It’s been a bittersweet kind of death by a thousand cuts end to the season, if I’m being honest. Anti-climactic and a little depressing, but that’s it folks, Snow Season 2023 is done and dusted. This season had a little bit of everything really, but the most used word to describe it has been ‘unusual.’
The declared season was officially due to close on October 1st, so we fell short by 11 days. The north-westerly winds combining with the very unseasonal temperatures rapidly decimated the snowpack, with melt exaggerated by a lack of low temperatures overnight helping the reset, thus impacting the grooming team’s capacity to move snow without causing further deterioration. Ultimately, guest safety is paramount, which also saw the FC ski patrol team having to close runs sooner than expected.
I’ve spoken about the average season repeatedly during the year, in particular as it relates to snowfall. However, there’s a lot more that goes into a season than you could possibly imagine.
Now, a traditional ski season is somewhere between 113 and 120 days long. An average season sees the snowpack peaks at around 160cm, from cumulative snow fall of circa three metres, and the season sees in excess of 450,000 visitor days spent at the resort, with on hill services provided by roughly 1,800 extraordinary ‘Falls Creek’ employees.
Over 100,000 car parking spots are utilised, approximately 1500 skiers get help from ski patrol, up to 950k litres of potable water is consumed per day, and up to 181ML of water is applied to snow making (a bit higher this year), whilst 750+ tonnes of rubbish gets collected with over 50% of it diverted from landfill via recycling and 55 tonnes of food waste repurposed. Not to mention the 10,000kms of roads travelled to clear snow for access, or the 5,600km’s of XC trails groomed and the 44,000 plus packages of freight delivered across the village.
Most people travelling and staying at the resort do so for about three nights, and resort entry season pass holders come to the resort at least 17 times a season either staying multiple nights or day trips, with an average of 3.7 people in every vehicle, whilst around 25,000 people come to the resort in a bus!
These stats are only a fraction of the big data collected over winter, however it indicates how important the resort is to driving economic activity into the region, but also being integrated with a host of service providers across the region, that help Falls Creek deliver it’s experiences.
RESORT ENTRY PERMITS
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
Family Pass (2 Adults 2 Children) $130
Excess Luggage (per bag) $10 (each large bag of the 3 bag allowance)
ATS Luggage Transfer Season Pass (per Adult) $230
Taxi Service (up to 10 ppl - no Luggage) $110 $200
For More Information
For more details about Falls Creek Resort, please visit: www.fallscreek.com.au
Village Access: All roads in Falls Creek Village are now closed to traffic.
Now, with winter officially ending, with the new Board of Alpine Resorts Victoria having declared the official snow season closing early, Falls Creek begins its transition to green season. This also means, anyone visiting Falls Creek will not have to carry wheel chains, although any regular visitor to the Alps would leave them in car (so too some diesel additive) given there have been snowy days outside the snow season, where chains have been advised to be fitted.
With the finalisation of the season, access into the village will be opened up from Monday 25th of September. A hard rubbish collection day will be held on Sunday the 24th, with the Howman’s Gap Snow Clearing depot receiving hard rubbish from stakeholders, business owners and apartment owners of Falls Creek. This and other dates for collection periods can be found here: https://corporate.fallscreek. com.au/operations/
Last year, we started early, this year, we’ve closed early, which creates it’s own challenges. This year the snow gums bent and cracked due to rime, not snow load, as humidity remained well above average throughout the snow season. This has resulted in planning for considerable vegetation management and clearing works to rectify trail for the summer MTB opening and ensure trails are restored. The operations and trail crew have a herculean task to remove, repair and restore trails to be safe for riding, ahead of the official opening weekend in November (https:// ignitionmtb.com.au/).
With the temps warmer, the melt will have caused more damage than in previous seasons due to water coursing faster than usual, so we request anyone planning to come to Falls Creek ahead of the MTB weekend opener to stay off the trails whilst works are being undertaken.
The Winter blues are normal. You don’t have to face it alone.
Meet new Mental Health Clinician Leah Walker, supporting Falls Creek Staff and Locals for the remainder of the season.
