This Week in Falls Creek & Falls Creek - 28 July 2023

Main: As part of the State Electricity Commission’s Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme, Rocky Valley Dam (27,000Ml) assists in the production of around 250Mw of environmentally friendly power while providing a great backdrop for our ski slopes. Pic – FCSL (Royce/Arthur/Matthews)

Left: Ski Patrol – a vital and professional service. Pic - FCAR

Right: Life in the snow is to be enjoyed! Pic - FCAR

WHAT A WEEK From the Chief Operating Officer

Round One - Falls Creek

The National Gravity Enduro Series acts as the qualifying series for the Enduro World Series. See mention in the article with Ben McIlroy.

What a week, not only the absurd number of blue-sky days, but for the average sports fan, there’s hardly been any time to sleep.

Mountain Bike Australia in conjunction with Falls Creek Resort Management are pleased to present Round One of the 2017 Gravity Enduro National Series. The series is Australia wide with Round Two being held at Stromlo Forest ACT in May. Round Three will be at Balingup WA in June; Round Four will go to Rockhampton in July and the final round will be held on Woodford Island, on the Clarence River in northern NSW in August.

Who needs sleep? One thing I know for sure is that I need more screens ‘cause there’s also the footy (AFL obviously, with the Cats perilously close to falling out of the top eight, let alone getting a home final!).

All of this is seriously impinging on my gear review readings. Any diehard snow enthusiast religiously follows, not just the weather forecast, but the latest release gear reviews too. How else do you know what to try at demo days?

The popularity of mountain biking continues to grow. From the great efforts of some Mount Beauty locals in the 90’s - to hosting the Nationals in Feb 2000 - to the point where we have some of the best tracks in the country - both in Mount Beauty and in Falls Creek. The growth and the success means we can continue to host fabulous events.

There has been a smorgasbord of sport to watch from around the world and at home. With Wimbledon, the Ashes (which Australia has retained, despite no shortage of protestations from the whinging Poms - if it’s not a legitimate stumping, it’s the weather...), the British Open Golf, World cup soccer – go the Matilda’s, the swimming world championships and Australia’s most successful day in championship history – go the Dophins, then the Athletics, with a week left to qualify for the World championships in Budapest, Australian athletes have sent records tumbling faster than beginner skiers on Mousetrap.

Round One of the GE National Series will be staged this weekend, beginning with practice sessions from 11am Friday. During the course of the weekend, several of the trails will be closed to general riders although Blue Dirt will have shuttles running on Friday from 11am to 6pm and again on Saturday from 9am to 5pm. Cost is $50 per day or $90 for 2 days. Go to www.bluedirt. com.au to book. On Sunday the trails will be closed to the general public, but will progressively open as the different sections of the event are completed. Pretty Valley Road will also have closures and be subject to delays should anyone be travelling back from the horse yards or Pretty Valley Pondage. Now this Gravity Enduro is a different sort of mountain bike racing to what we know as Downhill or Cross Country. The Gravity Enduro is both. The athletes will start with a warm up ride from Slalom Plaza, out the Bogong High Plains Road, up the Pretty Valley Road and then across to the Trig

Speaking of which, this weekend the 27-28th of July, Burton, Nitro, Capita, Salomon, Lib-Tech and Gnu will be in resort for all those “shredders.” Hopefully, there’ll be a few helmets on show too… as traditionally, snowboarders have the lowest rate of helmet use amongst snowsport participants. Noting nonetheless that for the first time in 2022, Australia had a 90.6% uptake in helmet usage, a new high.

When I’ve been out skiing this season, which so far has only been three times (yep running a resort is all about days on snow – NOT!), one thing I’ve noticed is the increasing use of full-face helmets and others that integrate goggles into the helmet, giving a ‘fighter pilot’ kind of look. Not sure about the full-face variety, but on investigation the leading supplier of this type of helmet is a company called Ruroc (maker of the motorcycle variety too). They have some seriously nasty looking ones with outrageous design graphics. The chrome version was on display last weekend in resort, and was kind of hard to miss, despite the fact that it defeats the ‘goggle tan’ brag opportunity, especially with the ‘suns out, guns out’ weather we’ve been having.

No time to be smelling the roses during this weekend’s Gravity Enduro. Pic - Jiri Cech.

Point on the Frying Pan Spur. The aim of the game is to ride each section no faster than the fastest time allowed, and no slower than the set slowest time. Then they do the competitive bit, before riding to the start of the next competitive bit without beating or exceeding the times permitted. At the time of going to print, the final course had not been set, but they look like taking in High Voltage and Wishing Well, then heading to Flowtown, completing that before heading to Thunderbolt and then to Generator and Vortex before finishing in Slalom Plaza. Sound like a pretty easy day!!

RESORT ENTRY PERMITS

Open by Appointment

WHEN THE BRIGHT YELLOW FLAGS ARE OUT

– WE’RE OPEN Usual Hours 12noon – 4pm

For Groups, Clubs etc

As for the ‘top gun’ versions where the goggles are incorporated into a drop-down visor – these look really interesting, in fact, ‘Maverick’ was in resort last week too. Legit – this person’s helmet was a ski helmet replica of the original. Apparently, you can get the decals online, if that’s your thing. That’s one way to ‘buzz the tower.’

In any case, if you’ve an aversion to wearing

Phone: 03 5758 1200

Locate right beside the bottom station of Halley’s Comet Chairlift! Spend some time and take in the fabulous history that has earned this community so much respect!

The weekend’s program sort of goes like this. Saturday: 9am to 16:00 is compulsory practice. 10am to 18:30 is rider registration and Info Tent open. 17:00 to 17:30 is rider briefing. From 18:00 on there is a social evening at Last Hoot Restaurant and Bar in Slalom Plaza.

Please try to allow 24hours notice.

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

For further information:

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

www.fallscreekmuseum.com.au info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au Facebook/fallscreekmuseum

A Resort Entry Vehicle Permit is required for your vehicle when entering the resort between 10th June and 1st October 2023. 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 $56 if you purchase your entry permit on-line. An additional $7 applies to purchases at the 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 on-line for $550 and can be collected at Howman’s Gap Ticket Office or the Visitor Information Centre.

Resort Entry Fees fund the essential services of:

• Ski Patrol

• Water Supply

• Waste Management

• Car Parking

• Snow Clearing

• 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 and gym memberships. Ph: 03 5758 1200.

Map Ref: E4

Accommodation Transfer Service (ATS)

Operating from the Terminal Building on Bogong High Plains Rd, 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.

