This Week in Falls Creek & Mount Beauty - 18 August 2023

Great Efforts All Round!

Main: The Summit Masters course around 1992 with the new Summit Chair in place and the old Race Hut and GS Course down Cabbage Patch. Pic – Courtesy Falls Creek Museum

Left: When the world comes to Falls Creek – and skis among our beautiful Snow Gums for the Kangaroo Hoppet. Pic – Ken Bell

Right: Our local Blue Light Disco team, S/C Sarah Bath and S/C Peter Johns handed over a cheque for $1000 to Bumblebee for MND’s Kim and Ken Edmondson. Pic – Ken Bell

FOODIE HEAVEN – ON-PISTE TOO

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.

Falls Creek Alpine resort is famous for many things, it’s history (76 years young), it’s early pioneers, the first chairlift in Australia (1957), the ski-in, ski-out village, the best progression perfect terrain in Australia, sled accessed back country tours, snowmobile tours, street parties, its picture perfect alpine village and vistas of the Bogong High Plains, access to back country skiing across the high plains, an extensive cross country network, the largest high altitude body of water in Australia and the highest drivable point in the country, Mt McKay (just not in winter, unless with Dougie and Nors on a must do snowmo tour!).

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.

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.

We’re not just a winter destination either, we’re becoming famous for our all year round offer. The diversification of the resort to being a year-round destination has been a

work in progress for many years. The need to diversify its appeal to year-round visitation has seen the summer offering expand to include an extensive network of mountain bike and walking trails, many of the latter out into the Alpine National park, festivals (music, comedy, food & wine), long distance running and mountaineering, road cycling, water sports, fishing, sailing and of course Falls Creek has long been recognised as an altitude training mecca for many elite and semi-professional athletes. This is just to name a few of the activities that happen outside the snow season.

One of the constants though, is Falls Creek’s reputation for being the friendliest mountain in Australia, summer or winter. But in winter especially, our ‘towies’ are renowned for their customer interaction, and our full-time community delight in being able to welcome guests and visitors to experience the intangible ‘vibe’ that is Falls Creek. When asked what the essentials are for a

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

memorable trip to the snow, I will always say, that if you go with great mates (and/ or family) and can find good food, then great times will find themselves. Of course, a healthy dose of powder snow doesn’t hurt either.

The reputation of Falls Creek for its selection of venues is unparalleled whether you want breakfast, lunch, après, dinner and then right through to the night life. But it’s not just in the village, out there on the slopes you’re spoiled too.

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

Many people choose to come back to the village for lunch and for good reason, with many venues so close or able to be skied back to, the convenience is obvious. However, for those keen to stay on-piste, you’re not missing out on much.

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

We have establishments like Cloud 9, Dicky Knees, the Frying Pan Inn and Blue Brumby. With a vast selection of options across the mountain, there is something for everyone. If you like deep fried anything – head to Blue Brumby (bottom of Main Street), just beat the race club kids to their morning break, they’re like seagulls to a chip!

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. •

For

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

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

Village Access:

are now closed 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 all licensed supermarket lines - located in lower level,

A woodfired pizza, a roast, a curry or vegie bowl – not to mention the waffles, plus this all comes with a vista that can’t be beat - so then Cloud 9 is without question the best on mountain venue in Australia with still more to come over the next few years.

For the hardcore more advanced snow sport enthusiasts, there’s always Dicky Knees or ‘the Pan.’ Both sit nestled below more advance terrain and often provide some fun afternoon viewing pleasure.

This year, Dicky Knees has had a ripper revamp, both in fit-out and menu. The find of the season so far… custard filled giant pretzels, giddy up. Of course, you need to earn the extra calories, so at a minimum you need do at least two runs of - Ruined Castle, Father Fosters, St Elmo’s Slide, Boomerang, Big Dipper and the Southface. That way the latte and pretzel have at least someplace to go! I’m advised by my son (and Adam Liaw), the Kransky dogs aren’t bad either (and they’re locally made!).

If you after something a little ‘quicker’, then Slalom Plaza has you sorted. Spiral Spuds, Loaded Fries or doughnuts from the Mezzanine tier will sort you out quick smart.

Or there’s Slides, tucked in the corner of Slalom plaza (just look for the big green/

teal(?) umbrellas), with IMO, the best coffee on the mountain (boozy or not boozy), plus a selection of quick lunch options, muffins, home-made slices and by all accounts another mean ‘traditional’ hot dog. However, the South Melbourne market dim sims don’t ever disappoint…two is pretty much the limit and they’re filling.

Up on Parallel Street another hidden secret is Jerry’s Winter Stall, propped out the front of Karelia Alpine Lodge, authentic goulash soup, goulash pies, baked bohemian donuts and an assortment of hot drinks (including Gluhwein – if that’s your thing), it’s as close to ‘ski through’ as you’ll get.

So there you have it… the ‘Insiders guide’ to on-piste (or just off it) quick fix dining. Hopefully, by the time you’re reading this, we are in the midst of well needed dump or two, with freshies across the mountain for you to explore.

And with the snow god’s blessing – head to the Summit this weekend for the annual Summit Masters – giant slalom on Saturday and Moguls on Sunday. Plus, for those keen to get with the ‘retro’ theme, https:// idreamofsnow.com/ has you sorted, seriously, the selection of to buy and hire gear will have you looking retro chic for the weekend.

So, what are you waiting for, hit the slope for fun and for food! See you out there. •

Stuart Smythe, Falls Creek Alpine Resort

The very popular Cloud 9 Restaurant at the top of Halley’s - good and convenient! Pic - Courtesy Cloud 9

DISABLED WINTERSPORT AUSTRALIA

An Amazing Weekend

Wow what a weekend. I had many emotions running through my head in the lead-up to the camp. Being in the snow has always been one of my happy places and I hadn't been back in the three years since my accident that resulted in an incomplete quadriplegia spinal cord injury.

Everything about the camp made this such a perfect experience to return to a sport I love in a format that was totally new to me. The structure of the camp over four days meant I didn't need to rush the drive on the Friday or Monday. And there was flexibility to depart on the Sunday if that was your preference. The accommodation at Howman's Gap exceeded my expectations both from the bedrooms and lounge. The food was also very good - cooked breakfasts

and dinners with variety over the three nights.

