This Week in Falls Creek and Mount Beauty - 13 June 2025
Several pics of our wonderful resort taken last Monday and Tuesday. Start planning your next trip now! Pic – Courtesy Falls Creek Ski Lifts
A Great Start
As the snow settles across the village and the hum of excited visitors returns to our alpine home, I’m thrilled to welcome everyone to the 2025 winter season at Falls Creek. Opening Weekend is always a special time - it marks not just the start of a new chapter on the slopes, but a celebration of the community, collaboration, and care that make this place extraordinary.
This year’s launch has been particularly energising. With over 60cm of fresh snow blanketing the resort, Mother Nature clearly got the memo and is looking to deliver more the following weekend. From the first chairlift spinning on Sunday morning to many of our favourite venue’s opening, the mountain has come alive with the spirit of winter.
Our teams - from ski patrol to guest services, from transport to operations - have worked tirelessly to ensure a seamless and safe start
to the season. I want to extend my deepest thanks to every staff member, volunteer, and partner who helped bring this weekend to life.
Of course, none of this happens without the strength of our incredible partnershipswith Victoria Police, CFA, SES, Ambulance Victoria, resort operators, community members and our local businesses - that enables us to deliver a safe and memorable experience for every guest. I’m especially
WHEN THE BRIGHT YELLOW FLAGS ARE OUT – WE’RE OPEN
Located 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.
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
RESORT ENTRY PERMITS
A Resort Entry Vehicle Permit is required for your vehicle when entering the resort between Friday 6th June and Sunday 5th October 2025. The entrance to the resort is at Howman’s Gap, approximately 4km below the village. Permits can be pre-purchased and printed at home prior to arriving at the resort, or purchased at the resort entrance ticket office. The day rate is $67 if you purchase your entry permit on-line. There is no extra charge for printing Resort Entry Permits at the Howman’s Gap Ticket Box. If arriving after 5pm and departing the resort prior to midnight on the same day, resort entry is free!
Season Entry Permits are available for purchase in line and can be collected at Howman’s Gap Ticket Office or the Visitor Information Centre.
Prices: Normal Season: $617. Over 65’s: $495. All Resorts: $959
Resort Entry Fees fund the essential services of:
• Ski Patrol • Car Parking
• Water Supply • Snow Clearing
• Waste Management • Visitor Information Services
PLAN YOUR TRIP
Pre-purchasing Resort Entry Tickets and printing at home makes it faster and easier for you to get in to the resort.
Visitor Information Centre
The Falls Creek Visitor Information Centre is located upstairs in the Falls Creek Alpine Resort office, on the corner of Slalom Street and Snowgums Lane. Open Daily from 8am – 5pm for visitor information & gym memberships. Ph: 03 5758 1200. Map Ref: E4
Accommodation Transfer Service (ATS)
Operating from the Terminal Building on Bogong High Plains Road, the Accommodation Transfer Service will transport you, your group and your luggage to your accommodation in the village. Tickets can be pre-purchased online or at the ATS terminal.
grateful for the leadership of our emergency services and the dedication of our resort staff, many of whom have been preparing for this moment since the last snow melted.
On a personal note, I’ll admit there’s nothing quite like the buzz of Opening Weekend. I even managed to sneak in a few turns myselfpurely for quality control, of course. And yes, I can confirm: the snow is excellent, the coffee is hot, and the vibe is high.
As we look ahead to the season, I encourage everyone—residents, visitors, and team members alike - to embrace the spirit of Falls Creek. Let’s look out for one another, celebrate our shared love of the mountains, and continue building a resort that reflects the best of regional Victoria.
Here’s to a season of fresh tracks, warm fires, and unforgettable moments. Welcome back to Falls Creek. •
Dean De Santis, General Manager Falls Creek Alpine Resort
Contact Falls Creek Alpine Resort via: Em: info.fallscreek@alpneresorts.vic.gov.au or Ph: 03 5758 1200
How good does our mountain look on Tuesday 10th June. Pic – Courtesy FCSL
At Falls Creek
The winter season is here and excitement is in the air for a great start to the season at Falls Creek - and it’s not just the snow we are excited about. This year, Disabled Wintersport Australia (DWA) is proud to introduce a new team ready to lead, support and inspire: Lincoln Budge, Paul Lamb, and Zac Howard.