Hours of Operation: Saturday – Thursday: 8am – 10pm Fridays: 8am – 12 midnight

Sunday: 8am to 9am Rider Briefing and Timing activation. 8:30am to 1430pm Trails Open for GE competition.1500 to 1630 Presentations. If you’re into biking and would like to enjoy some good action, be at Falls Creek this weekend. Further detail from 03 5758 1200. •

all

For More Information

level, St Falls West. Open 10am - 5pm daily. Ph: 03 5758 3009.

For more details about Falls Creek Resort, please visit: www.fallscreek.com.au

Village

to traffic.

Falls Creek Child Care is open Mon - Fri and is located in Slalom Plaza next to Stingray. The Centre is open to children aged 12 weeks to 5 years old and is run by fully qualified educators and is eligible for government rebates.Booking is essential. Phone 03 5758 1244 or

Upstairs Resort Management Office (above day shelter) Open 9am - 5pm weekdays and 10am - 3pm weekends

activities, visit the Visitor Information Centre (above the Slalom Street Day Shelter) for maps and info. Open

For

licensed supermarket lines - located in lower

a helmet, for whatever reason, there are no shortages of options now to consider, and which may help change your mind. In any event, it’s not about how good a skier or boarder you are, it’s that fact you don’t have eyes in the back of your head, nor can you predict the unpredictable. However, if you’re a very rare human and enjoy what comes with concussion - ie. memory loss, headaches, nauseousness, balance issues, light sensitivity, confusion and feeling sluggish… then good for you. I have too much respect for my grey matter than to leave it to chance.

Speaking of using your head, albeit a little less aggressively, watch out for the World Cup inspired Twilight Tuesdays up in the village bowl as the Matilda’s work towards World Cup glory.

Hungry? Well, here’s the insiders tip on where to eat this week.

FOODIE TIP OF THE WEEK

https://huskikitchen.com.au/

Looking for somewhere to share food, with a menu designed for tasting and savouring, then Huski Kitchen is your place.

Small plate favourites are the Korean Fried Cauliflower and the Huski Fried Chicken both great ways to begin. Going larger – the Sea Bass, steamed in a banana leaf, just melts in the mouth, throw in the Massaman Curry, but be sure to get the roti bread to mop it up with. Rice and steamed Asian greens rounds this out…

but you’ll need to go back, as everything on the menu is sensational. Go in a group of six or more and there’s a special Chef’s Choice experience… The wine wall also has regional selections that go great with the ‘spicey’ flavoursome foods. Booking essential. Rightyho, slap on that sunscreen, clear days and chilly nights look to be the order of the week. Enjoy your carving. • Stuart

Smythe, Falls Creek Alpine Resort

Our local medical fraternity has a saying “you’ve only got one head – put a lid on it!” Smart advice and it doesn’t have to be this ‘kinky!’ Pics – Courtesy Ruroc

INTERSCHOOLS CHAMPIONSHIPS

A Growing Success

Skiers and snowboarders from South Australia, Tasmania and Northern Territory joined the slope action at last week’s annual SA Interschools Snowsports Championships at Falls Creek Resort. The 2023 event was run in conjunction with Regional NSW Interschools Snowsport Championships and Snow Australia.

And the most spectacular action was saved to last, with many twister and daffy spreads, 360s, 720s, grabs and cossack manoeuvres in Friday’s moguls competition. Open to all school-aged children, the annual interschools championships welcome competitors of all skill levels.

Among the 2023 winner’s circle were students from Concordia College, East

Adelaide, Eastern Fleurieu, Goodwood Primary, Henley High, Highgate, Investigator College, Kangaroo Island Community Education, Linden Park Primary, Loreto College, Marryatville High, Pembroke, Prince Alfred College, Pulteney Grammar, Rostrevor College, Seymour College, St Peters College, Urrbrae Agricultural High, Walford Anglican School for Girls, Westminster and Wilderness schools.

South Australian Snowsports Incorporation (SASKI) chair David de Lacy said the SA committee members were immensely proud of the annual event as it encouraged school-aged children to improve their ski and snowboard skills while representing their schools.

“But it couldn’t happen without the enormous support from the Falls Creek Race Department, Resort Management Board, Vail Resorts and Snow Australia as well as the many parents, teachers and course supporters,” he said.

The event comprised 160 competitors shredding down the alpine and snowboard giant slalom course on Wednesday, followed by 129 challengers competing in the ski and snowboard cross on Drover’s Dream course on Thursday.

The winners will find out within weeks if they will be invited to compete in the Australian Championships in Mt Buller in September.

In recent weeks, 3269 students from 383 schools with more than 6946 event entries and 13,892 event starts have competed in Snow Australia Interschools in Australian ski fields.

For anyone interested in entering their school-aged children in next year’s SA Interschools Championships, head to https://www.interschools.com.au/homensw-act-qld-sa/ to find out more. Next year’s event again will be held in the final week of the South Australian school holidays (July 14-19, 2024). • Karen Cross

Alpine GS Div 5 winners. Pic – Courtesy Karen Cross Mogul Winners Clementine, Grace and Annabel. Pic – Courtesy Karen Cross

Your Best Day Awaits!

For over 10 years Falls Creek has been home to the only snowmobile lifted backcountry experience in Australia. These tours were created by our hometown hero, local skiing legend and three-time Winter Olympian, Steven Lee. Back in September 2020, Steve had a debilitating stroke, between that and Covid, the business ground to a halt. The tours were his brainchild, his passion, and he worked so hard on creating a way to help more people experience something he loved so much. He wanted to make the backcountry a place that was accessible and welcoming, not just a big scary thing seen in movies and Instagram clips.

After the initial shock of his stroke had eased, I knew that as his daughter, it was my job to keep this business running. For Dad above all, but also for the people who loved it so much, and the people who were yet to fall in love with it. We’ve had pretty much every obstacle you can think of thrown our way, but with the help of Dad and his closest mates, we’re back!

With local faces like Craig Moegel, Hannah Beeton, Tommy Costa, and Paddy Dodd, I’ve been super lucky to have the right people for the job on my doorstep. Hands are constantly going up from within our community to guide and drive, which fills me with confidence that we can keep the wheels turning.

Don’t worry, Dad is still the main character, and we’re constantly turning to him for direction and advice. Most of the time we’re staring at a snowmobile engine scratching our heads, and he pops in with the years of wisdom we need. Although he’s not 100% back in action yet, he’s out on the slopes, doing pilates or in the gym working hard on getting back to business. For now, you’ll have to put up with me! And If you’re lucky, you might even find him dropping off your lunch whilst on a tour!

