FRIDAY 15TH JULY 2022
The National Gravity Enduro Series acts as the qualifying series for the Enduro World Series. See mention in the article with Ben McIlroy.
For those asking the questions about the current snow depth, the resort is still well above the 30 year average for this time of year and the start to the season ranks as top three in the last 10 years… With a few cheeky top-ups likely in coming days, we are well placed for a ripper midseason.
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.
What happens to all the snow when it melts? Good question… A legacy of being a part of the hydro scheme is not only do we have an abundance of water (FYI the lake holds 28,000ML of it) for snow-making and power generation, but the network of aqueducts around the resort and across the high plains captures this snow as it melt and ‘recycles’ it.
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.
In fact, the Australian High Plains, particularly those around Falls Creek, Mt Hotham etc are a major part of the Murray
Darling Basin. Approximately 50-70% of the water that makes it way to your tap in metro Melbourne, the townships along the way and all the way to Adelaide, originates from part of what you’re skiing on!
In case you missed it, July is ‘Plastic Free’ (see – plasticfreejuly.org). This global campaign is all about reducing waste to landfill and education of the cause. Damage done to the environment is well documented by ‘disposable rubbish.’ It’s not just plastic bags and impact they have, but now because of COVID-19, a study by Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), has estimated that every day 6,500 tonnes of medical waste is generated, much of which is disposable masks.
Let’s puts some perspective on this. In the first six months of the pandemic (US stats) if every health care worker in the US used a new N95 mask for each patient encountered, the total number of masks required was estimated at 7.4bn, costing
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
USD$6.4bn. Generating 84m kilograms of waste.
Now this is just one country and it’s medical personnel! The University of Denmark has estimated that 129bn (yes billion) face masks are thrown in landfill every month. These will take 450 years to breakdown into microplastics. So it’s never been more important to do what we can to reduce all the other types of ‘disposable plastics’ we use. Check out the website above and see what you and your family can do to help.
No time to be smelling the roses during this weekend’s Gravity Enduro. Pic - Jiri Cech.
Now, to a long running pet hate of mine… cigarette butts!
Yep… Apparently of the 24 billion cigarettes (4.5 trillion globally) sold every year in Australia, 7 billion butts never find their way into a bin! That’s one butt for every human being on the plant being dropped in Australia alone! Cigarette butts, prior to COVID were the largest source of litter in the WORLD.
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.
If you’re thinking… “I don’t smoke, what has this to do with me?”
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!
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.
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
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.
Falls Creek Country Club
Fully self contained accommodation from $135 /dbl/night. Ph: 5758 3391 or www.fallscreekcountryclub.com.au.
Bogong High Plains Road.
Gebi’s Apartments
Fully self-contained comfortable apartments, located at the entrance to Falls Creek. Ph: 1800 45 35 25.
Nelse Alpine Lodge
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. •
Open for Accommodation, with Dinner, Bed and Breakfast options. Group bookings catered for. Comfortable lodge, pool and spa. Fully Licensed. Ph: 03 5758 3263 or Wb: www.nelselodge.com
QT Hotel Falls Creek
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
Snowski Apartments
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.
BE Foodstore
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
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.
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.
For all licensed supermarket lines - located in lower level, St Falls West. Open 10am - 5pm daily. Ph: 03 5758 3009.
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.
Upstairs Resort Management Office (above day shelter) Open 9am
Cigarette butts leach the toxic chemicals that smokers inhale, such as cadmium (primary cause of lung cancer), lead (kidney and brain damage), arsenic (rat poison) and zinc (not the sort you put on your nose in summer!) into water streams. They are made from a type of plastic – cellulose acetate that can take up to 12-15 years to break down, and many are consumed by numerous species as they make their way into the environment.
So, my message to all the smokers out there is…put your butts in a bin, or just quit!
Dropping them or flicking them once you’ve inhaled that last toxic plume, impacts those of us who choose not to smoke and the environment that consequently bears the brunt of this act of irresponsibility. Think before your flick. So next time you see someone incorrectly dispose of their butt… call them out. Particularly here at Falls Creek… because you’ll only be drinking it later! Grossyeah?
What is more, under the EPA Act in Victoria, fines starting with a small piece of litter are up to $370, whilst a lit cigarette (that includes the butt) is $740. Ouch, so don’t incorrectly dispose of that filth stick!
