil…

Falls Creek. Pic - Elle Shaw.

Therefore you are invited to join the fo relevant Resort Management personnel ▼ Falls Creek Mount Beauty ▼ MEDICAL SERVICES A Life to Remember to and other members of the community for a A celebration of Lyn’s Life will take place WHERE Bottom of Gully Chairlift.

WHERE Tawonga sa summer Crescent. season debrief meeting. on Friday the 28th April 2017 in the Village WHEN 8:30am – 5pm Mon – Friday WHEN Open Daily 10am – 12:30pm To This meeting will take place on Bowl at Falls Creek for anyone who wishes

10am – 12noon Saturdays. & 2pm – 5pm (Map Ref: J6) Vi Wednesday 26th April from 9:30am to to attend and pay tribute. Commencing at HOW Ph: 03 5754 3400in the Boardroom above HOW Appointments Only. wi around 11:30am 12 noon, the afternoon will reflect Lyn’s for appointments

Ph: 03 5758 3238 10 Foodworks in QT. enormous contribution to Falls Creek. Some

24 hours for Emergencies.

3r WHO Doctors: Mark Zagorski OAM, Jeff Robinson, wine and a light BBQ will be provided, If you have any specific agenda items, please

COVID-19 Restrictions are Libby Garoni, Skye Delaney, Laura Zagorski, but we ask that you bring other beverages C email http://joprothero@fallscreek.com.au.

in place for winter season.

Angela Stratton, Lauren Cussen, and also a plate to share. In the case of wet Be We look forward to seeing youMatthew all there. • ​​Numbers are limited.

McAlpine, Brett Goodsall & Damian Heman. weather, a contingency plan will be in place. an

Bookings only!

Friends are welcome to pass this invite on WHAT ​Fully accredited General Practice with 42 an ​​ Refer to: www.mbmc.com.au and it is understood that members of Lyn’s for further information years of service to the Upper Kiewa Valley.

Su UKVRA presents… family will be in attendance. • su Phone consultations are an option. Call either number for an appointment!

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

BUSH EMERGENCY GOTHIC

EMERGENCY 000 Ambulance 000 EMERGENCY BROADCASTER Alpine Radio (Fires & Floods) 96.5 FM ELECTRICITY Faults & Emergencies 13 17 99 FIRE Falls Creek/Mount Beauty/ Tawonga 000 HOSPITAL Mount Beauty 5754 3500 MEDICAL CENTRES Falls Creek 5758 3238 Mount Beauty 5754 3400

PUBLICATION SCHEDULE:

Sunday 28th May 5pm POLICE (non-emergency) 131 444 Falls Creek 5758 3424 Mount Beauty Information Centre Mount Beauty 5754 4244 Auditorium. BYO drinks and5723 nibbles.

Wangaratta 0600 REGIONAL ROADS VICTORIA 133 778 Tickets: Mount BeautyNewsagency Falls Creek 5758 3287 RACV Falls Creek/Mount Beauty 5750 1230 BURN OFF NOTIFICATIONS $25, $20 (members), $10 (students) CFA 1800 668 511 STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE Falls Creek 13 25 00 WILDLIFE RESCUE 0421 553 527

Ph: 5754 4204

PHYSIOTHERAPY

PHYSIOTHERAPY Kiewa Valley Sports & Spinal Physiotherapy

G

5A Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty

An

Phone: 5754 1270

2021 WINTER PUBLICATION SCHEDULE & RATES MEDICAL SERVICES ADVERTISING RATES: 2017 LOCAL PASS MOUNT BEAUTY

Ed 16 * 24.09.21 * At the Close of winter, we trust we have more activities to enjoy! (C) DISPLAY: • 1 column (6cm wide) = $15.00 per cm. 4cp = $20.00 per cm.

SEd 01 * 15.10.21 * Summer Edition One featuring as many summer activities as we can. (C)

• 2 column (12.5cm wide) = $25.00 per cm. 4cp = $35.00 per cm.

WHER E Tawonga Crescent SEd 02 * 29.10.21 * Remembrance Day Celebrations. Outdoor School Bogong 50th Anniversary (C)

• 3 column (19cm wide) = $35.00 per cm. 4cp = $49.00 per cm.

WHEN - 5:00pm Mon Friday SEd 03 * 12.11.21 * Planning your Christmas Shopping. Get those Tomato plants in now. (C) CLASSIFIEDS: • Like the Trading Post. Send in8:30am your Classifieds and pay when- you sell.