Our custom built floats have five seats available, that are then towed behind our snowmobiles. You’re dropped at the top and picked up at the bottom, saving all your energy for a bunch of great runs down. Whether you’re curious about the backcountry or have been riding it for years, we’ve got an experience you’ll want to brag to your mates about. We can fine tune the day to match the level of your group - it really can be catered to all. Whether you’re an experienced rider, looking for something family friendly or just after a great day out with your mates, we’ve got you covered. There’s nothing that brings Steve more joy than riding a fresh line, but almost more so is watching others enjoy that same feeling. So, take a lap for Steve, your best day on snow awaits! •

Layla Lee

The only snowmobile lifted back country tours in Australia – an opportunity not to be missed. Pic – Danii Forde

DISABLED WINTERSPORT AUSTRALIA

Find Your Bliss - Going Off-piste

One of the great rewards of being a ski guide with Disable Winter Sports Australia (DWA) is the amazing people we meet. For those that venture outside of their ‘comfort zone’, and make their way up to Falls Creek in the context of a disability, the journey is filled with challenges and obstacles. It takes courage, perseverance, patience and the support of others to name a few.

To help overcome these challenges, we are very fortunate at Falls Creek to have Lincoln Budge in the role of Resort Services Coordinator with DWA to support those with a disability to achieve their winter dream. Lincoln comes with a wealth of experience and wisdom, much of which came from his own personal journey spanning over 15 years following a car accident in 2007 that resulted in a spinal injury leaving him paralysed from the waist down.

At the time of his accident, which occurred two hours prior to him turning twenty-two years of age, he worked as a boiler maker/ welder, and lived in Yackandandah – not far from the Kiewa Valley. Following the accident, after coming out of rehab, he become involved in beef cattle farming in his home town. His focus was to become as independent as possible.

When his brother Declan, an avid skier himself, proposed the idea of trying skiing in 2009, Lincoln’s initial response was a definite no. The thought of becoming dependant on others to learn to ski had no appeal, and was in stark contrast to his vision of relocating to sunny Queensland.

As Lincoln reluctantly came around to a different way of approaching his journey, he eventually took a leap of faith and found the courage to trying skiing. He embraced the discomfort of trying something new. It just so happened that going skiing ‘offpiste’ (to do something different to what is normal) was a good thing. This moment taught Lincoln that the biggest risk in life was to take no risk.

By the end of two days of sit-skiing, he was skiing independently. By the end of two

days skiing, Lincoln was addicted. Those two days were life changing. Lincoln came to realise what is one of Joseph Campbell’s (an American writer and professor of literature) most identifiable, most quoted sayings of "follow your bliss". Joseph Campbell saw this not merely as a mantra, but as a helpful guide to the individual along the - what he termed the ‘hero’s journey’ that each of us walks through life in the context of adversity and hardship. Lincoln would also go onto realise the importance of allowing people in his life to support and assist where needed, and came to realise this as an essential ingredient in forming close and genuine relationships. Lincoln began rethink life on many levels. In hindsight, he could start to see the personal transformation that was occurring following his accident, and realised it served as a positive turning point in his life. Despite his previous vision of heading north to warmer weather, Lincoln spent the next five years following his bliss, in the snow! He spent his time in Australia and abroad amongst ski resorts in New Zealand, Japan, United States and Canada where he competed as part of the Para-Olympic ski team.

However, just as his car accident took him on a different path, so to would his love of ski racing. He crashed while training for the Soci Olympics in Russia, resulting in a shoulder injury that went on to end his competitive skiing career. Once again, Lincoln was presented with the need to rethink his life direction.

From 2015 onwards, Lincoln went onto enjoy recreation skiing and working with school children sharing his personal story with the aim to share the important message; regardless of your circumstances, you can still find ways to achieve great things, along with the importance of being willing to constantly re-consider your life direction along the way. Lincoln is a firm believer that while life is hard at times, hard times also bring growth and opportunity. He then went onto become involved with DWA at Hotham and Falls Creek in 2017, working closely with Phil Knight and Peter Hull, assisting with training and guiding, with a focus on supporting participants eager try sit-skiing.

Fast-forward to 2023, Lincoln can be seen skiing the slopes of Falls Creek, very fast I might add, and working in the role as Resort Services Coordinator for DWA. It’s here where he inspires and supports others with a disability in the hope they too can find their bliss, and experience a taste of what skiing has brought to his life. And that’s why Falls Creek is fortunate to have Lincoln as part of the community! • Jeremy Limpens, DWA

recommended

Doing what he loves – being involved with and helping others who love to ski! That’s Lincoln on the left with a bunch of other dedicated DWA Guides and clients. Pic - Courtesy Jeremy @ DWA

MORE TO ENJOY

Wild Guide Escapes

Are you ready for a ski touring adventure that promises to be unforgettable? Wild Guides Escapes has got you covered. This Spring Ski Touring Adventure at Falls Creek is the perfect opportunity to enhance your touring techniques and explore stunning terrain beyond Falls Creek. The tour includes a mix of challenge and leisure, catering to everyone's comfort level. You'll spend three nights at the cosy Frueauf Village, with professional catering and daily Pilates classes included. Relax and recharge while experiencing the ultimate ski touring adventure.

The first day starts with an introduction to Pilates and an after-travel stretch. Day two begins with a Pilates session followed by a ski to the top of the Summit while learning ski touring techniques and how to read the mountain on Moonlight Ridge. Ski to Frying Pan Spur for a longer ski, with lunch at the top of the mountain. Day three is a big day out with a morning Pilates session, breakfast, and a climb to the top of Mount McKay to ski down. Lunch will be at the top of Mount McKay, and you'll review steep climbing techniques and cornice navigation. You'll then ski out to Rocky Knolls for a few light descents, followed by an on-snow Pilates stretch session. Day four starts with a Pilates session and breakfast before check-out. You can ski the day or head home.

Wild Guides is all about the joy of discovery with nature-based experiences that encourage you to go beyond your ‘normal’ in a warm, supported and engaging environment. Each tour is specifically tailored by Mimi and Macca to give you just enough adventure with just enough luxury.

Don't miss this opportunity to ski tour with Wild Guides Escapes. Twin Share Rate is $1,990 per person, and the Single Supplement is $2,490 per person. The tour dates are from Friday, September 22nd to Monday, September 25th, 2023. The tour includes two days of ski touring, touring guides for two days, touring skis and equipment, all meals and beverages professionally catered, three nights accommodation at Frueauf Village, backpacks, and daily Pilates sessions. How good can that be? •

Entertainment

Will Clift is an Australian rising artist who has made the bold decision to leave his professional rugby career behind and dedicate himself fully to his passion for music. With his guitar-driven soul/ pop music style inspired by Tom Misch and Daniel Caesar, Will has created an exceptional musical experience that only gets better when played live.