DWA plays a vital role in making snow sports accessible and inclusive for people with disabilities, and this dynamic trio brings a wealth of experience, passion, and energy to the mountain.
Lincoln Budge continues his leadership role with a strong background in adaptive snow sports, having been a participant in DWA in the past and even an elite sit-ski racer. Known for his calm presence, always up for a chat, and keen community engager, Lincoln is no stranger to the DWA community, having worked the last two years as Resorts Services and even Camp Coordinator. His vision for Falls Creek is one of empowerment and enjoyment - ensuring every participant feels confident, supported, and welcomed on the slopes.
Paul Lamb brings a deep understanding of on-snow guiding, training and adaptive equipment. With 13 years of experience with DWA under his belt, Paul is particularly skilled at leadership, even within his own industry and has even been a previous DWA board member. Finding tailored approaches that meet each participants unique needs is one of his many passions. His positivity and can-do attitude will be a strong asset to the Falls Creek team.
Zac Howard, a full time local of Falls Creek, adds a wealth of knowledge and experience.
MEET THE NEW DWA TEAM
He’s run tours in Japan for the last 10 years and snowboard instructed for the last 14 years. A rising star in adaptive guiding, Zac combines his technical knowledge with a passion for the outdoors and inclusivity. He’s especially excited about expanding DWA's presence at Falls Creek and creating memorable experiences for all abilities, and all members, participants and guides. Together, Lincoln, Paul, and Zac are more than just a team - they’re a community of advocates working to ensure everyone has the opportunity to experience the magic of winter. DWA programs at Falls Creek run throughout the snow season, which includes Resorts Services and Camps. Resort Services offers adaptive lessons, guided support, and equipment hire. Whereas camps are an allinclusive package including accommodation and food on selected weekends throughout the season.
Whether you're returning to the snow or trying it for the first time, the new team is here to help you slide into a season full of possibility.
Not only do we need participants, we need volunteer guides to make this all happen. Watch out for next weeks article on Volunteer Guides(the backbone of the organisation)
For more information, visit disabledwintersport.com.au or drop by the DWA office in the Slalom Plaza.
Alternatively reach out to one of us...
Camps Coordinator:
Zac Howard, Mb: 0401 375 842
Em: fallscreek_camps@disabledwintersport. com.au
Resorts Services Coordinators:
Lincoln Budge, Mb: 0428 986 536
Em: lbudge@disabledwintersport.com.au
Paul Lamb Mb: 0403 752 629
Em: paul.lamb@disabledwintersport.com.au
If you'd like to donate to a great cause head to www.disabledwintersport.com.au/donateto-dwa. •
Lincoln Budge
Paul Lamb
Zac Howard
ALPINE ARTS TRAIL
A Successful Weekend
Last weekend marked the inaugural Alpine Arts Trail Open Studios which was held with great success. Four local artists, Bronwyn Van Der Graaff, Charlie Brown, Kate Maclurcan and Joanne Russell opened up their studios to locals and visitors alike, with co-organiser Daniel A’Vard also showing his art at Kate and Jo’s studios. The weekend kicked off with a welcoming gathering on Friday evening in the downstairs gallery space at Summit Views, which also doubles as Jo Russell’s working studio. Guests enjoyed drinks, nibbles, and a chance to mingle with the artists ahead of the studio openings. The space quickly filled with warm conversation and creative energy as people wandered through the works on display. Linda Griffith-Brown opened the evening with a gracious introduction to the artists, setting the tone for a weekend that was all
Coffee, Breakfast & Snacks 6am – 2pm Seven Days A la carte dining and take away Friday to Monday from 5pm.
WINE & KEG BEER 5pm – 6pm Fri – Mon
231 KIEWA VALLEY HWY, TAWONGA SOUTH Ph: 03 5754 4114 Em: info@grassvalley.com.au
about connection, creativity, and community. As Saturday dawned the soggy, cold weather stood in stark contrast to the bright magenta flags that popped up across the valley and each of the artists greeted the day with a sense of nervous apprehension – would people venture out into the rain to visit their studios? The apprehension was completely unfounded as visitors started rolling in immediately, and then continued in a steady stream throughout the day, the warmth of the studios a welcome relief for visitors braving the cold! A common refrain from visitors was how great it was to see so many artists across the valley and that the artists were presenting such a high standard of work.