The skiing program was on the Saturday and Sunday. It started with final gear fitting and then on the snow by 9am. The timing was roughly on snow 9 to1 followed by a lunch break and then a further two hours post lunch. On the snow I had two guides with me the whole time, ensuring my safety and working seamlessly with me to let me try to ski but understand when they needed to step in with support for control or speed. They also supported me getting around the flat spots and on/off chairlifts. We had personal instruction in several forms. There was an instructor assigned to the group on Saturday morning. We also had an ex-paralympic squad member (Lincoln Budge) for half a day on both ski days and Min, who is an amazing host, organiser and instructor was also skiing with us to provide support, manage on-mountain group logistics and lots of skiing instruction.

It was inspiring to see the other sit-skiers on the slopes and then share stories back in the lodge. There was a great vibe amongst

everyone on and off the snow. I'll definitely be heading back to the snow to progress my sit-skiing, this season and beyond with DWA. I'm a member for life. Thank you Min and to the broader team at DWA for an awesome experience! •

Nick Hoare in the site ski supported by his amazing local guide Dan van der Ploeg. Pic – Courtesy Nick Hoare

But Worth It!

Growing up in Penrith is like growing up in most places. There are lots of influences and interests to be addressed. Michael Foatkopoulos loves art and as a kid, drew cartoons whenever he could. He also loved street art and as he got older he developed a love of detailing cars. That attention to detail probably stood Michael in good stead for a future not yet quite clear in his mind. The rest of Michael’s family were musical, playing a variety of instruments and exhibiting talents to varying degrees.

It was just prior to the 2000 Sydney Olympics that Michael took on a position as an apprentice chef. Not only was this an interesting career choice, it was also at the time when the population of Sydney swelled considerably, catering (literally) to the extra hundreds of thousands of people wanting to attend. Reliable figures state there were nearly 11,000 athletes from 199 countries – so yes, Sydney got busy.

Being thrown in at the deep end so to speak, Michael soon realised that common sense and discipline was going to be the secret to handling the demands of a very busy kitchen – a realisation that would continue to bolster success in the kitchen.

Michael is now a family man, not just a father but a grandfather as well – living in St Marys Western Sydney – with his wife Rebecca & three growing kids, Jordan (19), Jaxon (10), Jada (6) and grandson Emrys (2); the oldest Jordan being a talented & upcoming prospect in professional boxing. But, prior to this, he spent eight years travelling right around Australia, gaining experience working in restaurants and hotels, running kitchens and managing large and small food outlets. One of these gigs just happened to be at The Chalet at Mt Buller which ignited a love for the snow – but home called and settling in to St Marys and the home life was critical –

but a solid 10 years soon called for a change. Michael took three months off – and then saw the position at St Falls at Falls Creek (in the snow!).

Accepting the position, Michael has understood the requirements – especially after a couple of seasons from hell, a recent change of ownership and then a summer of nothing. This is where the common sense and discipline comes in. Arriving in the resort with the season under way there’s plenty to do. Getting systems in place; structuring staff to cater for breakfast lunch and dinner in effectively three different venues, 1550 Restaurant, 1550 Café and Powder Keg Bar and Café. Add to this the responsibility of getting good meals to the staff in their accommodation – which is paramount to healthy and happy staff – all make the challenges Michael faced fairly significant. The good news is that it is all working. The café menus have been streamlined to provide healthy happy food to get the keen

snow team back out onto the slopes ASAP. The restaurant now has their systems in place for a smooth transition from breakfast to lunch and, more importantly, from lunch to dinner - and by the time you are reading this, the new dinner menu in1550 restaurant will be up and running – a treat we are all looking forward to.

With the systems in place, the new menu attracting diners, and everything working, Michael plans to return home over summer and then bring the family back for next winter. Sound like a smart move. •

Welcome to chef Micheal Fotakopoulos at St Falls. Pic – Courtesy St Falls

COLLABORATION

The Right Mix

This week is the culmination of collaborations that I've been planning for almost two years. I love a collaboration. Why? Because I've always believed the two brains are better than one and that working with other people creatively and collaboratively will get you a better result than by working alone. The ability to bounce ideas off other people, to brainstorm, to challenge and question concepts and to float sometimes left of field or quirky ideas and have them questioned, extrapolated, and challenged brings out the best in creative people.

I met Danii Ford two years ago when she photographed The Longest Lunch for Falls Creek Alpine Resort and then later when she did the photography for Traverse Alpine Group’s fabulous Pre-Mother's Day Lunch fundraiser for women’s refuge shelter ‘Betty’s Place’ at The Boat Shed in Wodonga. Danii is a beautiful photographer. Many

of us don't realise how much of her work we have seen over the years. She regularly shoots for XTM and over the years has done a lot of work for Falls Creek Alpine Resort and Traverse Alpine Group. Danii, quite simply, creates beautiful photos. I introduced myself to Danii and began telling her my story. How my ski vintage collection had come about and the business I was planning to start using my vintage collection as the focal point, and my desire to rent out my vintage clothing in attempt to embrace circular & sustainable fashion in the snow industry space. Danii immediately understood what I was trying to do.

It was Danii who suggested I talk to Brett Williams about a collaboration with him for his new gin business. Falls Creek Gin uses Falls Creek’s pure alpine water, locally sourced botanicals such as the alpine pepper berry and is distilled in Falls Creek using a copper reflux still. And the kicker that brought us together?

The retro design for the bottle label showing a female skier. Danii thought we’d be a match made in heaven to cross promote each other’s businesses. My vintage ski clothing and Brett’s vintage inspired gin branding are the perfect collaboration. When I raised the idea with Brett, he enthusiastically agreed.

A few weeks ago, we held the photo shoot at Falls, with some more very generous collaborations. Friends Kylie France and Malaya Toll very kindly took the morning off work to play dress up with me and do some amateur modelling. I loathe having my photo taken.

Tuesday

& Thursday 24th Aug 3:30pm - 4:30pm

The fantastic ‘FretSliders!’

feathertop

It generally takes me two years to look at a photo of myself and think ‘that’s a nice pic’. However, my desire to have photos taken of everyday people and professional models in my vintage snow gear was stronger than my own aversion at seeing myself in photos.

I wanted to show that choosing a vintage outfit is about having fun with what you’re wearing, no matter what your age or shape.

Danii roped in some of her modelling mates, the fabulous and gorgeous Hannah, Liz & Steph. Lastly, we needed a lodge style venue to shoot some of the photos and my lovely friend Lisa Allport of the Falls Creek Hotel very kindly let us descend on the Hotel for a few hours. The outcome of all these collaborations? Pure gold!