Recently, Will was been working with Matt Corby as a part of Wild Turkeys 101 music Mentorship program opening for one of his intimate shows and writing together at Rainbow Valley Studio. He toured the east coast of Australia in late May with Milku. Will’s debut EP, released in 2020, has gained over 180,000 plays and has been featured on popular Spotify playlists such as 'New Music Fridays AU/NZ', 'Weekends + Friends', 'The Office Stereo', and 'Low Key Weekend'.

Will is also making a name for himself through unforgettable live performances, he’s just returned from his debut east coast tour with sell out shows in Sydney and Melbourne. Other headline shows include at Solbar, The Penny Black, Gaso, and The

Northcote Social Club, as well as regular acoustic gigs at various venues. With a degree in music, neuroscience, and a diploma in French, Will's multidimensional and down to earth persona is reflected in his music, making him stand out in the Australian music scene. Fans can look forward to two upcoming projects in 2023, alongside an East coast tour mid-year, promising a thrilling and exciting musical journey. Will's unique blend of soulful music and magnetic stage presence is the perfect recipe for an authentic and long term music career.

Next week, Will be playing live at the Falls Creek Hotel for Happy Harvey Hour 3:30 – 4:30pm Tuesday and Thursday and then on Wednesday 4 – 6pm at Feathertop Lodge. Good times!! •

Your Wild Guides team, Mark ‘Macca’ McDonald of Falls Creek Guides and Mimi Webster of Wildflower Pilates. Pic – Courtesy Wildguides

Will Clift. Pic – Courtesy the artist

and

Australian Championships, Youth Winter Olympic Games Qualifiers, Australia/New Zealand Continental Cup and Worldloppet.

The 19th and 20th of August will see the Australian Open Sprint and Distance Championships taking place with a free technique sprint on Saturday and a 10km classic technique event on Sunday. These are also races three and four of the FIS Australia/New Zealand Continental Cup series.

These championships are of special interest to athletes born between 2006 and 2008 as they are the first two of the four qualifying races for Australian XC skiers wishing to take part in the 2024 Youth Winter Olympic Games that will be held in Gangwon, South Korea, starting on January 19th. Together with a full team of Alpine, Snowboard and Freestyle athletes, Australia hopes to send four XC skiers and six biathletes.

On the 26th August, the Kangaroo Hoppet 42km international ski marathon takes place, plus the shorter 21km Australian Birkebeiner and the 7km Joey Hoppet events attracting some 1000 participants from more than 20 nations. The Kangaroo Hoppet is the Australian leg of the annual Worldloppet series of 19 ski marathons.

The series starts at Ushuaia down at the southern tip of Argentina on 20 August followed on successive weekends by the Hoppet at Falls Creek and then the Merino Muster in New Zealand. After a break of four months the series heads to Changchun in China on January 4, finishing 16 events later in April at the Fossavangsgaten in Iceland.

Unlike the championship events earlier in the month, which are open only to registered racers, the Kangaroo Hoppet is a mass participation event open to all skiers, with the shorter 21km and 7km events giving skiers of all ages and abilities a unique opportunity to take part in a major international sporting event. And they do mean all ages! A special ‘pouch class’ in the 7km Joey event caters for non-skiing children

who need to be carried in a pack or towed in a sled. At this stage the age range for the 2023 event is from 3years to 84 years. Online entries for the Hoppet are still open, although you should get your entry in by 14th August if you want to get a seeded start position and/or avoid the late entry fee that applies through to 25 August when entries close. Enter online at: www.hoppet. com.au. •

INTIMATE DINING EXPERIENCE

Our intimate personal dinners for small group are proving to be a favourite with regulars and visitors.

Please feel free to contact us and discuss your requirements and timing.

Regards, Roi and Sue.

Take-Away Pasta Dishes

Saturday & Sunday Evenings!

All your favourites - Call ahead to order!

For pick and pack deliveries please visit www.foodworkshighcountry.com.au

Falls

as Roy

HG would say “When too many events are barely enough!”

Phil Bellingham (#11) leads Seve de Campo (#12) and John Walker (#21) off Heathy Spur on the first lap last year, with Women’ winner (#1) Jesse Diggins USA in close touch. This group all finished within seconds of each other in the time 1:31 and some seconds. Pic – Ken Bell

CROSS COUNTRY NEWS

Ridiculously Incredible

This Week has been ridiculously incredible here at Falls Creek. The sun has been big in the blue sky every day and the snow conditions have still managed to hold themselves up very well.

Last Sunday the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club put on their annual popular race named the Birkebeiner Ski Classic, and the conditions couldn’t have been more perfect. The race course was quite challenging this year, which excited the large turnout of participants and created an exciting challenge, as the course followed some trails that are not usually included in races such as the long McKay Road hill and the steep Atkins downhills. There was close competition in all categories, and my personal favourite part of the race was that everybody started at the same time, meaning I was able to race against not only the females I would usually be up against,

but also the males of all ages, which added more competition and a really inclusivefeeling atmosphere to the event. Thank you to the Birkebeiner Ski Club and all volunteers for putting on a fantastic event!

XC Interview

Our interview this week is with secretary of the Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club, Ronice Goebel, who kindly spoke with me with a look back on her time being the head honcho and self-proclaimed dot-joiner of the Victorian XC Ski Squad. Ronice worked with the team for over 20 years, and made a legacy that will carry on for at least 20 more. She is the matriarch of Victorian XC Skiing, and everyone who knows her can say without hesitation that she has had a personal memorable effect on them.

Ella: Ronice, how did you first get involved in the Vic Squad?

Ronice: “Well I didn’t learn to ski until I was in my 20’s, I am from Melbourne and I loved going backcountry skiing and snow camping a lot while I was a Uni student. I became an Outdoor Ed teacher and when I had my daughter Jaffa I eventually got a job working at the Bogong Outdoor Ed centre here in the High Country which is where I met a lot of the XC Ski community here at Falls Creek and fell in love with both the sport and the community of people here.

When my daughter Jaffa started XC skiing I was asked by someone to run a barbeque, and all of a sudden there I was for the next 20 years! I have continued to work as an outdoor ed teacher and had other roles in the local community alongside my work

with the Vic Squad, but what really drew me to committing so much time to the XC Team was how it combined my loves of the outdoors, cross country skiing, and giving kids opportunities and skills to grow in different and unique ways.”

Ella: You are such a fiery pocket rocket. What has kept you so energetic and motivated over the years?