Each of the artists offered something different in their studios. Classical realist painter Bronwyn van der Graaff showed a glimpse of the artist at work with sketches and drawings on display and continued work on oil paintings in progress throughout the weekend. Watercolourist Jo Russell ran seemingly continuous workshops and classes
across three days, offering her materials and expertise in both structured and play environments. Charlie Brown showed off his new, cosy gallery space off St Bernard’s lane and Kate Maclurcan invited people into the work in progress that is her studiounder-construction and pop-up gallery which she will soon launch as Mountain Arts Contemporary.
The artists and organisers would like to thank the community for such a generous response across the weekend, as well as their ever-supportive partners. Special thanks must go to the Mount Beauty Neighbourhood Centre for supporting the event and Alpine Shire Council for supporting the creative community and funding the striking signage. After such a positive response, the Alpine Arts Trail organisers are planning further open studios and creative events. If you are interested in being involved as an artist in future events, please keep an eye out for an expression of interest for the next Open Studios event. • Daniel A'Vard
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Watercolourist Jo Russell ran seemingly continuous workshops and classes across three days – this piece titled ‘Bees.’ Pic – Mark Russell
The Dederang BESS Proposal
The Dederang BESS has been approved. And take note: both companies have stated that they want to be an example for others to follow and that they want BESS technology to be a rising industry in the area.
A full assessment has been undertaken by the Department of Transport and Planning, including consideration of all relevant provisions of the Alpine Planning Scheme and the matters raised in submissions and referrals. Apparently issues raised by the Alpine Shire Council with the Alpine Planning Scheme are considered to be irrelevant. Of note is that none of the matters raised or questions asked in community responses to planning documents have been answered by the Department or by Mint Renewables.
The Planning Department have said that matters raised in submissions, including concerns relating to fire risk, noise, visual impact, biodiversity, traffic and waterway impacts have been addressed via conditions in the planning permit. However, the community have no oversight of what happens from here. Where are the checks and balances now?
The decision ignored the 1050 objections to the proposal, the Alpine Shire Council’s rejection of the project, a letter from the National Trust of Australia against it and the fact that the Dederang Terminal Station is already non-compliant for noise according to the EPA protocol. Yet the EPA and Ausnet who are both determining bodies have given the go ahead with full knowledge of this existing non-compliance of energy assets. So, they can apparently add noise to existing noise and make it compliant? They just brushed aside all the facts and approved it anyway. The Victorian Farmers Federation indicated that the Kiewa Valley should be protected. VicGrid – a government department has deprioritised the whole of the North East. There is no right of appeal at VCAT.
Interestingly the CFA response to the Projects approval is to say that the local brigade will be fully equipped and trained to respond. Do they seriously think that local volunteers will do this?
Perhaps they should come and have a serious chat about what is actually realistic for many of the CFA volunteers in Dederang. The CFA in Wodonga have also said at a minuted Dederang Brigade meeting that they will not support the second proposal. We are yet to see if this promise comes to fruition. Time will tell!
Apparently Mint Renewables remain committed to community engagement. This is of course a joke as they would never even attend a community meeting. Months of
negotiations resulted in one small meeting of some neighbours. They promised to publish minutes on their website and they could not even achieve this simple task! They have never consulted with us; they have only imposed. To be clear, this company and the landholder who signed up for it do not care about the community - they only care about their project and making money. We are left to wonder what other landholders in the Kiewa Valley might be considering (the transmission lines are everywhere). It’s a scary thought for the beautiful Kiewa Valley. •
There are several pretty sad aspects to the decision. The fact that the community has been ignored –and are being treated as second-class citizens. The fact that projects like this are being driven by multinational companies – many not even Australian. Also, the price of electricity is not coming down –even with the extraordinary amount of renewable generation that is already installed. We would all like a clean planet – but not at the expense of our fellow countrymen. This Dederang BESS project is wrong on so many levels! Ed •
A tremendous amount of community energy has gone in to what should have been a common sense outcome –only to be over-ridden! Pic – Ken Bell
LOCAL HISTORY
Snow Poles
“Snow poles are welcome friends of the walker in summer fog and of the skier in winter ‘white-out.’ If following such a line in adverse conditions, a party should move together.