10:00am 12:00pm Saturdays DISTRIBUTION: • All accommodation houses, restaurants, businesses, club lodges & BUSINESS Take advantage of the DIR.: value• $5.90 per line per Edition. apartments in Falls Creek, Bogong Village, Mount Beauty, Tawonga South, Tawonga & Dederang, Ph: 5754 DEADLINE: • Friday 2.00pm prior to publication date 3400 for HOW - exclusively plus the RMB’s between Dederang & Tawonga & selected venues in Brightpacked* & Myrtleford. Local Pass appointments CONTRACT: • A Winter Season Contract is available for advertising in all 16 editions offered to local residents.

ONLINE: • Available in PDF form at: www.fallscreek.com.au/whatson/ of winter offering a 15% discount – Invoiced four Editions 24 in advance. dates are: 11.06.21, hoursInvoice for emergencies WEBSITE: • www.thisweekinfallscreek.com.au 30.07.21 27.08.21. • $250 per Adult04.07.21, + $45 per& Day Drs Mark Zagorski, Jeff WHO

Affordable skiing in your own backyard!

$140 per Child + $35 per Day ENQUIRIES ** More Benefits in 2017**

For Information on Advertising or Editorial Contributions please contact: All orders Ken Bell Mob: 0400 350 488

Email: kencbell@bigpond.net.au

Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton & Anoop Pem. For Payment, Placement of Adverts or Subscriptions, please forward to:

in by Sunday 30th April.

Ph/Fax: 03 5754 1346

Office Address: Suite 2, 41 WHAT Bogong High Plains Road, MountGeneral Beauty Fully accredited For further information contact: Postal Address: P.O. Box 325, Mount Beauty 3699. ABN: 22 171 749 807

Practice with 37 years service

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Falls Creek Ski Lifts P/L to the Upper Kiewa Valley.

Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Winter 2021 Edition FIFTEEN Ph: 03 5758 1000 YOUR LOCAL PRACTICE -

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O W a w R i fi w t I B h R g g A

LOCAL BIRD LIFE

The Little Pied Cormorant is often seen sunning itself but only after some dives for food. It has little oil in its plumage so few bubbles are trapped that make for too much buoyancy. That means it gets soggy from the dives and needs to dry out before it can fly.

This one has scored a yabby in the Mount Beauty Pondage. It tossed it repeatedly in the air to get the head aimed throatwards and then swallowed it whole.

The young Crimson Rosella is green on top, useful camouflage against predators as it forages on our ovals and lawns for seeds and insects and learns to survive. Over about 15 months it develops its full crimson and blue glory. Here's one in transition…

To end on an observation:

Bird photos aren't taken, they're given.

But you have to be ready for the gift.

• Ern Reeders

TRADING POST CLASSIFIEDS 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.

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.

FOR SALE Blade X rollerblades, as new not yet used, men’s size 43, $100. Ph: 0408 466 790.

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.

S​ tubby series 1000 universal woodturning lathe, as new, $9,000. Ph: 0408 466 790.

A TOUCH OF HUMOUR “If women are so bloody perfect at multitasking, how come they can’t have a headache and sex at the same time?” – Billy Connolly

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.

MISSING BOOK A copy of Dr Ruth Lawrence’s Thesis titled ‘The Interaction between the Environment, Land Use and Hydrology of the Bogong High Plains between 1850 and 1985’ was left for this community in the care of Mr Bill Sutton. Bill was happy to lend the book – 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.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY 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

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.

Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Winter 2021 Edition FIFTEEN

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.

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WHAT'S ON IN 2021

FALL LINES

Lock-Down changes and weather may impact some of these events. Please check with the organiser for the most up-to-date information.

New Après At Falls Creek

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SEP 17 Start of the Victorian School Holidays.

ith new COVID restrictions in place, we are thrilled to welcome back Regional Victorian Guests, to both Falls Creek and Astra. At Astra, we have activated our Astra Balcony for a new Falls Creek Après experience.

Guests will be delighted with delicious classic and contemporary cocktails, bar snacks prepared by the Astra Kitchen team, and all with a view over the mountains.

Heaters are blankets are also supplied for guests.

Come and try the newest Après Experience at Falls Creek.

