This Week in Falls Creek & Mount Beauty - 23 December 2022

Main: Carols is back and the Tawonga students did a great job. Thanks to our UKV Lions Club. Pic – Roslyn Ann Photography

Left: Thanks to Santa and the CFA guys for their great community spirit. Pic – Courtesy CFA Centre: A touch of face painting and a candle is what Carols is all about. Pic – Roslyn Ann Photography

Right: Fireworks are on again, 9pm New Years Eve. Pic – Simone Dowel

Accept the Love

The true excitement of Christmas is not about a baby being born in a manger, as special as that is, but that God Almighty, the creator and sustainer of the universe, chose to be a part of the human race; Emanuel (God with us); in the person of Jesus Christ.

For centuries God had been trying to guide and encourage the nations to choose a lifestyle that enabled people to live in lasting fellowship with each other and also with God himself, however, pride, selfishness and arrogance continually cruelled that harmony. Therefore, God chose a new and better way to achieve his original plan for creation, which was to have open and lasting fellowship full of love, joy, peace and hope, the ingredients of an abundant life, and joined the human race in order to change things from within. This he achieved through the birth, life and death of his only son, Jesus, who was the image of God while also the image of a man. How a person can be fully God and fully man at the one time remains a mystery which many find hard

to accept and therefore ridicule the whole idea, going as far as rejecting the reality of God. What they fail to understand is that God does not need our acceptance to be, he just is, whether we agree or not, also God is fully love which means he never gives up on seeking to have a relationship with everyone.

The Christian church celebrates the season of advent, a four week period before Christmas, which focuses on the four pillars of life, Hope, Peace, Joy and Love. We each require a measure of each of these to enjoy a meaningful existence, a life that is

worth living, capable of adding richness and diversity to our communities. Without them there is dissolution, unrest, bitterness and selfishness, all of which are tearing our communities apart. It is interesting to note that we cannot catch hope, peace or joy from others. We can certainly see the effect it has on them and we enjoy being around such people, but when we are by ourselves we lose their influence and are left with our own perspectives and realities of how we see life. The good news is that they are freely available from God and given to all who seek his presence in their lives, and the result is that they enable us to love. A love without conditions or provisos, a that love is ‘contagious.’ Indeed, love is not love unless we are sharing it with others!

Yes, Christmas is a time of expectation and excitement, for sharing gifts, of celebrating with family and friends, of letting our hair down and being in the moment, but if there is no understanding of why we celebrate, that the baby that was born in Bethlehem some two thousand years ago is still alive and powerfully with us, then Christmas only lasts one day. Wonderfully, God is still calling each of us to new beginnings, whether it be for you to let him into your life or to grow in the relationship you have, so that this world might experience the Hope Peace, Joy and Love that enables the spirit of Christmas to last the whole year through. “Merry

around

Snow Daisies on Mt McKay captured by Roslyn Ann Photography

Has Arrived

Summer is finally here and so is Mountain Bike season. Team Mount Beauty is set to host multiple events over the next few months and it all kicks off in January.

14-15 January

Team Mount Beauty will be the host for Rounds Five and Six of the Victorian Cross Country Olympic (XCO) series. This event was set to take place at Falls Creek but due to the landslide it can no longer be held there. Team Mount Beauty will host the event and it will be organised by the Falls Creek event crew and series organiser Big Hill Events. We are very happy to host this event for the affected community at Falls Creek and we hope it will be a successful weekend for everyone involved.

We expect to see over 150 athletes competing at the classic Big Hill MTB venue in what is probably the toughest class of mountain bike racing. XCO is tough, an hour and a half of climbing and descending technical trails battling head to head with the other athletes - it’s a pure form of racing with nowhere to hide. We have two slightly different courses planned for the athletes to race over the two days and we expect some stars of the sport to be here racing.

As it’s an Olympic event there are some very keen junior riders who need to start showing their potential before Paris in 2024, and we can think of no better training ground than here at Mount Beauty.

21-22 January

Our marquee event is the Downhill. Thanks to the Victorian Downhill Series crew, we are pleased to welcome riders

back to Big Hill Mountain Bike Park for the most epic race of the season. Our Downhill events are legendary, multiple World Champions and superstar athletes repeatedly say our DH is one of the best of every season.

This year we are preparing a classic track (DH3 Nationals) to test riders of all skill levels. It’ll feature many technical sections of trail and will finish down the notorious ‘Chute’ section that we haven’t raced in over six years. A small crew of volunteers have been putting a lot of work into the track (over 100 hours at this point) to get it ready to ride a few weeks before the event. We’d really like people to practice on this track to get used to some of the more technical elements.

Team Mount Beauty expect to see 350 riders at this event and as it sits just a week after the National Cup DH event in Mt Buller, we hope to have the best riders in the country here. World Cup stars like Dean Lucas, Elise Empey, Oliver and Ben Zwar, Sian Ahern, Jackson Frew, Connor Fearon and Ellie Smith have all raced here

before and will most likely be entering this year. It’s also perfect preparation for the National Championships in February for the Juniors and Masters categories.

This is just the start of Team Mount Beauty’s summer of cycling, we also have the Enduro event in March and a women’s specific event planned for March too. Stay tuned for future updates. You can follow along all Team Mount Beauty activity at our Facebook Group and on Instagram. • Cheers, Matt Rousu TMB committee member

Dan van der Ploeg in the foreground with Kath McInerney hard on his hammer!