At each pole, if the forward one is not visible, one member should go ahead and remain ahead by a length of line the distance of the poles apart. The other members of the party should remain at a pole and move to the leader only when he has located the pole ahead.”
R ‘Dick’ Hemmy from Skiing the High Plains by Harry Stephenson, Graphic Books 1982.
The first snow-poles lines across the Bogong High Plains were erected well before the increasing popularity of ski touring, and it was for the safety of gold miners and mountain cattlemen who
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traversed the Plains. By 1852 gold had been discovered in Bright, Myrtleford and Harrietville, however with the decline of these rich findings the Government set up prospecting boards and to aid further searches commissioned track cutting in the north-east. One of the first lines extended from Mount Fainter (in the south) to Mount Wills (in the north), and was completed in 1895. George Fitzgerald, from Shannonvale, out from Omeo, and one of the early pioneering cattlemen on the Bogong High Plains, recounted stories of his life to W.F. “Bill” Waters in 1954 when George was 87 years old. He spoke of how he and his brother Jack had erected a snow pole line from Rocky Valley to Tawonga Huts back in 1896. “Many miners then working at Glen Wills had
their homes in Harrietville, and the Mines Department put in the track to enable them to travel between the two safely. One of these prospectors, a Mr Nelson, lends his name to Mt Nelse.
Thick fog and snow were such a hazard on the High Plains that ‘Dad’ Fitzgerald recounted a time when mustering on Mt Nelse that the fog “was so thick a dog couldn’t bark in it.’’ So bad indeed that he “dug a hole in the snow behind some rocks and held my horse by the bridle until daylight, and that was the longest night I ever put in!” (from Harry Stephenson’s Cattlemen and Huts of the High Plains, Viking O’Neil, 1980). The original poles were old snow gums “eight to ten feet high and, on the Plains, three chains apart (sixty-six feet, or twenty metres). “Each pole was marked with a metal tag bearing the number of its position in line and a
Initially insignificant – but a very important life-saving device, three chains apart on a snow or fog-covered high plains. Pic – Courtesy the Falls Creek Museum.
character to indicate which line it belonged to. In the early days the numbers were placed too low and they were frequently covered by snow.
Later routes followed the lines pioneered by mountain cattlemen of the Kiewa, Ovens and Mitta Mitta Valleys. With the decline of mining, pole lines fell into disrepair and were not replaced or repaired until the mid1920s when the tourist potential of the area was first recognised, both from summer walkers and winter ski tourers. The latter becoming so popular with its members, that the Ski Club of Victoria lobbied the Public Works Department to renew the main lines.
By 1934, with an extensive program of hydrological surveys and a network of snow gauges on the High Plains, the State Electricity Commission erected two new lines of snow poles.
One, two miles in length from the SEC’s cottage near Wallace’s Hut, the other from the summit of Mt Cope down into Pretty Valley. Both routes intersect the main snow pole route across the plains. Steel poles had replaced the snow gum poles on Mt Bogong and the effect of the wind whistling through a series of holes in the steel poles created a low moan. Although the sound
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was quite eerie, it aided the skier to “listen” for the next pole ahead.
In June 1959 came a warning to skiers that, with the construction of Rocky Valley Dam completed and the reservoir beginning to fill, “the pole lines which previously crossed the floor of Rocky Valley basin have been removed.”
Alpine Fires in 2003 saw pole lines destroyed and replacement became a priority for Parks Vic, given their significance for safety of both recreational walkers and ski tourers. There are, however some old poles remaining as testimony to their many years of service, beautifully “ablated by blizzards and garnished with lichen.”
If the spirits of the miner Nelson, the mountain cattleman Fitzie, the ski tourer Cleve Cole or the hydrological surveyor Martin Romuld, looked down on the pole lines today they would bear witness to a new generation of walkers, runners, ski tourers, even snowshoers as touring and snow camping has increased in popularity among school and outdoor education groups and young people. •
This article supplied by Diana Patterson, former member of the Falls Creek Alpine Resort Management Board, and current member of the Falls Creek Historical Society.