Ronice: “It’s funny, I wish I could provide some sort of wisdom about that but I think I was just born with a particular trait that makes that me that way. I have always been an optimistic person and have always been good at seeing the good in people and the potential they have in their own unique and special ways. Skiing as a sport is a bit of a journey in life, it provides a way to learn about the world and understand it and that is something that I loved being able to be a part of for those kids. It was important to me to join the dots between kids skiing with their families or schools and higher performance settings like the National Team. We needed a middle step where we could have an inclusive and encouraging space in-between those two levels. We provided them with the opportunities to learn about themselves, give them space to understand themselves in the world around them, and provide them with real life experiences very early on with some kids coming overseas by themselves as early as age 13 or so. Whether they skied for friendships, for community, for personal athletic development, we provided an inclusive space for XC Skiing to do its thing, giving them resilience through the trying times of being adolescents.”

Ella: How do you think the culture of XC skiing has changed over the course of your time with the Vic Squad?

Ronice: “In some ways it’s changed a lot, but overall kids are always the same. They love to have fun and be cheeky and are also there to learn about the thing they are passionate about and share that with likeminded people. I would say when I started out with the team we didn’t get as many kids who skied really well technically compared to how they are today. Generally the skiing is just overall getting better and I’m not sure exactly why that is, but I would guess that it’s a combination of exposure of elite XC skiing increasing drastically over that time, as well as things like YouTube and televised racing becoming more accessible too. We also did more rough track skiing and games back then, getting kids to just play on skis and get agility and balance whereas now the kids focus more on technique and track skiing a lot more. Overall though it has really stayed the same, the coaches and parents over the years have always had some of the biggest influences in the culture of the team. We have had really hard working parents over the years taking on different roles and creating community and fun, and it created a lot of multi-generational friendships and fantastic role modelling.”

Ella: What was your most favourite part of the job?

Ronice: “The best part is absolutely the talent quest. The talent quest is an annual tradition at the Falls Creek on-snow camp where everyone is required to get involved in showcasing a talent to the rest of the team. It was always my favourite activity and I would look forward to it every year. You get to see everyone’s unique skills and personalities and it’s just incredible fun and also extremely funny. I am still a quite disappointed that I never won the talent quest, I think I was robbed of the win a couple of times when the winners would often be those making hilarious fun of me!! Other than that, just watching people overcoming things that are

challenging, seeing people come back to the sport and get involved in the ski community after moving on from the team, making the most fantastic friends, they were probably the other best parts of the job that I will also miss the most.”

Ella: You have always been very involved in the Hoppet and the promotion of our sport here at Falls Creek. What other WorldLoppet’s have you done and how does the Hoppet compare?

Ronice: “I have done all 16 of the World Loppet’s! That’s been pretty fabulous. The Vasaloppet was definitely the most unique challenge being 90kms, but as corny as it is, the Kangaroo Hoppet is just one of the greatest races around the whole world. Icelandic Loppet was super visually uniquely - stunning skiing looking over the fjords while racing, and I loved Iceland as a country as well, so the travelling is a wonderful part of doing Loppets around the world, but the Hoppet is definitely the most special.”

Ella: What’s next for you now Ronice?

Ronice: “Well I’m coming up on my 29th Hoppet this year and am also the volunteer coordinator of that. I’m also heavily involved in the Ski de Femme that’s coming up, the Harrietville half marathon, and also just lots of skiing to catch up on the back country!”

Thank you so much for everything you have contributed and all of the incredible work you continue to do for XC Skiing at Falls Creek, Ronice. I think it might be time we put on a barbeque for Ronice now, with a talent quest on the side! •

Ella Jackson

How could you not grow to love this sport, area, environment and way of life? Ronice at home! Pic – Courtesy Ronice

NEGOTIATIONS

Get Involved

I’ve had many chairlift conversations last season about enterprise bargaining agreements (EBA). Often people haven’t realised that’s what we’re discussing, but I’m always up for a short but meaningful chairlift chat, especially when it helps people to understand the Australian employment environment.

Falls Creek Ski Lifts and our Mt Hotham siblings EBA has expired and so is up for renegotiation. When both mountains were owned by Merlin Entertainment the EBA negotiation only applied to these two alpine resorts. Now Falls & Hotham is owned by Vail Resorts there is an opportunity for Vail Resorts Australia to negotiate a new EBA that encompasses all three of their Australian resorts.

Good faith bargaining is a foundational part of both the employee and employers right to negotiate the terms and conditions under which employees work (including management) and employers engage people to complete said work for payment. As you

WELCOME BACK TO WINTER!

We have lots to keep you warm!

Clothing, Boots, Work wear, Insulation, Heaters!

Hardware, Homewares, Gifts & Outdoor Supplies! Gift vouchers and free gift wrapping available

Mon – Fri: 9am 5:30pm

Saturday: 9am 4pm Sun & Public Hol.s: 9am 2pm

12 – 14 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 1999

Travelling to Falls Creek this winter?

may have guessed by now, we currently call it Enterprise Bargaining resulting in an Agreement.

I respect the right for unions to advocate for their members to improve wages and conditions. It’s a foundational worker right to engage a bargaining agent to represent you the worker. This doesn’t have to be a trade union, but it often is.

I respect the right for employers to make a profit. No one goes into business thinking ‘I want to break even’. If that’s your goal you’re generally working in the not-for-profit sector.

If you’ve ever glanced at the Fair Work Act or a Modern Award, you’ll notice they refer to employees as ‘workers.’ Why? I honestly don’t know. I think it’s a hangover from a more industrial time when large swathes of metropolitan populations worked in factories. Many people have asked me ‘what is the difference between the National Employment Standards (NES), a Modern Award and an Agreement’?

The NES are 11 minimum employment entitlements that must be provided to all employees. All employees in the national workplace relations system are covered by the NES regardless of the award, registered agreement or employment contract that applies.

Enterprise agreements and awards both set out wages and conditions of employment. Minimum terms also protect all employees, with or without an agreement or award.

Awards tell employees the terms and conditions of their employment. Most awards cover a whole industry or occupation. Examples are ‘retail industry’ or ‘legal services.’ The employee receives the benefits in the award plus other terms the law requires (for example the National Employment Standards). Examples of the terms in an award are:

• wages

• leave

• ordinary hours of work

• overtime

• shift work entitlements

Enterprise agreements are often similar to awards, but they cover a specific business

or businesses. They may also have some terms and conditions that are different from the award, often an improvement. If an agreement applies to an employee, the modern award does not apply even if it covers them.

An employer and two or more employees can create an agreement that meets the needs of the business. To make sure this is fair on employees, the Fair Work Commission assess all agreements. They only approve agreements that meet the requirements in the Fair Work Act 2009.