Help protect our very fragile alpine environment by doing the right thing, every little bit is even more important now… and let’s face it, the alternative is a smoke free resort. So, remember, no smoking on the ski field, in the lift queue or on the lift.
And before you dispose of those facemasks, cut the straps to reduce the impact on wildlife.
The Chophouse (https://www. chophousefallscreek.com). The cuisine is Louisiana inspired, and the serves are beyond generous. Share plates are a must, unless you’ve not eaten all day. Highly recommend the Mushroom Wings as a starter, if you’re in a large group grab a few ‘little things.’ Moving onto ‘Big Things’the Smoked Spare Ribs with the Smoked apple BBA sauce… lip-smackingly good, so
too the 12H Smoked Brisket and the 12H Smoked Pulled Pork Shoulder - all served with Slaw and cornbread. To top it off… the Mash & Gravy – it should be illegal… as they claim. I can confirm it’s better than the Colonels and great for dipping the cornbread. Great selection of beers, cocktails and wines to choose from and the staff are terrific. The food comes out quick, so get ready to be satisfied. Bookings highly recommended.
In case you missed the irony, the Smoked food recommended above, is the only type of smoking we like at Falls Creek, no butts about it!
Now – get out there and enjoy this amazing snow and have some fun. •
Stuart Smythe, CEO Falls Creek Resort Management
I’ve been collecting Ski Country Bourbon Whiskey decanters for about 10 years. They first sparked my interest while I was searching for ski vintage, I found a decanter shaped like a vintage leather 4 buckle ski boot, made by Ezra Brooks, and was instantly smitten. After finding that first decanter, I started wondering how many other snow related decanters may be out there. And so, the hunt for snow themed decanters was on.
In the 1960s ceramic figure decanters became popular in the USA. They were mass produced with thousands of the decanter being sold. Jim Beam was a leader in these decanters, but Ezra Brooks, Lionstone, Old Taylor and others released ceramic decanter shapes ranging from the Old Taylor distillery castle to vintage ski boots, to Elvis. The more rare and valuable ones were created for special events or groups. There may only be hundreds of
these types of decanters, and they will have a greater value to collectors.
The Ezra Brooks brand was created by Frank Silverman in 1957 and was bottled at the Hoffman Distilling Company, in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, up until Hoffman Distilling Co. went out of business in the 1970s. In 1993, Ezra Brooks was purchased by a company called Luxco.
The Foss Drug Company, who sold liquor in Colorado for more than 100 years, partnered with Luxco and introduced a house bourbon called Ski Country in 1972 that came in a choice of three porcelain art decanters sculpted in the form of skiers. The porcelain liquor decanters were produced in limited quantities and bottled by Ski Country Ltd., in St. Louis, Missouri.
For nearly 25 years Foss & Luxco would produce 195 different decanter designs, that were extremely popular. The Ski Country decanters became a big part of Luxco’s business, with all the bottles were allocated and sold before even being produced! The sales team would sell the decanters from pictures, the retailers would take orders from bottle collectors, and from the pre-sales we knew how many to produce. Like the American Kelley Blue Book for cars, there existed a trading ‘blue book’
Kasa Bar - Izakaya style specializing in Whiskey, Sake and Ramen
Located next to the Eagle Express Chairlift (listen for the Japanese Hip Hop)
Thursday - Monday.
*Menu & updates available on Insta @ kasabarfallscreek
*Walk in policy
*(03)57583222
for decanter values and the Ski Country decanters were routinely at the top of the list as the most valuable.
But, by the 1990s, the decanter craze was over.
My vintage snow decanter collection is predominantly made up of Ezra Brooks and Ski Country decanters. I’m always hoping to unearth a new brand in my searches, and one day maybe I will. But for now, my little decanter collection brings a smile to my face and a snow themed ornamental element to my bookshelves.
So next time you’re wondering what to add to your bookshelves to get that Three Birds Renovation styling look, which reflects your passion for snow and can’t be bought in a shopping centre, visit www.idreamofsnow. com
Maybe what’s missing in your styling vision board is a vintage snow decanter shaped ornament. After all, why be like everybody else and settle for being mainstream. • Cheers, Nyree I Dream of Snow.
Plastic Free July, a global environmental initiative that began in Western Australia, kicked off on 1st July 2022, and Plasticwise Bright, a not-forprofit group based in Bright, is encouraging you to get on board and reduce your consumption of single-use plastic.