Falls Creek
OPEN: 8am – 7pm Daily
• Extensive grocery range
• Bottle shop: beer, wine, spirits
• Fresh fruit and vegetables
• Hot pies and sausage rolls
• Heat and eat meals
• Phone re-charge
• ATM
• Newspapers and magazines
Located in Slalom day carpark at the bottom of Halley’s Comet Chairlift. Phone: 5758 3009
For pick and pack deliveries please visit www.foodworkshighcountry.com.au
Early map showing Pole Lines – the main one from top right to bottom left is the route the Australian Al[ps Walking Track now follows from Wallce’s Hut across towards Hotham. Pic - Courtesy the Falls Creek Museum
CROSS COUNTRY NEWS
Winter’s Here – And So Is the Snow!
Hi! I’m Katerina Paul, a Falls Creek seasoner local for over 10 years now, and I’m really pleased to be back writing for This Week @ Falls Creek’s cross-country section. There’s nothing quite like the excitement of the season kicking off, and what a start it’s been!
The King’s Birthday weekend marked the official opening of the snow season, and we’re already lucky enough to have some early snow to enjoy. The grooming team has fired up the groomers, and thanks to their work, there’s already skiable terrain on the cross-country trails. Whether you're looking to start cross-country skiing for the first time or getting in those early-season training k’s for the Kangaroo Hoppet, it’s a great time to be up on the high plains.
If you haven’t already been out for a ski yet, it’s the perfect moment to dust off your gear and get it ready. Start by giving your skis a once-over; look for any scratches, dings or lingering sticky klister from last season and check for any damage. A thorough clean with some base cleaner and a cloth can do wonders, especially if they’ve been sitting untouched for months. The glide zones are likely dry after summer storage, so a fresh layer of some sort of glide wax (any will do!) This will help your skis feel the love once more. Or, for the best results, check out the weather conditions, and find the appropriate wax for the temperatures we have at Falls Creek and match it to the wax label.
The Good News… Refuse and Recycling
Falls Creek is one of the first resorts to recycle organic matter!
We recycle:-
• Cardboard – baled and sold for re-manufacture.
• Co-mingles – plastic, glass and paper – in the clear plastic bags with the BLACK print.
• Organics – anything that has ever lived – food, paper, oyster shells, bones – in the clear plastic bags with the GREEN print – all sent to be composted.
Falls Creek Garbage is collected seven days a week during winter
If you require supplies of bags, have a question, or see a problem, phone us on 0437 306 799 www.4siteaustralia.com
Take a quick look through your wax kit too, this is a good time to top up any essentials or throw out those exploded klister tubes (We all have them…). A careful reminder that fluorinated waxes are now banned across Europe and at FIS events, this includes the Kangaroo Hoppet, so switching to fluoro-free options is not only race-legal, but better for your airways and the local environment.
For your traditional classic waxable skis, check the grip zone has enough texture there for your stick or klister to grip onto. This can be done by getting a light square of sanding paper and sanding up and down the ski within the grip zone. If you’re avoiding sticky klister this season and only ski on classic skin skis, check that the skin isn’t matted or worn down. A simple clean can refresh the material and boost both glide and grip. If they look a bit beyond repair, many cross-country based ski shops will have replacement skins.
A bit of prep now means you’ll be ready to make the most of those great grooming
days, and your skis will thank you with good grip and glide in return. With school holidays just around the corner, starting from the 5th of July, it’s the perfect time to plan a visit, and before the rush begins. There is something for every ability on the Falls Creek cross-country trails.
This winter, I’ll be bringing you stories from the local trails, tips to improve your XC skiing, and chats with both Aussie legends and international stars of the sport, everything to keep you motivated and in the loop all season long.
And speaking of what’s coming up—here’s a look at this year’s Falls Creek crosscountry ski events so you can mark your calendars and maybe even jump into the start line yourself!
Falls Creek XC Ski Events – 2025
• Sat 12 July – Cross Country Skier High Plains Tour (Freestyle) – 1/2.5/5/10 km
A family fun race, with a distance for everyone. Dust off the skates or wax up the classics for this race. It is bound to be a fun event. Please contact organiser Len Budge on 0417 352 845 for more information.
