WELCOME TO SEASON 2023
Round One - Falls Creek
TFrom the Chief Operating Officer
he National Gravity Enduro Series acts as the qualifying series for the Enduro World Series. See mention in the article with Ben McIlroy.
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.
It’s been an interesting (to say the least) eight months since we finished the 2022 snow season and pretty much ‘closed up shop’ following the Bogong High Plains Road landslip.
I’m not one that generally dwells on matters from the past, as it distracts from being able to move forward, however, the legacy of the landslip will linger a little longer and sting like the dread of missing first chair on a powder morning, or first tracks on that crisp corduroy day.
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.
Appreciating the fantastic efforts of the regional roads crew, Major Road Projects Victoria and the Whelans group for their outstanding efforts undertaken on ‘moving a mountain’ (literally), both the scars on the landscape and the impact of having to shut down over another green season will
continue to be felt for some time. With our busiest summer on record planned for 2022/23 green season, some 19 events had to be cancelled, losing up to $90m in revenue for the Falls Creek stakeholders and multiples more in regional contribution from the drop in visitation to the North East.
As such, much is leveraged to the outcome of this winter. As we know, all snow seasons are great, just some greater than others. Last year, opening early and kicking the season off with a 1.2m base that set the season up for success was another delightful surprise, unfortunately, this has not been repeated this year, albeit this isn’t unusual either, but that doesn’t make for sensationalist headlines.
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
Much is always made of ‘no snow for Opening weekend, the season is doomed’… blah blah blah… Any regular reader of my columns will know I love a stat. So as is customary, I’ve delved into the archives to review just what happens when a ‘positive
Open by Appointment
WHEN THE BRIGHT YELLOW FLAGS ARE OUT – WE’RE OPEN!
For Groups, Clubs etc
Indian Ocean Dipole meets El Nino’ and the resultant impact this collision of weather terms has on the snow season.
Falls Creek has snow depth data that goes back to the 1930’s, in fact, thanks to Rob Spargo, of Falls Creek Hotel fame, these stats are hanging in the Falls Creek Museum. So, you can fact check my analysis if you need to. In combination with numerous other data sources, it’s clear that the one thing that is predictable, is that weather forecasting and season forecasts are anything but… predictable!
No time to be smelling the roses during this weekend’s Gravity
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!!
By the way, Punxsutawney Phil, of ‘Ground Hog Day’ fame has about the same level of accuracy in forecasting the Northern America winter outcome, as your average weather forecaster or economist (don’t mention interest rate rises or the RBA Governors track record though – he’s escalated economists back to the top of the dismal science category almost single handily…). In fact, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the US, Phil’s accuracy and prognostications average being right only about 40% of the time.
RESORT ENTRY PERMITS
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.
4 Slalom Street, southern end of the Panabode building.
For further information:
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
Anyway, the stats for snow depth at Falls Creek show the only certainty is volatility. That volatility manifests in both quantity and quality, with further variance in frequency of storm cycles and their intensity. So, when the +IOD meets El Nino what do we get? At first, I turned to AI…Chat GPT to be exact. As the new oracle, AI seems to be able to answer everything, or so I’m told.
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. •
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
For More Information
For more details about Falls Creek Resort, please visit: www.fallscreek.com.au Village Access:
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
However, the ‘bot’ sat on the fence when asked “What is the prediction for snow depth when a positive IOD occurs at the same time as El Nino?”
Just like a high school student hoping to get their essay written by the ‘bot’, I was a little unimpressed with the answer. So, I’ve had to do my homework and headed to the Journal of the Asian Oceania Geosciences Society (AOGS) who have done some impressive work in this space.
After reading and scanning numerous articles, it became clear that I never want to be a meteorologist (not only can the weather be dry, but so too is some of their research) and, here’s the most interesting fact, the last multiple years for this phenomenon (+IOD and El Nino) were in 2018 and 2019. Both coincidentally better than average snow years (with the snowfall starting late), which also came off the back of the third warmest year on record, 2017…hmmm…oh yeah, by the way who remembers the Blizzards of Oz from that year…one of the best storm and snow depth years on record.
Anyhow, there you have it… you’re none the wiser but you’ve got this far, so now I’m going to tell you that the season will be great (or not) and you’ll have my final summary in October (after the fact).