With Australians consuming around 70 billion pieces of soft ‘scrunchable’ plastics (including food wrappers), each year – of which 84% is sent to landfill – there’s no time to waste when it comes to rethinking our reliance on plastic.
Jessica Cox of Plasticwise Bright, said, “The impacts of the pandemic over the last two years have seen our consumption of single-use plastics steadily increase. We need to move forward and lift our eyes to the impact this is having on our environment, especially waterways.
All it takes is small, focused efforts within our homes. These actions all contribute to the bigger solution – reducing our
consumption and reliance on single-use plastics in our everyday lives. Small steps by many people can make a difference” she said.
To help the community find ways to reduce their reliance on single-use plastic, Plasticwise Bright recently launched a campaign called ‘Alpine Unwrapped.’
Alpine Unwrapped is a partnership between Plasticwise Bright and Sustainable Upper Ovens, and has been achieved with funding from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) Hume and Alpine Shire Council.
The purpose of the campaign is to encourage businesses and residents to use reusable cups and containers for takeaway food, drink and produce. So far, 15 local cafes and eateries have committed to accepting reusable cups and containers, and proudly display the ‘Alpine Unwrapped’ badge in their stores.
Jessica said, “We need to trend towards
expecting the use of reusables within our community so that it becomes the norm for locals and visitors alike. Alpine Unwrapped is trying to kick-start that habit, by supporting businesses and customers to adapt from single-use plastic to reusables.”
In addition to the Alpine Unwrapped initiative, Plasticwise Bright also facilitates clothes swap events and mug libraries at local markets and events, and hires out reusable community picnic and party boxes.
For further information about Plastic Free July, visit www.plasticfreejuly.org. •
Remember way back in those preCOVID times when the snow was deeper and the grass was greener and preparations were underway to celebrate the 30th Kangaroo Hoppet at Falls Creek. Some really nice artwork was commissioned for a new poster and special logo for the event, and then the wheels fell off most things including some that did not have wheels in the first place.
Not to be daunted the Hoppet organisers decided to hold a virtual event which was a roaring success with 1806 participants from 37 nations completing their 2020 Hoppet distance of choice somewhere on one of the seven continents. And without the usual limited two options of classic or skate technique participants were able to choose their physical activity of choice. And what a range of decisions were made. Along with the expected cycling, running
BAR OPEN FROM 2PM
DINNER FROM 5:30PM CLOSED MONDAYS Drive Through Caf'e
7AM – 2PM, SEVEN DAYS A WEEK
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KIEWA VALLEY HWY, TAWONGA SOUTH
and roller skiing we saw activities as varied as swimming, canoeing, unicycling, and even skiing in ski tunnels and on glaciers for those lucky enough to live near one. Then it was 2021 and the organising committee looked into their crystal ball and decided that while they would still need a virtual event for overseas skiers it should be all systems go for Australian skiers to have a real on-snow 30th Hoppet this time. Full of optimism they rejigged the 2021 artwork and ordered race bibs, Joey Hoppet cloth patches, and age class award coffee mugs.
And we all know what happened in 2021 with lockdowns and state border closures don’t we. So once again it was virtual Hoppets all round.
While the cloth patches and coffee mugs were all dated, a bit of smart thinking by someone in the committee resulted in the date being left off the race bibs. So, in the back of the Hoppet shed there is a stack of boxes with the Hoppet 30 bibs in them all ready for the third try at holding Hoppet 30. Of course there is also a stash of 2021 dated coffee mugs and cloth patches just waiting for someone to make an offer.
So here we are… July 2022 and with the best start to a ski season that we can remember, plans are again underway for Hoppet 30 to be held at Falls Creek this time on Saturday 27th August 2022 with a new poster and T shirt design from local artist Andy Shuttleworth. And, while there will be new 2022 dated coffee cups and cloth patches those Hoppet 30 bibs from the back store room will hopefully see the light of day.
But “hang on a minute - just what is this Hoppet stuff all about?’ some of our more perceptive gentle readers may well ask.
First held in 1991 the Kangaroo Hoppet is a 42km international cross country ski race held annually at Falls Creek on the fourth Saturday in August. With shorter 21km and 7km events for those who want to part of the action but feel that the main event is a
bit beyond their skill and or fitness level. In a normal year the event attracts over 1000 skiers with over 20 nations represented. The Hoppet is part of the Worldloppet series of long distance ski events held in 20 countries over five continents, including the island nations of Iceland, New Zealand and Japan. With around 1000 entries and 42km the Hoppet is one of the smaller and shorter events in the series. Pride of place in terms of numbers and distance goes to the Vasaloppet in Sweden, with a main race of 90km with 15,000 starters, and another 40,000 skiers taking part in other events over an eight day period.
