he National Gravity Enduro Series acts as the qualifying series for the Enduro World Series. See mention in the article with Ben McIlroy.
As many regular readers know, I’m a stats kind of guy. Unlike Mark Twain, who is widely attributed as having coined the phrase “lies, damned lies and statistics,” I’m a little more confident our calculations and methodologies are robust when it comes to evaluating resort visitation and demand.
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’s more, to corroborate and sense check these numbers, the data analytics we use in relation to the waste water treatment plant is highly accurate (+/- 100 people) in terms of water usage and throughput. With the year-to-date treatment data showing a strong correlation to visitation growth.
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 any case, as at Week 14, the resort has smashed all previous visitation statistics. 2022 will be the biggest year on record for visitation during the snow season. As at the time of
writing, 469,300 visitor days have been spent at Falls Creek resort. With only a few weeks left in the season, we are forecast to break through 500,000 visitor days and the industry to crash through two million visitors to all the Victorian resorts.
In reviewing the data, the only week this season where we haven’t outperformed the corresponding period, has been during week 13. Now for those that remember 2017 – affectionately recalled as the season that delivered the Blizzards of Oz, on Sept 5th to the 12th, the resort copped a whopping 80cms of fresh snow, delivering the biggest accumulated snow depth in a decade.
Contributing to the massive 2017 Week 13, as happens several times a season, the storm temporarily closed the Great Alpine Road and everyone who couldn’t get to Mt Hotham, turned left at Tawonga Gap Road and headed to Falls Creek, for one of the best weeks of skiing in the season.
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
Now, having just returned from Perisher, it
would be fair to say, they too will have had a cracking season when it comes to visitation. I was there for the national interschools and quickly learnt that if you hadn’t left Jindabyne before 8am, you were in for a long walk, or a shuttle bus from Smiggins!
Visiting any resort always provides the opportunity to compare things. So, putting on my “objective” goggles… I took the opportunity to do just that. Evaluating any mountain at the tail end of a season is always hard… snow conditions aren’t ideal, staff are fatigued, machinery is not so shiny, the residual cleared snow is looking dirty and in need of a freshen up… etc…
No time to be smelling the roses during this weekend’s Gravity Enduro. Pic - Jiri Cech.
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.
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!
And, talk to any member of our team about the rewards of volunteering in the Falls Creek Museum.
Please try to allow 24hours notice.
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
Nonetheless, a week in another resort provides great perspective and time to appreciate a few key points of difference that Falls Creek has to offer. Like, no daily 30-minute commute… and without questions, the Falls Creek village is unbeatable in terms of the atmosphere it creates, and when under snow, is simply stunning. Our village food and beverage offering is second to none (though Perisher does have two kebab joints!), complemented by the spread of accommodation offerings catering to all budgets and indulgences. Of course, then there are the runs, with a terrific mix of progression perfect terrain for all abilities. Granted Perisher has these too and a lot more of them, but ours are better! Not to mention, Falls Creek is the gateway to the High Plains, with the off-piste adventure of backcountry tours, or alpine touring and the XC network, snowmobile or snow shoe tours – all integrated and accessible by the on hill resort offering.
Saturday: 9am to 16:00 is compulsory practice. 10am to 18:30 is rider registration and Info Tent open. 17:00 to 17:30 is rider briefing. From 18:00 on there is a social evening at Last Hoot Restaurant and Bar in Slalom Plaza.
Sunday: 8am to 9am Rider Briefing and Timing activation. 8:30am to 1430pm Trails Open for GE competition.1500 to 1630 Presentations. If you’re into biking and would like to enjoy some good action, be at Falls Creek this weekend. Further detail from 03 5758 1200. •
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 -
However, the most noticeable point of difference was the interaction with the onmountain staff. Here at Falls, the Falls Creek Lift Co staff, from towies, red jackets, park crew, operations and instructors – you name it… they represent our resort brilliantly –with a smile, a “hello” or a “how’s your day?” No such banter from the Perisher crew… nada, zip, silence, not even a smile! Though I did get a grunt when I was handed a T-bar! This interaction at the coal face makes a difference! The little things, or a series of them creates an experience and that experience embeds memories, and those memories develop a connection, that connection creates goodwill and that goodwill builds into loyalty. The onus is then on all of us in resort, or working across the mountain, in the region or wherever there is a touch point connected to Falls Creek to do all that we can to reward that loyalty with continued great experiences.
