This year’s photo with this article is a shot of our Prinoth track vehicle (known as the pumper) – a relatively new addition to our fleet. The role of this vehicle is both summer and winter and is vital to any fire-fighting operation in this village. Another vital aspect of firefighting in the village is the ability of our CFA vehicles to get to any point in the village to attack any threat. Hence the reason we have restricted access to the village and no parking in the village at certain times.
As a result of situations in previous summers, during the busy Christmas/January period, Falls Creek village was advised by the CFA and Victoria Police that there were problems with too many vehicles in the village. Therefore, the village will be closed to parking from 5pm Monday 23rd of December to 8am Monday 6th January, 2025
A half hour period will enable visitors to drive
CHRISTMAS NEW YEAR HOURS AT BOTH STORES, REFER TO THE CHART BELOW &
OUR SE R VICES INC L U D E
· Grocer y · Liquor · Produce · Meat
· Hot Food · ATM · Phone recharge
Bogong High-plains Road, St. Falls West
P: 03 5758 3009 F: 03 5758 3034
E: fallscreek@stores.foodworks.com.au
Mt Beauty FoodWorks
4-16 Kiewa Crescent, Mt Beauty
P: 03 5754 1400 F: 03 5754 4829
E: mtbeauty@stores.foodworks.com.au
to their accommodation, unload and then remove their vehicle to the car-parking below the village.
The irony is that while we have promoted the village for summer trade – and this summer trade is growing – it produces its own set of different circumstances. As a snow resort, the concept of the ski through village is part of the resort’s attractiveness and visitor parking has always been accepted as ‘down along the road!’
Exceptions to this rule are: Resident Parking: Residents (BLUE permit), Authorised Business (RED permit), and Emergency Services (BLACK/RED permit) can park in designated areas or within their site boundary.
Note: Long-term parking on leasehold sites without a Blue, Red, or Emergency Services Permit is not permitted.
The rise in summer trade has created its own set of problems - from the simple ‘blocking in
Our new ‘Pumper’ - a vital piece of equipment for our resort – and it must be able to get around the village – because if we have a fire – and it can’t get through!!! Think about it.
of other vehicles’ to the biggest problem - the inability of our major fire-fighting appliancethe tracked vehicle ‘pumper’ – not being able to get to a fire!
Visitor Information Centre
- OPE N F OR BUSI N ESSMon to Fri: 9am – 5pm W/ends & Pub Hols: 9am – 3pm Closed Christmas Day
upstairs in the
HARD WASTE COLLECTION
Contact: 4 SITE Mb: 0437 306 799 Ph: 03 5758 1200 Em: info@fallscreek.com.au Wb: www fallscreek.com.au Falls Creek FoodWorks
next Hard Waste Collection will be Sunday 26th January
Drop Off Location: Snow Clearing Depot, Howman’s Gap.
The new ‘Pumper’ is designed to be used during snow season as well as during the rest of the year. It is capable of pushing water up to a height of four or five floors – very necessary in a resort on the side of a hill. It is also a little bit wider than your average ‘fire truck’ and the tracks make it slightly less manoeuvrable than a normal vehicle of this size.
God forbid – should a fire start anywhere in the village and the ‘pumper’ not be able to reach the site, one does not need a lot of imagination to know that it would be ‘good night nurse’ for pretty well the whole village.
Special needs visitors are able to call in to the Alpine Resort /Visitor Information Centre to obtain a special access pass – register on-line first.
MOUNT BEAUTY CHRISTMAS HOURS:
Tues 24th Dec 8am – 7pm
Wed 25th Dec Christmas Day Closed
Thurs 26th Dec Boxing Day 9am – 5pm
Fri 27th – Tues 31st New Year’s Eve 8am – 7pm Wed 1st Jan New Year’s Day 9am – 5pm Thurs 2nd Jan – on 8am – 7pm
FALLS CREEK CHRISTMAS HOURS:
Fri 20th & Sat 21st 10am – 5pm Sun 22nd 10am – 3pm Mon 23rd & Tues 24th 10am – 5pm
Wed 25th Christmas Day CLOSED
Thurs 26th Boxing Day CLOSED
Fri 27th 9am – 5pm
Sat 28th & Sun 29th 10am – 3pm
Mon 30th 9am – 5pm Tues 31st 10am – 5pm Wed 1st Jan 10am – 3pm
With folk wandering around enjoying the beautiful clear air, fantastic scenery and the great activities - who needs a car anyway? •
The even better news among the good news is that tickets are now on sale and the line-up is ‘astounding!’