Where: Wellbeing Room in the FCAR Admin Day Shelter
When: 10am-3pm, every second Thursday from 14/9
Book: Stop by for a chat or phone 0499 806 691 or email leah.walker@each.com.au
content and promoting the resort and region, plus employing the local kids to deliver the paper, no matter what the conditions. Not to mention the odd humorous comment or joke embedded in the paper!
Instead, visit the lake, with the melt the plug hole could spill again, plus trout season is open, the new pontoon will be completed by the end of October, and work to improve the foreshore facilities, including upgraded seating and visitor amenities will complement the boat ramp and pontoon. Our summer events calendar is near finalisation with another busy calendar including regulars like Ignition, the Dragon Boat regatta, Feastival (yep – its back), Peaks Challenge, the Longest Lunch, MTB De Femme and a host of other races and events.
The National Gravity Enduro Series acts as the qualifying series for the Enduro World Series. See mention in the article with Ben McIlroy.
In closing out winter 2023, I reiterate my thanks to the veritable army of people who contribute to making snow seasons great and Falls Creek the ultimate all seasons resort it is. Thankyou.
Thanks to all for another great season. We, the Falls Creek community, businesses and stakeholders look forward to welcoming you back, year-round, but especially next Winter.
Finally, to the Dederang – Mt Beauty Bombers U14’s footy team… well done Champions and to all the coaches, parents, supporters on winning the Grand Final, such a great story and road to success.
To the Editor of this esteemed publication, Ken Bell, well done on providing great
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.
Now, start tuning up your mountain bikes, practise your trout casting, dust off the kayak, pump up the road tyres, find your disc golf frisbee… summer is nearly here. • Stuart Smythe, Falls Creek Alpine Resort
As a member of the Falls Creek Race Club, young members can... Race Club
• Learn life skills in a wonderful rewarding environment.
• Make friends for life – with opportunities to travel the world.
• Learn to ski and board in a family friendly surroundings. Programs from primary to late teens – including tertiary tuition for full-time athletes.
‘An integral part of Falls Creek and its history!’
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
E: ski@fcrc.com.au
W: www.fallscreekraceclub.com.au
the Panabode building.
Phone: 03 5758 1202 for further information
Wb: www.fallscreekmuseum.com.au
Em: info@fallscreekmuseum.com.au
Fb: facebook.com/fallscreekmuseum
Yack have always been tough opponents. In the previous five years, we have never walked away singing the song and have quite often been beaten by large amounts. This year we hoped to change that.
In our first meeting in Round 10, we had the win we were after and announced to the league that DMB had arrived. The next time we played was only a few weeks ago in the first final where in a hard fought game, we came away with the victory by 17 points. Our third and final encounter would be the 2023 Grand Final at Sandy Creek.
We entered the day with huge support from the community with Red and Black adorning shops and houses all along the Kiewa Valley Highway.
We knew Yack would be tough - they had taken out all other teams to make it to this game. And in the first quarter, they came
out strong, kicking the first goal and had the ball up their half for a while before a little handy work and lovely left foot from Jack Coulston hit Jai Redmond lace out, 25m in front which he slotted to steady the ship. Head of our baby bombers, Rowan Jones dislocated his thumb whilst attacking the ball, but with true grit and determination, (some tape and a fitness test by his mum), he was back out making a difference in no time. However, for the first time this year, we found ourselves behind at quarter time; DMB 1-2 8 to Yak 1-3-9.
The boys needed a little rev up at the quarter time huddle and with that they were sent out again. Our centres started to get first use of the ball. Toby Derrick was killing it in the ruck whist Beau Duggan (while tagging the league’s best player) got a fair bit of the ball himself. Our backs were staunch! See ball, get ball away! No better example of this than Jacob Cooper’s bump on a Yack player off the ball. Our forwards were also on the move. And when Massimo Perri kicked his first, closely followed by a twisting, turning Darcy Fallon making his way to the goal line to also kick his first, we looked like we could have our head up and ready to run away with it… only to be stopped by a late Yack goal to go into half time, one goal up. DMB 3-4-22 Yak 2-4-16
The boys were told that this was the premiership quarter… IN A GRAND FINAL! This is where they needed to lift. And lift they did. When Jai snapped to kick his second, we were all thinking could this be it?!! But try as we did, we just couldn’t put Yack away; and with two goals in two minutes to Yack; going into the last change, SCORES WERE LEVEL! 4-6-30 each.
