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SEPTEMBER ISSUE, 2012
PHOTO: Chris Hocking
inside
2 ON TARGET Victorian biathlon champions test themselves in the snow
WINNERS ARE GRINNERS: The Kangaroo Hoppet Falls Creek 2012 attracted a stellar field and the women’s podium results were (from left) Marina Chernousov in second place, winner Maria Graefnings and Mt Beauty local and dual Olympian Esther Bottomley finishing in third place. The Kangaroo Hoppet is the opening race of the 2012-13 World Loppet series of longdistance cross-country ski racing. See page 3 for full story
POLAR EXPERIENCE 11 Boys from the Red Centre play in the snowfields of Victoria
OLYMPIANS VISIT 14 Stephanie Hickey and Paul Murray at Falls Creek
index Museum musings
5
Mountain personality
6
Alpine real estate Calendar of events
7-10 15
No ‘Small’ feat for Porepunkah teen By SIMON CRASE scrase@nenews.com.au
GRETA Small’s big haul at the recent trifecta of slalom championships has demonstrated she is a genuine talent on the slopes and will be one to watch at two world championships next year and the Winter Olympics in 2014. With eight races up for grabs at the three resorts — Buller, Thredbo and Hotham — Small won seven and had to settle for second in one. “I was really happy to come back to Australia and do the races here, I al-
ways love skiing here and catching up with friends,” she said. “I wasn’t thinking about winning, I was just relaxed and chilling and I know that’s when my best races are. “It’s a mix of being focused and relaxed.” The complete domination has her ideally placed to win the coveted Australia New Zealand Continental Cup, and even though she’s not competing in the Land of the Long White Cloud, she’s confident of having enough points accrued to take the cup later this month. The Porepunkah-raised girl took to her favorite run, Snake Gully at Hotham
for the ANZ Cup Giant Slalom recently and took out first on both days. She was thrilled to be the first person to win the giant slalom down the demanding black Snake Gully run. “They were my first two wins at Hotham so I was really happy with that,” she said. “That was the first time they’d held a giant slalom race down black Snake, it’s quite steeper than blue and I was quite hyped up to do that.” She started off her amazing haul at Buller in the opening round of the ANC Alpine Slalom Cup with a first and second, snaring first on day one in the sla-
lom and a second by 0.29 of a second to Norwegian Rikke Gasmann-Brott. Before competing at Hotham, Small successfully defended her National Slalom title at Thredbo, which capped off a remarkable week for the tenacious 16-year-old, as her win came just 48 hours after defending the National Giant Slalom Championship. She went on to win another two championships at the event, making it four from four, and back-to-back wins in three of the four after she was denied the chance of a quadrella in 2011. Continued page 4
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PAGE 2 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012
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Young guns shine on the powder
FALLS Creek Primary School has proven to be top of the heap after winning the recent Subaru Victorian Interschools Cross Country Championships. Twelve students travelled to Mt Buller to compete against 200 students. Snow and weather conditions were near perfect and the Falls Creek Primary School students put in a massive effort and managed to come away with a medal tally to rival the Australian Olympic team. The event included an classic race over one kilometre and a freestyle relay in teams of three. In the classical race three of the four Falls Creek teams made it onto the podium, with division four girls Sophie Hodge, Maysen Duffy and Phoebe Howlett placing second, division five girls Molly Ryan, India Zwar and Buzz McKenna also placing second. The division five boys Finn Ryan, Cody Allport and Lucas Duffy were good enough to ski into
HARD YAKKA: The 30 teams involved in the event were going full tilt as they tackled the challenging circuit. PHOTO: Chris Hocking
A racing good time for sled dogs
TOO GOOD: Division five boys Cody Allport, Finn Ryan and Lucas Duffy with the relay gold medals and trophy. PHOTO: Helen Whittaker the gold medal position. Individual medals in this race also went to Molly Ryan and Lucas Duffy (second) and Finn Ryan (third). The division four boys Mitchell Cook, Hayden Etherton and Charlie Osmond faced stiff competition and narrowly missed out on a podium finish, and had to settle for fifth. Snow conditions had softened up considerably by the afternoon when the freestyle relay started but
the school demonstrated its strength with top-four finishes in all divisions. Division four boys and girls raced first and all skied strong laps with fast changeovers. The boys improved on their morning performance, finishing fourth. Division four girls started strongly and were in third place with only a short distance to the finish, but a tangle with another skier led to Phoebe Howlett, Sophie Hodge
and Maysen Duffy also finishing in fourth place. Division five girls Molly Ryan, India Zwar and Buzz McKenna and division five boys Cody Allport, Finn Ryan and Lucas Duffy led the field from the start and both teams went on to win gold medals. Falls Creek students were named the Co-Ed Primary School Champions, with second place going to The Peninsula School with Melbourne Grammar School finishing in third.
THE village streets of Falls Creek came alive for the ‘Royal Canin’ Falls Creek Sled Dog Classic. A massive crowd of about 2000 cheered on 30 teams from the start and finish area at Slalom Plaza. The four-kilometre course set off up the uphill section of Wombats Ramble, on to the Aqueduct, with all teams safely navigating the Village Bowl before returning through the village streets. Now in its second year, the race is the only one of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, with many of the Siberian huskies, Alaskan malamutes and German short hair pointers further enthusing the crowds, not usually associated with sled dog racing. Even in its short history, the Royal Canin Falls Creek Sled Dog Classic
has attracted quality teams from New Zealand. At Slalom Plaza, the cheering hordes welcomed this year’s winner of the six-dog class, Darren Watson, with his successful team of Siberian huskies. Jordan Watson and his team took out the four-dog class, while Peter Dobbs was successful in the three-dog class. Major sponsor Royal Canin supplied prizes to the winning teams at the presentation ceremony. Falls Creek Resort Management marketing manager, Jo Prothero, said the 2012 event was bigger and better and spectators had turned out in record numbers. “Falls Creek is excited how popular the event is and is looking forward to many more,” she said.
Athletes are on target for weekend of competition
OR If you have any exciting ACTION PICTURES or INTERESTING STORIES we can follow, please let us know. Ph: 5752 1058 Email: edit.alptimes @nenews.com.au
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RIGHT: Wodonga residents, current IBU Cup Dyllan Harmer and retired World Cup Mark Raymond, compete at the championships at Hotham.
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Bright P-12 College DINNER PLAIN ANNEXE 2013
YOUR NEWS: Contributed articles, news, artwork and color photographs from readers are most welcome. Please mail to: Mt Hotham/Falls Creek News, 76 Standish St, PO Box 341, Myrtleford Vic 3736. or telephone: (03) 5752 1058. Fax (03) 5752 2627. or email edit.alptimes@nenews.com.au Photos courtesy of Mt Hotham Ski Company & Falls Creek Resort Management.