Entries for the Kangaroo Hoppet opened on June 1 and while the ‘Early-bird’ rate will apply until 13th August, now is always the best time to enter and make that commitment to be part of the action on Saturday 27 August ‘When the World comes to Falls Creek.’ More details and the online forms are at www.hoppet.com.au. •
This week in Cross Country, the trails are still holding up well and the school holidays are in full swing. Falls Creek hosts Victorian Junior Squad and National Team Training camps each winter holidays, and this year the conditions could not have been more perfect!
You may have noticed swarms of green and gold out there, as the training schedule for the National Team athletes has been full and gruelling; with two training sessions per day and an impressive 25 athletes from around Australia in attendance. Some big changes are occurring for the National Team this year as the beloved Mount Beauty local and previous head coach of the team, Valerio Leccardi, has taken a new position as a coach for the Swiss National Team. While the new head coach is yet to be announced, the athletes are in great hands this week with the XC National Program Director Finn Marsland taking back an on-snow coaching role with NSW state coach and technique extraordinaire Alexei Sotskov, as well as Robbie CattoSmith, coach of the VIC squad and dedicated trainer to many junior athletes around Melbourne, and Paul Kovacs, a dedicated athlete in his own right who was a team wax technician at the recent Beijing Olympic Games. This year the National Team has also appointed a coach for Falls Creek-based National Team athletes, Kate Mulcahy. More information and a getto-know of Kate will be delivered in the coming weeks as she settles in from her long journey to Australia from the USA.
While the great National Program Director and Coach Education Coordinator Finn Marsland was in Falls Creek this week, he kindly shared some insight into his role within the Cross-Country community in an interview as follows:
EJ: How long have you been involved with the national team?
FM: “I started coaching the Australian Team at the end of 1999. At my first World Championships in Lahti in 2001 we had three athletes - Ben Derrick, Paul Murray, and Camille Melvey. Back then I didn't think I'd be coaching past 2006, now they can't get rid of me! After the first of my two boys was born in 2011, I started travelling less and moved more into the sports administration and development side. However, it's been great to be back on snow with the team this week in a coaching role!”
EJ: What is one of your favourite things about your job?
FM: “When I was doing full seasons in the northern hemisphere, I loved the total immersion into the ski racing world and the wide range of inherent coaching/managing roles. Some days you are flat out in event support, organising/driving/waxing/testing/ cheering etc., other times you are trying to find creative ways of engaging and motivating athletes and keeping them (and you sane). It was always very satisfying to see someone finally reach a goal after years of effort.”
EJ: What is a moment you treasure from being at the recent Olympics in Beijing?
FM: “One of the most memorable moments from Beijing was creating confetti out of race information sheets and showering it all over PK in the wax cabin when he reached the milestone of scraping his 200th pair of skis. It was a pleasure to work with the whole crew there, athletes and techs alike, there was a lot of positive energy amidst the efforts of striving for success.”
EJ: What’s next for the national team athletes this year?
FM: “This season start has been incredible, not just due to the great early snow but also, I think the camp at Falls this week was the best I've been involved with for a while. Stacks of skiing, good progress on technique, athletes keen to learn and all round a fun training environment. The rest of the winter will see lots more training with racing mixed in.
Next summer we have World Junior/U23 Championships and World University games in North America, then the World Championships in Slovenia.”
EJ: What is something new you’re doing with SSA that you’re excited about?
FM: “The newest development in Cross Country Skiing in Australia is the Para Nordic program that was launched by Disabled Wintersport Australia at Falls Creek on Saturday July 2. It will be exciting to see both grassroots and competitive pathways in this aspect of the sport grow.
Outside of my work role in winter sport, I'm looking forward to getting out on the snow with my family these next couple of weeks. I bought some new skis for my boys last season, and they didn't get to use them!” •
Ella Jackson
Snow Trek and Travel High Plains Tour – 9 July 2022.
The High Plains Tour was back for another year. We were lucky enough to hold the race in 2021 before COVID shut down the rest of the season, so race deprived skiers were keen to get their skating legs going again and the High Plains Tour is a great way to get the season rolling. With blue skies, light winds, an early season dump of snow and a beautifully groomed course, the conditions were just right for the race on Saturday 9 July. The race offers opportunities for those of any age to take part over distances of either 10km, 5km, 2.5km or 1km.