The boys had been in this position against Yack only three weeks earlier. We said that this is when we need all that they have. But our boys were starting to tire and injuries were mounting. Toby Derrick was a prime example. Battered and injured, but unwilling to give up. Both teams had opportunities to kick goals. And in the final minute of the game, Yack power house and League best and Fariest player Ollie Boddenberg had the ball and speared it into a leading forward; it looked like the dream was over. BUT along came 12 year old, 4 foot 6 inch, Tully Duggan; who came in from the side to make a match saving punch to not let the ball enter the Yack forwards hands. With seconds to go and 3 points in it; try as we might, we just couldn’t get it out of the Yack forward line. Mark Flay mopping up every push they tried until… the siren sounded. Dederang Mount Beauty are Premiers!
A great effort from all players. Nobody left anything out on the ground, especially Darcy Fallon who was awarded the best on ground. A special mention to Jack Coulston, who was also awarded DMB’s player of the final series.
A great bunch of kids that their coaches are incredibly proud of! •
Amajor incentive for Australian athletes in the Kangaroo Hoppet are the eight $1000 AGL Scholarships that are awarded based on results in the U14, U18, U23 and open age classes. With the cancellation of this year’s event there are no age class results to base these awards on, so AGL will be donating the $8000 to Snow Australia Cross Country to support their national and development team programs with $6000 for the Towards 2026 program supporting athletes travelling overseas for competition in the coming northern winter, and $1000 each to the Victorian and NSW/ACT Regional Junior Development Programs.
In announcing this contribution Chief Financial Officer Gary Brown, said "With the cancellation of the Kangaroo Hoppet this year, AGL are proud to be able to support the National Team Program and the Regional Junior Development Programs in Victoria and ACT/NSW. These scholarship funds will support younger developing skiers with coaching and training support, and for our elite skiers assist them to compete at the top of their field."
In acknowledging AGL’s support for the National Team Program Finn Marsland, Snow Australia’s Cross Country Skiing Program Coordinator said "The AGL scholarships at the Kangaroo Hoppet provide one of the main opportunities for up-and-coming Australian cross country skiers to recoup some of their training expenses. Athletes typically use the funds towards international flights and accommodation when they head overseas to train and compete. AGL's support for the
staging of the Hoppet and assisting to grow our sport is genuinely appreciated by the skiing community and helps to underpin our athlete pathway from the state junior level all the way through to our aspiring winter Olympians."
"Snow Australia will use the scholarship funds for pretty much the same purpose. Our Towards 2026 fundraising project puts money directly towards athlete expenses at international events such as World Cup, World Championships and World Junior Championships."
The final National Team training camp was held at Falls Creek and Mount Beauty last week, with athletes spending time on snow early in the day, following up with afternoon dryland training down in the valley. •
Our National Team.
Back row: Noah Bradford, Tommi Silvester. Middle row: Seve de Campo, Hannah Price, Fedele de Campo, Adam Barnett, Emily Champion, Charles Hiam. Front row: AUSXC Head Coach Alexei Sotskov. Pic – Courtesy Aus XC
OPEN 8AM - 2PM
Seven Days a Week
Until end of October
Breakfast, Snacks, Coffee & Lunch
DJ’S DECK PARTY
Saturday 23rd September 12noon to 6pm
On the 1550 Deck Drinks up to 50% Off!!
Saturday 23rd September
Mountain views, friendly staff, reasonable prices & delicious food!
BOOKINGS RECOMMENDED
SES BBQ
Afull weekend of musical jamming sessions is happening in Mount Beauty later in October.
Impromptu, spontaneous, original, classic and organic are the main ingredients musicians of all standards can expect, experience and contribute to over this fun filled and lively weekend Jam.