• Sun 13 July – Birkebeiner Classic (Classic) – 2.5/5/10 km
Another fun race for everyone to enjoy. Run by local ski club Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club, it is always a fun race with spot prizes no doubt. Please contact organiser on 0409 332 642
• Sat 26 – 27 July – Victorian Junior Sprint Championships (Classic) & Victorian Junior Distance Championships (Freestyle)
Things are heating up now for the juniors (U20), selection races for the Victorian State Team and a good opportunity to practice head-to-head racing and have fun while you’re at it! Please contact organiser Finn Marsland on 0408 147 940.
• Sat 9 August – Ski de Femme (Freestyle) – Fun races 1/2.5/5 km
This one is for the ladies! Well known around town for a fun event for women of all ages to get together to have a free xc skiing lesson and the opportunity to take
A younger Kat Paul, racing in the 2018 Kangaroo Hoppet. Pic – Ken Bell
part in a fun race (with some of the best spot prizes) and enjoy some freshly baked goods after. All abilities welcome! Please contact organiser Ronice Goebel on 03 5754 4910.
• Sun 10 August – Rocky Valley Rush / Sun Valley Ramble (Freestyle) –22.5/15/7.5 km
A longer fun race for everyone to enjoy. Get your training in for the Hoppet! Please contact organiser on 0409 332 642.
• Sat 16 - Sun 17 August – AUS Open & Junior Sprint Championships (Classic) & AUS Open, Junior & Masters Championships (Freestyle) – 10 km
This race weekends are fun for spectators and youngsters who would like to see the national team and other elite racers compete against each other for National Champion.
• Sat 23 August – Kangaroo Hoppet (42 km), Australian Birkebeiner (21 km), and Joey Hoppet (7 km) – all Freestyle, FIS/ Continental Cup event
The big event! Falls Creek and surrounds fill up, and the busiest day of the year is here. There is still time to enter with an early bird discount. Be sure to check out the Hoppet’s website for more information.
CROSS COUNTRY NEWS
BOGONG
In the windswept Southern Mountains out by Bogong’s brow
Is a land that’s never felt the rip of tractor nor of plough
The flowers and native grasses stretch from sky to sky
Unmarred by Man’s destruction – farming passed it by.
For the raging winter blizzards stayed the axe and chain
And spared the Bogong High Plains from the awful bloody pain
Of the clearing and the torching and the weeds and salt and dust
Of the foreign crops a-growing, filled with mites and rust.
And then the spring-time melts the snows, and the swollen brooks are gushing
Into creeks and mighty rivers – to the Murray they go rushing
Daisies are a carpet, Black Cockies screech on by
The parakeets are dashing through the crystal of the sky.
The seasons keep on rolling, but the High Plains stay the same
Through the scorching summer days to the icy winter rain
People seldom visit, unless it’s peace they seek
And lovers swear their wedding vows out by Watchbed Creek.
Now mortals come and go in the twinkling of an eye
It only takes a moment beneath the mountain sky
But the snow gums grow forever and the granite weathers slow
In the freezing winter winds, beneath the ice and snow.
Yes the cycle keeps on turning, yet the land remains the same
Timeless and eternal, impossible to maim
And when I’ve shed this mortal coil and left the din and row
Just leave me for the wild things, out by Bogong’s brow.
Phantom
Travelling to Falls Creek this winter?
Enjoy the comfort and safety!
A skeleton service will operate until late June, when the full time-table will come into operation. Refer to our website: https://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.
From business cards to booklet s; small s ticker s to large signs, we provide print
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 available throughout the entire 2024 season. 233 Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga South Phone: 03 5754 4024
Antifreeze
Chains
WELL DONE EMILY
Recipient of the Allan J Findlay Memorial Bursary
Established by the Lions and Rotary Clubs of Bright, the bursary is made available each year in recognition and memory of Allan J Findlay, affectionately known as Big Al. Al was a strong advocate for young people and positive youth development in the Alpine Shire, always looking for ways
to encourage young people to participate, chase their dreams and get involved in their communities. The bursary is available to support young people, in years 9 to 12, with financial assistance to reach their goals and/ or further their studies, expand their networks and connect with other people.
This year, the award was announced and presented at the Bright Lions Club meeting, to Emily Macklan from Tawonga, on Tuesday 20th May, by Jenni Sgambelloni representing Bright Lions Club and Sue Manning representing the Rotary Club of Bright.
Emily completed a written application process, followed by a panel interview with members from the Lions and Rotary Clubs of Bright and a community representative.