The Cat Empire | Slowly Slowly | Budjerah | Eliza & The Delusionals | Azure Ryder | Dylan Wright | Gaudion | Ooz Music | Zoe Neilson | Kentone | Tash Poon | Tahlia Brain
Get ready to hit the high country at the end of February because the highly anticipated FEASTIVAL Falls Creek 2025 line-up is here, and it's nothing short of spectacular! With a mix of internationally renowned Aussie icons, North East local talent and some must-see rising stars, this is the event you won't want to miss.
Saturday’s Feast de Resistance music event is set to ignite the stage with headliners The Cat Empire, known for their electrifying jazzy energy that will have everyone on their feet! Joining them are Slowly Slowly and Budjerah, promising a stellar afternoon mix of pop, punk and indie rock. Throughout the day, you’ll discover the next big names in music with acts like Azure Ryder, Eliza and the Delusionals, Dylan Wright and Gaudion. Supporting this epic ensemble are a collection of the North East’s local talent including Ooz Music, Tahlia Brain, Zoe Neilson, Tash Poon and Kentone.
Program: The excitement doesn't stop at the music! The weekend is packed with a smorgasbord of activities, sights, eats, and drinks. Enjoy the always sold-out Comedy Night, explore the Maker’s Markets, admire the Art Exhibition, groove to DJ sets, and rejuvenate with wellness experiences like paint & sip, pilates, yoga, and sauna sessions. There's
plenty for the little ones too, including circus workshops, arts & crafts and more!
Comedy Night: This year, hosted by the iconic Man Hotel, prepare for a night of nonstop laughter with comedic geniuses Lizzy Hoo, Sam Taunton, Dilruk Jaysinha and Sez. This event is notorious for selling out so jump on your tickets asap!
Food & Drinks: It’s called FEASTIVAL for a reason! Everywhere you go, you’ll be treated to the best food and drinks from the Northeast including the locally brewed Bright Brewery beers, Falls Creek’s very own Gin Distillery, the juiciest cuts from Albury’s Kennedy’s meats plus so much more.
Early Bird Tickets On Sale Now! Tickets to the main music event (Feast de Resistance) are just $65 for adults, $30 for kids (12-17) and just $10 for under 12s. Hurry because the early bird sale only lasts until January 10th 2025. Side events are sold separately so you can choose your own FEASTIVAL adventure.
“Falls Creek cannot wait to host this line-up of incredible artists and a huge weekend of non-stop activity for everyone. It’s the perfect weekend to get a taste of our spectacular alpine environment and see what the North East has to offer. To have a line-up of this calibre in Falls Creek is truly something special for our community and our visitors”. said Sarah Watt, Head of Visitor Experience at Alpine Resorts Victoria – Falls Creek. Don’t miss out on this memorable event. Book your tickets and accommodation today! For more details visit: https://www.fallscreek. com.au/feastival/ •
Summer is a time we love. The kids are on holidays, the visitors are arriving and everything is rolling along nicely. Summer is a time we all look forward to. While COVID still rears its ugly head, one thing good to come out of it is the fact that people genuinely seem to be caring for each other more and respecting each other more.The rush is not there, we’ll all get looked after, and we are all in a very good place. Let’s keep it up while we enjoy these wonderful holidays. And what are we going to do?
There are quite a few houses in town where the owners have done a brilliant job of putting up a wonderful display of Christmas Lights. Well done to all those people – and thank you for exercising a true spirit of Christmas. At the time of going to print, there were about eight homes that have been brilliantly decorated and are worth the visit. There may be more, but your journo did not discover them prior to publication. •
It’s just one of those peaceful activities that can be enjoyed on your own or with the kids. The rivers are all good and the Pondage has trout and some ‘reddies.’ Rocky Valley and Pretty Valley up beyond Falls Creek also provide excellent fishing. When you are sneaking around the water-ways just be aware - there are Joe Blakes in that there bush.