Expressions of Interest for enrolment at Bright P-12 College Dinner Plain P-6 & 7-12 Annexes for the 2013 season will open on Friday, August 31, 2012. Application forms, details of enrolment policy and process can be found on the Bright P-12 College website: www.brightp12.vic.edu.au and also from the College and Dinner Plain Annexes. Application forms will not be available before August 31. Any enquiries to Ph (03) 5755 1166
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ABOVE: More than 30 competitors from all ages participated in the Victorian Biathlon Championships at Whiskey Flat Range.
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THE 2012 Victorian Biathlon Championships were held at Whiskey Flat, Mt Hotham, over a magic weekend in bright sunshine with good snow conditions for the two-day event. More than 30 competitors took part each day, with the youngest aged 12, and the oldest still competitive at 71. Saturday was a sprint event, with two lots of shooting and three ski loops. Sunday was a mass start, where racers start in age groups, seeded according to the sprint results, and completed four lots of shooting and five ski loops. Biathlon is the only sport that combines the two very diverse disciplines of cross-country skate skiing and smallbore target shooting and is described by comOFF AND SKIING: The first group heads off to petitors as cool, fast, ex- start the 2012 Victorian Biathlon Championships. treme and accurate. PHOTOS: Courtesy of Australian Biathlon Association
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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012 — PAGE 3
Public input improves resorts plan By SIMON CRASE
JUST OVER THE LINE: Aussie Chris Darlington leads Ilia Chernousov into Panorama Corner 1km into the Kangaroo Hoppet. PHOTO: www.fallscreekphotos.com.au (Top Shots Falls Creek)
Russian clean sweep of men’s event IT was Russia one, two, three across the line in the Kangaroo Hoppet 2012 in one of the best sprints to the finish line witnessed at the event, and Mt Beauty girl Esther Bottomley ensured the Russians didn’t have it all their own way with third in the women’s category. For world number four Alexander Legkov a lunge across the finish line by less than five centimetres ahead of his Russian teammate Ilia Chernousov posted him an enthralling win in the opening event of the new Worldloppet season. The epic cross-country ski event, which was shortened from the usual 42km to 30km due to heavy snow and strong wind, was one of the closest finishes in the race’s 22-year history. Third place went to Ivan Alypov and the Russian domination also extended to fourth place with Alexey Chernousov, who was ahead of Australia’s Alex Almoukov in fifth.
The huge crowd, which was three or four people deep along the last 500 metres of the gruellling course, witnessed a dramatic tussle for victory as the two Russians refused to yield, but in the end it was the incredible athleticism of Legkov winning the day. Legkov and Chernousov clearly lived up to their world top-10 rankings by breaking away from the leading pack as the athletes reached the six kilometre stage. Australia’s four-time Hoppet winner, Ben Derrick, lead the field early in the race through most of the Sun Valley stage, but then the two Russians found another gear and literally sprinted away from their rivals. With Almoukov’s impressive fifth place, Australia occupied three of the first 10 places, with Callum Watson grabbing seventh and Derrick adding an eight place to his enviable Hoppet record. Australia had additional reasons to be pleased with the re-
sults of home grown athletes with dual Hoppet champion Bottomley finishing third in the women’s event behind Sweden’s Maria Graefnings and Russian Marina Chernousov in second. The Swede started the race as a hot favorite, but after missing the start and dropping back in the field, Graefnings was forced to muster all her talent to get back into the race. Bottomley’s third place has secured her a win in the Australia New Zealand Cup, an accolade that also provides direct entry into next season’s World Cup events throughout the northern hemisphere, starting this November. In the Birkebeiner event, it was Aussies all the way with Paul Kovacs winning in 46:41 from Damon Morton and Nick Montgomery and Mt Beauty youngster Anna Trnka was first across the line in 53:54 from Lucy Glanville and Xanthea Dewez.
Business booming with plenty of visitors this year ALPINE resorts have enjoyed the best visitation numbers since 2002, with significant increases recorded at Hotham and Falls Creek. Alpine Resorts Co-ordinating Council figures show Hotham crossed the 100,000 mark in week 10, which was more than 15,000 up on the same period in 2011 and easily passed the 93,716 mark set in 2004. This represented a 19 per cent increase on the year-to-date figure
and 23 per cent on the 10-year average. Falls Creek has witnessed a 12 per cent increase to the corresponding period in 2011, with 92,000 people recorded after week 10 of the 2012 season. This marks the best 10-week number since 2006 at Falls Creek. Overall, Falls Creek enjoyed an 11 per cent rise in the 10-year average. Visitor day statistics have also
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to think of some creative way to improve transparency of what’s going on, because there can be criticism stakeholders don’t know what’s going on so there is a need to be creative with communication within the industry sector.” Mr Powell said one of the most important aspects of the draft plan was an acknowledgement of the critical need for greater integration and collaboration for the resorts to achieve an optimum benefit for everyone involved. “If that happens, there’ll be a sharper focus on market opportunities and service provision at market cost, and if we get those things right, that will enable those both in the public and private sector to market resorts so regional growth occurs.” The chairman envisages the Draft Alpine Resorts Strategic Plan 2012 will be presented to Mr Smith later this month for his consideration.
Large mortgages force sale of onmountain properties in big numbers A SIGNIFICANT drop of value to on-mountain properties has resulted in a flurry of buyers looking to snap up a bargain. Agents have experienced a busy year so far, because of the price plunge and one of the most successful snow seasons for more than a decade. Property agent and auction-
eer, John Castran, has conducted nine auctions in August alone. This included the sale an 18room ski lodge at Dinner Plain for $1.1 million. This was more than half its original cost. Media reports have suggested buyers with large mortgages have been forced to sell out.
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risen, with Hotham registering a 27 per cent increase in the year-to-date figure to the week 10 mark. There were more than 55,000 more days and this equated to a 28 per cent increase on the 10-year average at the resort. At Falls Creek, visitor day numbers rose by 12 per cent. Visitor days this year are 25,000 up on at the same time last year, and some 18 per cent up on the 10-year average.