Creek
Open 8am – 7pm Daily
Extensive
Bottle
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
There were 84 entrants across the four course distances.
After representing Australia at the Beijing Olympics, Phil Bellingham returned to Falls Creek to defend his title – and he defended it in style. Winning the 10km in a time of 24:46 which was around 3.5 minutes quicker than last year which shows the sort of form he’s in and how good the conditions were. John Walker was the second man in only a minute behind so he was also inside last year’s winning time and Christoph Gasche was third. For the women’s 10km, Katerina Paul triumphed with a time of 30:05 ahead of Ronice Goebel and Kathy Ismail.
Hannah Gray won the women’s 5km race ahead of Laura Finch and Fiona Finch, and Alec Franzke took out the men’s 5km with Lachlan Jennings in second and Leuwin Harridge third. Maeve Tobias won the women’s 2.5km with Carmen Cullen-Croke and Evelyn Armitage rounding out the podium, and Eli Spring crossed the line first ahead of Eddy Franzke and Beau Duggan in the men’s 2.5km. Kate Bukovsan and Archie Somerville showed the future is in
good hands winning the girls and boys 1km race.
As mentioned, the course was in great shape so we can thank Lucas Smith and the grooming team for that. Resort Management also provided detailed course maps that helped organisers and competitors. Thanks to Ann Bellingham and the Birkebeiner ski club for providing facilities for the organisation and running of the race. Sponsor Snow Trek and Travel again provided spot prizes and awards for each age group and for the overall winners and place getters.
A special thanks to Mick Sinclair for his expertise with the timing and results and to the Howman’s Gap Allstars (HGA) ski club for organising the race. A lot of time and effort is put in by the HGA volunteers and the High Plains Tour couldn’t be held without them.
And lastly - thanks to everyone who took part in the event. All race results and more photos are available on the website http:// www.dbstrategies.com.au/hga_races/home. php •
local communities
Each year, our AGL Hydro Communit y Fund awards grants to communit y-based initiatives, projects and events in and around Mount Beaut y and Eildon
Each year, our AGL Hydro Community Fund awards grants to community-based initiatives, projects and events in and around Mount Beauty and Eildon
To see if you are eligible for one of our grants, download our guidelines or call us, then submit your application between 1 September 2022 and 30 September 2022.
To see if you are eligible for one of our grants, download our guidelines or call us, then submit your application between 1 September 2022 and 30 September 2022. agl.com.au/hydro 03 5754 3222
agl.com.au/hydro 03 5754 3222
Each year, our AGL Hydro Community Fund awards grants to community-based initiatives, projects and events in and around Mount Beauty and Eildon. To see if you are eligible for one of our grants,
North East Water’s community and key stakeholder reference group for the Mount Beauty Raw Water Offtake project has now concluded its work.
Following five reference group meetings, two technical meetings and site visits, members provided their advice to the Corporation about potential locations for this crucial new water infrastructure.
N.E.W. Managing Director Jo Murdoch said the group has recommended two sites be considered by the Board.
“These sites include Embankment Drive near the outflow of the pondage and a location near the top of tail race pumping from the West Kiewa and the tail race,” Ms Murdoch said.
“Directors will now visit each of these preferred sites and meet with reference group members for further discussion, before making a final location decision during the July Board meeting.
“I want to sincerely thank each of the community members and stakeholders who volunteered their time and commitment to
be a part of this important group. Together they developed criteria that they felt was important to them including water security, maintenance safety, aesthetics, amenity, managing risk, water quality, cost, and waterway health.”
“The reference group also discussed other things like weir and river safety, river access, flood zones, bushfire impacts, environmental regulation and AGL operations.”
“In addition, a working group made-up of five reference group members with specialised water and/or engineering expertise, analysed each of the nine original potential sites, along with several other possibilities, in greater technical detail.
Ms Murdoch added, “We also completed a poll at the completion of the reference group where nine people supported Embankment Drive (site 2) and eight people supported the top of the tail race (sites 9A+B).
“The poll also showed that most people thought it was worth the effort being involved, they learned useful information during the meetings, the process highlighted
Mondays & Tuesdays - CLOSED
Wednesdays: 3pm - 9pm ∙ Dinner from 5:30pm Thursdays: 3pm - 9pm ∙ Dinner from 5:30pm Texas Hold em Poker ∙ 7pm start
the complexities of choosing a site, and the meetings were facilitated fairly.