Fishing rods, gear and licences are available from Rocky Valley Bikes and Sports in Tawonga South. •
The Mount Beauty Visitor Information Centre on the Bogong High Plains Road in Mount Beauty is the spot to glean further details on the area. If you are looking for information on activities or events call into the Centre and the staff will be only too pleased to help. The Visitor Information Centre will be open every day from 10am – 4pm except Christmas Day. Phone: 5755 0596. There is also a magnificent ‘relief’ map of the area which provides a better
understanding of the area. • The Falls Creek Visitor Information Centre will also be open during the holidays. See advert elsewhere in this publication.
Bikes & Gear for Hire
Rocky Valley Bikes is located in Tawonga South. Operated by Glenyse and Brian Peacock, the shop is full of stock ready to roll out the door. They have big bikes, little bikes, E bikes and all sizes in between. They have fast bikes and faster bikes, and helmets and body armour and biddens and bikes shirts and gear.
Brian and Glenyse also have lots of fishing gear as well as a great deck on which to enjoy your coffee or smoothie. Ph: 5754 1118. Open seven days a week during the school holidays. •
The fabulous team at Team Mount Beauty have spent many years creating and cultivating ripper tracks in the Big Hill Mountain Bike Park. One feather in their cap is that the club hosted the National Mountain Bike Championships in February 1999, prior to Australia hosting the Olympics in September 2000. One
Christmas Hours
Coffee, Breakfast & Snacks 6am – 2pm Seven Days
Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Year’s Day
Coffee, Breakfast & Snacks 7am – 12noon
A la carte dining and take away Friday to Monday from 5pm.
of our respected members got the gig of building the XC Mountain Bike course for the Sydney Olympics. (We do have some credibility). The club have recently produced a snazzy new colour map of the trails and they will be available from Rocky Valley
Ange, Waz, Family and Staff wish to thank patrons for their support during 2024, and wish you all a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Safe and Prosperous New Year.
We have a great range of gifts for the home handyperson who likes to get things done around the home & garden.
Outdoor entertainment and camping gear!
Heaps of practical tools for home and garden! All sorts of beautiful pots and plants!
Great range of car-care products! Make your purchase now and go into the draw for the Local Shopping Prizes!
Walks What a great way to appreciate the area – feel the wind on the face – hear the birds singing – smell the fragrance of the bush – and feel the earth under your feet – all the while enjoying all of those aspects that we loosely call ‘beauty!’ That’s what a walk does – it gets you out there. The Upper Kiewa Valley and the Bogong High Plains cover an area in excess of 1600 square kilometres – so you are not going to appreciate it all in one little walk.
You could start with the Pondage Walk, just on 2.7km. Pebble Beach track to the very end, about 6km from the Visitor Information Centre. Then there’s the Gorge Walk – also from the VIC. Add to this the walks around Mountain Creek at the base of Mt Bogong. You may then like to have a crack at climbing Bogong – about 20km, 1300 metres vertical and you’ll need a minimum of eight hours. The Mt Bogong Conquestathon is an organised walk to the top of Victoria’s highest at 1986 metres and this year will take place on Saturday March 1st. Further details in future editions.
If you would like more on walks, call in to the VIC, Bogong High Plains Road, Mount Beauty. Refer ‘Information’ above. Bikes and The Info Centre for a gold coin donation. •
Christmas Wishes from...
Kim and Brendan would like to wish all clients, their friends and the whole community the very best for Christmas and for a safe, healthy and prosperous New Year
Alpine Valley Real Estate
7 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 4999 www.alpinevalleyrealestate.com.au
Falls Creek and the Bogong High Plains have miles of trails to ride and enjoy. The resort has around 40km of great trails and the high Plains offers untold kilometres of aqueduct and management vehicle trails and tracks. Blue Dirt Mount Bike will be providing shuttles daily from Boxing Day all through January.
The traditional way of enjoying the Alpine High Country. Kath and Steve Baird have been operating Bogong Horseback Adventures since 1986 and have spent almost as much time on the high plains as the mountain cattlemen. Supported by
Would like to wish all their friends, family and customers the very best for a wonderful Christmas and for a safe and easy travelling New Year. We thank everyone for their support over the last 18 years.
We would also wish the new operators in the Service Station the very best for the New Year.
Christmas Wishes from...