PUBLIC input to the Draft Alpine Resorts Strategic Plan 2012 has assisted in strengthening the document, according to Alpine Resorts Co-ordinating Council (ARCC) chairman Des Powell. The plan was released for public comment in June and well-attended meetings were held at Alpine resorts, including Hotham and Falls Creek. Mr Powell said 65 submissions had been received during the consultation period and the council was pleased to be provided valuable feedback as the plan process unfolds. “The important thing was that people who’d raised issues felt we had recognised them and that’s a really important part,” he said. “In some cases, not everybody might think we have enough direction but they can see we are trying to identify the policy issues to make it easier for people to run their busi-
nesses and work together and doing those things important for regional economic growth.” Mr Powell said the submissions generally supported the plan and issues such as leasing arrangements had featured prominently within the public discussions and written proposals. “We received lots of different views and we’re more accurately able to say to the minister (Ryan Smith), this is where different people sit,” he said. “I think the submissions will help us sharpen it (the plan) on a number of points.” He said one of the criticisms of the last draft plan was not enough linkages were included, and key players had to be kept informed of outcomes. “We’ll be strongly suggesting to the minister about improved processes to try and make sure the translation from the strategic to implementation occurs,” he said. “We’ll also be trying
PAGE 4 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012
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Greta Small takes on the world From Porepunkah to international competition, she’s working hard for her dreams From page 1
“Last year the National Junior Giant Slalom Championship was cancelled, but this year I took them all out,” she said. Analysing her performance over the three weeks, Small was content with how she skied and the manner of how she won rather than just watching the clock. “It’s not necessarily about the times, I look at how my run went and whether I made mistakes and I had some really good runs in there,” she said. “I’ve definitely improved a lot to last year ... I’ve improved technical aspects as well as strength and power and overall I’m trying to improve everything together and not go too much with one element.” During her training last year, the focus was on strength and that has translated to improved performances. “It was more about getting stronger in general and building the small muscle fibres and trying to prevent injury as well as getting stronger, I think in ski racing strength and agility is a really big component,” she said. “My trainer is really
NO SMALL EFFORT: Greta Small, 16, relaxes at the family home with her trophy-medal haul from several weeks competing in slalom championships at Buller, Thredbo and Hotham. PHOTO: Simon Crase Perth school and parents Boyd and Diane have revolved their lives around her schedule and at least one of them accompanies her to competitions and overseas. “She’s an A-grade stu-
good and he helps me if I’m having a down day and gets me geared up and reminds me why I’m there.” Among all this, Small is also undertaking longdistance study with a
dent, but it’s tough because she’s learning by herself,” Mrs Small said. “She’s still got deadlines to meet with assignments, but she works very hard and is very focused.”
Having made plenty of willing sacrifices along the way, Small is meeting the goals that have been set. “In some events she’s exceeding expectations but I’m not surprised she’s doing so well, and is
now reaping the rewards for working hard,” Mr Small said. For Mrs Small, her proudest moment for the year arose when Greta was given the honor of being flagbearer for the Australian team at the Youth Olympic Games. “That was an acknowledgement of her achievements and her attitude and for people who don’t know her to decide she deserved to have that,” she said. Small was also the Australian athlete ambassador during the games and found the role extremely engaging and interesting. “Each representative got to ask questions at the conference at the end of the games and ask questions about how it could be improved for the next games in Oslo,” she said. “I asked him (International Olympic Committee president Jacques Rogge) about why downhill skiing wasn’t included in the games and was interested to know how they used the minimum standards in the competition ... I got some good responses and it gave me a broader view of what they want the Youth Olympic Games to be about.” Now back in Austria,
Small is concentrating on gym work and dry land training this month before her first competition to kick off the season in America in late November. “I’ll move up to Canada in December and then back to Europe to do some European Cup races,” she said. “I got a third place in Canada last season at the North American Cup and that was the first time an Australian had done that since 2002 and the first woman since the ‘90s to podium at that level of competition.” In a hectic February in 2013, Small will represent Australia at the world championships, and then go straight into the World Junior Championships in Canada. “Hopefully every year I will slowly keep improving ... I’m doing well in Australia and try and keep up with the Europeans, because that’s where it’s at,” she said. Looking further along the calendar, the 2014 Winter Olympics beckons and competing against the world’s best athletes for a chance at medal glory. “That’s a major goal and to go to that would be really amazing.”
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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012 — PAGE 5
Business booming due to low prices By ALEX BAIRD LOW prices on the Alpine real estate market have resulted in a boom sales year. Alpine Property’s Paul Englisch, who runs the only on-mountain real estate agency, has labelled 2012 as the busiest in more than a decade. Market prices on Dinner Plain are at the lowest in some years, and while Mr Englisch said it was a concern, the positive effect was the response from buyers keen to snap up a bargain. “There are more enquiries than ever before and Alpine Property has experienced more sales than I can ever remember in such a short period from January 1 to now,” he said. “We’ve sold 25 properties; normally you only sell 10 to 12 properties a year, so the turnover is good for the market. “If the prices are down and you’re not selling anything, that’s the worst case scenario
SHOWING SUPPORT: Ripparoo Lodge’s Bill Doward and Falls Creek administration general manager Lyn Gibbs, with Claire Matthews and Vaughn Jennings, who kindly donated $1000 towards the Falls Creek Museum. PHOTO: Chris Hocking
Historic efforts to build a museum THE effort to continue work at the Falls Creek Museum is being strengthened through donations towards the historic cause. Falls Creek administration general manager, Lyn Gibbs,
has been thrilled with the support for the museum, which was opened earlier this season. “Fundraising is progressing very well with donations from Parks Victoria, Bendigo Bank,
Pretty Valley Lodge, Quay West Resort, Falls Creek Resort Management and many individuals,” she said. “We are confident that stage two of the museum will progress this summer.”
Marketing effort critical to success TOURISM marketing won’t be affected even though a reduction in property values at Dinner Plain has resulted in a major impact on the village and forced changes to the 2012-13 budget. Alpine Shire councillor, Mark Steven, said the Dinner Plain Advisory Committee (DPAC), which meets on a bi-monthly basis, saw a need to
maintain marketing promotional activities with the resources available to promote tourism. “The significant drop has created a reduction in available revenue and subsequent impact on areas of expenditure,” he said. “It was recognised during the DPAC meeting discussions that tourism is the only notable
industry in Dinner Plain and that continued support of the marketing effort is critical, as is the continual development of infrastructure that supports the tourism industry in Dinner Plain.” At August’s Alpine Shire Council meeting the marketing budget was reinstated at $90,000, and annual marketing will be reviewed to reflect a
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stronger digital focus. Unspent funds totalling about $160,000 from various projects not proceeding from the 2012-13 budget, will also be transferred to the Dinner Plain Reserve. Cr Steven said the 2012-13 Dinner Plain budget was “a significant challenge due to the reduction of rate revenue”.
— the prices are down and it’s bad, but that’s a normal cycle, it goes up and down … it will go back up again. “It’s at its lowest point for about 12 years, people know, they have been looking for the past five years and they’re now snapping them up. “The good thing is that there is plenty of confidence out there, people are happy to buy and invest in Dinner Plain or Hotham.” But Mr Englisch said while the value drop was the main reason for an increase in sales and enthusiastic interest levels, there were other factors as to why he has had such a successful season. “There are a record number of properties on the market so there is huge choice for people and we’re the only agent on the mountain who is fulltime on Dinner Plain and I have my office here and not in Melbourne,” he said. “I can guarantee
inspections within 15 minutes — I don’t need to make an appointment, that’s why I’ve sold double the amount of properties than the other two agents on the mountain. “I would estimate six to eight of those sales I’ve done since January are what I call impulse sales, which is simply people getting excited at the moment. “There’s heaps of snow, they’ve been coming into the office and you’ve got to get them into the property and inspect immediately, while they’re hot so to speak.” Mr Englisch said Dinner Plain was benefiting on the marker, by not having a lease hold like the neighboring Mt Hotham, which has been quieter on the buying front. “Most of the sales have been in Dinner Plain, Hotham unfortunately has been a little bit quieter, because the banks aren’t lending as much on the leasehold.”