Kicking off between 10am and 1pm on the Saturday and the Sunday will be a Beginners Jam Sessions which will include Musical Mentoring and some walk through on playing a few popular and easy songs. Experienced musos are invited to be mentors for short one-on-one and small group workshops so that those with a desire to be better musicians can benefit from that experience.
From 1pm on each day both an acoustic and a plugged-in jam will guarantee some great listening and inspiring participation.
The great bonus for the whole weekend is that it’s free to participate and free to listen. Dancing is strongly encouraged too!
West Peak Hotel in Mount Beauty have kindly offered the whole venue for the Kiewa
Valley Jam and that means there is space aplenty for the various sessions that will happen over the weekend.
A professional band equipment setup, including a drum kit, will be available at the Plugged In stage in the Brewers Lounge while in the Acoustic area favourite songs will be beamed up onto a big screen so that everybody can have a good crack at nailing the chords and lyrics. The singing quality will be up to the participants.
Saxophones, stringed things of all shapes and sizes, harmonicas, double bass, penny whistles, kazoos, tambourines, clarinets, trumpets, percussion thingies, voices, squeeze thingies, keyboards, trombones and of course, recorders, are just some of the potential instruments that could be present. Surprise us with more please!
Alpine FM, our local community radio, will be live broadcasting the Sunday Open Mic and the Hat Band to the whole world via the www! Open Mic spots are limited so put your name down early for a chance in the spotlight.
The weekend will wrap up with a performance by a Hat Band where five musicians names are chosen (from a hat, of course) and given only one hour to practice
a number of their choosing - then they will perform it. Anything could happen but history shows that spontaneity and talent usually result in some amazing music. This is a community driven and family friendly, free event. If you are a three-chord wonder or if you are wondering if you could be the next Thelonious Monk, Taylor Swift or Eric Clapton, or you just aren’t sure but like music (who doesn’t?) then please join the Kiewa Valley Jammers at the West Peak Hotel over the weekend of October 21 and 22. For further details contact Glenn Wilson, Mb: 0418 991 680. Em: gw53@westnet. com.au. •
On the 24th September 2023 myself and another local Jacarra Drew will be heading to the US, Hollywood actually, to dance at Universal Studios and Disneyland in Anaheim.
Whilst in Hollywood not only do we get to perform at Universal Studios, we will also be doing a performance at the well-known Farmers Market, along with time for some sightseeing, tours of Universal Studios and even time to ride some of the attractions. On our trip from Hollywood to Anaheim we will do a performance at Citadel, previously an old tyre factory which was built in the style of an Assyrian castle of King Sargon II. One of the highlights of our time in Hollywood is the opportunity to join a masterclass with Millennium Dance, known worldwide as the premier studio of the Commercial Dance World.
In Anaheim we will spend all our time at Disneyland. We will have breakfast with Goofy, perform on stage at Disneyland and join a dance workshop with Disney Imagination Campus. We will then have a few days to explore Disneyland as tourists. Personally, I would like to thank Falls Creek Coach Service and Heath Fallon for offering to generously sponsor me for part of my trip. This opportunity is a once in a lifetime opportunity and their generous support helps towards making my dreams come true. Falls Creek Coach Service has the best
drivers on the hill and I am proud to be associated with them not only through this trip but also as a regular customer on their service. • Lily Bye
Apretty simple word – but it means a hell of a lot. The simple act of saying thanks means that you recognise the person who is supporting you. In this particular case it is your Ed saying thank you to the wonderful business operators who support this paper with their advertising. Then there are the contributors who supply interesting and topical articles. This paper belongs to the community and these contributions add diversity. A special thanks to Stuart who, following on from previous CEO’s, has kept us in touch with resort operations and facts and figures in a positive manner.
Thanks to the team at Specialty Press in Albury who have printed this paper for 44 years – and never let me down! In that team is a particularly talented graphic designer who has dealt with the ‘jig-saw puzzle’ of creating adverts and laying in the articles and images – constantly under the pump – and giving us a very professional product worthy of the resort. Thanks Lee!
Another extremely talented helper puts the paper on-line each week with a fabulous introduction – enabling the many Falls Creek friends all around the country to stay in touch with the resort. Thanks Simone for your creativity and skills.