The team at Falls Creek Alpine Resort would like to wish our stakeholders, visitors and community the very best for a wonderful festive season and a safe and happy new year
Vis Centre Open 9am – 5pm Weekdays 9am – 3pm W/ends & Public Holidays Ph: 03 5758 1200
competent staff, Kath, Steve and their boys Lin and Clay have taken many of thousands of riders for the experience of a lifetime. Trips offered range from a two hour ride in the Kiewa Valley, a three hour ride including a light lunch and five day packhorse trips into the high country. Phone 5754 4849 • Tennis
Mount Beauty Tennis Club is open all year round for fee paying tennis players. Court Hire is $10 per hour. If there are people waiting, you are asked to keep your play to an hour at a time.
Further details from 0400 350 488. •
Christmas Wishes from...
The wonderful team of volunteers at KV House Op Shop – and we would like to thank our community for the fabulous support during 2023. Best wishes to everyone for a great Christmas and for a healthy and happy New Year
Kiewa Valley House Op Shop
1A Tawonga Crescent, Mount Beauty
Open 10am – 2pm Daily Ph: 0419 615 732
Christmas Wishes from...
Meryn, Jane and Shannon at Commonwealth Bank Mount Beauty wish all our friends and clients the very best for a joyful Christmas and for a safe and prosperous New Year
Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day,
1 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 4344
Christmas Wishes from...
Fiona, Greg and staff would like to wish all their clients, friends and families the very best for Christmas and for
Kiewa Valley Physio
5A Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 1270
Wb: www.kvphysio.com.au
Em: info@kvphysio.com.au
Christmas Wishes from...
Dale and Danelle Neave would like to thank our clients for the wonderful support during this last year and we wish family, friends and customers all the very best for Christmas – and for a safe motoring and healthy New Year
Mt. Beauty Auto Repairs
229 Kiewa Valley Hwy, Tawonga South Ph: 03 5754 1366
Em: admin@mtbeautyautorepairs.com.au Closed the main public holidays
There are two courts available for hire at Falls Creek. Call in to the VIC in the resort management building to book a court.
Golf
The Mount Beauty Golf Club would have to be one of the most interesting golf courses in the area. Some challenges, and some excellent scenery. 18 holes, grass greens, clubs for hire, practice facilities and visitors are welcome. Located at the top of Tawonga Crescent, besides the road to Falls Creek. Ph: 5754 4569. Wb: www.visitmtbeauty.com. au/golf. •
Frisby Golf
A special treat at Falls Creek – a Frisby Gold course around the Nordic Bowl – which will provide lots of fun for the family. Bookings
Christmas Wishes from...
The Board of Directors and everyone at the Mount Beauty banking premises and Corryong Business Service Centre send their very best wishes for the festive season and a safe, healthy and happy 2024. We thank everyone of this year, and also over the past 16 years of our community bank activities.
Community Bank Mount Beauty
28 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 4484
Christmas Wishes from...
The friendly team at the Pharmacy would like to wish the whole community, our customers, friends and families the very best for a wonderful Christmas and for a healthy and happy New Year
Mount Beauty Pharmacy
20 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 4224
Closed 25th, 26th Dec & New Year's Day
at the Falls Creek VIC – up stairs cnr Slalom Street and BHP Road. • Speedway
Mount Beauty Car Club are running their annual Burson Auto Parts New Year’s Day meeting at the track in Tawonga. Racing starts at 11am and a full day’s entertainment is assured.
Events include: GOS Cars; Standard Saloons; Sports Sedans; Open Juniors; Open Ladies and Unlimited Sedans.
Admission: $15, U14 Free. Camping and Canteen available. • Walks
What a great way to appreciate the area –feel the wind on the face – hear the birds
Christmas Wishes from...
The doctors and our wonderful staff would like to wish the whole community, our clients, friends and families all the very best for a wonderful Christmas and for a safe and healthy New Year.
Refer Display Advert for Christmas Trading Hours
Mount Beauty Medical Centre 2D Tawonga Cres, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 3400
singing – smell the fragrance of the bush –and feel the earth under your feet – all the while enjoying all of those aspects that we loosely call ‘beauty!’ That’s what a walk does – it gets you out there. The Upper Kiewa Valley and the Bogong High Plains cover an area in excess of 1600 square kilometres – so you are not going to appreciate it all in one little walk.
You could start with the Pondage Walk, just on 2.7km. Pebble Beach track to the very end, about 6km from the Visitor Information Centre. Then there’s the Gorge Walk – also from the VIC. Add to this the walks around Mountain Creek at the base of Mt Bogong. You may then like to have a crack at climbing Bogong – about 20km, 1300 metres vertical and you’ll need a minimum of eight hours.