Magnificent photos highlighting my fabulous vintage snow outfits, Falls Creek Gin, the iconic Falls Creek Hotel and, the most important player of all, the glorious resort of Falls Creek and her surrounding mountain peaks. Kylie, Malaya, Hannah, Steph & Liz look glorious! I don’t know how they do it but, like switching on a light, when the camera was turned on them, they suddenly seemed to light up. Danii’s brilliance with the camera is evident in every still. I still don’t understand quite how she does it, but I appreciate the craft behind the result.

This weekend is the date for the Summit Masters competition, which since it’s resurrection has become one of the best opportunities to find a vintage outfit and dress up in something old for the weekend while competing in, or watching, the Summit Masters. If you’re interested in leaning into this trend, come on down to I Dream of Snow and find an outfit. I’ve got over 150 to choose from! You can also do your research online by checking out the vintage outfits I’ve got loaded onto the website www.idreamofsnow.com

Have a great week and see you in store! •

Cheers, Nyree

Above Foodworks, slight right through the public seating, through the bathroom corridor & up the short flight of stairs.

THE SUMMIT MASTERS

Returns This Weekend

As we try and introduce planned events, that which we love so much, the snow, is being elusive – and while we plan to the enth degree and aim to make every activity a success there are some things just out of our control. The team have and will continue to do their best – and for that we are truly grateful – and all being well, we will get an event.

The Summit Masters is a freestyle mogul event which has had a long history. It ran for 10 consecutive years from 1985 through to 1995 and inspired generations of freestyle mogul skiers. The event was the brain child of Linny Grosse, who was a Falls Creek local and Freestyle champion. Katie Steven, (who grew up in Falls while the family ran Pretty Valley Lodge) is a close friend of Linny’s and explained recently that she was the visionary behind the event and her drive was to create a world class Freestyle mogul event in Australia that was equal to or better than those in which she had competed in overseas. In the early days of Freestyle Mogul competitions, the moguls were ‘natural’

which meant that they were made simply by skiing the intended course. Each competitor needed to choose where on the course they would do their two areal tricks which added challenge and spectacle to the event. The Summit Masters prided itself with having the best natural mogul field in Australia, due in part to the perfect pitch, the fall line and the quantity of local mogul skiers creating it. During the Summit Masters competition, technique, speed, adherence to the fallline, two dynamic air tricks as well as the competitors own personal interpretation of The Summit run were all taken into account in judging the true mantel of Summit Master male, female and junior champion. This weekend’s event will see a Giant Slalom race on the Saturday, from 9am to 12noon. This will be followed by bumps skiing practice. Sunday will be devoted to a full day of bumps competition planned to run from 10am to 4pm – followed by presentations and the After party at Friers.

The list of names of previous competitors is long and while some are no longer with us, some of these names may even be back to compete this weekend. If they don’t compete there’s a fair chance they’ll find their way to the bar in Friers.

Lin Grosse, Eric Hymans, Mark & Katie Steven, Steven & Tracy Lee, Paul, Adrian, Simon & Tom Costa, Craig, Laif & Renja Moegel, Charlie & Bena Brown, Lisa Spargo, Kent Dowding, Mike Clark, Brent

Above: Summit Masters action from back in the late 80’s with Donnie Brown (foreground) competing with Katie Steven (in the Team Red suit).

Pic – Courtesy Falls Creek Museum

Below: Summit Masters action from 2019 with Grace Walkley taking air on a snowy course.

Pic – Jeremy @ FCSL

Bignal, Graham Cox, Andy Mero, Donny Brown, Colin Morrison, Lisa Nicholas, Andy Kelly, Danielle Brooks, Marcus Lovett, Peter Williams, Rod Drill, Andy Thomas and many more great characters of the freestyle era.

Fully

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.

And, to top it all off our very own four time Olympian and bumps skiing champion Britt Cox will be in attendance for the event. • ORY’S

CREEK

Opening Hours: Mon: 8 - 10am & 5 - 9pm • Tues to Sun: 8am - 9pm Warm cosy environment, delicious modern Australian menu for breakfast, lunch & dinner!

Ph: 03 5758 3899 • Em: dine@orysfallscreek.com.au Wb: https://www.orysfallscreek.com.au/ 4 Schuss Street, Falls Creek, Vic 3699

Regards, Roi and Sue.

Take-Away Pasta Dishes

Saturday & Sunday Evenings!

All your favourites - Call ahead to order!

Phone: 03 5754 4495

177 Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga

MOUNTAINSIDE GALLERY & COFFEE

From humble beginnings, operating out of container in the Kiewa Valley Snowsports car park, Charlie Brown’s ‘Mountainside Gallery’ has moved up in the world and has taken over, what used to be ‘Nourish Wholefoods’ on the corner of St Bernard Drive & Wonnangatta Ave, Tawonga South. His Gallery has a large range of photography, ranging from his range of postcards to large canvas and framed prints of the local mountains. Charlie can also make you a beautiful coffee from local coffee roasters, Honeybird coffee.

Drop in, say Hi, have a look at Charlie’s work & grab a coffee.

Welcome To Our 31st Event

On behalf of the Organising Committee it is a great pleasure to welcome all participants and supporters to Falls Creek for the 2023 Kangaroo Hoppet. As I write this in the evening of 15 August to meet a print deadline of 16 August, skiers from 22 nations have already entered – so once again the resort will really be living up to the tagline ‘The Fourth Saturday in August –When the World Comes to Falls Creek.’

Regardless of whether you have travelled from around the corner or around the world to be with us I hope that you all enjoy the warm hospitality and atmosphere that the Hoppet, with a lot of help from our partners and supporters in the local communities, manages to deliver to our skiing friends from around the world each year at Falls Creek. While welcoming skiers and friends to the event, I would like also take the liberty of speaking on your behalf to acknowledge and thank the groups without whom there would not be an event – beginning with our three major sponsors and partners AGL Energy,

For Our 31st Year

On behalf of Falls Creek Resort, the stakeholders, community and resort users, I extend a very warm welcome to the 2023 Hoppet athletes, sponsors, supporters, guests and volunteers. Falls Creek Alpine Resort is Australia’s premier All Seasons Alpine Resort and Victoria’s largest ski field, with 1535ha of skiable lift assisted terrain and 65kms of cross country trails. As such, being able to host the WorldLoppet Kangaroo Hoppet is a great privilege.