Then comes the distribution! A little army of local friends who go out in all conditions and deliver the paper around the resort –with only the minor slip-up. Thanks to Ava, Max, Teagan, Caleb, Jayden, Lily and Sibella for a great effort.
And then, thanks to old mate Noel, who gets the paper out and about in Mount Beauty Tawonga, and to Nicki who delivers to the RMB;s Tawonga to Dederang. It’s been 44 wonderful winters – with more to come. And. Last but not least, thanks to the loyal readers who offer the positive feedback which keeps us going! • KB
Our intimate personal dinners for small group are proving to be a favourite with regulars and visitors. Please feel free to contact us and discuss your requirements and timing. Regards, Roi and Sue.
Just when we thought we had put a three year pandemic and several wet, cold winters behind us, another wet winter ended in a devastating landslide and a fourth year of challenging circumstances came into play. As usual, individuals and communities have managed and supported each other in different ways. The adaptability and agility of the Bogong School staff have been amazing. They all deserve gold medals. The folk who had been living at Bogong Village have had an anxious time as well. The UKVCA hope they have found suitable alternative accommodation and can see a way forward some 11 months later. It has been a massive team effort from both community and business, and we thank and congratulate everyone for coming out the other side in one piece.
The UKVCA does its best to advocate for the communities of the Upper Kiewa, and we encourage our members to let others
know what we do. To keep abreast of what is happening in our community, we attend the monthly Shire Council and CHAG meetings, whether online or in person.
The UKVCA submits nominations for the Australia Day awards annually because we want to ensure that dedicated members of our communities are recognised and remind you that any individual or organisation can submit these nominations. Our valuable awardees are acknowledged on the Honour Rock in Hydro Park.
One of the challenges the UKVCA has is ensuring there is enough money in its coffers to cover administration and insurance. Once again, we have been lucky enough to be on the raffle roster at West Peak Hotel, which means we have managed to earn enough to cover all those costs. This is a great relief and certainly takes the pressure off the committee. We thank West Peak Hotel for the support they provide to our communities.
The Shire offers community grants each year. Many may not know that the UKVCA is often the only Kiewa Valley representative on those panels. We encourage all members of the Upper Kiewa Valley to consider sitting on one or both panels in the future.
The more Kiewa Valley representation, the better.
Our continuing projects include the next section of the Kiewa Valley Trail and the Open-space project, opposite AGL. We keep a close eye on the condition of the open space, and I thank committee members from the UKVCA who give up their time to attend working bees to keep on top of it all. New signage on the Kiewa Valley Trail, which acknowledges the massive amount of work done by our volunteers, was installed this week and, of course, by volunteers.
The UKVCA and, particularly, John Gibbons’ determination to bring the Tawonga South toilet block project to fruition has paid dividends recently, with Alpine Shire Councillors approving the request for the shire to purchase a small parcel of land on the east of Kiewa Valley Highway. This is not to say construction will start any time soon, as the council must source much funding for the building phase, but we can feel assured that it WILL happen.
The UKVCA also auspices the ‘Totally Renewable Energy Kiewa’ (TREK) working group. This year, this group has overseen
Friday 22nd & Saturday 23rd: 9am – 5pm
From Sunday 24th: 10am – 3pm
Closed Friday 29th & Sundays in October
• 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. Phone: 5758 3009
For pick and pack deliveries please visit www.foodworkshighcountry.com.au
To see if you are eligible for one of our grants, download our guidelines or call us, then submit your application between 1 July 2023 and 30 September 2023.
the installation of solar panels, batteries and a diesel generator at the Mount Beauty Sports Stadium, the town’s designated Neighbourhood Safer Place, at a value of $203,000. The batteries are capable of storing 72 hours of electricity. Helen Haines will officially launch the project on Thursday, 19 October, at 10 am.
The UKVCA is always looking for new members and to volunteer to join the committee. We invite anyone passionate about our communities to contact us.
As with any good committee, it is a real team effort to ensure the job gets done.