The Mt Bogong Conquestathon is an organised walk to the top of Victoria’s highest at 1986 metres and this year will take place on Saturday March 1st. Further details in future editions.
If you would like more on walks, call in to the VIC, Bogong High Plains Road, Mount Beauty. Refer ‘Information’ above. •
Christmas Wishes from...
Frank, Meredith and David and the team would like to thanks all of our wholesalers for their continued support. We wish you and your families, our friends and families all the very best Christmas and for a safe healthy New Year
Vegitation
Wholesale Fruit & Vegetable Distributors Ph: 03 5754 4226
Mill Rd, Mt Beauty, www.vegitation.com.au
Christmas Wishes from...
The Volunteer Team at the Op Shop would like to wish the community, their friends and families all the very best for a wonderful Christmas and for a safe New Year
We thank everyone for their valued support and look forward to contributing more to the community next year!
Mount Beauty Opportunity Shop Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty
Christmas Wishes from...
Courtney, Gabby and Amee would like to wish all of their friends, clients and family the very best for a wonderful Christmas and for a safe, healthy & prosperous New Year We also thank everyone for the valuable continued support.
Mountain Creek Property
215 Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga South Ph: 03 5714 9730
Em: Courtney@mountaincreekproperty.com.au
Wb: https://mountaincreekproperty.com.au/
Wishing all of my wonderful clients a happy and joyful holiday season! Thank you for your continued support this year – it’s been such a pleasure moving with you all. Don’t forget, we’re keeping up the energy with 8am, Saturday morning Mat classes at Lilli Pilli Cafe throughout the summer. Come start your weekends strong and refreshed!
Falls Creek Primary School’s 2024 school year will come to an end this Friday the 20th of December, completing what has been an incredibly exciting year for the school. We say farewell to our Year Six students, and wish them all the best for the continuation of their education journey into high school!
The Mt Bogong Conquestathon is an organised walk to the top of Victoria’s highest at 1986 metres and this year will take place on Saturday March 1st. Further details in future editions.
Some highlights from 2024 include: presenting at FEASTIVAL Falls Creek; the introduction of a structured literacy program, focusing on the ‘big 6’ of reading; co-hosting the Falls Creek Interschools
Lots for all the family!!
Bikes – Road | Mountain | E Bikes Bikes for Kids to Adults Bike Gear & Accessories
Fishing Gear, Licences & Bait Tubes for the river!
New Café doing Brekky Fri to Sun, Lunch Wed to Sun
Outdoor seating for coffee, snacks & smoothies 7 days a week
Mountain Bike Competition; an expansive winter snowsports program across term three, including some fantastic results at the state and national interschools competitions; our 2024 major art project, featuring the talent and support of local artist Benii Squiggles; the second iteration of our Term Four Mountain Bike Program, run in partnership with YMCA Howman’s Gap Discovery Camp; contributing to the
creation of the Falls Creek “Wildlife Quest”; ongoing collaboration with the Falls Creek Childcare Centre; and featured art incursions involving a number of artists from Falls Creek Alpine Resorts Artist-in-Residence program, including Steph Wallace and Andrea Shaw. There were also some fantastic individual student achievements, including a 1st place at the Mount Beauty Writer’s Competition, and a 1st place in the Falls Creek Junior Film Festival Competition! We would like to take the time to thank the parents, families, School Council, and the wider community for the support you have given Falls Creek Primary School across the year. We are very grateful for the community engagement opportunities that come with living in such an incredible and unique environment.
As we reflect on the year that has been, we also look forward to the excitement of 2025. In January we will welcome our new Foundation students to Falls Creek Primary School, and look forward to supporting them through the beginning of the Primary School journey! We are also very excited to have been successful in applying for the Makers Empire Kids in Space program.
a Dip
This program is run in partnership with the Australian Space Agency and The Andy Thomas Space Foundation, and is a national space education program. This includes a 12 months Makers Empire School Subscription, including 3D design software, and a Flashforge Adventurer 4 3D Printer! Falls Creek Primary School students will have the opportunity to work through a brand-new, space themed challenge course, culminating in a presentation at a statewide showcase day in June of 2025.