But now, I’m going to focus on all the great things on offer at Falls Creek this season.
If the weather is your thing, then you can check out the daily snow report here: https://www.fallscreek.com.au/snowreport/
Whilst if events are your thing, we’ve got a veritable smorgasbord lined up - go to the events calendar here: https://www.fallscreek. com.au/whats-on/events/?season=winter – keep scrolling down as there is definitely something for everyone right through to Oktoberfest.
Speaking of food - Dining – do we have dining, après and more. Falls Creek remains
WELCOME TO SEASON 2023
the foodie’s mountain of choice, with no shortage of food options across every price range, dietary requirement and culinary experience. The best source for finding this out is here: https://www.fallscreek.com.au/ whats-on/dining-nightlife/?season=winter.
By the way, my food reviews will officially kick off in Week 2 - watch this space. But there are new offerings across the mountain, with old favourites back and new ventures to tempt you both on piste and off.
Xmas in July and Twilights Tuesdays will be huge, night skiing is always worth trying, demo days will tempt you for that gear upgrade and better chances in all the competitions (both fun and hard core), and if cross country is your thing, there’s the Kangaroo Hoppet in August to start training for.
The best place to keep across all this information is here: https://www.fallscreek. com.au/whats-on/, both the Insiders Guide and the Weekly What’s On provide local insights and updates to all the weekly planned events.
Plus, you have this esteemed weekly publication delivered to your door (or online) ensuring you don’t miss a thing all season long.
Be part of the team!
Now, welcome back, enjoy ‘Opening Weekend’, we all know it’s never really been about the skiing, that is just a bonus. So, enjoy catching up with mates, the fireworks on Saturday night and getting your gear ready for the season ahead. It will be great regardless.
Catch you next week. Now, get out there and have some fun. •
Stuart Smythe Falls Creek Alpine ResortOUR ANNUAL ICE PLUNGE
Brrrr – Cold but Successful
Falls Creek Alpine Resort commenced the winter season in style today with the highly anticipated 16th Annual Ice Plunge. Despite the brisk 5°C temperature, the event attracted over 70 enthusiastic locals and visitors who fearlessly donned their costumes and submerged themselves in the icy waters of Rocky Valley Lake, Australia’s Largest Alpine Lake, measuring a bonechilling 3°C at 10am.
The plunge has become an iconic tradition that not only unites the community but also serves as our version of the age-old ‘snow dance’, a heartfelt offering to the snow gods, signalling our desire for a bountiful snow season. In an exciting development, the extended forecast is predicting a snowstorm on the eve of Opening Weekend, suggesting that our plunge has already begun to work its magic!
All proceeds raised from this event will be donated to Fight MND, an extraordinary
organisation dedicated to finding a cure for Motor Neuron Disease. Thanks to the generous contributions from event participants, donations and merchandise sales, we have already raised over $5000 and our fundraising efforts will continue throughout the season. If you’re in Falls Creek this winter, be sure to visit our Information Centre to purchase your official Big Freeze 9 Merchandise!
Local legend Ken Edmonson from Mount Beauty and his family showcased their unwavering dedication to the Fight MND cause with their “Bumble Bee for MND” adorned HX Holden Panel Van – an ex Rare Spares delivery vehicle. Ken and his family will be embarking on a nation-wide journey in the coming months to raise funds and raise awareness of MND. Ken and Cory at Mount Beauty Smash Repairs in Nelse Street, Mount Beauty also have Big Freeze Beanies for sale. Adding an extra touch of excitement to the occasion, we were honoured to have fourtime Olympian, World Cup and World Champion, Falls Creek Ambassador and beloved local legend Britt Cox join us for the plunge.
Britt Said “Forget all the Ice Baths from my career, the Falls Creek Ice Plunge tops it all! With the commitment shown by everyone here today, I’m convinced we’re in for an incredible snow season”
Curious about how the Ice Plunge works? We released a flock of rubber ducks into the lake, with each duck carrying a fantastic prize! Thanks to the generous support of local businesses, we gave away over $2500 worth of prizes, including ski lessons, dining and retail vouchers, season resort entry, gym memberships and much more!