“On behalf of the Board, we are extremely grateful for their participation and we look forward to announcing the location decision in coming weeks.”
Project information including results of the reference group poll, is located on the Corporation’s website at www.newater.com. au/mtbeauty. •
Contact Details: Luke Jobson, Communications & Engagement Coordinator. Em: ljobson@newater.com.au. Mb: 0417 755 363
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
require contact this would visitor general personnel for a to above please http://joprothero@fallscreek.com.au. there. •
Sthe Federation of Victorian Ski Clubs (F.O.V.S.C) which was formed in 1947. The journal included a regular item by members “Why I Ski” and Skippy St Elmo, pioneering skier at Falls Creek wrote about her passion for racing. Then 33 years old, Skippy had first skied only five years earlier when, newly married, she and her husband Toni spent the winter living in Wallace’s Hut. After the winter working as an assistant to the S.E.C hydrological surveyor Toni was offered a new post doing similar work measuring snow depths and water flows for the S.E.C’s Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. In 1946 the couple became the first full time residents of Falls Creek.
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.
Skippy’s introduction to racing came that year when Toni entered her in the first club
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
I O T H E R A P Y
Kiewa Valley Sports & Spinal Physiotherapy
5A Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Phone: 5754 1270
Tawonga Crescent
8:30am - 5:00pm Mon - Friday 10:00am - 12:00pm Saturdays Ph: 5754 3400 for appointments 24 hours for emergencies
PUBLICATION SCHEDULE:
Ed 05 * 15.07.22
and it seemed like I had joined the ranks of ‘no hopers’getting nowhere fast.” With five minutes’ notice that she was competing in the open slalom Skippy’s ‘legs went to jelly.’ “I do not even remember going through the flags - perhaps I didn’t - still at the end of the nightmare run I was happy to learn that the third fastest time was mine. I knew from then on my goal was to be a racing skier but did not realise how hard and long the road was to be and still is.”
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.
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. •
The North East District Ski Association team pictured at their first race meeting at Falls Creek. No 8 is Skippy St.Elmo (4th from the left back row), the only female competitor, next to the late Bob Scott No 3 (after whom Scott’s Chair is named) and Albury Ski Club member, Bob Howe No 13. Pic – The St.Elmo Collection – courtesy Falls Creek Museum
Skippy trained with the men from Bogong Ski Club and in 1949 won
Got a problem with pests?
We can help with:
• Pre-purchase home inspections
both the Downhill and Combined State Championship held at Mt Buller. In her memoirs she recalls that “I could now understand why Toni had insisted I train hard. Racing had been fun, as well as an unforgettable experience. I had felt strong and managing the rough and ice patches
• 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
Our car is like our body. We must look after it all of the time - not just when something fails.
Regular servicing will identify when items are wearing (brake pads, tyres, filters, hoses etc). These and other wearing items can be replaced before they let us down on the road. Imagine discovering (too late) that your Brake Pads had worn out - just as you’re heading for the tree.
Regular servicing is important for the good health of your vehicle - and for your good health and safety!
* Vic Junior Sprint and Distance Championships. MIM Skiing for Ladies. (C)
Ed 06 * 22.07.22 * SA & NSW Interschool Races. Birkebeiner Classic (C)
Drs Mark Zagorski, Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton & Anoop Pem. Fully accredited General Practice with 37 years service to the Upper Kiewa Valley.
Ed 07 * 29.07.22 * Australian Open Sprint & Distance Champ’s Snowboard Demo Days (C)
ADVERTISING RATES:
DISPLAY:
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YOUR LOCAL PRACTICESUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY!
Ed 08 * 05.08.22 * Snow Trek & Travel Mini Series 1. Ski de Femme. (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:
A Motoring Tip brought to you by: Rick @ Mount Beauty Service Centre, Kiewa Valley Hway, Mount Beauty, Ph: 5754 4261
• Available in PDF form at: www.fallscreek.com.au/whatson/
WEBSITE: • www.thisweekinfallscreek.com.au
in the downhill was no trouble to me. After my second run in the slalom I felt so fresh and fit I was ready to do it all again.”
The following year she was selected in the Victorian team to compete in New Zealand.