We are also excited to continue our Mountain Bike Program through Term 1 of 2025. This program gives students the opportunity to learn valuable bike safety lessons and develop mountain bike techniques and skills, all while connecting with the local environment and taking advantage of our incredible local mountain bike trail network! This program will be
Our favourite Tip Man wishes all family friends and clients the very best for Christmas and for a
followed by our running program in Term 2. We also look forward to once again hosting the Falls Creek Interschools Mountain Bike competition, in partnership with Falls Creek Alpine Resorts.
We are also excited to be consolidating our structured literacy program by incorporating the InitiaLit program in our Junior class, an evidence-based whole-class literacy program providing all children with the essential core knowledge and strong foundations to
become successful readers and writers. We wish everyone a safe and happy end to 2024, and a merry Christmas and happy New Year, and look forward to the exciting education opportunities that 2025 will bring! •
From James, Tony, Brad, Joel, Joy, Renja, and the students and families of Falls Creek Primary School!
in the draw to win a 2025 Winter Resort Entry Season Permit
Thank you to the volunteers This Christmas, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers who make our community thrive. We’re happy to support many of these wonderful groups that make the Mount Beauty community so special. From all of us at AGL, we wish you a safe and happy festive season.
Nestled in Tawonga South’s first estate, 10 Dederang Road is a rare five bedroom, two bathroom home on a 515m² block, perfect for families, entertainers, or investors. The property features a welcoming front garden, a versatile backyard, and breathtaking views of Mount Bogong and the surrounding valley.
The upper level offers a bright, open-plan living and dining area with access to a newly painted verandah. The kitchen is well-equipped with electric appliances, a dishwasher, and a walk-in pantry, while the master bedroom includes balcony access, a four door wardrobe, and a luxurious en suite with a soaking tub overlooking the mountains.
Downstairs, two front-facing bedrooms have built-in wardrobes and ceiling fans, while two rear bedrooms provide flexibility as extra living spaces or guest rooms. The home also boasts a newly renovated bathroom, freshly painted laundry with excellent storage, and heated flooring.
Additional features include a 6kW solar panel
PUBLICATION SCHEDULE:
system, reverse-cycle air conditioning, and a solid concrete slab foundation. Conveniently located near cafes, shops, and just 45 minutes from Falls Creek, this property offers year-round appeal.
With an estimated rental return of $600 per week, 10 Dederang Road is a fantastic opportunity. Contact Gabby on 0400 568 378 or gabby@ mountaincreekproperty.com.au to arrange an inspection. •
Ed 04 * 10.01.24 * Rooftop Run. Vic MTB Championships. Mile High Dragon Boats
Ed 05 * 24.01.24 * Australia Day Celebrations. Mile High Dragon Boats. Vic Gravity Enduro
Ed 06 * 07.02.25 * Victorian Gravity Enduro – Falls Creek. Vic Interschools. Falls Creek.
Ed 07 * 21.02.24 * Aus Grand Traverse. Dederang Picnic Races. Mt Bogong Conquestathon
DISTRIBUTION:
• All accommodation houses, restaurants, businesses, club lodges & apartments in Falls Creek, Bogong Village, Mount Beauty, Tawonga South, Tawonga & Dederang, plus the RMB’s between Dederang & Tawonga & selected venues in Bright & Myrtleford.
ONLINE: • Available in PDF form at: www.fallscreek.com.au/whatson/ WEBSITE: • www.thisweekinfallscreek.com.au
ADVERTISING RATES:
•
CLASSIFIEDS: • Like the Trading Post. Send in your Classifieds and pay when you sell.
BUSINESS DIR.: • $6.50 per line per Edition.
DEADLINE: • Friday 2.00pm prior to publication date
CONTRACT: • A Green Season Contract is available for advertising in all
kencbell@bigpond.net.au
Many will be aware that the Friends of Kiewa & Alpine Valleys held some letter writing days over the last few weeks to help people with objections. Big thanks to Beauty Café and Dederang General Store for letting us sit outside their venues. Since then, the second battery proposal has been lodged with the Victorian Planning Department. This is the Kiewa Valley BESS. It is two and a half times the size of the first one. This means we need to write separate submissions to object so if you would like to help, please go to our website. (https:// dederangbigbattery.com.au/#howtoobject). There is lots of information there and it is an easy way to put in a submission. See add in this magazine.
Trina Solar have been abysmal in their community consultation. One drop-in session and since then nothing. Some direct neighbours to the project have not even been officially informed.