Furthermore, the Hoppet provides the opportunity to showcase the resort to the many international and national visitors who are participating this year and will no doubt return to compete in the future.

The Kangaroo Hoppet is the largest snow sport event in the southern hemisphere, and this is testament to the organising committee, race committee, volunteers and

Falls Creek Alpine Resort and the Mount Beauty & District Community Bank. We enjoyed a very nice start to the season with the full Kangaroo Hoppet course groomed out from Falls Creek into the Alpine National Park (and back again of course). Unfortuntely a long spell of unseasonably warm weather without much in the way of new snow has required the organising committee to do a rethink of course options and look again at the high altitude options on the McKay Loop up above the village.

Holding the event in that area presents a unique set of challenges and I must acknowledge the great help we have been given by Falls Creek Ski Lifts and 4Site in finding solutions to getting people and equipment up to the start/finish area.

While I guess we all know what Falls Creek Ski Lifts do in the management and operations of the lifted areas of the resort, perhaps the role of 4Site is not quite as well known. To quote from their Facebook page ‘4Site transport guests, luggage, freight, garbage and good vibes to the Falls Creek Community, and this includes transporting ‘stuff’ out to set up the Hoppet.

And, to leave the best to last, a HUGE THANKS to the members of our organising committees, our race office staff, the team from Alpine Timing and the small army of volunteers from the local and cross country skiing communities who are the backbone of our operations …with special mention of Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club. •

Allan Marsland OAM Chairman, Kangaroo Hoppet

sponsors, who’s passion and determination has contributed to and will continue to ensure the race and the carnival atmosphere that thrives around it, remains the preeminent Australian XC event in the calendar.

The diversity of participants, from elite professionals to rank amateurs is what

makes the event such a success and the reason for its popularity. So, on the day, whether you are competing for prize money, a personal best, or just using the event to catch up with friends and have a great time, we wish you all the very best. Now – kick, glide and have some fun. • Stuart Smythe, Falls Creek Alpine Resort

KANGAROO HOPPET WEEK 2023

KANGAROO HOPPET RACE OFFICE

Open: Saturday 19th to Sunday 27th

Located in the Auditorium in the Visitor Information Centre, on the left 150 metres after the West Kiewa River bridge as you approach Mount Beauty. This is your One Stop Hoppet Shop where you can:

• Collect race numbers.

• Check out the range of Hoppet clothing and souvenir items.

• Check out the Hoppet Dozen featuring wines from the King Valley and Alpine Valleys wine regions.

• Worldloppet Passports available for purchase.

• Enter the race. Late entries accepted until 4pm Friday 24th August.

• Catch up with friends and check out who is here this year.

THE PROGRAM

Friday 25th August

Worldloppet Passport Holders and Masters Reception.

4:30pm Howmans Gap Alpine Centre, 4km down from Falls Creek.

Carbo load. West Peak Hotel in Mount Beauty will feature several pasta options on their bistro menu. Bookings strongly advised.

THE MAIN EVENT

Saturday 26th August

Kangaroo Hoppet Hoppet has been relocated from the Nordic Bowl to the McKay Loop which is on the ridge above Falls Creek Village. The final course layout will be decided closer to the event depending on snow and weather conditions. Participants are advised to check their emails, text messages and www.hoppet.com.au for updates on the status of the event.

There are two ways to get to the McKay Loop from Falls Creek Village.

1. Access via Halley’s Comet chairlift. The Chairlift will run especially for Hoppet participants from 7:15am to 8:20am on Hoppet day. On-line pre-purchase of tickets is essential. Walk time from Cloud Nine Restaurant, which is at the top of the chairlift, to the start area is 20 minutes.

2. Walk/ski from Windy Corner via Aitkens and McKay Road. This involves a significant uphill from Windy Corner. Estimate time 45 minutes plus.

Provisional start times for the Kangaroo Hoppet and the Australian Birkebeiner. Please note that the Joey Hoppet has been cancelled due to the exposed nature of the course and to reduce congestion on course.

8:15am Kangaroo Hoppet Eilte Group

9:15am Flower Ceremony for Elite Group

9:30am Wave start for Kangaroo Hoppet 21km

9:40am Wave start for Australian Birkebeiner

10.5km

Mount Beauty

m u nit y Ba n k & District

Com m u nit y Bank & District

Com m u nit y Ba nk

Mount Beauty m u n it y Ba n k

Mount

m m u nit y Ba nk & District

Mount Beauty

Mount Beauty

Mount Beauty

Mount Beauty Com m u nit y Ba nk & District

Com m u nit y Bank & District

Com m u nit y Bank & District

Mount Beauty

District

Mount Beauty Com m u nit y Bank & District

When you come back down off the mountain and need a meal or just somewhere to hang out over a drink or snack, there are a number of choices, including West Peak Hotel, Mount Beauty Bakery, Rocky Valley Ski Hire café, Crank Handle Brewery, Treats, Settlers Tavern, Grass Valley Restaurant, Lilli Pilli, Swiss & Chips, Bombay Velvet and Mountain Creek Lodge out in Tawonga.

Post Race Social Evening and Awards Collection

Function room, West Peak Hotel, Lakeside Avenue, Mount Beauty.

Parking via Tailrace Road, or Pool Road then behind the stadium.

Bistro meals and pizzas available from 5:30pm. Bookings strongly recommended.

Presentations start at 7:30pm

A pleasant evening when we again acknowledge the winners and hand over the cheques where appropriate. And, much more important, you can have a drink and a chat with old friends, make some new friends, inspect the results and, if you qualify, your 30, 20 or 10 year Hoppet caps.

7:45pm Presentations to top ten in the Kangaroo Hoppet and top three in the Birkebeiner

7:55pm 2023 Australia / New Zealand Continental Cup presentation

8:00pm AGL athlete awards

8:10pm Worldloppet Masters

8:15pm Australian Defence Force Kinetix Cup

8:20pm Announcement of Fischer spot prizes.

HOPPET 31

THE MORNING AFTER

Sunday 27th August

Hoppet Race Office in the Auditorium at the Mount Beauty Information Centre. Appreciate Your Achievement!