I’d like to acknowledge the many teams who deliver such an outstanding product for the guests. In no particular order – the snow making crew… their hard work delivers when the snow gods don’t. The grooming teams who started a little early this year, but
who’ve ensured consistent quality everywhere (not to mention the occasional snowman casualty).
The Terrain Parks crew and their outstanding work across four progression perfect parks. To the unseen teams, in operations, the outdoor crews and maintenance, snow clearing and de-icing… the guys that do the stuff when we are all asleep or not watching… thanks. To the ski patrol crew for their hard work, dedication and expertise - great job! The over snow and ATS crew at 4-Site… when they aren’t delivering people, packages or freight around the village, they are creating spaces out of thin air for parking! To the Visitor Information Teams, and the friendliest ‘towies’ anywhere – thanks.
A moment’s reflection will enable one to really appreciate the great work that goes on behind the scenes – and goes towards making this resort one of the best in the country. Pic – Chris Hocking
Now get out there and enjoy the last few weeks of season 2022. •
Stuart Smythe,
CEO Falls Creek Resort Management
I personally thank you all for “the little things” that help make our mountain the best alpine resort in Australia. To all our guests and mountain users, on behalf of Falls Creek, we thank you for your support and patronage and helping make this season one for the record books.
down. Tours can be suited to all riding abilities, from novice to expert, all ages welcome. So what are you waiting for? Grab some mates or the family and explore 450 hectares of untouched terrain, from the shoots of Mt McKay to the
nothing that brings Steve more joy than riding a fresh line, but almost more so watching others enjoy that same feeling. So take a lap for Steve, your best day on snow awaits!
Over the last three weeks, Falls Creek Race Club athletes have been on the road. Competitions resumed this winter and they were embraced by athletes and their families. Testing yourself in a competition has many benefits. Firstly, our youngsters get the chance to put all those early mornings, riding in transparent snow (rain) and enormous hours in the car to the test. The racing (competing) experience while daunting, is a chance to reach a new level. Not just a new level in skill but an elevated level as a person. Being part of this road trip, I witnessed on so many occasions kids putting the team first and being a great person first and athlete second.
Some specifics, athletes from the Falls Creek Race Club attended various competitions that included the:
• Australian New Zealand Skier Cross event at Mt Hotham.
• Australian Children’s Carnival Races at Thredbo.
• Freeride Big Mountain Junior at Mt Hotham.
• Falls & Hotham Skills Challenge.
• Australian National Championships FIS Races at Perisher.
• Victorian and National Interschool Competition at Mt Buller and Perisher respectively.
Going to a competition is a serious commitment on so many fronts. Getting to the races is the first hurdle. A trip to Hotham, our closest friend, involves being in the car at 6am ready to go. Our athletes competing in the Australian National Championships this week are staying at Jindabyne. This means a 4:30am wake up to get to Perisher on time. Why so early, well getting on the snow early in spring gives the racers the best chance to get the hardest iciest surface (snow) possible! Congratulations to all the parents and coaches involved behind the scenes to get the travel arrangements sorted.
At most of the events listed above, the FCRC athletes stayed together as a team. Snowsports is very much an individual sport when competing.
However, the necessity of travel, living together and time outside of competition make it an intense team sport. Friendships were consolidated during this time, as were new mates from other clubs. The game of chess even became a favourite past time, the occasional video game was played, when time allowed. Free time was an absolute minimum though, early starts, long days on the hill, presentations, ski tuning and even some physical training meant early to bed was essential! Competitions days differ depending on the snow discipline but personal discipline and organisation are crucial skills being tested and honed. Many excellent performances occurred in these events. In fact, too many to individually highlight and also maybe unnecessary. Hence, I prefer to have highlighted the hypothetical team podium. I hope all athletes can reflect on their competition experience and feel like they have put their best effort in on the day, had a brilliant time with friends and became a better team mate than before. I’m certainly proud of the way all FCRC athletes behaved and supported each other. The coaches of these above programs deserve a standing ovation, they worked hard. Twelve hour days were the norm and they prioritised the team and positive behaviours that are so vital in children’s sport. They also helped all athletes achieve their best. Evidenced by their quotes below, growing up while sliding on snow has many benefits! Some Quotes from our coaching and parent team:
Leah (Freeride Team): A crew of 10 Falls Creek athletes travelled to Mt Hotham on Sat and Sun for the Hotham Junior Freeride Competition. Overcoming challenging conditions – rain, hail shine and high winds - the crew were able to bring together great runs and come home with six podium places. Congratulations to all competitors and great job to the lucky podium placers.