Several years ago, the Fair Work Commission (or its previous iteration) successfully audited the Alpine Award so that it could only apply to organisations that operated a lift. This had a huge impact on the business owners at Falls Creek & in the valley who suddenly found themselves ineligible to engage staff under the Alpine Award. If you want to know why that was problematic, I can write an article on that topic.

During chairlift chats last year, people told me they were worried that Vail Resorts will try and scrap the current wages and salary categories and try and reduce workers entitlement by pushing backward to:

A) Perisher rates,

B) The relevant Industry modern award or

C) the basic National Employment standards (minimum wage)

D) a flat rate of pay no matter how many hours you work or what qualification/ certification you hold.

Let’s be frank: people don’t work in the Snowsports industry to become millionaires. It really is a passion driven job. You can earn more housekeeping than you can as a Level 1 Snowsports instructor.

Do my random chairlift chat buddies have anything to worry about regarding being forced to accept pay cuts and lower entitlements? It’s a plausible scenario. I would hope it is not possible unless workers agree to be represented by a corrupt or inexperienced bargaining agent who does not represent the workers best interests and does not negotiate in good faith for the workers they are representing.

The Fair Work Commission requires any negotiated agreement proposed to them for approval to pass the BOOT “Better Off Overall Test”.

The BOOT requires that each worker is better off overall by entering into the agreement versus the underlying Award; and that the terms of the agreement do not contravene the National Employment Standards (“NES”) contained in the Fair Work Act.

An enterprise agreement that is not a greenfields agreement passes the better off overall test if the Fair Work Commission is satisfied, as at the test time, that each award covered employee, and prospective award covered employee, would be better off overall if the agreement applied than if the relevant modern award applied.

The better off overall test is not applied as a line-by-line analysis. It is a global test requiring consideration of advantages and disadvantages to award covered employees and prospective award covered employees. The application of the better off overall test therefore requires the identification of the terms of an Agreement which are more beneficial to employees when compared to the relevant modern award, and the terms of an Agreement which are less beneficial and then an overall assessment of whether an employee would be better off under the Agreement.

Several chairlift chats asked if the expiration of an EBA gives an employer the right to scrap and reset all employment terms and conditions, include pay scales. In short, no. Agreements continue to operate after their nominal expiry dates until they are replaced or terminated by the Fair Work Commission.

This means that the provisions contained within an old enterprise agreement will continue to apply to the parties covered by the agreement after the nominal expiry date. These provisions are fully enforceable and must be applied, even if the nominal expiry date was several years before.

When an approved agreement continues to operate, the provisions of the National Employment Standards (NES) will apply in circumstances where an entitlement in the agreement is less than that provided for by the NES.

If you’re a worker whose organisation’s EBA has expired or is up for negotiation, you should go to any and all meetings scheduled and get involved. It’s your right. You have a right to ask questions and have the terms and conditions being negotiated explained to you in simple, easy to understand language.

Why am I writing about this when I’m running a retail business this year? My other business is HR Consulting. I don’t want to return to instructing in a few years and find instructing pay rates and entitlements have been eroded. I dislike power imbalances in general. I care about the people I worked within the Snowsports School. I respect the bargaining process and Australia’s Industrial Relations system. When negotiations are done in good faith and both parties are equally informed and knowledgeable about the industrial landscape they’re operating in, the system works pretty well. I could go on.

This is a fabulous environment in which to work and live – but being aware of your entitlements and responsibilities is paramount. Pic – Courtesy FCSL (Royce/Athur/Matthews)

If your EBA is up for re-negotiation get involved, understand what’s at stake and engage with your union representative. These are your wages and conditions that are being bargained with. Don’t realise too late that it’s your entitlements that may be changing. •

Nyree Fiddes I Dream of Snow & Fiddes HR

FEATURE PROPERTY

12 Simmonds Street Mount Beauty

Located in the tree lined splendour of Simmonds Street, this cottage has oodles of character and charm! With a recent makeover this home is ready for someone to move in and make it their own. Within walking distance to all that Mount Beauty has to offer this opportunity is ideal for the first home buyer or investor.

Spacious, light-filled living area, wood fire and reverse cycle air-conditioning for the hotter months. Renovated kitchen offers plenty of bench space and storage. New appliances including electric cooking and dishwasher. Three spacious bedrooms, two of which have built in wardrobes. Renovated bathroom has a shower over bath combination as well as second w.c and the laundry has a second shower and separate toilet.

Property features: Built-in wardrobes; One carport; Dishwasher; Floorboards; Split-system Air Conditioning & Heating; Fully fenced; Shed; $565,000.00!

Call to inspect today! Phone: 03 5754 4999

FALLS CREEK HISTORICAL SOCIETY - Membership Application Form

Your support is very much appreciated. Your membership subscription will go towards maintaining the museum collection and establishing a fund to digitize the museums records. In return for your support, we will place you on our newsletter mailing list. Business / Clubs members will receive a DL sized window sticker to display on your premises.

2023 Falls Creek Historical Society Membership Application Form

Membership Categories: Single - $30 | Family - $40 | Club/Business - $60

Name: ................................................................................. Email: ................................

Address: .......................................................................................................... Postcode: .

Direct deposit details: BSB 633 000 Account 145918009

Please reference your name and/or business and then email application form to info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au

Over 15 years experience as Alpine Industry Insurance Brokers

PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

Cedarwood Management Services

The inviting business of Cedarwood Management Services is for sale and includes a lovely two bedroom apartment and office and laundry/ workshop for $750,000 to $825,000 (Plus GST if Applicable) Please see all the details below. If you've ever wanted to make a lifestyle change to the mountains and take on an established business managing apartments with bookings already in place for this coming winter, this is your opportunity. For sale is a two bedroom apartment linked to a management rights business including commercial laundry, workshop, office/café area, established client base and booking system. The vendor price range is $750,000 to $825,000 Plus GST if Applicable.

PUBLICATION SCHEDULE:

Cedarwood’s location offers great ski in - ski out facility and superb views all year round. Pics – Courtesy the Agent

FALL LINES

Hard Waste Collection

Falls Creek Resort Management will be collecting hard waste on Wednesday 26th April - the day after ANZAC Day.

Please see our Hard Waste Collection guidelines on the website, or if you require any additional information, please contact the FCRM Office on 03 5758 1200. •

Summer Debrief

Cedarwood Apartments is an onmountain apartment complex comprised of privately owned selfcontained apartments and studio apartments which are operated by Cedarwood Management Services. The complex offers a range of accommodation options suitable for families or groups ranging in size from 2 - 10 people operating all year. Cedarwood Apartments is ideally located at the highest point in the Falls Creek village with a ski hire located in the building and is within easy walking distance to all village facilities including several bars and restaurants. While the quality of Falls Creek as a winter resort is undoubted, it is the growing suite of summer activities that adds untold value to this business in the village.