• Check results

• Last chance for Hoppet shopping

Relax with friends over a coffee and brunch at The Bakery, Treats, Grass Valley, Rocky Valley Snowsports, Lilli Pilli, Crank Handle Brewery and, if you are travelling home on the Snow Road, maybe check out one of the Hoppet Dozen wineries on the way home. Sam Miranda in Oxley, Gapsted Estate just outside Myrtleford, and Billy Button in Bright and Myrtleford. •

2023 HOPPET SHOP

Opening Hours

Saturday 19th Aug 2pm - 6pm

Sunday 20th Aug 2pm - 6pm

Monday 21st Aug 2pm - 6pm

Tuesday 22nd Aug 2pm - 6pm

Wednesday 23rd Aug 2pm - 6pm

Thursday 24th Aug 2 pm - 6pm

Friday 25th Aug 10am - 12midnight

Saturday 26th Aug 6:30am - 8:30am

(Race Day) 2pm - 6pm

Sunday 27th Aug 9am - 3pm

Hoppet Passports and Results will be available at the Presentation Venue: West Peak Hotel, Lakeside Avenue, Mount Beauty

Saturday 26th Aug 7pm - 9pm

Sunday 27th Aug in the Hoppet Shop

Visitors and community members who are not involved in the event are also welcome to visit the Hoppet Shop and Race Office to check out the results, the souvenir merchandise and the Hoppet Dozen. There are over 30 volunteers helping in the Hoppet Shop/Race Office, many of them don’t even go near the snow, but they're always happy to support the event and for this the organisers are extremely grateful.

Who’s Who This Year

The Kangaroo Hoppet, the southern hemisphere’s largest annual international snowsports event and is held annually at Falls Creek on the fourth Saturday in August.

Along with the usual collection of local Australian recreational skiers, State and National elite athletes and ski marathon tragics from around the world, we have a few special guests who will be making an appearance.

Beijing 2022 Australian Winter Olympic cross country skiers

Phil Bellingham (Sochi, PyongeChang, Beijing), Casey Wright (PyeongChang, Beijing), and Seve de Campo (Beijing) are our current Winter Olympians who have entered this year’s Hoppet. Also expected to be up in the elite group are a few allegedly retired former Winter Olympians who come along to make sure that the latest generation of up and coming Australian national Team members do not take things easy. Included here are Anthony Evans, Barbara Jezersek and Cameron Morton.

Overseas Teams

A growing trend in Europe is the formation of cross country skiing Pro Teams who

The 2023 Hoppet Dozen

One of the more onerous annual tasks for a couple of members of the Hoppet organising committee is deciding which wines will make up this year’s Hoppet Dozen. The Hoppet Dozen contains wines sourced from our local Alpine Valleys and King Valley wine regions. Conveniently packed in boxes of six reds or six whites, the Hoppet Dozen is available only from the Kangaroo Hoppet Race Office in Mount Beauty during Hoppet Week, providing a unique chance to try out a range of local wines in the comfort of your own home.

Sam Miranda Wines is a family run winery on the Snow Road at Oxley, owned, not unsurprisingly, by Sam Miranda. Sam’s grandfather arrived from Italy in the 1930’s and established a family winery in Griffith. Sam moved down to Oxley in the King valley over 20 years ago and established his own winery with a focus on Italian varietals and became involved with the introduction and promotion of Prosecco in Australia.

Billy Button Wines was founded in 2014 by experienced winemaker Jo Marsh who, together with her husband Glenn James, source parcels of fruit from selected vineyards across the Alpine and King Valleys and have cellar door outlets in Bright and Myrtleford.

take part in the Ski Classics series of long distance ski races which includes several Worldloppet races. European teams represented at this year’s Hoppet are BSV Ibex, Vitava Fund and Terrex XCS. Also here for the Hoppet is a team from SAS. ‘SAS?’, you might ask. Well the team is not from the Scandinavian airline but are members of the Schweizerischen Akademischen Skiclub. This reknowned club was formed in 1924 to promote academic skiing in Switzerland and allow students to combine studies and sports and share their passion for skiing.

Biathlon Junior World Champion. Campbell Wright from New Zealand has travelled to the Hoppet a number of times over the last decade taking out second spot in the Joey Hoppet a number of years ago, and second in the Kangaroo Hoppet last year behind American Peter Wolter. Since last year’s Hoppet Campbell has stepped up onto the world biathlon stage, taking Gold in the 10km sprint at the 2023 Biathlon Junior World Championships. Joining him here at the Hoppet will be Maxime Germain from France, who was with Campbell on the JWC podium to receive a bronze medal.

Thirty Hoppet skiers. Twenty Hoppet skiers. Ten Hoppet skiers.

During Hoppet Week keep an eye out for

Their extensive range of varietal wines is guaranteed to expand your wine horizon. Gapsted Estate was established in 1996 by six families from the region who saw the potential of producing high quality cool climate wines from the Alpine and King Valleys by overseeing the production from grape to bottle. Gapsted Estate is focusing on emerging varieties such as Tempranillo, Saperavi, Albarino, Grand Manseng and Prosecco while still respecting and celebrating their classic varieties of Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Shiraz. This Year’s Hoppet Dozen consists of:

WHITE WINES

Sam Miranda Wines

Snow Road, Oxley.

NV Prosecco

2021 Sam Miranda Verduzzo

2023 Sam Miranda Pinot Grigio

Billy Button Wines

Camp Street, Bright & Myrtle Street, Myrtleford

2021 Wildflower Bianco (Friulano/ Vermentino/Gros Manseng)

Gapsted Wines

Great Alpine Road, Gapsted.

2022 Secret Harvest Grand Manseng

2021 High Country Pinot Gris

folk wearing distinctive yellow, red and blue Hoppet caps with either 30, 20 or 10 on the side. These special commemorative caps are awarded to skiers when they complete their 30th, 20th or 10th Hoppet.

Worldloppet Masters and Passport Holders

The Hoppet is part of the Worldloppets series of 19 long distance ski races spread across five continents. Skiers can purchase a special Worldloppet passport with a page for each event in the series. When you have a stamp from ten different races you become entitled to receive a Worldloppet Master medal. One of the conditions of the award is that you must include a race from outside Europe, so a summer trip to winter in the southern hemisphere is a nice way to pick up that overseas stamp, and you can always head on to New Zealand to take part in their Merino Muster a week after the Hoppet and get another stamp.

For an increasing number of skiers getting one Worldloppet Master medal is not enough. If you are really keen on your cross country skiing why not pick up another medal and then another and so it goes on. Robert Palliser (CAN) 24 medals, Jay Weiner (USA) 17 medals, and Minoru Matsuyama (JAP) 15 medals will be at the Hoppet this year. Welcome everyone! •

RED WINES

Sam Miranda Wines

Snow Road, Oxley.