Thanks to super coach Nick Payne and Sam Smith-Robertson.
Max: (U12 Hotham Skills Challenge): The Hotham Event was a really good chance for everyone to compete against other kids and to make friends with our sister club, Team Hotham. The team also got a good overview of how it works elsewhere. The most important aspect of this experience was the team building. I hope this competition continues as the younger kids really benefitted.
I rounding out the season, I would simply like to say thanks! Thanks to the parents, helpers and organisers; thanks to all of the coaches and the support staff and a special thanks to the athletes that conducted themselves so well in pretty much all circumstances. Enjoy the summer and/ or the skiing if you’re lucky enough to be heading OS and we look forward to seeing everyone back here for another great winter next year. •
Regards, Mike Gould, President, Falls Creek Race Club.
Spring Skiing is well and truly here, and while our tracks are still being up-kept to the highest quality, these spring conditions also give us the opportunity to take our skis off the trails and to use the firm crust to take on some more exploratory adventures.
As the High Plains are still laden with snow, I have been using my cross country skis to learn more about our local history up here. For thousands of years before European settlers and pastoralists took over the alpine lands for their cattle, timber harvesting and gold mining in the mid 1800’s, the Traditional Custodians of the land visited this Country. The Traditional Custodians of the lands in this Alpine Region include the Jaithmathang, Bidawal, Dhudhuroa, Gunai–Kurnai and Nindi–Ngudjam Ngarigu Monero peoples. These Aboriginal groups knew the land intimately, held ceremonies here, and gathered nutritious Bogong Moths during the summer seasons.
The Kiewa Valley, which translates to “Sweetwater Valley” was used as a trade route, and the highest mountain of the region, Mount Bogong, gained its name from an Aboriginal word for ‘Big Fella.’ Today, mapping activities and ceremonies are still performed in the high plains by the Traditional Custodians of the land.
During the time that European settlers used the high plains for stockmen, fishermen, gold prospectors, and more, 168 historical huts were built throughout the Bogong High Plains (of which there are less than 50 still standing). Most are made from local timber and clad in corrugated iron. Many of the early huts were built by cattlemen for refuge. Others were built by miners, quite a few were built to shelter forestry workers and many were built for workers on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. Quite of few of these workers on the scheme had arrived from Europe and therefore an interest in skiing began to grow. In the main now, the huts are used for emergency shelters for skiers and bushwalkers who have gotten caught out in dangerous weather conditions. Today, I will be sharing with you some spring skiing day-trip inspiration to six iconic huts surrounding the Falls Creek resort.
Wallace’s Hut & Cope Hut:
Wallace’s Hut is the oldest cattleman’s hut remaining in the Alpine National Park,
Kasa Bar - Izakaya style specializing in
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
and was built by the Wallace brothers in 1889 out of slabs of snow gum. It was then taken over for use as a worker’s hut by the State Electricity Commission in the 1940’s. During this time the hut’s snowgum roof shingles were covered in corrugated iron, but can still be seen from the inside. The rest of the furniture inside the hut can still be dated back to its original construction in 1889. Cope Hut was built by the State Tourism Committee in 1929 due to a huge rise in bushwalking in the 1920’s. It is a particularly large and comfortable hut, and even has a nearby stream that provides the hut with running water. During the bushfires of 2020, Wallace’s Hut and Cope Hut had their surroundings cleared, and were wrapped up in foil for fire protection. Thankfully this hard work paid off and both huts have lived to tell the tale.
To see both Wallace’s Hut and Cope Hut would make this ski a round-trip of about 20kms from Windy Corner and back. The ski to Wallace’s Hut is a relatively flat route, but then to advance to Cope Hut a couple of km’s down the track there is a bit of a gruelling hill climb involved. This trail tends to be a bit weather depended in spring as much of the path gets hit by the sun, so prepare yourself for a bit of walking with your skis here and there at this time of year.