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PAGE 6 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012
Football fans get a show
MELBOURNE supporters, who are renowned for spending time in the snowfields, had the best of both worlds at the Peter Canning Cup, with legend Melbourne Football Club legend Robbie Flower and 150 Heroes member Guy Rigoni overseeing the Dinner Plain Hotham Demons to a 17-point win over Omeo Benambra. The Demon coaching combination had the better of Richmond premiership player Wayne Walsh and former Saints, Doggie and Demon Stephen Powell who couldn’t motivate the home team over the line. The Dinner Plain Mt Hotham netballers also
enjoyed a victory. The second running of the cup was a successful fundraiser, with more than $7000 raised for the Omeo Hospital and Motor Neurone Disease. Peter Canning Cup organiser, Peter McKenna, was thrilled with the support shown by everyone involved and the crowd of between 400-500 on a cool but clear night at Dinner Plain. “The game was played in a wonderful spirit...and as well as being a successful fundraising night, it also creates a social camaraderie between the towns,” Mr McKenna said. “We think it will keep
building in the years to come and this year was a considerable improvement on last year.” Mr McKenna said spectators were kept enthralled with plenty of entertainment on and off the field and a few dubious umpiring decisions that were swung around with $50 enticements all going into the fundraising pot. One objective for the 2013 Peter Canning Cup is getting Bright and Harrietville on board to add to the competition. “We might be able to run a bit of a lightning premiership if they’re willing to take part,” Mr McKenna said.
Prospects for detecting investigated GOLD in them there Alpine hills could be the target of recreational prospectors, if a report gives the go-ahead to it being allowed in more national parks. The State Government will ask the Victorian Environmental Assessment Council (VEAC) to investigate under what circumstances would it be appropriate for greater access to be provided for low-impact prospecting, while still protecting the heritage and environmental values of national parks.
PEAK SEASON
4 DAY
FAMILY BEGINNER PACKAGE
- 5 nights Accommodation - 4 Days Ski/Board Hire - 4 Days Lift and Lesson Package
From
$999/adult
(based on 3 star, 4 share cabin) Child under 12 from $789 Conditions apply
Bill Sykes (MLA, Benalla) said areas subject to the VEAC investigation may include Alpine National Parks and the State Government would seek public comment as part of the investigation. Recreational prospecting is already allowed in several national parks. Minister for Environment and Climate Change Ryan Smith said VEAC’s independent investigation would ensure consultation across government and with stakeholders.
PEAK SEASON
WEEKEND WARRIOR
www.nenews.com.au
Mexicans makes music and pizzas By MATT GUGGISBERG MOST people who live and work at Hotham over winter have their fingers in a number of pies, or perhaps in Jake Evans’ case, pizzas. Evans, better known as ‘Mex’, has been coming to Hotham regularly since 1998 and is doing his twelfth season this year. A keen snowboarder, sometime skier and a soulful blues harp player, Mex mostly keeps the dollars rolling in as part owner and head chef at the Avalanche Bar and Bistro. The Avalanche can be a bit off some people’s radar. It’s located within the Arlberg, a world unto itself. With close to 20 per cent of the beds on the mountain, many guests never leave the Arlberg, except to go skiing. It has its own bar, ski hire, laundry, supermarket, pool, spa and self-serve snow tech workshop. The Avalanche is known for great pizzas, hosting the riotous annual Snowgies, this year on September 13, a Mexican week near the beginning and end of each season, next starting September 7, and in the past a notorious chilli eating competition. Given the number of in-house guests, the restaurant is always busy, but plenty of outsiders are there on any night of the week. Mex likes darts and has been playing in the Hotham comp for 11 years. You’ll also often see him out and about blowing his harp, either with his partner Jimmy Graham, in Jimmy and the Mexican, or taking things higher jamming with others. Jimmy and the Mexican, a rockin’ Blues roots two piece with harp, didge and guitar, were
KNIFE SKILLS: Jake ‘Mex’ Evans loves Hotham, snowboarding and knocking out awesome pizzas for the masses visiting the mountain. PHOTO: Matt Guggisberg a popular addition to the 2012 Cool Summer Festival. Over summer Mex divides his time between playing gigs up and down Victoria’s surf coast from Queenscliff to Apollo Bay, and making pizzas and serving drinks at a small bar in Torquay. A musical highlight was playing at the Airey’s Inlet Open Mic Festival, which attracts 4000-odd punters and 120 musicians over three days in March. Jimmy and the Mexican are aiming to put out a live CD over summer and to load some more of their performances onto You Tube. Mex first skied at Falls Creek when he was seven and started his
chef’s apprenticeship there in 1997. After that was a season in Hotham, then one in Austria, followed by moving between London and Canada, with the odd foray back to Austria between 2000 and 2002, after which he returned to Hotham for the 02 season. Mex, whether on board or skis prefers fast and hard carves, particularly into Race Gully and Gun barrel from the top of Heavenly. Contrary to popular belief and despite his penchant for tequila and chillies, Mex is not Mexican at all. Born and raised in Torquay, his mother is German and his father is of Welsh descent.
- 2 nights Accommodation (Fri-Sun) - 1 x 2 Course Dinner @ Bogong Jack’s (drinks not included)
From
SNOW CLOSE:
$195pp
Harrietville Primary School sits at the bottom of Mt Hotham, so students (back, from left) Rune Follett, Declan Barratt-Hassett, Hayden Williams, Ezra Greatorix, Miaka Barratt-Hassett, Nicola Paschke, Arieana Follett,(front, from left) Kirsten Williams, Jaicon Barratt-Hassett, Silas Greatorix love the opportunity of making several visits to ski fields during the winter months.
(based on 3 star, 4 share cabin)
ED NTinAutIN m the slopes. fro 26ooSmEcoLttaFgesConO es ly 15 m gs.
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26 self contained Delivering to restaurants, to AAA Rated cottages lodges and private Each individually styled with 2, 3 or 4 bedrooms, sleepingresidences from at Falls Creek two to eight people Each has lake, garden or mountain views FIRST GRADE LUNCH - 12 towithin 2.30pm BBQ facilities and picnic areas the village - Aged yearling beef A la carte - relax and enjoy the views - Local pasture fed lambs
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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012 — PAGE 7
alpineproperty.com.au Selling Mount Hotham
“ARLBERG” 005/18D Great Alpine Road
1
1
$149,500
This one bedroom, one bathroom walk through apartment has been kept in excellent condition. In a quiet position it sleeps up to 6 people, there are excellent views from the lounge and balcony. The unit comes fully furnished with good quality furniture.
“CHALET HOTHAM” 8/12 Higgi Drive
S
1
$189,000
Freehold that gives security, low running costs and ease of finance. Positioned within the village with ski out convenience, close to entertainment but without the noise. Cosy studio apartment with quality fittings, fold away queen bed, floor to ceiling tiled bathroom and Miele appliances. This unit comes fully furnished.