2021 Sam Miranda Pinot Noir

2021 Super King (Sangiovese, Cabernet)

2019 Snow Road Cabernet/Merlot

Billy Button Wines

Camp Street, Bright & Myrtle Street, Myrtleford.

2021 Wildflower Rosso (Barbera, Tempranillo, Dolcetto, Refosco, Sangiovese)

Gapsted Wines

Great Alpine Road, Gapsted.

2021 High Country Tempranillo

2021 Valley Selection Montepulciano

Even if you can’t make it to the Hoppet Office during Hoppet Week, there is no excuse not to drop in on one of our Hoppet Dozen partners’ cellar doors when you are next in the area. •

Major Clean-up Event

Employees of Falls Creek Ski Lifts spent time tis last week making Falls Creek village beautiful.

Staff at Falls Creek Ski Lifts recently joined a clean-up event in Falls Creek, to keep the beautiful village looking great.

Over 35 staff attended the event and collected a huge amount of rubbish that was sorted into recycling and general waste. The litter was collected from the carparking areas, the base of Halley’s Comet chairlift and right throughout the village, as staff formed small groups and walked through all areas.

Bradley Thornton, Health, Safety and Environment Manager at Falls Creek Ski Lifts, said. “It was extremely rewarding to step back after cleaning up an area and see the difference we made in such a short period of time in this important initiative.”

Brad added; “Taking the time on small initiatives like this is an important step towards our EpicPromise goal of achieving zero net emissions, zero waste to landfill and zero net operating impact to forests and habitat by 2030.”

“Thank you to all the staff that attended this event, we are looking forward to doing this again soon and will schedule these events on a regular basis.”

“It was such a nice community event and gave us all a real sense of purpose,” said Betony Pitcher, Marketing Manager at Falls Creek Ski Lifts. “It was terrific to see my colleagues taking time out of their evening, to help our beloved Falls Creek village look as beautiful as possible.” •

Travelling to Falls Creek this winter?

The Partridge String Quartet

A world Premiere in Mount Beauty? With the composer present? Absolutely!! Australian composer David Hush has chosen the Partridge String Quartet to present his ‘4th String Quartet’ as part of their program here in Mount Beauty on September 2nd.

Fourteen minutes long, and in 5 movements, Hush’s work will feature in an evening of classical presentations not to be missed. David Hush’s international reputation includes prestigious awards and commissions for famous ensembles, soloists and organisations spanning three decades. The Melbourne based Partridge String Quartet has brought back members currently working overseas for the performance and recording of Hush’s work. David Hush says: “the Partridge Quartet came to my attention after hearing them play an excerpt from one of Beethoven’s late quartets. This convinced me that they are the perfect ensemble to bring my piece to the world.”

Falls

Mount Beauty Community Centre. Saturday 2nd September. Doors open 7:30pm.

Tickets $25 (non-member); $20 (member); $10 (youth) from Mount Beauty Hardware and Drapery; TryBooking or at the door (eftpos available) •

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

CROSS COUNTRY NEWS

Ski de Femme

This Week, we’ve been making the most of the remaining snow, with great skiing still to be had on the south facing trails and the Mt McKay area. While the Rocky Valley Rush event unfortunately could not proceed, the Ski de Femme thankfully was still able to go ahead, and it was certainly a highlight of the week for many of us!

The Ski de Femme is a free cross country skiing event for women and girls of all ability levels. The tradition began in 1993 when three female Swedish skiers came to Australia to provide more exposure and education of cross country skiing to women and elite skiers here through a funded International Ski Federation/Australian Sports commission program towards gender equality. This visit was a great success and became the catalyst for the development of the annual Ski de Femme, run by the

Birkebeiner Nordic Ski club from 1994 onwards.

This year we had a record turnout of 135 fantastic and diverse women attending the event, and the vibes were immaculate. First off, the women were split into groups based on their experience levels and whether they were classicing or skating, to then partake in 1.5hr technique workshops and activities lead by 12 fantastic female instructors. The bowl sounded like a gaggle of galahs as everybody joined back together in the bowl excited to share with each other what they had done in their sessions, and it was at this time that the scones and tea came out to fuel up on and enjoy.

At midday, the fun-run style race began and despite our dwindling snow conditions, the organisers managed to route a fantastic 2km course loop for participants to either do once or twice around. The finish line was located in the Nordic bowl where the postrace snacks were hanging out, so naturally was a bit of a post-race party for everyone

Smiles all around from a great bunch of ladies enjoying a really good day! Pic – Ella Jackson

to keep catching up on the day, solidifying new friendships, and congregating eagerly for the awesome line-up of spot prizes up for grabs.

Throughout the day I asked a variety of women what an event like this means to them, or what their favourite part of the day is. Here are some of their responses:

“It’s so amazing to see so many women out cross country skiing, having a ball together. It’s so great for building community and for the development of the sport.”

“I’m all the way from Sydney so it’s great to know that when I come to Falls I have this community of women that I could go skiing and adventure with, I’ll definitely be coming more often!”

“Honestly these scones with jam and cream are my favourite part of the event each year!”

“For me it’s all about getting out in the elements of the alpine areas with people of like-minds, and meeting more wild adventurous women.”

“It’s getting lots of women introduced into a sport that they might not know that much about, or, that know about it but might not have the skills to do it, and giving them the access and exposure to this nice winter sport.”

“I know it’s not easy to pull this event together each year but it’s just so wonderful to see everybody out here, I mean the scones are a highlight, but it’s just the vibes overall it makes me so happy. It’s my favourite event of the year!”

“For me it’s about celebrating being out in the snow, women just being together, and what I really like about is that women feel comfortable because they are in a group of people of a similar ski level and they feel that they can achieve a lot more after just one day than they could before.”

I would like to also take a moment to do a massive shout-out and thank you to all of the incredible sponsors that we had this year, the spot prizes were above and beyond this year and very much appreciated by all who won them.

Sponsors for the Ski de Femme this year included:

Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club; Brazen Brownies; Bright Brewery; Fischer; Falls Creek Resort Management; Gather and Harvest; Kangaroo Hoppet; Mountain Sports Physio; Mount Beauty Bakery; Outdoor School; Sassy Road; Silver Seed Jewellery; Tawonga Baker; West Peak Hotel; Wildflower Pilates; YMCA Howman’s Gap and YMCA Windy Corner Café & Ski Hire. Thanks everyone. • Ella Jackson

Not the best weather (but it was snowing) and we just had to get the banner out. Well done to all concerned. Pic – Ella Jackson

SUMMIT BOARDRIDERS

Vale Mark Horan

The early 90’s, an era when snowboarding was often derided and mocked by the old establishment, the words ‘fad’ and ‘phase’ were often used. We were told it wouldn't last and were guaranteed that soon snowboarding will be forgotten.