Our group is not against Renewable Energy but just ask the question about proper planning and consultation. The current plan is no way to navigate such an energy transition. Last month Samsung were still approaching landholders in the valley trying to get them to sign up for the riches on offer. This is because of the existing transmission lines. Our valley is under threat if these first two are approved. The question is, what do you want for our valley?
VALLEY FUN & FITNESS CLASS
Every Tuesday at 9am at the Ladies Facility, Dederang Recreation Reserve. Bring a drink bottle and towel. $10 per session. Classes by Narelle Jones. Enquiries: Sharon McEvoy 0438 289 293 (the6maccas@bigpond.com)
THOUGHT OF THE DAY
This Christmas, Give Love – it always fits – and can be returned!!!
FOR SALE
ROLA Roof Racks, to suit Commodore VB, VC, VH, VK & VL. Were anodized black but faded, so they have been powder coated black. $350. Ph: 0400 350 488
THOUGHT OF THE DAY
A true leader doesn’t create separation. A true leader brings people together!
FOUND
Gold Band wedding Ring picked up near Ariel’s Laundrette. Give me a call & describe it. 0400 350 488.
CHRISTMAS GIVING
What do you give a person who has everything?
Antibiotics – lots of antibiotics!
MISSING BOOK
A hard-bound copy of Dr Ruth Lawrence’s Thesis titled ‘The Interaction between Land Use, the Environment and the Hydrology of the Bogong High Plains between 1850 and 1985’ was given to this community in the care of the late Bill Sutton. It has been loaned out –and not returned. This is a vital piece of the history of this area and it would be fabulous to have it returned. Any news, please call 0400 350 488.
The Alpine Shire completed a Bushfire Planning Study in consultation with the CFA that was released in July 2024. It is freely available on their website. It is very detailed (105 pages). Anyone who has read it would understand why it is such a bad idea to put lithium batteries in our valley. Some of the statements contained are:
The Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements (2020) concluded: There may also be a trend towards more weather-dominated fire events in which fires interact with the atmosphere resulting in unpredictable and extreme fire behaviour. The most extreme can be associated with extraordinarily destructive fire behaviour.
To avoid development in areas of environmental and landscape significance and at risk of natural hazards to preserve natural resources and protect human life.
It is reasonable to conclude that extreme bushfire behaviour is likely to arise in the Alpine Shire. Ember attack at high to extreme levels is likely to arise across all settlement areas (this includes Dederang).
‘That the historical lack of bushfire in the settlements in Alpine Shire are a product of good luck, not any strategic indication of lower risks!’ •
BOWEN THERAPY & MASSAGE
Tawonga South. Ph: Heather: 0428 993 125
BUILDING & ELECTRICAL
Duggan & Hanlon, your complete building service. Please cal Justin Mb: 0458 220 879.
CAR DETAILING
Give Steve a call in Tawonga South. Ph: 0423 499 086.
CARPET CLEANING
Call Nathan of NatWest Home Maintenance, your local Carpet Cleaning Service. 0429 933 492.
CARPENTRY & BUILDING SERVICES
Oztek Constructions Pty Ltd. We do local building work, renovations, extensions and maintenance. Email Dave at: oztekconstructions@gmail.com. Or Ph: 0466 990 862
CIVIL CELEBRANT – HEATHER MULL
Quality Ceremonies – All Types. Mb: 0428 993 125.
COLLECTABLES & HOMEWARES
I Dream Of Snow - Vintage snow collectables & brand new homewares. Open on-line all year round. www.idreamofsnow.com
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
Altitude Electrical – No job too big or too small. Domestic, Commercial & Industrial. Ben Svarc. Mb: 0419 801 109
FREIGHT – ALB – MTB – FALLS CREEK
Remo’s Transport from Albury/Wodonga to Mount Beauty and Falls Creek Tues 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.
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.
STORAGE
Caravans, Vehicles, Pallets, Large Lock-Up Units. Ph: 0428 361 497. www.alpinewarehousing.com
As we prepare to celebrate Christmas again, it is a poignant reminder that God, the creator, and sustainer of all life, chose to enter the human condition as a baby, fully dependant on the nurture and love of other humans. He did this to show that he is fully involved in the lives of humankind. He wants all people to experience the Hope, Peace, Joy and Love that he planned at the beginning, when all creation happened.