Thanks to Pete the SnowDragon for entertaining everyone; and a special thanks
to our SES members for a great BBQ to help warm everyone up. Thanks also to the team from Fight MND for travelling to Falls Creek, promoting Fight MND and actually getting into the water!
After overcoming the challenges posed by the Bogong High Plains road landslide during the summer, Falls Creek is elated to return to business as usual and prepare for yet another extraordinary winter. The Kings Birthday Opening Weekend Festival this weekend promises endless excitement, including our beloved Village Street Parties featuring Pete the Snow Dragon, a dazzling Fireworks display, an exclusive screening of the captivating North Face backcountry short film “Steep Reflections, exciting kid’s activities, restaurant openings and of course skiing and snowboarding! (with a bit of luck!).
Either way, let’s all enjoy a great winter and take care of each other! •
Fun – With or Without!
It appears weather, not the actual day of the British Sovereign’s birth, determines why a public holiday is celebrated after the second weekend in June. While the prospect for better weather for street parades may have influenced the setting of the date in the United Kingdom, since the 1930s (perhaps even earlier), the weekend heralds the official opening of the Australian ski season. In the weeks preceding, winter sports enthusiasts pray for hideous weather to bring the first snowfalls.
At Falls Creek the first celebration of the official opening of the ski season took place the King’s Birthday weekend in 1950.
Falls Creek was then acclaimed as a new ski area despite accommodation being limited to only four club lodges. Two of these were subjected to a recent flurry of working bees to make them habitable for the winter. While a lack of snow meant skiing was not possible over the weekend the Albury Border Morning Mail reported that the opening would still be celebrated by club members. By the end of June powder snow conditions provided good training opportunities for those entrants in the Victorian Ski Club championships scheduled at Falls Creek from the 22 July. 50 competitors were expected to compete in downhill and slalom races, a ski jump and 12 mile (19.3Km) nordic event.
Falls Creek’s status as a ski area was further enhanced in 1951 with the installation of a rope tow taking skiers from the bowl to the Frying Pan Spur. Skiers were able to advance their skills taking lessons from resident European ski instructors. The Myrtleford Times & Ovens Valley Advertiser wrote on 20 June 1951 that Hungarian Ernest Forras was ‘teaching the world’s latest technique.’ Forras had evidently adapted to local conditions as he reportedly referred to his lessons as the
THE KING’S BIRTHDAY WEEKEND
‘Spion Capje [sic] technique.’ Perhaps his shift to Mt Buller is the reason this instruction did not go on to overshadow the predominant Austrian techniques.
By 1953, with the coronation of Queen Elizabeth, the season opening took place on the renamed Queen’s Birthday holiday weekend. With the construction of additional ski club lodges, Falls Creek was now being referred to as a ‘village.’ Just a year later it was estimated that Falls Creek hosted 2,500 visitors during the ski season. By the end of the 1950s, in addition to 20 club lodges, visitors could book accommodation at The Grand Coeur Chalet, Diana, Arundel or Winterhaven Lodges. Falls Creek no longer remained the province of skiers from North Eastern Victoria and it was not uncommon to see references in the social columns of Sydney and Melbourne newspapers to visits made by seemingly notable personages.
With or without snow, Opening Weekend continues to be a time for celebration.
In 1972 visiting correspondent from the Bulletin Magazine noted that while the mountain ‘was totally green’ there was a cycle of parties and ‘a great deal of time to discuss fashion.’ In 1971, according to the writer, “it was important to look impoverished… it was a jeans scene… this year it is pants that can be seen 500 yards from the lodge.”
Over 73 years has passed since the first King’s Birthday opening weekend. The Falls Creek Museum provides an opportunity to time travel, to follow the developments in
the village and to celebrate the past. New members and Volunteers are most welcome. Falls Creek Museum, Slalom Street Falls Creek. www.fallscreekmuseum.com.au. www.facebook.com/FallsCreekMuseum. •
Diana PattersonFALL LINES
The Year Just Passed
It’s very easy to remember the start to last winter with skiable snow on the ground the weekend before Queen’s Birthday Weekend. From day one, the resort was busy and there were times during the busy days that the car parks filled up and we had to close the road to traffic trying to come up the hill.