Mark Horan, arrived at Falls Creek in the early 90’s, having spent some time at Mt Hotham and Big White. Mark worked as an instructor for a while at Falls, He was an avid snowboarder with a distinguished chefs’ background. What wasn’t known was Mark was invited to Falls Creek by the Lift Company - with the vision to raise the profile of snowboarding. The brief, to make Falls Creek a destination for snowboarders,

PROPERTY ADVICE

What's My Home Worth...?

PART TWO

It’s a critical question when selling or re-financing!

Three more ways we can help assess the true and current value of your home!

4 Understanding Local Economic Trends. The local economy plays a big role in real estate values. Job growth, new businesses opening, or major companies moving to the area have an impact on prices.

5. Personalised Assessment. Naturally we consider your property’s unique features, recent upgrades, and overall condition – providing an accurate estimation.

6 Real Time Market Updates. The real estate market is fluid – constantly changing. When there is a sudden surge or shift in market conditions, we’ll be the first to know.

Call us right now on 03 5754 499 to find out!

got a load for the tip?

to increase market share from neighbouring mountains, because the lift company saw, what others rejected, what was really coming with Snowboarding, and the numbers it would bring.

Mark set about enlisting other like-minded snowboarders, volunteers to start a new club. A way to bring the small but rapidly growing community of snowboarders together. Forming a bridge with communication between the Company and the riders. The SBR name came from a desire for something that said Falls Creek, without saying Falls Creek, and simple as that, “Summit Boardriders” (SBR) was born.

SBR’s aim was to provide an on-mountain connection for snowboarders via organised local competitions, parties and hopefully, maybe one day, a true park! It was also a way to discuss and engage with riders the issues being faced and how we, as a group could address them and improve snowboarding’s profile. SBR held fortnightly events for fun and bragging rights. G.S. races on Scott’s, Night time big air competitions in the bowl, even a couple of Halfpipes and Boardercross.

The Park.

A true goal for the club was the creation of a park, a freestyle mecca. But these are expensive, and would it work? It was through Mark’s perseverance and dedication, initially by rallying volunteers to shovel and shape various hits and even a halfpipe. However, this was not sustainable and what was needed was a dedicated crew. Riders paid and trained to shape and mould hits and tabletops that were exciting and safe. Today’s snowboard and skier park rats can truly thank Mark for this. He pushed and pursued, fought and won to see this vision come true. With special mention to Pete Lucus the first crew, and Paul ‘Chicken’ Turvey in the cat. Both also true lovers of the sport.

Social

The clubs’ social events became some of the most notorious nights the mountain had seen. The pimps and prostitute parties at the Man and The Frying Pan became sold out events. Club meetings in the ‘Red Room’ interesting to say the least. At one after race party ‘Spiderbait’ cranked to a packed Frying Pan Inn, becoming a revenue breaking night for the venue.

7 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty

The Big Race

Summit Boardriders was also officially affiliated with Snowboard Australia and the International Snowboard Federation (ISF). The ISF being the overall governing body. Mark was heavily involved with all three, and this tiered system co-ordinated events at all levels, Local, National and International.

The “Corona Classic” was truly Summit Boardriders golden child. The first ever internationally sanctioned Snowboard event in Australia! Mark had triangular snowboard G.S. gates made, why? because they didn’t exist and hadn’t ever been seen in Australia before. Also holding the spectacular Boardercross, with the BMX style starting gates needing to be designed, welded and put together by members with Lift Co resources. Not forgetting Big Air competitions at night in the bowl. One year the entire mountain and Mount Beauty were stripped bare of Corona, just to service the after party.

▼ Falls Creek

SUMMIT BOARDRIDERS

Sadly, Mark passed away this year from pancreatic cancer. With an unfortunate late diagnosis his fight was always going to be hard. He talked fondly of the clubs’ achievements and was extremely proud of what it represented and the legacy left.

To raise awareness and in a special tribute to Mark and his achievements at Falls a reissue of the original SBR shirt is for sale, the first time in thirty years. Styled in replica colours and design from the first ever run. Also raising funds for the Cancer Council of Victoria. Available from The Falls Creek Motel and Yogi’s Ski and Snowboard hire.

Thank you, Mark, for all you achieved for Snowboarding and Snowboarders at Falls Creek.

RIP: Mark Horan, 1965 – 2023. • Ian ‘Fez’ Denford.

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.

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!”

PROGRAM

The Winter blues are entirely normal. You don’t have to face it alone.

MEET IONE MCKENZIE

Mental Health Clinician Ione will be providing support to Falls Creek staff and locals this Winter.

Where: FCAR Admin Day Shelter

When: August 17th & 31st | September 14th

Time: 10am - 3pm

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

Left: A later photo of Mark with his son Otto. Pic – Courtesy the family

Above: Mark on the snowboard – in a stylish outfit! Pic – Courtesy the family

PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

St Falls Apt East 304

Three bedroom, two bathroom, with two balconies at St Falls. Apartment

E304 is a managed apartment at the St Falls complex in Falls Creek.

This is a pure ski in ski out apartment, that is light filled, featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms, sleeping six people with a spilt queen bed in each bedroom and a bunk bed. It is approximately 108 sqm internally and is priced at $1,150,000 sold walk in - walk out. This single level apartment on level three in the East St Falls building looks out toward the majestic Spion Kopje and has prime viewing looking north west straight down to the Kiewa Valley.

Easily accessible with a lift, it offers a goodsized kitchen & lounge room with a large balcony with private hot tub and a second

WELCOME BACK TO WINTER!

PUBLICATION SCHEDULE:

FALL LINES

Hard Waste Collection

balcony off the main bedroom. There is also some internal owner lockable storage which is fantastic. St Falls is in an amazing location with one of the main ski lifts outside the doors with a supermarket, post office, childcare, ski hire, retail, restaurants & bars on site. Plus, you can drive to the door and unpack which is a luxury in winter at Falls Creek. You also have access to a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, and cold plunge pool.

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

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 and other members of the community for a

around 11:30am in the Boardroom above

If you have any specific agenda items, please email http://joprothero@fallscreek.com.au.