The panel commented that Emily is an exceptional young leader who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to her community though supporting local events, fundraising initiatives and leading by example. Her dedication to making a positive difference in the community made her a deserving recipient of the bursary.
Even as a current year nine student, Emily has a documented history of community and academic contributions including completing a 12km sponsored swim in 2022 raising over
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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
$1,000 for the Starlight Foundation, holding positions of responsibility at school including Junior and Intermediate Vice House Captain (2023 – 2025) and volunteering to assist with local events as a marshal, assistant, helper or face painter.
Emily plans to use the bursary to assist in her personal tennis training and playing journey, however, also plans to utilise part of her bursary to give back to the local tennis club in Mount Beauty where she learnt to play tennis, and which continues to support her tennis skills and development as a player and assistant coach. Emily will present her ideas to the tennis club executive committee in coming weeks, to develop ideas on how her contribution could be utilised to support junior players and the club more broadly. • Well done Emily, a deserved award! Ed.
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Because It’s Smart
This publication has run similar articles before. And we will probably continue to run them each year. Your editor would hate to think that someone working or visiting this fabulous resort of ours ends up with a three or four thousand dollar bill for transport to hospital. It can and does happen – and it can be prevented. Read on.
Previously we have quoted figures for this article. But, even without them, the common sense aspect of ambulance insurance is a ‘no-brainer.’
As an example of costs, your editor had a little hearty turn at Falls Creek during the Trade Fair @ Falls Creek. The fabulous and professional Ski Patrol team, from Patrol Director and several others attended – and will it was a tad embarrassing from my point of view, it was certainly eye opening and satisfying to witness first-hand the skill and professionalism all member exhibited.
Altitude Physio
WHY AMBULANCE
A copy of the invoice your editor received for a trip from Falls Creek to Alpine Health Mount Beauty.
Then it was into the Ambo and down to Alpine Health Mount Beauty. The good news is after and ECG and some blood tests, everything was looking good and home we went. Thanks team for a great job well done.
Then came the next bit. Several days later the invoice from Ambulance Victoria arrived (see image) – a total of $1927 to travel from Falls Creek Mount Beauty, Thank goodness I did not need to go to Albury or Melbourne.
The good news is that I do have Ambulance Cover (and have had for many years) and a quick phone call and Email to Ambulance Victoria sorted it.
The Good News
Fact Number One: Ambulance membership is cheap. A family membership is now $106.73 per year. A single person membership is now $53.37 per year. In my humble opinion, these figures are way too cheap – but no-one can ever say they could not afford Ambulance Membership.
MEDICAL SERVICES - Upper Kiewa Valley
MOUNT BEAUTY MEDICAL CENTRE
WHERE 2D Tawonga Crescent. WHEN 8:30am – 5pm Mon – Friday 10am – 12noon Saturdays. HOW Ph: 03 5754 3400 for appointments
WHO Doctors: Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delanay, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton, Lauren Cusson, Damian Heman, Daniel Florisson and Jacinta O’Neil.
CLASSIFIEDS
VALLEY FUN & FITNESS CLASS
Every Tuesday at 9am at the Ladies Facility, Dederang Recreation Reserve. Bring a drink bottle and towel. $10 per session. Classes by Narelle Jones. Enquiries: Sharon McEvoy 0438 289 293 (the6maccas@bigpond.com)
THOUGHT OF THE DAY
I’m going to stop asking “How dumb can you get?” People seem to be taking it as a challenge! FOR LEASE
Private spacious two bedroom family townhouse available for whole 2025 ski season situated on Orys trail, ski right to door. Sleeps four, one queen bed, one split queen. All amenities, second toilet, walk in drying room. Full payment in advance. Ph 0456 022 211 Em: tedweeks@ bigpond.com
FOR SALE
Metal sofa bed with thick futon mattress which has always been covered. $25 Ph: 0477 443 964
MISSING BOOK
A hard-bound copy of Dr Ruth Lawrence’s Thesis titled ‘The Interaction between Land Use, the Environment and the Hydrology of the Bogong High Plains between 1850 and 1985’ was given to this community in the care of the late Bill Sutton. It has been loaned out –and not returned. This is a vital piece of the history of this area and it would be fabulous to have it returned. Any news, please call 0400 350 488.