Maintaining our website and Facebook page is essential. We are seeking someone to join the committee who could help with this vital role. We encourage you to ‘like’ our website and Facebook pages if you have not already.
We will keep the Alpine Shire on its toes as our goal of improving and maintaining communication is at the forefront of everything we do. Ultimately, we strive to support you, our members, to be catalysts for change and improvements in our community. We encourage you to join us or renew your membership for the next 12 months.
Please go to the website to find our banking details. www.ukvcommunity.org.au. •
Recent posts indicate there is positive interest from people wanting to call the Upper Kiewa Valley home.
Time to get plan work around the home. Hardware, Homewares, Workwear, Clothing, Boots, Garden gear, Gifts & Outdoor supplies! Gift vouchers and free gift wrapping available.
Mount Beauty Hardware & Drapery Store
Mon – Fri: 9am –5:30pm Saturday: 9am 4pm Sun & Public Hols: 9am 2pm
12 – 14 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 1999
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
Enjoy the comfort and safety!
A skeleton timetable will operate until Friday 25th June – when the full timetable will come in to operation. Refer to our website for further details. www.fallscreekcoachservice.com.au
But remember, the same convenient service applies! Leave the worries of pre-purchasing Resort Entry, Hiring and fitting Chains, coping with Anti-Freeze and Icy slippery roads behind you. Park your car in the Secure Car-Park in Tawonga South and enjoy the comfort of our modern warm coaches and experienced drivers for your holiday at Falls Creek. Check the Website for services from Melbourne, Albury and Mount Beauty.
Questions on shops, schools, population can be answered by Google – but other queries are about getting a feel for the community.
Positive and welcoming responses have highlighted the number and variety of community organisations and the number and diversity of the events in the area.
Our events range from the Writers Festival, mountain bike events, running events, the music festival, regular community markets and a variety of workshops, classes, healthy activity and more…
For those wanting to explore our region further, visit: https://www.visitmountbeauty.com.au/or you can also drop by our office for a chat.
233 Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga South Phone: 03 5754 4024
❄ Fuel ❄ Oil ❄ Antifreeze ❄ Chains ❄
The UKVCA will continue to represent and advocate for our communities. We need our members to spread the word and explain what we do. Specialising in Alpine Body Corporate Management.
For professional personalised service, please contact Annelies Zirknitzer Mb: 0422 773 895
mail@alpineassetadmin.com.au
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, 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!”
This two bedroom, one bathroom apartment is ideally located in Falls Creek's village bowl, the always popular Snow Ski Apartments enjoy convenient access to resort facilities and arguably the best ski-in/ski-out access in the resort.
Representing great value for money this fully self-contained, furnished single level, two-bedroom apartment features a wellappointed kitchen, dining area, drying cupboard, washing machine and dryer, TV & WIFI. Designed to sleep five, the apartment is ideally suited for families or couples. Situated next to Gully Chairlift, the property is located on the ground floor of the complex, allowing direct access straight off the slopes with no stairs.
There is a large drying cupboard for your snow gear and ample room to store your snow equipment before you move into the hallway. The bathroom features laundry facilities, vanity area & separate toilet, whilst adjacent to the bathroom is the shower.
The head lease expires 2051 and the property has on-site management if you wish to rent.
While the enjoyment of Falls Creek as a winter resort is undoubted, it is the growing suite of summer activities that adds untold value to a purchase in the village.
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 some being accessed from the Village Bowl. 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 new Trails, Tales and Tucker guided walks are also proving to be a real hit.
Falls Creek Resort Management will be 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 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.
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. (See Fallscreek.com.au/events for a complete list).