While closing the road leaves a sour taste, you can be assured that not a space was wasted and the team responsible parked cars in spaces one would think nothing would fit. It was actually a credit to the guys that they did get as many vehicles in as they did. Finishing a busy season, we all looked forward to a bit of break before heading in to what looked to be a great summer with
around 19 different events planned – then boom, the excessive rain and snow caused a landslip of the size not seen in this state before – one that is still being worked on. The good news about the trucks going past the office is that every truck that goes past is one truck closer to the job being completed.
But, the road closed to Falls Creek for a greater part of the summer had severe consequences on the local community – and it is now hoped that during this winter we can get back to some degree of normality – and enjoy a decent winter.
From humble beginnings in 1947 when the first club lodge ‘Skyline’ was built by half a dozen members beside what is now the International Ski Run, a bit below where the Raceline would go around the hill the ski village of Falls Creek has grown significantly to the point where the 2021 Census indicated 326 permanent residents living in the village.
The development of the village as a community over the 76 years has involved many, many people and it is pretty fair to say that if you’ve worked and lived in Falls Creek for more than a couple of years, you will have made friends for life – no matter where in the world you travel.
Sadly, that 76 years has seen a lot of wonderful people come and go. This last 12 months we have lost Max Aitken, builder of Summit Ridge. Recently also saw the passing of Mark Horan, well known bar manager and founder of the Summit BoardRiders. Another founder in the village is George Shirling who was involved in the early days of Koki and continued to operate Red Onion.
Then we have the passing of Nolene Lee. Nolene could best be described as a founding member of this community having ski here in the 50’s and with husband Bob, building Attunga Lodge. There is a celebration of Nolene’s life to be held at the Falls Creek Hotel this Sunday, but if you haven’t registered your interest on the social media it is highly unlikely you will be able to get in. But, Nic Wilke and his talented team will be live streaming the event. Check it out at: www.ovrlstream. com.au/noelene. •
There are lots of other weekend activities. Please go to https://www.fallscreek.com.au/ whats-on/.
Open 8am – 7pm Daily
· Extensive grocery range
· Bottle shop: beer, wine, spirits
· Fresh fruit and vegetables
· Hot pies and sausage rolls
· Heat and eat meals
·Phone re-charge
·ATM
·Newspapers and magazines
Located in Slalom day carpark at the bottom of Halley’s Comet Chairlift. Tel: 57 583 009
For pick and pack deliveries please visit www.foodworkshighcountry.com.au
Wanted – DWA Guides
Be Inspired! Since 1978, Disabled Wintersport Australia have been helping people with a disability find their freedom on snow. With a few dedicated staff and an army of skilled and committed volunteers, DWA has been at the forefront of adaptive snowsports in Australia.
Be Rewarded! Nothing feels better than giving back. Being on mountain with our members and sharing your love of snow is the ultimate reward. Teamwork, being part of the DWA family, and the opportunity to develop your skills are all part of being a DWA guide.
Become a DWA Guide! If you are an advanced skier or snowboarder, then becoming a volunteer DWA guide is pretty straightforward. Two days training plus two days on snow practice are what you need to get started. Call our volunteer coordinator or follow the links below to find out more about being part of the DWA family.
DWA are running New Guide Training on the following dates at Falls Creek and places are still available. • Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th June. • Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th June.
Ph: 1300 265 730. volunteer@disabledwintersport.com.au. www.disabledwintersport.com.au.
At Falls Creek contact Min Middleton at: mmiddleton@disabledwintersport.com.au. Mb: 0410 545 061 •
WHY AMBULANCE SUBSCRIPTION
Because It’s Smart
This publication has run similar articles before. And we will probably continue to run them each year. Your editor would hate to think that someone working or visiting this fabulous resort of ours ends up with a three or four thousand dollar bill for transport to hospital. It can and does happen – and it can be prevented. Read on.
Previously we have quoted figures for this article. But, even without them, the common sense aspect of ambulance insurance is a ‘no-brainer.’