Summer training involved long hikes on the Bogong High Plains accompanying Toni on his rounds of the water races at weekends training with the team from Bogong Ski Club “…jogging over the plains and climbing steep slopes and river hopping along the upper Kiewa. If the weather was bad we would practice the art of tying our feet into skis with the ‘Long Thong.” Back in those early days safety bindings were unheard of. The binding of the day, as far as Toni was concerned, was unsuitable for his technique of skiing. The use of the ‘Long thong’ (a 7 foot 2.13m length of leather) securely held the boot to the ski, with absolutely no movement. I remember when I raced at Hotham and Buller I was conscious of the whispered jokes about my crazy leather bindings.”
In 1951 the first rope tow was established in the Falls Creek bowl, but now coached by Hungarian born Milan Kovacic, Skippy was training further afield on the slopes of Mt McKay and Ruined Castle. With the long climb up two runs was usually the maximum they achieved. The ski run down from the Ropers lookout was also a regular training slope. A highlight in Skippy’s racing career came in 1953 when Albury Ski Club held an Open Championship.
Competing against the men in giant slalom and down-hill Skippy won the event. She wrote “it had never for a moment occurred to me it was any big deal racing against the men. Both Toni and Milan had always insisted I ski with the men whenever it was possible. John Wagner and Frank Prihoda, both Czech Olympic skiers, were both very friendly and helpful. John Wagner offered me advice which I gladly accepted ....and I did manage to win. Later, John told me, in his experience skiing, even in Europe he had never known a woman to win an Open
Alpine FM presents two one-hour RPH programs per week, reading from selected local and national newspapers.
RPH Radio reading is the on-air live reading of newspapers, magazines and other publications for people with vision impairment, blindness or other print disability.
Tune in on Wednesdays at 2pm and Thursdays at 7pm.
Serving the local community. 96.5FM in the Kiewa Valley.
Streaming on www.alpineradio.com.au and the Community Radio Plus app.
Alpine FM acknowledges funding assistance provided by the Community Broadcasting Foundation for RPH programming.
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.
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.
ALTERATIONS, DRESSMAKING & REPAIRS
Call Kerry Mb: 0407 814 114 for all sewing needs.
ALTITUDE PHYSIO & MASSAGE
Frueauf Village (below Milch Café) Grnd Floor, Rm 2, 4 Schuss St. Falls Creek. Ph: 03 5758 3766. Em: fallscreek@ altitudephysiotherapy.com.au. Wb: www.altitude.physio
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
CAR DETAILING
Give Steve a call in Tawonga South. Ph: 0423 499 086
Stubby series 1000 universal woodturning lathe, as new, $9,000. Ph: 0408 466 790.
Blade X rollerblades, as new not yet used, men’s size 43, $100. 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.
Children’s Ski Pants. 'Crane Snowextreme' Size 10 & 14 Blue, Size 12 Black. Excellent Condition: $20 ea. Mb: 0419 286 382.
CARPENTRY & BUILDING SERVICES
Oztek Constructions Pty Ltd. We do local building work, renovations, extensions and maintenance. Email Dave at: oztekconstructions@gmail.com. Or Ph: 0466 990 862.
CIVIL CELEBRANT – HEATHER MULL
Quality Ceremonies – All Types. Mb: 0428 993 125. www.celebrant-ne-vic.com.au
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 from Albury/Wodonga to Mount Beauty and Falls Creek Mon 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
Ski Championship.” Skippy was then 36 years old. •
This article provided by Diana Patterson, ex Falls Creek Resort Management Board member and current member of the Falls Creek Historical Society. Diana was also instrumental in working with Lyn Gibbs and setting up the Falls Creek Museum.
Footnote: A question was asked in the article in Edition Four titled the Little Kangaroo referring to a Falls Creek skier, Lorna Clarke. We have been graciously informed from several quarters that Lorna Clarke and Lorna Dunkley (who work for Mr Bill Bridgeford at Alpine Development Holdings P/L – the lift company) were two individuals who both had a love of Falls Creek. Ed. •
have lots to keep you warm! Clothing, Boots, Work wear, Insulation, Heaters! If you need it, we have it – or we’ll get it!