The asking price is $490,000 and should therefore be seriously considered. For further detail and information contact the agent: Christina Smit (Christa) at Zirky Real Estate, Mb: 0402 277 808. www. zirkyrealestate.com.au •
If you have any specific agenda items, please email http://joprothero@fallscreek.com.au. We look forward to seeing you all there. •
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
and also a plate to share. In the case of wet weather, a contingency plan will be in place. and it is understood that members of Lyn’s
Trade Fair @ Falls Creek
Something of an institution since 1982, the Trade Fair @ Falls Creek is an opportunity
Tickets: Mount BeautyNewsagency
Ph: 5754 4204
$25, $20 (members), $10 (students)
PUBLICATION SCHEDULE:
Ed 1 * 20.10.23 * Summer Activities - Cup Weekend. Ignition MTB W/end. Remembrance Day (C)
Ed 2 * 03.11.23 * Ignition MTB Festival. Alpine Challenge. Christmas Shopping Program (C)
Ed 3 * 17.11.23 * Alpine Challenge. Superflow MTB Lead in, Christmas Shopping Specials. (C)
Ed 4 * 08.12.23 * Superflow MTB Competition, Christmas Shopping Specials.
DISTRIBUTION:
• All accommodation houses, restaurants, businesses, club lodges & apartments in Falls Creek, Bogong Village, Mount Beauty, Tawonga South, Tawonga & Dederang, plus the RMB’s between Dederang & Tawonga & selected venues in Bright & Myrtleford.
ONLINE:
• Available in PDF form at: www.fallscreek.com.au/whatson/
WEBSITE:
• www.thisweekinfallscreek.com.au
ADVERTISING RATES:
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.
CLASSIFIEDS:
Tawonga Crescent
• 3 column (19cm wide) = $36.00 per cm. 4cp = $49.00 per cm.
• Like the Trading Post. Send in your Classifieds and pay when you sell.
BUSINESS DIR.: • $6.50 per line per Edition. DEADLINE:
WHERE WHEN HOW WHO WHAT
8:30am - 5:00pm Mon - Friday
10:00am - 12:00pm Saturdays
Ph: 5754 3400 for appointments
24 hours for emergencies
Drs Mark Zagorski, Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton & Anoop Pem.
says Ken Murray (73yrs of age), who once again is top of the 2023 Leaderboard on the Falls Creek App …as he was also, in 2022 and in second place in 2021.
“When I finally have to go to an Aged Care Home, I want to enter with all happy memories and no regrets” he says.
Ken calls it ‘Adventure 60,’ because he says: “there are 60 minutes in every hour and 60 seconds in every minute, so I have enjoyed my life of pouring positive energy into as many valuable seconds, minutes, hours and days that I can. I have no time for negative energy winging and complaining waste of time”.
“As a result, I have experienced a most blessed life of many incredible adventures.”
“I love and appreciate all the many workers on the mountain, who make our joy of snow skiing such a huge pleasure every year.” Ken is well known by many at Falls Creek. His cheerful greeting and appreciating the lift workers and many others, they say, makes their day.
At 73 years of age, this 2023 year, Ken has set the benchmark of skiing an average 62.5km per day for his 50 days on the leaderboard. He skied 3,125km, which is about three quarters of the way across Australia.
Ken and his lovely wife Ruth of 47yrs of happy marriage, travel 2,000km from Clermont in Queensland each year, to be with their married children from Tawonga South, Martin & Jenny Kusz and grandsons Matthew & William, as well as Rob & Sheree Murray and four grandchildren Lydia, Boaz, Nate & Caleb.
Some years, their daughter Lisa and two other grandsons Patrick & Charlie, travel down from Brisbane to join Ken on the slopes.
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.
ROLA Roof Racks to suit Commodore VB, VC, VH, VK, VL. Were anodized black but faded so I had them powder coated black. Can come with mounting brackets for a single road bike. $350 or near offer.
Ph: 0400 350 488.
Blade X rollerblades, as new not yet used, men’s size 43, $100. Ph: 0408 466 790.
ARBORISTS
A fully insured, GST Registered, ethically minded local business. Alpine Valley Arborists. Call Kane 0428 287 814 or Hayley 0427 272 777 – for all things trees!
ALTITUDE PHYSIO & MASSAGE
Frueauf Village (below Ory’s Falls Creek), Ground Floor, Room 2, 43 Schuss St Falls Creek. Ph: 03 5758 3766. Em: fallscreek@altitude.physio
BONNIE LUVE BEAUTY
Exciting new business opening in Yackandandah and servicing the Upper Kiewa Valley, Bright and Myrtleford. Offering services such as Massage, Waxing and Lash and Brow Tints. In the coming weeks Facials, Body Treatments and Nails will be available also. Call Bree on 0438 680 440.