Johnston’s Hut & Edmondson’s Hut:
Johnston’s Hut is located right at the foot of Mt Nelse, in the northern area of the Bogong High Plains. This hut was built in 1920’s by cattle graziers, and has since been
sold to the Telemark Ski Club in 1946, then the Ski Club of East Gippsland in 1963. This hut is arguably the smartest of the lot with its outdoor shower, wire bracing, windows, vestibule, and even a kitchen sink! In 1978, this hut unfortunately burned with the cause unknown, and today sits a very closely replicated version to the original building.
A couple of kms west of Johnston’s Hut sits the adorable iron clad building named Edmondson’s Hut. This hut is small, but has a mezzanine for bedding as well as a small living area and fireplace. This hut was built in 1933 by the Edmondson family who eventually donated the hut to the Education Department, and the Bogong Outdoor Centre is the primary caretaker of this hut today.
The easiest and in my opinion, most scenic way to see these two huts would be to make your way up to the Park via Heathy Spur or Watchbed creek, just like you are going around the Hoppet course. This way you can make the route a looped circuit instead of a ‘there-and-back.’ This expedition is around 25kms return, depending on the route you take, and if you’re feeling particularly fit (as this route is substantially hilly), another 8kms further north from the huts is Spion Kopje, which boasts terrific views of Mount Bogong and surrounding mountains.
Pretty Valley Hut & Tawonga Huts:
If you’re keen to try something on the opposite side of the lake, Pretty Valley and Tawonga Huts are a stunning place to see impressive views of the likes of Mt Feathertop and more. On the way to these huts, you also get to pass some old stockyards as well as the Pretty Valley Pondage, adding some extra context to how we imagine the lives of the workers
who lived in these huts not too long ago. The first hut you will find on this route is Pretty Valley Hut, a relatively small hut that is designed to sleep three people in the case of an emergency, and was built out of split timber with and iron roof in the early 1960’s. 8kms further on the trail, there are four huts nestled among the trees that are referred to as the Tawonga Huts. A total of six huts have been built and used by cattlemen and tourists with a couple being burned or damaged by heavy snow and then replaced.
These huts can be accessed via the Pretty Valley trail and the Fainters Fire track, but the adventure is not for the faint hearted (pun intended). It is a round trip totalling approximately 37kms, with long, steep, and cambered hills the entire way. Despite this however, it is a magnificent reward to see the views from the ridges of this valley, and has the added bonus of fun downhill descents. After all, what goes up must come down!
Time to pack some scroggin and get out there for a day of historical sight-seeing on my cross country skis, and let’s see if we can spot any wildflowers poking out of the snow along the way. Happy skiing! • Ella Jackson Your Après Action Centre Regular live gigs with local DJ’s Open 10am - late • 7 Days a week! Serving Tex Mex Fast Food Coffee Drinks and Snacks! Slalom Plaza • Ph: 03 5732 8000 (At the bottom of Halley’s Comet)
------ S K I V A L E T ----Open 8am – 5pm daily! Store your luggage and skis! Keep your boots toasty warm for the next day! • $25 overnight ski storage • $25 lockers per day Slalom Plaza • Ph: 03 5732 8000 Bottom of Halley’s Comet!
6446 Kiewa Valley Highway, Coral Bank
Three Bedrooms; Two Bathrooms; Four Carport Spaces on 52 acres – 21Ha (approx.)
Description:
Situated in the top of the magnificent Kiewa Valley ‘Stonehaven’ offers quality living, productivity and spectacular views to Mount Bogong and Victorian Alps.
The property is located 68kms along the Kiewa Valley Highway from Albury/ Wodonga, 16kms from Mount Beauty, 46kms to Falls Creek and 38kms to Bright.
Rebuilt on the original North East facing site of the original farmhouse, ‘Stonehaven’ has been recreated by the current owners with all the precision and detail sympathetic to the era.
The Bluestone used for the residence was obtained from the foundations of a church in Cheltenham, Victoria and from the original Pentridge Gaol. They have been cut and positioned on site.
Built in 1994, in the 1900’s circa late Victorian style, this delightful home has all the convenience of the modern era with the charm of yesteryear.
The spacious entrance hall houses leadlight glass features, parquetry floors with a parquetry feature and the arched entrance typical of the era.
The large formal lounge has Alpine Ash features, stone open fireplace, French doors to verandah. All windows are Alpine Ash, double hung sash. Beautiful bay windows gives views over the garden.
This wing also incorporates a Master bedroom with French doors to garden. Large area of built-in-robes leads to a full en suite with spa bath and double sized shower.