As an example of costs, your editor had a little heart turn at Falls Creek during the Trade Fair @ Falls Creek. The fabulous and professional Ski Patrol team, from Patrol Director and several others attended – and will it was a tad embarrassing from my point of view, it was certainly eye opening and satisfying to witness first-hand the skill and professionalism all member exhibited. Then it was into the Ambo and down to Alpine Health Mount Beauty. The good
UNDER
Large range of bulk foods Organic groceries
Herbal teas & Honey bird coffee
Herbs & Spices
Honey & Olive Oil
Pantry staples without the packaging
OPEN Tues & Thurs: 9am - 5pm | Sat: 10am-1pm
167 Kiewa Valley Highway
Now around the back of building via laneway www.nourishwholefoods.org to order online for click & collect or local delivery available.
The Good News…
Refuse and Recycling
Falls Creek is one of the first resorts to recycle organic matter!
We recycle:-
• Cardboard – baled and sold for re-manufacture.
• Co-mingles – plastic, glass and paper – in the clear plastic bags with the RED print.
• Organics – anything that has ever lived – food, paper, oyster shells, bones – in the clear plastic bags with the GREEN print – all sent to be composted.
Falls Creek Garbage is collected seven days a week during winter
If you require supplies of bags, have a question, or see a problem, phone us on 0427 411 415
news is after and ECG and some blood tests, everything was looking good and home we went. Thanks team for a great job well done.
Then came the next bit. Several days later the invoice from Ambulance Victoria arrived (see image) – a total of $1927 to travel from Falls Creek Mount Beauty, Thank goodness I did not need to go to Albury or Melbourne.
The good news is that I do have Ambulance Cover (and have had for many years) and a quick phone call and Email to Ambulance Victoria sorted it.
The Good News
Fact Number One: Ambulance membership is cheap. A family membership is now $99.88 per year. A single person membership is now $49.94 per year. In my humble opinion, these figures are way too cheap – but no-one can ever say they could not afford Ambulance Membership.
A clever and innovative local lodge manager, as part of his employment contract would include an Ambulance Membership Form – which (unless they could show they were already covered) the employees had to sign – and the payment came out of their first wage cheque. This would be regarded in most circles as excellent management/staff relations.
The following is an excellent example of the benefits of membership – as quoted by Angus.
“I got ambulance cover just before heading off with my mates on a snowboarding trip to Mt Buller. I had been thinking about cover and thought I’d be unlikely to need it but had a few minutes free so opened my laptop and joined online in the car park of
jumping on to the website. If you don’t have a credit card, go to your local post office and it can all be done there. •
Towards Renewable Energy Kiewa
Many of you will be aware of our TREK group. We were formed several years ago by the Upper Kiewa Valley Community Association to promote the move to renewable energy in the Kiewa Valley. Although our numbers are small (and we would love to have more enthusiastic, active members), we have managed some successes. The most recent of these is a grant of $200.000+ to make the Mount Beauty Stadium an emergency safer place, with a solar powered independent electricity supply, with installation to be completed this year.
TREK has partnered with Indigo Power to encourage the people of our community to make the switch and choose a clean electricity provider. Indigo Power is a community-owned social enterprise supporting local renewable energy projects. Switching is very easy nowadays, and only involves a five minute phone call. Indigo Power is based in Beechworth, and has already sponsored/supported several green energy initiatives in our local area. Their rates, you will discover, are about in the middle of the pack of retailers; the difference is that, as a certified social enterprise, 50% of their profits must go to enabling communities change to renewable energy.
The company is currently running a promotion and TREK can go in the draw to win $10,000 for a project in our community. The rules are simple, make the switch and join our energy hub. If we manage to hit the 100 target by the end of June, we could have the capacity to start power sharing in our hub.
Also, new customers joining Indigo Power between now and the end of June also go in the draw to win a Mondo Ubi, a device enabling householders to see and control their total power use. There are 10 units to give away!
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Keith Pike on 0408 652 471. At this time there are many opportunities for our community to be involved in several projects, especially ones based in the North East, which are looking to provide more renewable energy, community batteries, EV charging and energy hubs in which power can be shared.
Currently, TREK is a very small committee and is unable to keep on top of the many opportunities and meeting demands. There are many members of our community who are genuinely interested in improving and extending the provision of renewable energy systems into our area but are currently working alone to improve their personal energy requirements. Are you one of these people? If so, TREK could use your help and the more the merrier, but certainly easier.
If you are in a position to help with this terrific movement, please contact UKVCA: • Email info@ukvcommunity.org.au or • TREK member, Keith Pike, Mobile: 0408 652 472 •
ON SALE SOON
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.