Mount Beauty Community Market. 9am – 1pm Top end of Hollonds Street and Kiewa Crescent. You make it, you bake it, you grow it, you’re welcome. Phone Bev: 0419 289 672, or Email: bevbantick@gmail.com

OCT 3​​

Daylight saving time 2021 in Victoria will begin at 2am on Sunday, 3 October.

OCT 3

Official Close if the declared snow season in Victoria.

OCT 4​​

Kids are back to school and the beginning of Term Four.

OCT 7​

Thursday. Upper Kiewa Valley Community Association Annual General Meeting.

7:30pm in the AUDITORIUM@ informationcentre on the Bogong High Plains Rd. To be confirmed.

A wonderful spot to enjoy an exquisite taste of après – Astra Balcony at Falls Creek. Pic – Courtesy TAG

Proofreading – or Lack Of! ‘Something Went Wrong in Jet Crash, Expert Says!’ Really? Ya' think so?

‘Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures!’ Who would have thought!

‘Police Begin Campaign to Run Down Jaywalkers!’ Now that's taking things a bit far!

‘Red Tape Holds Up New Bridges!’ You mean there's something stronger than duct tape?

‘Panda Mating Fails; Veterinarian Takes Over!’ What a guy!

‘New Study of Obesity Looks for Larger Test Group!’ Weren't they overweight enough?!

‘Miners Refuse to Work after Death!’ Thosegood-for-nothing' lazy so-and-so's!

‘Astronaut Takes Blame for Gas in Spacecraft!’

That's what he gets for eating those beans!

‘Juvenile Court to Try Shooting Defendant!’

See if that works better than a fair trial!

‘Kids Make Nutritious Snacks!’ Do they taste like chicken?

‘War Dims Hope for Peace!’ I can see where it might have that effect!

‘Local High School Dropouts Cut in Half!’

The Chainsaw Massacre all over again!

‘If Strike Isn't Settled Quickly, It May Last Awhile!’ Do you think so!

‘Typhoon Rips Through Cemetery; Hundreds Dead!’ Did I read that right?

THIS WEEK @ WEST PEAK ~ OPERATING HOURS FOR THIS WEEKEND ~

FRIDAY Drinks 3 - 6pm • Meals 6 - 8pm

OCT 2

SATURDAY & SUNDAY Meals 12 - 2pm • Drinks 2 - 6pm • Meals 6 - 8pm

OCT 15 This Week in Falls Creek and Mount Beauty Summer Edition One hits the streets. If you need something in the paper, make sure it is to the editor by the Friday prior.

~ MAJOR UPCOMING EVENTS ~ NOV 6​​

The Outdoor School Bogong celebrates 50 years of providing excellent education to thousands of students. Ph: 03 57543 1732

NOV 19-21 ​Ignition Mountain Bike Festival at Falls Creek. The start of the official MTB season. https://ignitionmtb.com.au/ NOV 27-29 Alpine Challenge 2021 https://www. runningwild.net.au/alpine-runs/alpinechallenge.html.POSTPONED Until 23rd and 24th April 2022.

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

For more information:

agl.com.au/hydro AGLCommunity@agl.com.au

03 5754 3222

MOTORING TIPS Regular Servicing is Vital!

Bookings essential due to heavily restricted numbers!

Check our Website or Facebook page for trading hours next week.

1 Lakeside Ave, Mount Beauty 03 5754 4985 www.westpeakhotel.com.au

PUBLIC NOTICE This paper, and our contributors, are working extremely hard to be positive and care for the people in our community.

Some time back we mentioned mental health.

If you have a tax problem – you go to the best tax agent. If your car blows up – you go to a very good mechanic. If you get lost – you would want the best SES personnel looking for you.

Therefore, if you are feeling a little down – then you seek out the best advice possible.

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An important part of owning and driving a motor car is the regular servicing required.

Understanding that regular servicing has lots of benefits and is cheaper in the long run.

• • • • •

It helps with reliability of your car.

It adds to the value of your car.

It improves fuel economy.

The regular checks ensure safety.

It can save you unwanted expenses.

Now is a great time to book your vehicle in for a timely service and check!

A Motoring Tip brought to you by

Rick at Mount Beauty Service Centre

39 Bogong High Plains road, Mount Beauty

Ph: 03 5754 4261

Falls Creek & Mount Beauty THIS WEEK - Winter 2021 Edition FIFTEEN