The open plan kitchen family room provides a beautiful space for informal living. Stone feature wall with slow combustion wood heating. Bay window plus French doors leading to a paved kitchen garden/ entertainment area.
The Alpine Ash kitchen has gas cooktop, electric double oven, dishwasher, ample cupboards, drawers and benchtops. The main feature of the kitchen is a huge walkin-pantry with cabinetry and extra bench space.
Adjoining the kitchen is a hallway with
built-in-bookshelves and cupboards leading to a designated office/study with storage room.
The laundry is a well-designed room offering space and storage. Alpine Ash cabinetry with a tiled feature wall.
The South East wing of the home comprise two double bedrooms with built-in-robes and overhead fans. These bedrooms are serviced by a full family bathroom.
Extra features of the home include a full 3 metre verandah surrounding the home, Axminster carpets and parquetry flooring. Electric floor heating, gas bayonet points, slow combustion heating.
The ‘Stonehaven’ garden has been lovingly created by the current owners to provide a peaceful and private sanctuary overlooking the beautiful Kiewa Valley. The garden can be described as established and structured into specific areas and ‘garden rooms’. Spacious lawns surround the entire home.
The rear of the home has raised Bluestone garden beds with an attractive variety of shrubs natives and perennials.
The balance of garden offers established deciduous and native trees with an original Date Palm as a feature. A combination of a stone pond with water features and water plants, rose garden, cottage gardens and Camellia Topiary makes this beautiful garden an endless piece of art.
The garden also includes an established orchard, grape vines, berry vines and a vegetable garden.
A studio with windows facing Mount Bogong sits amidst this garden. This studio has power and concrete floor, lock-up storage area and a paved entrance.
Shedding and improvements and the property include: Large lock-up colourbond shed, with concrete floor and power; lockup workshop; open bay double carport; double bay lock-up shed, with skillion; Chook shed; double woodshed and quality fencing throughout.
Land and Water: Gently undulating quality land with long Kiewa Valley Highway
a lift to your restaurant tonight?
Oversnow Taxi Service Available Carries up to 10 people. Pick up available from all accommodation venues on the mountain.
$100 one way or $180 return Last taxi 9:30pm.
frontage. Dual frontage from Cemetery Lane. Well maintained Easterly facing allotment with established stands of Gum trees. Reliable water reticulated from property. 50,000 litres of storage at home with filter. All water gravity fed to home, garden and surrounds.
Agents Remarks: An outstanding Rural Lifestyle property in the upper reaches of the Kiewa Valley. Quality living, productivity and easy access to all the North East of Victoria offers.
For Further details or information please contact: Laura Moorfield Unit 6, 520 Swift Street Albury Ph: 02 6041 3777. Mb: 0448 150 553. E laura@bur.com.au. W www.bur. com.au
http://www.bur.com.au/property?property_ id=938199/6446-kiewa-valley-highwaycoral-bank •
comfortable
BAR OPEN FROM 2PM DINNER FROM 5:30PM GREAT PARMIES WEDNESDAYS! CLOSED SUNDAY & MONDAY
Talk to us about our function and meeting rooms and catering for your event! PH: 03 5754 4888 KIEWA VALLEY HWY, TAWONGA SOUTH
Our intimate personal dinners for small group are proving to be a favourite with regulars and visitors.
Please feel free to contact us and discuss your requirements and timing. Regards, Roi and Sue.
Take-Away Pasta Dishes Monday Evenings! All your favourites - Call ahead to order!
The World Ski Awards are the only global initiative to recognise, reward and celebrate excellence in ski tourism. Now celebrating their tenth anniversary, the awards are held in Austria and recognise the best the industry has on a world-wide basis. Businesses and resorts from Australasia, the Americas and Europe compete across a number of categories. The team at Astra Falls Creek are humbled to have once again been nominated for Australia’s Best Boutique Ski Hotel.
Astra Falls Creek offers a contemporary and luxurious alpine experience featuring European Alpine decor with materials locally sourced and eco-friendly.
Astra’s accommodation consists of 27 luxurious rooms, which include a twobedroom apartment, six elegant studio
apartments and deluxe rooms. With complimentary Wi-Fi, all rooms are equipped with an eco-refrigerator, Nespresso machine, Honeybird Tea, Apple TV, bathrobes, Triumph & Disaster bathroom amenities, complete with luxury linen & towels.