It has been a record year for visitation this summer and Resort Management would like to get your feedback on events, visitor demographic, mountain biking and general observations.

Therefore you are invited to join the relevant Resort Management personnel and other members of the community for a summer season debrief meeting.

Over the last decade, much work has gone into developing and securing summer trade. The resort now boasts in excess of 40km of mountain bike trails – with more trails planned and some being accessed from very close to Cedarwood. Add to these the many kilometres of aqueducts and management vehicle tracks and your exploring, whether on foot or on your bike is endless. The Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing is an iconic

A Life to Remember

A celebration of Lyn’s Life will take place on Friday the 28th April 2017 in the Village Bowl at Falls Creek for anyone who wishes to attend and pay tribute. Commencing at 12 noon, the afternoon will reflect Lyn’s enormous contribution to Falls Creek. Some wine and a light BBQ will be provided, but we ask that you bring other beverages and also a plate to share. In the case of wet weather, a contingency plan will be in place. Friends are welcome to pass this invite on and it is understood that members of Lyn’s family will be in attendance. •

Trade Fair @ Falls Creek

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

2023 WINTER PUBLICATION SCHEDULE & RATES

MEDICAL

2017

Ed 09 * 04.08.23 * Rails Under Lights, TNSC Come & Try XC Skiing, Ski de Femme (C)

Ed 10 * 11.08.23 * Ski de Femme XC event. Summit Masters. Aus Open XC Champs (C)

Ed 11 * 18.08.23 * Summit Masters. Australian Open XC Champs. Rudi Pendl Cup - Summit. (C)

Ed 12 * 25.08.23 * Kangaroo Hoppet International Ski Race. Big Air Competition - Ruined Castle (C)

ADVERTISING RATES:

DISPLAY:

MOUNT BEAUTY

• 1 column (6cm wide) = $16.00 per cm. 4cp = $21.00 per cm.

• 2 column (12.5cm wide) = $26.00 per cm. 4cp = $37.00 per cm.

Tawonga Crescent

• 3 column (19cm wide) = $36.00

CLASSIFIEDS:

DISTRIBUTION:

• All accommodation houses, restaurants, businesses, club lodges & apartments in Falls Creek, Bogong Village, Mount Beauty, Tawonga South, Tawonga & Dederang, plus the RMB’s between Dederang & Tawonga & selected venues in Bright & Myrtleford.

ONLINE:

• Available in PDF form at: www.fallscreek.com.au/whatson/

WEBSITE:

• www.thisweekinfallscreek.com.au

ENQUIRIES

WHERE WHEN HOW WHO WHAT

8:30am - 5:00pm Mon - Friday

10:00am - 12:00pm Saturdays

Like the Trading Post. Send in your Classifieds and pay when you sell. BUSINESS DIR.:

Ph: 5754 3400 for appointments

24 hours for emergencies

Drs Mark Zagorski, Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton & Anoop Pem.

Steve Killalea from Milestone Chemicals - just one of the many Falls Creek. Pic - Elle Shaw.

PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

Australian walk of international standard being promoted by Parks Victoria.

The afore-mentioned suite of summer activities includes the Alpine Challenge, the Mile High Dragon Boats, the Bicycle Network Peaks Challenge Falls Creek, the Easter Festival as well as regular mountain bike shuttles. And to quote our Chief Operating Officer from his article on page two, “there were 19 events planned for this last summer – but for the landslip.”

Management rights involve identification of maintenance in the apartments, cleaning at change over and letting of the self-contained apartments as well as promoting the apartment complex to attract holidaymakers. The management rights business also includes the manager's apartment and some associated real property. The manager's apartment is a modern two-bedroom apartment with open plan lounge, kitchen

FOR SALE

ROLA Roof Racks to suite VB, VC, VH Commodores. Were anodized black (but faded) and have been powder coated black. $250. Also available with road bike mounts to suite. Ph: 0400 350 488.

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

Cane Armchair and footstool. $30. Six metal framed dining chairs upholstered in burgundy vinyl $30. Ph: 0477 443 964.

Championship Billiard Table 12x6’ excellent condition complete with Belgian equipment, cover and light. Handcrafted by ACE Billiard Tables for Kasman Billiards. One owner. $5500 ono. Ph: 0414 318 043. Blade X rollerblades, as new not yet used, men’s size 43, $100. Ph: 0408 466 790.

ARBORISTS

A fully insured, GST Registered, ethically minded local business. Alpine Valley Arborists. Call Kane 0428 287 814 or Hayley 0427 272 777 – for all things trees!

ALTITUDE PHYSIO & MASSAGE

Frueauf Village (below Ory’s Falls Creek), Ground Floor, Room 2, 43 Schuss St Falls Creek. Ph: 03 5758 3766. Em: fallscreek@altitude.physio

BONNIE LUVE BEAUTY

Exciting new business opening in Yackandandah and servicing the Upper Kiewa Valley, Bright and Myrtleford. Offering services such as Massage, Waxing and Lash and Brow Tints. In the coming weeks Facials, Body Treatments and Nails will be available also. Call Bree on 0438 680 440.

BOWEN THERAPY & MASSAGE

Tawonga South. Ph: Heather 0428 993 125.

BUILDING & ELECTRICAL

Duggan & Hanlon, your complete building service. Please cal Justin Mb: 0458 220 879.

CAKE MAKING & DECORATING

Elene Wood at www.studioecakes.com.au in Tawonga – for all occasions. Mb: 0409 673 192 or Em: hello@studioecakes.com.au

CAR DETAILING

Give Steve a call in Tawonga South. Ph: 0423 499 086.

CARPET CLEANING

Call Nathan of NatWest Home Maintenance, your local Carpet Cleaning Service. 0410 480 697.

and dining located on the ground level of the Cedarwood Apartment complex. Also included are the commercial laundry and workshop/storeroom as well as a takeaway coffee window/reception area conveniently located on the entry level of the complex. The Management Rights industry combines an income with all the comforts of working from home wherever that may be, offering a fantastic lifestyle opportunity. Ready for someone to purchase right now, this business delivers the opportunity for you to be living, working, and owning a business in one of Australia's premier year-round holiday destinations.

TRADING POST CLASSIFIEDS

Orbea AVANT M20 DISC road bike, Carbon frame, size 60, colour- Carbon-Blue. $1,950. * Nello Viper 51 kayak. $1,500. * Ph: 0408 466 790.