WELCOME BACK TO WINTER!
gift wrapping available
Mount Beauty Hardware & Drapery Store
PUBLICATION SCHEDULE:
FALL LINES
Hard Waste Collection
Cedarwood Apartments is an on-mountain apartment complex comprised of privately owned self-contained 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.
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. •
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 Australian walk of international standard being promoted by Parks Victoria.
Summer Debrief
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. Over the last decade, much work has gone into developing and securing summer trade.
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. This meeting will take place on Wednesday 26th April from 9:30am to around 11:30am in the Boardroom above Foodworks in QT.
If you have any specific agenda items, please email http://joprothero@fallscreek.com.au. We look forward to seeing you all there. •
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.”
Ed 02 * 16.06.23 * Let’s Go Skiing. Cross Country Calendar and Events Calendar. New Businesses. (C)
Ed 03 * 23.06.23 * Come & Try XC Skiing. Rossignol Cup, Full Events Calendar. (C)
Ed 04 * 30.06.23 * High Plains Tour. Board Lounge Throwdown. Christmas in July with Subaru. (C) Ed 05 * 07.07.23 * Wombat’s Rambler. Mim Ladies Program. Vic Junior XC Championships
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
PASS
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
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 ENQUIRIES
Tawonga Crescent
CLASSIFIEDS:
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
Ph: 5754 3400 for appointments
24 hours for emergencies
Drs Mark Zagorski, Jeff Robinson, Libby
PROPERTY OF THE WEEK
property. The manager's apartment is a modern two-bedroom apartment with open plan lounge, kitchen 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.
For further detail, please contact: Christa
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.
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.
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
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.
Helen Mathew m 0419 399 737 Mount Beauty | www.mountaincreekarch com
TRADING POST CLASSIFIEDS
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.
VALLEY FUN & FITNESS CLASS
Every Tuesday at 9am at the Ladies Facility, Dederang Recreation Reserve. All equipment provided. Bring a drink bottle and towel. $6 per session. A great way to keep fit and socialise at the same time. 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.
Top left: Cedarwood’s location offers great ski inski out facility and superb views all year round. Pics – Courtesy the Agent
Bottom left: The two bedroom apartment is comfortable and warm.
Top right: A spacious Reception area caters for guests luggage and movement.
Altitude Physio
WISE WORDS
Common Sense is not a gift - it's a curse - you spend all your time dealing with idiots who don't have it!
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.
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.
SPORTS MASSAGE
Book On-Line: impactmassage.com.au
STORAGE
Caravans, Vehicles, Pallets, Large Lock-Up Units. Ph: 0428 361 497. www.alpinewarehousing.com
CFA ALPINE FIRE SAFETY SESSION
Important Training
CFA are hosting an Alpine Fire Safety Session at Falls Creek. This training is designed for building and accommodation owners and managers and will include virtual reality training, going through essential safety measures to have in place.
When: 14th June 2023
Between 8:30am – 11:30am
Where: St Falls Boardroom, Falls Creek
Breakfast will be provided so please register in advance click on the link ‘Register Here’ in the attached notice. Should you have any questions, contact: fcar@fallscreek.com.au.
Ph: 03 5758 1200
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.
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, Sky Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton, Lauren Cusson, Damian Heman, Daniel Florisson, Andrew Mason, Jacinta O'Niel & 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.
JUN 10, 17 Park Run. 8am at Bicentennial Park & 24 beside the library in Lakeside Avenue. All Welcome. Enquiries to 03 5754 1118
JUN 10 TDFNL Rd 9: Dederang Mount Beauty V Thurgoona @ Dederang
JUN 10-12 King’s Birthday Weekend – Official Opening the 2023 Ski Season –Includes Fireworks in the Village Bowl at 6:30pm Saturday.
JUN 13 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.
JUN 18 TJun 17TDFNL Rd 10: Dederang Mount Beauty V Yackandandah @ Dederang
JUN 24 TDFNL Rd 11: Tallangatta V Dederang Mount Beauty
JUN 24 Mount Beauty Community Band MidYear Concert, 3pm, Mount Beauty Community Centre.
For further details on coming events, got to: https://www.fallscreek.com.au/whats-on/ events-activities-summer/