Guests can easily access the slopes from the hotel. For those not wanting to hit the slopes, Astra offers a serene library with extensive views of the mountain, the perfect place to relax into a comfy armchair with a cup of tea (or a glass of wine) and a good book.
Falls Creek Resort Management will be collecting hard waste on Wednesday 26th April - the day after ANZAC Day. Please see our Hard Waste Collection guidelines on the website, or if you require any additional information, please contact the FCRM Office on 03 5758 1200. • Summer Debrief
Astra’s in-house award-winning Day Spa boasts a magnesium swimming pool, with a sauna & hot tub – a great place to soak after a big day on the slopes! If guests want to relax and unwind, you are spoilt for choice from our carefully crafted treatment menu.
It has been a record year for visitation this summer and Resort Management would like to get your feedback on events, visitor demographic, mountain biking and general observations.
Guests and visitors can relax by the fire in the Astra bar, with a cocktail and delicious Après menu daily. Dinner service offers a modern Alpine inspired menu.
If you are looking for something a little extra, Astra features a World Class wine cellar showcasing wines from all over the world which you can experience with your very own Sommelier.
Therefore you are invited to join the relevant Resort Management personnel and other members of the community for a summer season debrief meeting. This meeting will take place on Wednesday 26th April from 9:30am to around 11:30am in the Boardroom above Foodworks in QT.
PUBLICATION SCHEDULE:
Ed 15 * 23.09.22
To vote for Astra Falls Creek, please visit the link below or scan the QR Code. https://worldskiawards.com/ award/australia-best-skiboutique-hotel/2022 •
If you have any specific agenda items, please email http://joprothero@fallscreek.com.au. We look forward to seeing you all there. • for to saving To Village will 10am 3rd, Companies Bedding and and Suppliers, suppliers Prepare Visit details
$20 (members), $10 (students)
And while we are on the subject of Astra, word has just come through that the popular entertainer Warde Elliot will be doing his last gig for this winter at Astra next Wednesday 21st September. As many are aware, Warde has an extensive following around the mountain and this opportunity to enjoy his talent in the wonderful surroundings at Astra is one not to miss.
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
* Ignition MTB Festival. Alpine Challenge & other summer activities. (C)
SEd 01 * 28.10.22 * Melbourne Cup Weekend activities. Ignition MTB Festival (C)
SEd 02 * 11.11.22 * Ignition MTB Festival at Falls Creek – followed by The Alpine Challenge, (C)
SEd 03 * 23.11.22 * Christmas Shopping Locally special. Christmas Functions and venues. (C)
DISTRIBUTION:
• All accommodation houses, restaurants, businesses, club lodges & apartments in Falls Creek, Bogong Village, Mount Beauty, Tawonga South, Tawonga & Dederang, plus the RMB’s between Dederang & Tawonga & selected venues in Bright & Myrtleford.
ONLINE:
• Available in PDF form at: www.fallscreek.com.au/whatson/
WEBSITE: • www.thisweekinfallscreek.com.au
ADVERTISING RATES:
DISPLAY:
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WHERE WHEN HOW WHO WHAT Tawonga Crescent 8:30am - 5:00pm Mon - Friday 10:00am
An Email arrived early last week saying “Sadly, I will no longer be policing in Mount Beauty & Falls Creek. My last shift will be Tuesday the 20th of September. My husband and I are moving to the Bellarine Peninsula to be closer to family. This has not been an easy decision, but COVID restrictions and being cut off from family helped us realise what is important. We love everything the North East has to offer and will continue to be very frequent visitors.”
“I would really like to thank everyone in the Kiewa Valley that I have had the pleasure of associating with. Many in the community were excited for the arrival of their first ever female police member. I was given a very warm welcome and I really appreciate that. The Kiewa Valley is a special place, full of good people and good tourists. I hope for decades to come that you all continue to give the police truck a wave as it drives past. This simple, friendly gesture is not
something many police members in the state get to experience.”
“I have learnt a lot from the very experienced, professional members at Mount Beauty and will truly miss being a part of that team.” “Thanks everyone, I’ll see you again when I’m off duty and on holidays!” •
Leading Senior Constable Sam Bourke
This is a critical subject and one that must be addressed for the benefit of all who use the slopes. Let’s face it – our favourite activity is one that takes place on the side of a hill in weather conditions that can change in an instant and we’re surrounded by people of all ages and abilities- with many whose ability does not live up to their enthusiasm!