The beauty of God is that he is all love, which makes allowance for each of us to choose the level of God’s involvement in own lives.
The coming of Jesus, God's Son, into the world reinvigorates those qualities which change how we approach our everyday challenges.
Allowing him into our lives brings a learning that we are loved and accepted as and where we are, and, that we are never alone. This gives birth to Hope. A knowing that there is a plan and a purpose to all that happens in our lives. Romans 8:28 says, " And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have accepted the call according to his purpose."
The product of Hope is Peace. From Philippians 4:6-7 we read, "Don't be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the Peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."
Guess what? Joy follows. Joy develops a strength of character, a confidence that the path that you are on is leading to somewhere good, which is the ability to Love, no matter what. To be able to keep giving of yourself, forgiving others as well as yourself and renewing relationships. That is the light that Christ brings into the world at Christmas.
May you all have a blessed and merry 2024 Christmas and a safe, healthy and rewarding New Year. •
DEC 21 Park Run. 8am at Bicentennial Park, Lakeside Ave. All welcome. Enquiries to: mountbeauty@parkrun. com
DEC 22 ‘It’s a Jam’ FREEZA event. Hydro Park, Lakeside Avenue, Mount Beauty, Ph: 0427 332 063. Em: ydo@alpineshire.vic.gov.au
JAN 1 New Years Day Market 8am – 1pm. Hydro Park, Lakeside Avenue. You make it, bake it, grow it – you’re welcome. To register for a stall, or any enquiries, please call Mb: 0407 078 973
JAN 4 Mount Beauty Community Market 8am – 1pm. Hydro Park, Lakeside Avenue. You make it, bake it, grow it – you’re welcome. To register for a stall, or any enquiries, please call Mb: 0407 078 973
JAN 5 Trek/NICA MTB XC Demo Day. Falls Creek. www.nicaausmtb.org.au
JAN 18 Bogong to Hotham Rooftop Run –the 34th running of the event – from Mountain Creek to Mt Hotham Summit. www.bogong2hotham.com.au
JAN 18 & 19 Victorian Mountain Bike Championships Round Five & Round Six. Falls Creek. www.entryzone.com.au
JAN 25 & 26 Mile High Dragon Boat Regatta on Rocky Valley Lake, Falls Creek. www.dragonboatvictoria.com.au
JAN 26 Australia Day Celebrations in Hydro Park, Mount Beauty. Breakfast courtesy the UKV Lions from 8am. Celebrations and Presentations from 9am.
FEB 8 & 9 Round One Victorian Gravity Enduro Tour, Falls Creek. www.victorianendurotour.wordpress.com.
FEB 14 Victorian Interschools MTB Championships, Cross Country Olympic format. Falls Creek
FEB 22 Australian Grand Traverse – a 30km trek with 1400 m elevation from Falls Creek to Mount Hotham. www.peakadventure.com.au/agt
FEB 22 The fabulous Dederang Picnic Races – a day not to be missed. From 11am. https://country. racing.com/dederang/calendar/dederang-cup see write-up this edition.
FEB 28 – MAR 2 Feastival Falls Creek – an extraordinary music fest with heaps of other activities. www. fallscreek.com.au/events
MAR 1 Mt Bogong Conquestathon – your chance to conquer Victoria’s highest mountain. This year will be the staging of the 45th Conquestathon. Be there. www.hoppet.com.au/conquestathonevent-details
MAR 9 Peaks Challenge Falls Creek. 2000 cyclists take on the 235km ride around the High Plains. With lots of other activities. Ph: 03 5758 1200. Visit: www.fallscreek.com.au
MAR 14 The fabulous Longest Lunch – wining and dining in the High Country around Falls Creek. Ph: 03 5758 1200. Visit www.fallscreek.com.au
MAR 22 & 23 MTB de Femme returns to Falls Creek in 2015. Mb: 0449 229 008.Em: jo@allridemtb.com.au For further details on coming events, go to: https://www.fallscreek.com.au/whats-on/events/
WHERE 2D Tawonga Crescent.
WHEN 8:30am – 5pm Mon – Friday 10am – 12noon Saturdays.
HOW Ph: 03 5754 3400 for appointments
WHO Doctors: Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delanay, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton, Lauren Cusson, Damian Heman, Daniel Florisson and Jacinta O’Neil.