“WHITE CRYSTAL” 108/9D Great Alpine Road
1
1
$198,000
This property has direct ski in/ski out access and is adjacent to the Village Chairlift. One of the largest balconies you will find. Fully equipped kitchen, large bathroom with corner spa and one bedroom with split king bed. White Crystal apartment 108 is situated on the first level of the Hotham Central building with views to the Summit Run. A ski locker is located on the ground floor. The apartment has a foyer entry which has a drying cupboard.
“LAWLERS” 25/8 Lawers Court
2
1
$218,000
Lawlers 25 is a two bedroom, one bathroom apartment with private balcony excellent views. This apartment sleeps six and has a generous open living, dining and kitchen. the fully equipped kitchen has a full sized fridge, dishwasher and gas cooking. The bathroom is also the laundry and has been renovated. Very well kept apartment with nothing to spend.
“WHITE CRYSTAL” 217/9 Great Alpine Road
1
1
$224,000
Views engulf White Crystal 217. From the lounge, balcony & upstairs bedroom, one can marvel as the ski runs twist down into the valley. The kitchen side showcases the priceless views of the beautiful Dargo High Plains and Mt Buller. The one bedroom, one bathroom apartment indicates high level prestige & enviable quality throughout. The living area resides under a high slanting ceiling, working with the sizeable doors and windows for spacious living and commanding views. The deluxe bathroom reveals the luxurious indoor spa which is a must have for all snow goers. White Crystal 217 also features a self contained laundry on the entry level, two toilets (one on each level) and a ski in, ski out position in the centre of all the action.
Jo 0408 990 828 | jenglisch@me.com
Shelley 0408 136 352 | sholah@me.com
Trish 0429 642 418 | trishsimmons@me.com
B/15d09330-v3/36-12
Paul 0419 379 388 | penglisch@me.com
PAGE 8 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012
www.nenews.com.au
alpineproperty.com.au Selling Mount Hotham
“LAWLERS” 20/8 Lawlers Court
2
$259,000
1
Lawlers apartment 20 is centrally located opposite the main car parking area of Mount Hotham with views overlooking The High Plains, Australia Drift & Summit ski runs. Only a minutes walk to the Village ski run. Modern interior design, oozing style and comfort with quality furnishings, fixtures and appliances. Two bedrooms accommodates 4 to 6 people comfortably, with a fresh feel to the apartments bathroom. Separate toilet and drying room with a built-in laundry.
“CHALET HOTHAM” 18/12 Higgi Drive
1
$298,000
1
Location and luxury are standard with this two storey, one bedroom apartment, presented to provide a level of accommodation for the discerning owner, or to the investor looking to accommodate the high end accommodation market. Chalet Hotham offers a wonderful lifestyle opportunity and is an astute investment.
“LAWLERS” 24/8 Lawlers Court
4
2
1
$339,000
This large apartment spreads over two levels and can sleep up to 12 people with open living area, fully equipped kitchen and balcony. The apartment has views across to Australia Drift and The Summit. This unit has been leased for the season for $30,000 gross to Ambulance Service for their on mountain staff.
“RAZORBACK” 4/28A Higgi Drive
2
2
$343,000
Over three levels, this renovated apartment has some of the best views at Mt Hotham. Three bedrooms all with built in robes, two bathrooms including powder room and separate laundry. Razorback 4 has high ceilings and a spacious living/dining area with a north facing balcony overlooking the whole resort and beyond. Fully equipped kitchen and a large basement for storage or conversion into another bedroom.
“APRE CHALET” Davenport Drive
6
2
$389,000
This is a rare opportunity to buy a freestanding chalet in prime position right next to the Big D ski run. Set among the snow gums this lodge has excellent views of Mt Higgi and beyond to Mt Blow Hard. Newly refurbished with six bedrooms, two bathrooms with separate toilets, large entry foyer and full drying room with under lodge storage. This chalet is has high ceilings and spacious kitchen, living and dining areas. Ready to rent or live in yourself. Perfect for families, couples or a group wanting to own their own lodge. Excellent gas ducted heating system though out plus fireplace.
Jo 0408 990 828 | jenglisch@me.com
Shelley 0408 136 352 | sholah@me.com
Trish 0429 642 418 | trishsimmons@me.com
B/15d09331-v3/36-12
Paul 0419 379 388 | penglisch@me.com
www.nenews.com.au
MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012 — PAGE 9
alpineproperty.com.au Selling Mount Hotham
“SOLID SEVENTIES STYLE” 10/1750 Apartments Higgi Drive
3
2
1
$435,000
Sleeps 12 people on one level with three large bedrooms, two bathrooms, open living area, separate laundry, large drying room. High location ensures views over the whole resort and mountains. Huge outdoor entertainment area plus one car space.
“LAWLERS” 41/8 Lawlers Court
4
3
2
$495,000
This is one of the most spacious Lawlers apartments you will find. The entire apartment is spread out on only one level and located on the top floor. The views overlook the resort, Australia Drift and Summit Ski runs. Solid brick walls throughout and high natural timber lined ceilings. Sleeps 12 people and comes with two car spaces. Plenty of storage and drying room space.
“SCHNAPPS” 7/C7 Great Alpine Road
2
$575,000
2
The top floor has unparalleled views of Mt Hotham, Mt Feathertop and Swindlers Valley. The unique Schnapps 7 features ski in/ out access, a north facing living area - showcasing family living and entertainment options from the open plan, to high ceilings and magnificent balcony. Both bedrooms are extra large, sleeping six people in total with their own adjoining ensuites and indoor spa, and if more bed space is needed the sofa bed can be utilised. This is a rare opportunity to purchase one of the very few penthouse apartments in Mt Hotham with prime position and high rental returns.
“ABSOLLUT” 3/A3 Hot Plate Drive
2
$695,000
2
‘Absollut’ means ‘without limits’. Modern, sophisticated and adorned, this property is in the sought after location of Hotham Central with a ski in - ski out position! Built to high standards and the newest edition in Mt Hotham, this home features one of only three elevators in Mt Hotham and has the very best of open plan living by the use of it’s large kitchen, dining room and living section. With floor to ceiling windows and balcony just outside, Absollut’s displays the beckoning terrain while creating a space with maximum natural light. Both bedrooms & ensuites are generous in size & one glorious double shower. Don’t miss out on owning the most envied prize of Mt Hotham!
“CLOUDBREAKER CHALET” Hot Plate Drive
4
3
1
$869,000
“For panoramic view of Mount Hotham and breath-taking ski terrain.” Cloudbreaker Chalet shines throughout with high ceilings and bright color scheme. The kitchen, living and dining areas are all smartly integrated, with large windows and balcony doors wrapping around the other side of the building. The balcony is the perfect place to be first thing in the morning before heading out from your adored ski in - ski out position. It boasts three bathrooms, a spa, undercover heated car space, position, spaciousness and all its little extras.