vouchers and free gift wrapping available Mon – Fri: 9am 5:30pm Saturday: 9am – 4pm Sun & Public Hols: 9am – 2pm
Beauty Hardware & Drapery Store
12 – 14 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 1999
It’s hard to be a parent these days. You have to be able to explain the birds & the bees. The bees & the bees. The birds & the birds. The birds that used to be bees. The bees that used to be birds. The birds that look like bees. Plus bees that look like birds but still have a stinger! VALLEY FUN & FITNESS CLASS
Every Tuesday at 9am at the Ladies Facility, Dederang Recreation Reserve. All equipment provided. Bring a drink bottle and towel. $6 per session. All Welcome. A great way to keep fit and socialise at the same time. Class usually followed by coffee at the Dederang Shop. Classes by Narelle Jones (Personal Trainer). Note: Classes do not run in school holidays. Enquiries: Sharon McEvoy 0438 289 293 (the6maccas@bigpond.com)
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 St, Mount Beauty. Out of Hours & Home visits available. HiCaps. Ph: 03 5754 1270.
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
There’s a wattle blooming every day, somewhere in our land, From the misty alpine passes to the burning desert sand. From the Eastern coastal fringes where the wattle grows the best, To the lonely rugged gorges of the Kimberley out West.
The wattle is our symbol, and a hundred years before Henry Lawson wrote of the shearers’ strikes he saw---
“We’ll make the tyrants feel the sting o’ those that they would throttle, They needn’t say the fault is ours if blood should stain the wattle.”
Of all the native trees the wattle wins the test, For it blooms in golden trusses and the wild birds make their nest.
High up in the canopy, well in from the borders, Snug and safe from mankind and aerial marauders.
Sprigs of wattle went along when Aussies left for war, To the poppy-fields of Flanders, beneath the cannons’ roar. The Diggers kept the wattle close --- those brave and hardened men, And the wattle was their talisman, to get back home again.
Australians love the wattle, and the mighty river gums, That grow up on the Murray, and no matter what fate comes, No matter where we travel, no matter where we roam It’s the Wattle and the Redgum that draw our hearts back home.
~ Phantom
WHERE Bottom of Gully Chairlift.
WHEN Open Daily 10am – 12:30pm & 2pm – 5pm (Map Ref J6)
HOW Ph: 03 5758 3238 all day. 24 hours for Emergencies.
WHO General Practitioners experienced in Family and Snow Sports Medicine.
WHAT First fully accredited snowfields practice in Australia based on 36 years experience.
WHERE Tawonga Crescent.
WHEN 8:30am – 5pm Mon – Friday 10am – 12noon Saturdays.
HOW Ph: 03 5754 3400 for appointments
WHO Mark Zagorski OAM, Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Sky Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton, Lauren Cusson, Damian Heman, Daniel Florisson & Andrew Mason.
WHAT Fully accredited General Practice with 42 years service to the Upper Kiewa Valley.
“You’ve only got one head – put a lid on it!”
COVID-19 Restriction changes and weather may impact some of these events. Please check with the organiser for the most up-to-date information.
REGULAR WINTER EVENTS ❆
WEDNESDAY & SATURDAYS
Night Skiing as Wombat's Ramble lights up, 6pm to 8:45pm allowing you to continue your ski and snowboard adventures.
TWILIGHT TUESDAYS
Taking place every Tuesday to late August. 3:30pm to 5:30pm in the Village Bowl – a Street Party for kids and adults alike. Fire pits, marshmallows, games and music and possibly even Pete the Snowdragon. Further details: 03 5758 1200.
THURSDAYS
Fireworks Fiesta – 7pm Every Thursday from July 7th to August 25th Grab the kids or a mate and enjoy watching a magical fireworks show under the stars up close to the action at the Village Bowl near the Frying Pan Inn.
JUL 16 Park Run.8am at Bicentennial Park by 23, 30 the lake in Lakeside Avenue.
JUL 16 Victorian Junior Sprint Championships (F). 9:3am. Nordic Bowl. Ben Derrick 0400 110 046.
JUL 16 TDFNL Rd 13. Wahgunyah V Dederang Mount Beauty
JUL 17 Victoria Junior Distance Championships (C) 9:30am Nordic Bowl. Ben Derrick 0400 110 046.
JUL 23 TDFNL Rd 14. Dederang Mount Beauty V Tallangatta @ Dederang
JUL 24 Birkebeiner Classic (C) 2.5/5/10km, 10L30am Nordic Bowl
JUL 30 TDFNL Rd 15. Wodonga Saints V Dederang Mount Beauty
JUL 30-31 Australian Open Sprint (9:30am Sat) and Distance (10am Sun) Championships. Ann Bellingham. Mb: 0427 006 246