WHAT Fully accredited General Practice with 43 years of service to the Upper Kiewa Valley. CONTACT Ph: 03 5754 3400
If you need to see a doctor please contact Mount Beauty Medical Centre on 03 5754 3400. You may be directed to a doctor for a tele-health appointment. Our Doctors are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week from Mount Beauty.
Your local practice – supporting the community!
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
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.
CAR DETAILING
Give Steve a call in Tawonga South. Ph: 0423 499 086.
CARPET CLEANING
Call Nathan of NatWest Home Maintenance, your local Carpet Cleaning Service. 0429 933 492.
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.
COLLECTABLES & HOMEWARES
I Dream Of Snow - Vintage snow collectables & brand new homewares. Open on-line all year round. www.idreamofsnow.com
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. (not Tues) 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.
LANDSCAPING
Design and landscaping - quality work. Contact Hamish at External Solutions: Em: admin@externalsolutions.com.au. Mb: 0400 160 532.
LD’S HOME PET CARE
Pet Care and Dog Walking. Ph: Lisa 0407 541 695. LOCKSMITH & HANDYMAN
Codi Coutts – servicing the Kiewa Valley & North East Victoria. Ph: 0475 388 990. Em: kiewavalleylocksmith@yahoo.com
Falls Creek Guides and the Falls Creek Hotel are happy to once again host the Falls Creek Mountain Film Festival
It is like many of the Falls Creek events a community driven event that celebrates the locals of the village. In particular, the students of Falls Creek Primary and friends that are busy making a short film to add our own dimension to the evening. The three topics this year are:
• My Best Friend.
• My Best Day.
• My Favourite Thing.
The primary school did an afternoon of film making techniques and story bard writing so who knows where the standard will leap too this year.
The event is naturally backed with the classic all the latest Warren Miller’s 75 which is a fantastic way to laugh at our season and have the mojo going as the season starts.
The film Festival is on : June 14 at the Falls Creek Hotel, starting at 4.30 with these local films and followed up with Warren Miller’s 75.
Drinks and small snacks are available at the Falls Creek Hotel.
The film evening offers not charge but any donations can be made at the door and shall be passed on to Amy Green.
Let’s welcome the season in. Looking forward to seeing the local films and the wonders of Warren Miller’75. •
VILLAGE DIRECTORY
WHAT'S ON IN 2025
JUN 14, 21, 28 Park Run. 8am at Bicentennial Park, Lakeside Ave. All welcome. Enquiries to: mountbeauty@parkrun.com
JUN 14 TDFNL Rd 10: Chiltern V Dederang Mount Beauty
JUN 21 TDFNL Rd 11: Dederang Mount Beauty V Barnawartha @ Dederang
JUN 25 Board Lounge Throwdown 12noon to 4pm. Slalom Plaza. Open to skiers & boarders with Under 16 and Open age categories. Further Info: events@ vailresorts.com.au
JUN 28 TDFNL Rd 12: Dederang Mount Beauty V Rutherglen @ Dederang
JUN28 Night Skiing & Boarding. Wombat's Ramble lights up on Wednesday and Saturday evenings, allowing you to continue your ski and snowboard adventures as the sun goes down. Further Info: marketing@ fallscreek.net
JUN 30 Ski Demo Days. Village Bowl. The Ski Demo Days will take place on Monday 30 June and Tuesday 1 July in the Village Bowl, at the base of Eagle Express.
JUL 3 Fireworks Fiesta. Thursday nights come alive this winter with the Fireworks Fiesta. Village Bowl near the Frying Pan Inn. Thursday at 7pm, from 3 July to 28 August 2025.
JUL 4 Start Victorian School Holidays
JUL 5 Mount Beauty Community Market. 8am – 1pm Hydro Park, Lakeside Ave. You make it, bake it, grow it – you’re welcome. Bookings and enquiries, text to Mb: 0439 957 311
JUL 5 TDFNL Rd 13: Wahgunyah V Dederang Mount Beauty
JUL 6 Falls Creek Race Club Winter Welcome. 4pm. 1550 Café, St Falls.
JUL 12 High Plains Tour. 11am. (F) 1, 2.5. 5 & 10k. Len Budge. 0417 352 845
JUL 12 Falls Creek Race Club Annual Auction. From 6pm. Venue to be advised