Shelley 0408 136 352 | sholah@me.com Trish 0429 642 418 | trishsimmons@me.com
B/15d09332-v3/36-12
Paul 0419 379 388 | penglisch@me.com Jo 0408 990 828 | jenglisch@me.com
PAGE 10 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012
www.nenews.com.au
alpineproperty.com.au Selling Dinner Plain
VACANT LAND FROM $90,000
d l o h e e Fr and L ale s r o f
Perfect spot to build your dream home! “SNOWGUMS” 13/19 Big Muster Drive
2
1
1
$255,000
The Snowgums Apartments are one of very few buildings in Dinner Plain built from concrete and brick. Its location is ideal being positioned within 50 metres to most facilities and restaurants means you can easily access everything on foot. Park your vehicle right out the front in the designated car space and explore this spacious apartment containing larger than average bedrooms and living areas. Currently configured to comfortably sleep 6 people with room for guests on the two day beds and fold out lounge. In original condition, the high ceilings continue the spacious feel to the apartment with the addition of a balcony overlooking the famous snowgums and ski trails.
“SPACIOUS AND FRESH” 4/40D Halter Lane
2
1
2
$329,000
Positioned on the top floor, this apartment has high ceilings, modern decor and appliances, great views and in a quite centrally located area of Dinner Plain. Parking is right a the front with space for two cars. The entry is large enough for all your ski gear to dry out. The master bedroom downstairs has a queen size bed and is adjacent to the oversized bathroom. The lounge, kitchen and dining area is comfortable for six people and leads out onto a wrap around balcony. Upstairs the second bedroom accommodates a split king size bed & the loft could be used as another bedroom, study, rumpus or movie room.
“ALPINE STAR” 5 Big Muster Drive
4
2
4
$448,000
At first glance, Alpine Star radiates a homely, inviting and even slightly intriguing quality. Not sparing in land space, the classic ‘A’ frame style is functional & provides a large loft, allowing for several extra beds. The living, dining and kitchen areas are warm due to ample heating and clever positioning of the north-facing building. Ceilings are supported by beautiful tree trunks, complimenting stonework surrounding the fireplace for the perfect family setting for a snowy winter night finished off with a spa for relaxing. It also comes equipped with a three car garage. The best way to treat your family or rent out this Winter!
“MOUNTAIN HOUSE” 99/3 Halter Lane
5
3
3
$498,000
Close to bus stop and Dinner Plain’s beginners ski run. Recently renovated with dual occupancy, Mountain House is perfect for large families and groups. First impression shows the strong structural mountain design provided by the exposed timber trunks and natural stone work on the exterior. Containing multiple living area’s and high ceilings, space has not been spared. An open plan kitchen joining the dining area adjacent to an outdoor deck, makes entertaining a delight. Currently configured as 5 bed rooms including master rooms as well as bunk rooms, 14 people will be comfortable. Plenty of room for children top play and direct access for snow play.
Shelley 0408 136 352 | sholah@me.com Trish 0429 642 418 | trishsimmons@me.com
B/15d09333-v3/36-12
Paul 0419 379 388 | penglisch@me.com Jo 0408 990 828 | jenglisch@me.com
www.nenews.com.au
MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012 — PAGE 11
Polar experience for boys FOR two lads who live in Central Australia, Falls Creek was a ‘polar’ opposite to their familiar territory in the red centre. Syd Malbunka, 13, and 12-year-old Adrian Namatjira, who is the great grandson of Albert, danced in the snow, ate it, slid on it like penguins and of course had a snowball fight. It is a very different environment from their homes at Ukaka homeland community in Central Australia, about four hours from Alice Springs. Their first ride on a chair lift had them both petrified and excited and they had amazing views of snow-capped mountains, asking if they were on top of the world. The pair also got a good grip on snowboarding after two lessons.
SNOWED IN: (from left) Dougie Mercer and head terrain park builder Reuben Cameron are night owls spending most nights working in the world-class Castle Terrain Park. The lads do a cracking job getting everything in order for the rush during the daylight hours.
Freestyling friends
A COMBINATION of good snowfalls, hard-working snowmakers, daytime park crew and the most accomplished park builders in the southern hemisphere at Falls Creek has yielded the desired outcome — a terrain park to challenge the world’s best freestylers. Reuben Cameron, head terrain park builder, spends most of his nights (with renowned boarder and snow plough operator Dougie Mercer) working in the Castle Terrain Park and Panorama Progression Park, creating an evolving line-up of innovative features for enthusiastic freeriders. Mr Cameron conceded they are the “nerds” of the park building fraternity and never stop brainstorming new features to keep abreast of new tricks being performed by very smart boarders and skiers. “We are a syndicate that strives to be on the same page when it comes to delivering terrain parks that suit raw beginners to worldclass athletes who compete in the annual Stylewars event at Falls Creek,” Mr Cameron said. “It is a vibrant niche industry that generates a lot of positive energy. “Stylewars is our crown jewel; it
showcases what the team can do. “The entire snowboard industry stops and looks at us so we have to deliver a very good product.” Mr Cameron said a big feature used by Stylewars in the past, the Rainbow rail, draws a lot of attention and as big as it looks, it is actually quite user-friendly. The area dedicated to the Castle Terrain Park in Sun Valley is huge and can accommodate big rails. “We have to allocate a lot of snow to make sure it is a high quality addition to the other elements we provide,” he said. Dougie Mercer, who hails from South Lake Tahoe, has the pedigree required to work hand-in-hand with Mr Cameron — both are shred buddies who work in the northern hemisphere in our summer. “The best of the best come south, you get the cream of the crop from the northern hemisphere in your ‘down under’ winter,” Mr Mercer said. “Reuben has a remarkable ability. He can conceptualise a feature in his mind, not everybody can do that. “He’s fast and smooth when working with machinery such as the snow groomers and knows
and $299 for children, youths and seniors, which gives people unlimited riding until season end. You only need to ski five days to get your money’s worth. Visit www.mthotham. com.au or www.fallscreek.com.au for more details.
They were accommodated at Elk in the heart of Falls Creek and Halley’s provided snowboards. Both boys are at school in Sorrento, on Mornington Peninsula, and a plan to create a brighter future for both is under way. Emma Bobridge, a helicopter pilot who worked
at Kings Street Station in the Northern Territory, first met the boys when they used to visit the station. Syd’s grandmother felt the boys needed access to a better school system, so the boys now live with Ms Bobridge on the Mornington Peninsula and go to school with her children.
Snow keeps on falling during season
the most effective way to reach the goal — building architecturally clean, sharp, crisp jumps that include long landings. “What he knows has been learnt over many winters and his expertise is recognised world-wide. “As first and foremost a rider with a passion for the industry he is able to keep up with progression that is taking place in snowboarding.” And what’s created has people coming back for more. “Falls Creek has invested a lot of time into Reuben and it is paying off,” Mr Mercer said. “He’s got really good over the years and he continually comes up with big jumps that are ‘trickable’ for the riders who use the parks at Falls Creek.” Mr Mercer said the resort builds parks for all abilities and the day park crew works with the park builders and the snowmakers. “Not one person can do it; our day staff is critical to a successful park,” he said. “They are in there doing the hard work by hand...they are our eyes and ears receiving feedback from the park users.”