RUBBER SAFETY MATS

Honeycomb Heavy Duty Rubber Matting For Sale. This is a top quality product that will last for decades in the our hash alpine environment. Ideal on metal steps and icy surfaces. The mats are at Falls Creek. Size 1500mm x 1000mm x 19mm. $150.00 per sheet. Ph: 0418 578 500.

VALLEY FUN & FITNESS CLASS

Every Tuesday at 9am at the Ladies Facility, Dederang Recreation Reserve. Bring a drink bottle and towel. $6 per session. Classes by Narelle Jones (Personal Trainer). Enquiries: Sharon McEvoy 0438 289 293 (the6maccas@bigpond.com)

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

CARPENTRY & BUILDING SERVICES

Oztek Constructions Pty Ltd. We do local building work, renovations, extensions and maintenance. Email Dave at: oztekconstructions@gmail.com. Or Ph: 0466 990 862

CIVIL CELEBRANT – HEATHER MULL

Quality Ceremonies – All Types. Mb: 0428 993 125. www.celebrant-ne-vic.com.au

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

Altitude Electrical – no job too big or too small. Domestic, Commercial & Industrial. Ben Svarc Mb: 0419 801 109.

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

Electrik Charge – Cade Piera – Licensed Local Electrician. Mb: 0400 827 060.

FREIGHT – ALB – MTB – FALLS CREEK

Remo’s Transport from Albury/Wodonga to Mount Beauty and Falls Creek Mon to Fri inclusive. Refrigeration available. Ph: John or Esther 0417 414 320.

HAIRDRESSER

Natalie Raymond, Birds Nest Salon, 26 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty. Open Six days a week and evenings by appointment. Ph: 03 5754 1177.

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.

For further detail, please contact: Christa Smit, Director, Zirky Real Estate. Mb: 0402 277 808. www.zirkyrealestate.com.au. •

THOUGHTS THIS WEEK

If you lose one sense, your other senses become enhanced. The why people with no sense of humour have a heightened sense of self-importance!

To Survive in life you need three bones – a wishbone, a backbone and a funny bone!!!

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. If you are going through your old bookshelves, keep an eye out for it. Fortunately your Editor has obtained a Digital Copy form the Melbourne University for reference. Any news, please call 0400 350 488.

LOCKSMITH & HANDYMAN

Codi Coutts – servicing the Kiewa Valley & North East Victoria. Ph: 0475 388 990. Em: kiewavalleylocksmith@yahoo.com

PAINTING SERVICES

Interior/Exterior, Domestic/Commercial.

Obligation Free Quotes. Quality & Service Guaranteed. KLM Alpine Painting Services. Ph: Laif: 0437 023 921.

PHYSIOTHERAPY

Kiewa Valley Sports & Spinal Therapy, 5A Hollonds St, Mount Beauty. Out of Hours & Home visits available. HiCaps. Ph: 03 5754 1270.

PILATES

Reformer, Group or Individual for a better quality of life. Wildflower Pilates Ph: 0433 017 660.

PROPERTY INSURANCE

With over 15 years experience as Alpine Industry Insurance Brokers, we are very happy to help you and your business. Call Tim on 0429 852 452, or Em: tclarke@northeastib. com.au

SPORTS MASSAGE

Book On-Line: impactmassage.com.au

STORAGE

Caravans, Vehicles, Pallets, Large Lock-Up Units. Ph: 0428 361 497. www.alpinewarehousing.com

TECH SUPPORT

PC Trouble? Wifi Issues? For anything tech related home or business, call Ray! Ph: 0412 812 263 or Em: ray@ raystechsupport.com

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

Pictured above: A spacious Reception area caters for guests luggage and movement.

Pictured left: Living room - the two bedroom apartment is comfortable and warm.

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.

▼ Falls Creek

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.

MEDICAL SERVICES

WHERE Bottom of Gully Chairlift.

WHEN Open Daily 10am – 12:30pm & 2pm – 5pm (Map Ref J6)

HOW Ph: 03 5758 3238 all day! 24 Hours for Emergencies

WHO General Practitioners experienced in Family and Snow Sports Medicine.

WHAT First fully accredited snowfields practice in Australia based on 37 years experience.

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

Mount Beauty ▼

WHERE Tawonga Crescent.

WHEN 8:30am – 5pm Mon – Friday 10am – 12noon Saturdays.

HOW Ph: 03 5754 3400 for appointments

WHO Mark Zagorski OAM, Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton, Lauren Cussen, Damian Heman, Daniel Florisson, Andrew Mason, Jacinta O'Niell & Matthew McAlpine.

WHAT Fully accredited General Practice with 43 years service to the Upper Kiewa Valley.

“You’ve only got one head – put a lid on it!”

VILLAGE DIRECTORY

WHAT'S ON IN 2023

COVID-19 Restriction changes and weather may impact some of these events. Please check with the organiser for the most up-to-date information.

JUL 29 Park Run. 8am at Bicentennial Park beside the library in Lakeside Avenue. All Welcome. Enquiries to 03 5754 1118.

JUL 29 TDFNL Rd 15: Dederang Mount Beauty V Kiewa Sandy Creek @ Dederang.

JUL 29 Night Skiing and Boarding. Every Saturday & Wednesday at 6pm - 8:45pm, on Wombats Ramble.

JUL 29 St Kilda Film Festival, 8pm Mount Beauty Community Centre.

AUG 1 Twilight Tuesdays – taking place every Tuesday from now through to late August. 3:30pm to 5:30pm in the Village Bowl – a Street Party for kids and adults alike. Fire pits, marshmallows, games and music and possibly even Pete the Snowdragon. Further details: 03 5758 1200.

AUG 2-4 Aus Secondary Schools Ski Teams Championships. XC & Alpine.

AUG 3 Fireworks Fiesta. Thursday nights at 7pm, in the Village Bowl.

AUG 4 Rails Under Lights 5pm – 8pm in the Village Bowl.

AUG 5 TDFNL Rd 16: Dederang Mount Beauty V Barnawartha @ Dederang.

AUG 6 Come & Try XC Skiing Day. 10am DC Nordic Bowl. Lynn-Maree Cullen 0409 592 226.

AUG 12 Ski de Femme.10am Nordic Bowl. A fun day for the ladies. 1km, 2.5 & 5km events. Ph: 03 5754 4910.

AUG 12 TDFNL Rd 17: Rutherglen V Dederang Mount Beauty.

AUG 13 Rocky Valley Rush/Sun Valley Ramble. 10:30am Nordic Bowl. Ph: 0427 006 246. For further details on coming events, got to: https://www.fallscreek.com.au/whats-on/events/