BOWEN THERAPY & MASSAGE
Tawonga South. Ph: Heather 0428 993 125.
BUILDING & ELECTRICAL
Duggan & Hanlon, your complete building service. Please cal Justin Mb: 0458 220 879.
CAKE MAKING & DECORATING
Elene Wood at www.studioecakes.com.au in Tawonga – for all occasions. Mb: 0409 673 192 or Em: hello@studioecakes.com.au
CAR DETAILING
Give Steve a call in Tawonga South. Ph: 0423 499 086.
CARPET CLEANING
Call Nathan of NatWest Home Maintenance, your local Carpet Cleaning Service. 0410 480 697.
Every Tuesday at 9am at the Ladies Facility, Dederang Recreation Reserve. Bring a drink bottle and towel. $6 per session. Classes by Narelle Jones. Enquiries: Sharon McEvoy 0438 289 293 (the6maccas@bigpond.com)
FALLS CREEK REUNION
Being Planned. Potential dates are 7th, 14th or 21st October at the Rising Sun Hotel in South Melbourne. Touch base with Rod Drill on Mb: 0412 481 711.
DON’T COMPLAIN
I was walking in the woods with my girlfriend, and she started whining about how it was getting dark, and she found it creepy. I told her, “you’re ok, I’m the one who has to walk back home alone!”
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
COLLECTABLES & HOMEWARES
I Dream Of Snow - Vintage snow collectables & brand new homewares. Open on-line all year round. www. idreamofsnow.com
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
Altitude Electrical – no job too big or too small. Domestic, Commercial & Industrial. Ben Svarc Mb: 0419 801 109.
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.
All of Ken & Ruth’s children and grandchildren are accomplished skiers and snowboarders.
‘We all love this wonderful Adventureland of Falls Creek and Mount Beauty and surrounding district, and make the most of it” Ken says.
Congratulations Ken and to the family as well – and we trust there are many more years on the Falls Creek leader board! Ed. •
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.
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
For anything tech related home or business, call Ray! Ph: 0412 812 263 or Em: ray@raystechsupport.com
“Well, we are not here for a long time, so we may as well make sure we are here for a good time”
Looking for an adventure this summer? Look no further than Wild Guides Escape! Our team of experts knows the Victorian Alps like the back of their hands, and we're here to help you create a personalised mountain escape that's tailored to your every desire.
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COVID-19 Restriction changes and weather may impact some of these events. Please check with the organiser for the most up-to-date information.
SEP 23, 30 Park Run. 8am at Bicentennial Park beside the library in Lakeside Avenue. All Welcome. Enquiries to 03 5754 1118. No Park Run on 26th because of Hoppet.
SEP 22 Start NSW School Holidays.
SEP 24 SES End of Season BBQ Lunch at the Falls Creek Hotel, from 12:30.
OCT 7 Mount Beauty Community Market 9am – 1pm. Hydro Park, Lakeside Ave. Ph: 03 5754 1118.
OCT 7 Mount Beauty Writers Festival. West Peak Hotel. https://www. mountbeautywritersfestival.com/
NOV 17-19 Ignition Mountain Bike Festival – The start of the mountain bike season at Falls Creek. https://bluedirt.com.au/ignition-mtb-seasonopener/
NOV 25-26 Alpine Challenge – Running the High Plains with distances from 30km to 160km. https:// www.runningwild.net.au/alpine-runs/alpinechallenge.html
DEC 9-10 Fox Superflow MTB Competition @ Falls Creek.
JAN 26-27 Mile High Dragon Boar Regatta – Rocky Valley Lake – Falls Creek.
FEB 3-4 Victorian Enduro Tour – Falls Creek Round
FEB 17 Australian Grand Traverse – Falls Creek to Hotham.
FEB 23-25 Feastival Falls Creek – A celebration of all things good in the high country.
For further details on coming events, got to: https://www.fallscreek.com.au/whats-on/events/