SNOWFALLS have become a common occurrence this season, with both resorts enjoying impressive snow depths. With snow first falling in late April, people had their fingers crossed this would be a positive indicator of what was to come in 2012 and they haven’t been let down. Falls Creek’s slope maintenance manager, Geoff Sorensen, is one happy man because the combination of snow making
windows and excellent snow farming opportunities resulted in one of the south-facing ski trails in Sun Valley exceeding two metres. The snow depth on Main Street, alongside the equally popular Towers Quad Chairlift, also topped two metres. A recent storm brought about 70cm of natural snow, assuring snow enthusiasts there will be excellent boarding and skiing throughout the spring
season at Falls Creek. At Hotham, the powder was particularly prolific, and the snowstorm ripping through the area also dumped 70cm of snow in just 48 hours, bringing the average snow depth to 179cm at the time. This coincided with the opening of Blue Ribbon run for the first time in the season and a full quota of lifts open at Hotham. If the weather keeps up, the season should go out with a bang.
Your LOCAL FREIGHT COMPANY for over 30 years YEAR ROUND GENERAL PICK UP, DELIVERIES & FURNITURE REMOVALS ALBURY SERVICE WEEKLY - YEAR ROUND Deliveries to: HARRIETVILLE, MT HOTHAM & DINNER PLAIN TUESDAY & FRIDAY – YEAR ROUND 7 DAY SERVICE - SNOW SEASON Leaving Bright 7am Daily
Spring into mountains ALPINE resorts know the pockets of snowlovers aren’t as deep as the snow on the slopes, so they’re creating a bargain so everyone can get the most fun for the rest of the season. Hotham and Falls Creek is offering a Spring Pass for just $499 for adults
ON TOP OF THE WORLD: 13-year-old Syd Malbunka (standing) and 12-year-old Adrian Namatjira take in everything snow. PHOTO: Elle Top Shots
CONNECTIONS TO OMEO & GIPPSLAND CHESTNUT SEASON refrigerated deliveries to Melbourne
Snow Holidays For Women
Call for a quote today!
Harrietville Hotel Motel Great Alpine Road, Harrietville 3741 Web: harrietvillehotelmotel.com.au
Phone: (03) 5750 1085
OPEN 7 DAYS
www.girlslovesnow.com
n51D01325/2812
Libby Phillips, Director
or contact Libby on m: 0418 174 131 e: info@girlslovesnow.com
32 Churchill Ave, Bright 3741
Q15d06886-V3/23-12
Phone: (03) 5759 2525
For detailed itineraries and lists of inclusions and exclusions for our 2012/2103 Tours, please visit our website
S/15d09216/mhfc2212
Accommodation from $4125pp per night 10% off ski hire rates when you book with us Lift passes, resort entry, lessons, ski hire & chains “Pub bar” with draught beers & local wines Bistro meals open for LUNCH & DINNER 7 DAYS
Mob: Ian - 0409 501 085 Andrew - 0409 501 076 Liz - 0409 501 084 hothamfreight@bigpond.com
PAGE 12 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012
www.nenews.com.au
“OVER 30 YEARS IN THE ALPS”
8 ALPINE AUCTIONS ALL UNDER THE HAMMER SCHNAPPS 3 Hotplate Drive, Mt Hotham Fantastic location and summit views
D L O S
2
2
Cobungra - Victoria Falls Road 3 separate acreage lots only minutes from Hotham
D L SO
Lot 1: 44ha - Soaring views of the valley Lot 2: 46.5ha - Seclusion and amazing views Lot 3: 40.86ha - River frontage Cobungra - Victoria Falls Road Homestead on 1.75ha Secluded retreat with river frontage. Recently renovated mudbrick residence, 10mins to Hotham airport
D L SO
4
2
Vacant Land
D L SO
D L SO
Dinner Plain Lot 21: 439sqm Lot 22: 450sqm
SNOWY RIVER 1/562 Big Muster Dve, Dinner Plain
D L O S
Central location, sleeps 6 2
2
1
P: (03) 5159 6688 www.castran.com.au
B/15d08018-v9/36-12
Shop 2, 1 Big Muster Drive, Dinner Plain
www.nenews.com.au
MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012 — PAGE 13
“OVER 30 YEARS IN THE ALPS”
AUCTION
“HIGH PLAINS LODGE” DINNER PLAIN AUCTION 17th of August at 12 noon - To be held at Colliers’ Head Office - Level 32, 367 Collins Street, Melbourne
- 18 rooms all with ensuites, plus manager’s apartment - Full bar, restaurant and conference room - Designed by McIntyre Partnership The property is offered with vacant possession with a full inventory of furniture, plant and equipment. Terms: 10% deposit, balance 60 days.
FREEHOLD AND BUSINESS
John Castran 0411 502 424 Doug McDougall 0417 306 540 Lee Rourke 0417 352 340
Hamish Burgess 0421 641 497 Jeremy Gruzewski 0422 211 021
FEATURE PROPERTIES “WHITE CRYSTAL APARTMENT 103” Mt HOTHAM
$249,000
t Fully renovated t One of the best studio apartments on the mountain t Breathtaking panoramic views t Shops & restaurants within the same complex “ZIRKYS APARTMENT 102” Mt HOTHAM
1 1
$550,000
t One of the best Zirky’s apartments ever offered! t Beautiful views from the enormous living area t True ski in - ski out location t You must inspect to fully appreciate this one “BRUMBY” 7 Drovers Lane, DINNER PLAIN
2 1
$345,000
t Price reduction, owner says “SELL! “ t Spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment t Wood heater, drying room, well laid out over 3 storeys t Positioned in prime dress circle location
Shop 2, 1 Big Muster Drive, Dinner Plain
www.castran.com.au
2 1
B/15d08018-v10/36-12
P: (03) 5159 6688
2
PAGE 14 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012
www.nenews.com.au
we will be
JUMP TO IT: Frenchman Jerome Lambert gets enough ‘big air’ to win the feature event held in early August. PHOTO: Chris Hocking
returning in 2013 Contact details...
Simon Crase on 5731 3307
or email... scrase@ nenews.com.au
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Crowds enjoy big air show THIS year’s Falls Creek Big Air presented by Frying Pan Inn and Nitro Snowboards was a challenge in numerous ways. Mother Nature almost prevented the event from taking place but the creative events crew had other ideas. Due to the adverse weather the original jump, built by terrain park guru Reuben Cameron, was unable to be used. The Ruined Castle Terrain Park competitors were offered an alternative site. Head judge Sean Oakley said it was a tricky day but it all came together in the end and the calibre of riding displayed
by the competitors was exceptional given the challenging conditions. “This is always a popular event at Falls Creek which is made enjoyable by the free spirit and camaraderie of the riders, local crew and spectators,” Mr Oakley said. “They push each other and give it their all for a slice of the $12,000 prize pool.” Jumps such as back-side 720s (two spins in the air) and 540s were the most consistent tricks by the skiers and boarders who were watched by a panel of six judges, Ruined Castle Terrain Park crew leader
Mat Galina, a well-respected rider, just beat local boarder Kieren McLaughlin to win the boarding first prize of $1300. Mikey Rosalky took out third. Jerome Lambert, a French skier based in Falls Creek during our winter, was the winner in the skier category’s $1300. Cody Johnson was second and Mathew Golightly third. Jade McJannett defended her title taking out first place for the female boarders. Local shredder Darcy Plant won the Nitro Snowboards Best Up and Comer award.