BUSH GOTHIC

Sunday 28th May 5pm Mount Beauty Information Centre Auditorium. BYO drinks and nibbles.

Tickets: Mount BeautyNewsagency

Ph: 5754 4204

$25, $20 (members), $10 (students)

A Life to Remember

The St Falls complex has a long alpine head lease, and this apartment is sold with a management agreement in place. With the management agreement, owners can have seven weeks use per annum which is not restricted. If owners wish for more than seven weeks use, the owner shall pay the manager a letting fee equal to 10% of the rental that would otherwise have been charged.

This is the perfect amount of time to enjoy

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

5A Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Phone: 5754 1270

2023 WINTER PUBLICATION SCHEDULE & RATES

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

Ed 13 * 01.09.23 * Kangaroo Hoppet Wrap. Welcome to Gay Ski Week. Burton Junior Masters (C)

Ed 14 * 08.09.23 * Oakley Freestyle Series. Spring Ski Touring Adventure. School Holidays. (C)

Ed 15 * 15.09.23 * Oakley Freestyle Series - Bandwagon Banked Slalom 16th & The Dreamer 17th (C)

ADVERTISING RATES:

DISPLAY: • 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.

• 3 column (19cm wide) = $36.00

Tawonga Crescent

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

per Day

8:30am - 5:00pm Mon - Friday 10:00am - 12:00pm Saturdays

Ph: 5754 3400 for appointments

24 hours for emergencies

ENQUIRIES

$140 per Child + $35 per Day ** More Benefits in 2017**

All orders in by Sunday 30th April.

For further information contact: Falls Creek Ski Lifts P/L Ph: 03 5758 1000

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.

the slopes in winter or use the apartment during summer & winter.

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 planned) – with most being accessed from Slalom Plaza. 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.

The suite of summer activities includes Ignition – the launch of the mountain bike season; the Alpine Challenge; the Mile High Dragon Boats; the regional Longest Lunch; the Bicycle Network Peaks Challenge Falls Creek; the Easter Festival as well as regular mountain bike shuttles and Trails, Tales and Tucker guided walks.

TRADING POST CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE

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.

Complete set of Encyclopaedia Britannica, 45 volumes. Excellent condition, $200 or best offer. No longer needed, got married, wife knows everything. Ph: 0400 350 488.

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.

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)

POSITION VACANT

Public Relations and Social Media Manager - Traverse Alpine Group. An outstanding opportunity has become available for a talented and creative Social Media & Public Relations Manager to join the Traverse Alpine Group Family. If you have a passion for the alpine environment, and love to work in a fast paced and dynamic role, please visit the TAG website: https://traversealpinegroup.com.au/join-our-team/

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.

This is a rare opportunity to secure a property in the most prestigious complex in Falls Creek. Price for this apartment is $1,150,000. Contact: Christina Smit (Christa), Zirky Real Estate, Mb: 0402 277 808. Wb: www.zirkyrealestate.com.au.

The world is changing. And so is AGL. agl.com.au

SHOPPING TIP

I’m not saying it’s rough where I live, but Aldi are selling Father’s Day cards in packs of five!!

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

ENTERTAINMENT

The FretSliders

As the name suggests, The Fretsliders was born out of a mutual passion for two loves – snowboarding and playing guitar. The frets relate to guitar, the sliding relating to snowboarding!

Chris & Lee formed The Fretsliders after Covid lockdowns ceased. Both Chris and Lee have spent a lifetime playing guitar in bands and solo, before combining their skills to form The Fretsliders, an acoustic cover duo from Melbourne.

We always say, we are better because of the sum of the parts we play as an acoustic duo – plus, music is always more fun played with other people. Chris’ musical influences range from mellow guitar classics through to rock and blues styles. Lee on the other hand, rock classics through to a ‘heavier’ almost metal influence. It is the large sweet spot that crosses over somewhere in the middle, classic songs from the 70’s through to contemporary classics that we both love to play – and it works with the diverse crowds we play to. We often receive comments, “you guys have the best song selection – something for everyone.”

Take Lee’s handy guitar skills, combine with Chris’ vocals, add some harmonies and voila – you have the essence of what The Fretsliders is all about. It’s always fun, and we love sharing our love of music with those that love live music too.

Gigging regularly now with a loyal following, we have played pubs, clubs, wine bars and beer festivals, fundraisers and private parties, with regular residency in some of these places. We have the unique pleasure of an upcoming gig to be held at the Melbourne Aquarium. Some of our most fun gigs were last season at Falls Creek where we played at Falls Creek Hotel and Lakeside Lodge – we had a ball!

This year we have been invited back to play at Falls Creek Hotel for the popular ‘Harvey Hour’ (Tuesday 22nd & Thursday 24th) as well as Feathertop Lodge (Wednesday 23rd) and Lakeside Lodge (Saturday 26th).

We look forward to seeing anyone that likes a good tune at our next gig. •

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.

AUG 19 Park Run. 8am at Bicentennial Park & 26 beside the library in Lakeside Avenue. All Welcome. Enquiries to 03 5754 1118.

AUG 19 Night Skiing and Boarding. Every Saturday & Wednesday at 6pm - 8:45pm, on Wombats Ramble.

AUG 19 Australian Open Sprint Championships, (F) 9:30am in the Nordic Bowl. CANCELLED

AUG 19 Summit Masters Giant Slalom, Retro Themed Racing on the Summit.

AUG 19 TDFNL Rd 18: Chiltern V Dederang MB

AUG 20 Australian Open Championships, (C) 9:30am in the Nordic Bowl. CANCELLED

AUG 20 Summit Masters Bumps Skiing Retro Themed Bumps on the Summit.

AUG 22 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, Pete the Snowdragon and during August, World Cup Soccer in the bowl. Further details: 03 5758 1200.

AUG 24 Fireworks Fiesta. Thursday nights at 7pm, in the Village Bowl.

AUG 24 Rudi Pendl Cup. 7pm - 9pm on the Summit. Honouring a much loved local resident.

AUG 26 Kangaroo Hoppet. Falls Creek. Ph: 03 5754 1045. See Centre pages fpr full details on this year’s event and the associated activities.

AUG 26 Oakley Freestyle Series – Storm the Park! Ruined Castle from 8:45am. Big Air – Ruined Castle from 12:3pm.

For further details on coming events, got to: https://www.fallscreek.com.au/whats-on/events/