An email arrived recently from a couple of
70 year old skiers who have a good 50 years experience. Unfortunately, back in July the wife was hit from behind by a high speed out of control skier in The Slot at Falls Creek. She needed ski patrol evacuation, medical care and physio. She tried skiing again in August for a couple of hours and once again needed ski patrol, more medical care and physio because her knee locked up. It appears that further medical treatment could be as much as $10,000, a huge burden – on top of not being able to finish the season and potentially losing all of the summer hiking and activities that we know and enjoy in this area.
This is just one example of how ‘out of control stupid recklessness’ can have a major impact on the lives of others. We know Ski Patrol do a brilliant job – but they cannot be everywhere. It is everyone’s responsibility to ski/board in control. Just do it! •
WHERE Bottom of Gully Chairlift.
WHERE Tawonga Crescent.
WHEN Open Daily 10am – 12:30pm & 2pm – 5pm (Map Ref J6)
OPEN: 8am - 8pm weekdays 9am - 7pm weekends & Public Holidays
41 Bogong High Plains Road, Mount Beauty · Ph: 0400 350 488
FOR SALE
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.
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. 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.
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
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.
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!”
Stubby series 1000 universal woodturning lathe, as new, $9,000. Ph: 0408 466 790.
Cane Armchair and footstool. $30. Six metal framed dining chairs upholstered in burgundy vinyl $30. Ph: 0477 443 964
Blade X rollerblades, as new not yet used, men’s size 43, $100. Ph: 0408 466 790.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
“Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth.” Marcus Aurelius
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
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
On Saturday 10 September both Myrtleford and Albury Ski Club held their annual race events where members competed to have their names etched into their club silverware. There was also fierce competition between the two clubs for the inaugural Founders Cup. Across both clubs over 6o racers aged between 7 and 65 participated in the event held on Father Fosters.
This was the first time that the two clubs had competed against each other for the Founders Cup - a cup symbolising the founding ski clubs of Falls Creek.
Each club was awarded points across a range of race categories and Myrtleford Ski Club took the Founders Cup home as the fastest club.
The fastest woman was Sarah Shannon from Albury Ski Club and fastest man was Scott
Sanderson from Myrtleford Ski Club. Fastest U18 girl was Sage Milne and fastest boy was Louis Sanderson both of Myrtleford Ski Club.
On Saturday afternoon club members got together for a social event at Albury Ski Club and the Founder Cup along with champagne was presented to Myrtleford Ski Club president Alistair Browne by Falls Creek’s unofficial mayor and race commentator Di Gavin and FCRM Chair Jo Shannon. •
COVID-19 Restriction changes and weather may impact some of these 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. Fire pits, marshmallows, games, music and Pete the Snowdragon. Further details: 03 5758 1200.
SEP 24 SES Grand Final End of Season BBQ at the Falls Creek Hotel. Details coming.
SEP 24 Have a drink with Growler. See Fall Lines this edition for details.
OCT 1 Oktoberfest from 12noon in the Village Bowl at Falls Creek hosted by the Falls Creek Tennis and Social Club.
OCT 15 Mount Beauty Writers Festival- attracting some very interesting and prominent personalities. For more detail visit: https:// www.mountbeautywritersfestival.com/
Fischer is up for another drink. This time at Falls Creek on his favourite day ‘Grand Final Day’ 24th September. The program is sort of like this: 11am – 11:30am Ride up Eagle Chair for a moment of reflection at Eagle Rock then ride back down the chair at around 12:30pm. Then we head to the Falls Creek Motel, SES fund raiser, for lunch. $15 per head and it’s open at noon. After a fun lunch and enjoying the footy it’s over to the Fryers for a drink or two with the ashes rightly in place on the bar in the corner. Cheers, Growler! •
NOV 18-20 Blue Dirt Ignition Mountain Bike Festival. Tickets now on Sale. Visit: https://bluedirt. com.au/ignition-mtb-season-opener/ NOV 26-28 Falls Creek Alpine Challenge. Distances of 10/16/25/42/60/100/160 km. For further details and to enter, Em: runningwild56@ bigpond.com or visit: https://www. runningwild.net.au/
MAR 4-5 Mountain Bike de Femme – a fabulous 2023 weekend of riding for the girls. Check ‘All Ride MTB’ on Facebook. Tickets at trybooking.com