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TRAIN ON THE TERRAIN: Olympian Paul Murray has a crack on the Falls Creek slopes. PHOTOS: Chris Hocking
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FULL STEAM AHEAD: Trent Haymen takes out third in the feature eight-dog category at the 19th Dinner Plain Sled Dog Challenge.
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A COUPLE of Vancouver Winter Olympians graced the slopes of Falls Creek in the heart of winter, and made the most of the excellent snow and conditions being enjoyed at the resort. Boardercross snowboarder Stephanie Hickey was shooting on location for a TV network, while Paul Murray was ripping it up on the cross-country trails. More than 50km of trails were opened at the resort in the lead up to the Kangaroo Hoppet, which attracted a worldclass field. Olympic boardercross rider Stephanie Hickey was filming for Channel 10 in her role as a field presenter. Hickey, 27, is one hellof-a rider having beaten the French, Italian, Canadian and almost the Austrian boardercross racers — she finished second overall, pipped at the post by an Austrian in a European Cup series — in her travels north of the equator. Her life as a snowboarder began as she was approaching her teens, and once Hickey got a taste of the sport, she was hooked. “My dad took up boarding when it was cool in the 1980s and bought
MUSH, MUSH: Sled dogger Travis Johnson gets a move on in the sled dog challenge, which attracted quality teams from across the country and the Tasman.
You’d be barking mad if you didn’t enjoy this winter spectacular
GETTING IN PRACTICE: Boardercross exponent Stephanie Hickey got the chance to snowboard and film when she visited Falls Creek. me a second-hand snowboard for my 12th birthday,” she said. “I started on skis but as a kid I was a terrible skier. “As a family we were weekend warriors and once I got on the board there was no going back. “I’m not a snow person but I took to boarding and eventually sought out boardercross because it fulfilled my need for speed.”
Unfortunately after competing in the Vancouver Winter Olympics she broke her back, but the plan was to get back on the board by December and compete again in the Northern Hemisphere. When quizzed about the next Winter Olympics in Russia, Hickey was reluctant to commit but did sound as though it was very much on her wish list.
THE racing was full-on and you’d have to be barking mad not to enjoy the entertainment, either as a participant or a spectator. The 19th Dinner Plain Sled Dog Challenge attracted more than 70 teams and 300 dogs to the two-day event, which was hosted by the Altitude 5000 Sled Dog Group. Phil Friedlander and his German shepherds took out the two-dog category in a fraction over 28 minutes and Tim Huntley won with his trifecta of Siberian huskies in 27 minutes 16seconds. Malcolm Burrows took out the four-dog class with his team of huskies, Peter Dobbs was victorious with his six-dog crew of Siberians and Tony Greenaway led the eight-dog team first across the line. Altitude 5000 Sled Dog Group co-founder and challenge co-ordinator Sue Simmons said the weekend was another huge success, with everyone enjoying the conditions and the competition. Next year the Dinner Plain Sled Dog Challenge will celebrate its 20th year and feature on August 10 to 11, 2013. For full 2012 results, visit www.sleddogchallenge.com.
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MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012 — PAGE 15
Competitors set to show all their style on slopes
GET READY TO JAM: Snowboarder Matt Galina at Rainbow Rail which will feature for the first time in many years at Stylewars. Photo: Chris Hocking
Whats on at Falls Creek, Hotham FALLS CREEK September 8 - 9 � Cruz the Blues Explore the mountain with the new Cruz the Blues Passport. September 30 � Snow Season Close Bringing a close to the 2012 snow season at Falls Creek, so get in for your last runs of the season.
HOTHAM September 1 - 5 � Spring Carnival Enjoy the longer days and warmer weather of spring with games, activities and much more. There’s something for everyone and it’s the perfect time to plan a trip with the family. September 8 � Chicks with Stix Throwdown The fantastic all-female ski and snowboard is back for the final throwdown. Join likeminded ladies on the slopes, build some skills and have fun. FREE. September 8 - 9 � Cruz the Blues with Renault Explore the mountain for the third weekend of the new Cruz the Blues passport event, brought to you by Renault.
September 9 � Spring Sessions Sorbet Slope Style The 2012 Hotham A La Carte in the Park series comes to an end with dessert, the Spring Sessions Sorbet Slope Style, held at the Summit Terrain Park. Pre-registration will be at Hotham Events Desk located on the Hotham Central tickets counter. September 13 - 14 � Tassie Interschools Competition heats up again with schools from across Tasmania competing against each other on Hotham’s toughest terrain. The Tassie Interschools championships take place over two days, each school battling it out to prove they are number one on the slopes. September 15 - 16 � Spring Cup Skiing and Golf Weekend The 2012 Hotham Spring Cup will test your skills both on the slopes and on the green as individuals or teams of three take on Hotham’s Sun Run on Saturday 15 and the Bright Country Club on Sunday, September 16. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to celebrate the beginning of spring. September 24 - 26 � Roughriders The Roughriders Snowsports Program will have your kids tearing down the boarder cross track, competing and performing in park based competitions and ripping up the mountain.
Australian Slopestyle Championships at Falls Creek September 2 to 5 snow to build a podium in Ruined Castle Terrain Park for the popular, some even say iconic, Rainbow Rail. All riders in both male and female divisions will compete mixed together as one field and riders who are deemed unworthy will be taken out of the field throughout the sessions. The fields will be reduced daily to a final 20 for a one-hour jam final. The Australian Pro-Tour is presented by Carlton Dry and sponsored by Burton Snowboards. Registrations www.stylewars.com.au.
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September 8 - 14 � Learn to Ski Week Can’t ski or board? Well, this is the week to learn a new sport and show off to your friends. Hit the slopes for a week of exciting activities where you can hone your snowsports skills with our team of dedicated ski instructors, then brush up on your mountain knowledge after you speak to our snowmaking and
grooming experts. Accommodation and lift pass deals are on offer this week so stay tuned to find out more.
STYLEWARS has been the premier event in Australia for more than 10 years now, attracting the biggest names in world snowboarding to Falls Creek. With the lure of $20,000 prizemoney up for grabs, Stylewars presents a golden opportunity for snowboarders The reputation of the resort’s terrain park builders is second-to-none, that’s why the best riders on the planet participate in this high-energy event. If the history of Stylewars is anything to go by it should be another worldclass event and of course entertaining for all riders. It will be run in a very similar jam format to past years, with a few new twists added in. Thanks to the generous snowfalls this season, the parkbuilders have had enough
PAGE 16 — MT HOTHAM FALLS CREEK NEWS — September 2012
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