Pic Matt Rousu

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

In the Kiewa Valley

Summer is a time we love. The kids are on holidays, the visitors have arrived and everything is rolling along nicely. After the lock-down, folk from the metropolitan area are heading to the hills –and they’re loving it. The only draw-back is the fact that the Bogong High Plains Road from Mount Beauty to Falls Creek is closed to all general traffic because of a major land-slip at the entrance to Bogong Village. Significant remedial work is being done, but it is unlikely that the road will be open before late February.

While COVID still rears its ugly head, if there is anything good to come out of it is the fact that people genuinely seem to be caring for each other more and respecting each other more. The rush is not there, we’ll all get looked after, and we are all in a very good place. Let’s keep it up while we enjoy these wonderful holidays. And what are we going to do?

Christmas Lights

There are quite a few houses in town where the owners have done a brilliant

job of putting up a wonderful display of Christmas Lights. Well done to all those people – and thank you for exercising a true spirit of Christmas. At the time of going to print, there were about eight homes that have been brilliantly decorated and are worth the visit. There may be more, but your journo did not discover them prior to publication. •

Fishing

The amount of work that goes into these fantastic displays if a credit to the people involved – and all of us get a thrill. Pic - Ken Bell

Information

It’s just one of those peaceful activities that can be enjoyed on your own or with the kids. The rivers are all good and the Pondage has trout and some ‘reddies.’ When you are sneaking around the waterways just be aware - there are Joe Blakes in that there bush.

Fishing rods, gear and licences are available from Rocky Valley Bikes and Sports in Tawonga South. •

GIFTS FOR ALL SEASONS

We have a fabulous array of local products – built on the principles of: Local Handmade Ethical Sustainable Creative

Our range of local products is ideal for pampering yourself – or for treating that special person! There is still time for that special gift!

CANDLE MAKING WORKSHOP

Wednesday 28th December ~ 10:30am - 1pm

OPENING HOURS

Open Mon-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am - 2pm Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day

The Mount Beauty Visitor Information Centre on the Bogong High Plains Road in Mount Beauty is the spot to glean further details on the area. If you are looking for information on activities or events call into the Centre and the staff will be only too pleased to help. The Visitor Information Centre will be open every day from 10am – 4pm except Christmas Day. Phone: 5755 0596. There is also a magnificent ‘relief’ map of the area which provides a better understanding of the area. •

Bikes & Gear for Hire

Rocky Valley Bikes is located in Tawonga South. Operated by Glenyse and Brian Peacock, the shop is full of stock ready to

and healthy New Year.

roll out the door. They have big bikes, little bikes, E bikes and all sizes in between. They have fast bikes and faster bikes, and helmets and body armour and biddens and bikes shirts and gear.

Brian and Glenyse also have golf clubs for hire and lots of fishing gear as well as a great deck on which to enjoy your coffee or smoothie. Ph: 5754 1118. Open seven days a week during the school holidays. •

Mountain Biking

The fabulous team at Team Mount Beauty have spent many years creating and cultivating ripper tracks in the Big Hill Mountain Bike Park. One feather in their cap is that the club hosted the National Mountain Bike Championships in February 1999, prior to Australia hosting the Olympics in September 2000. One of our respected members got the gig of building the XC Mountain Bike course for the Sydney Olympics. (We do have some credibility). The club have recently produced a snazzy new colour map of the trails and they will be available from Rocky Valley Bikes and The Info Centre for a gold coin donation. •

Horse Riding

The traditional way of enjoying the Alpine High Country. Kath and Steve Baird have been operating Bogong Horseback Adventures since 1986 and have spent almost as much time on the high plains as the mountain cattlemen. Supported by competent staff, Kath, Steve and their boys Lin and Clay have taken many of

thousands of riders for the experience of a lifetime. Trips offered range from a two hour ride in the Kiewa Valley, a three hour ride including a light lunch and five day packhorse trips into the high country. Phone 5754 4849 •

New Year’s Eve

If you want to bring 2023 in with a bang, West Peak Hotel is the place to be this year!

Thanks to the support of a number of community organisations, in partnership with West Peak Hotel, Gather Festival will present NYE on the Green on Saturday, 31st December.

Held on the old Mount Beauty bowling

green located at West Peak Hotel, it will be a day filled with live music, delicious food, cold drinks and family friendly fun.

The event kicks off at 2pm, with MC Sammy Tanton opening the festivities with an acknowledgement of country.

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

Keeping it live and local, you’ll hear from some of the valley’s favourite artists who have been performing at West Peak throughout the year, with the line-up including No F Chords, Terry and Charlie Brown, Tommy Hanlon, The Box Hill Chimneys featuring Tawhiti Pahina.

The Lawn Bar will open at 3pm, with wood fired pizza and a gourmet BBQ also available.

Just after 9pm, guests will be invited to divert their eyes to Les Peart oval where - thanks to the Champagne Club Kiewa Valley - a fireworks extravaganza will help celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of the next, before The Box Hill Chimneys continue to entertain and hold a final countdown to 2023 just before midnight.

Christmas Wishes from...

Kim and Brendan would like to wish all clients, their friends and the whole community the very best for Christmas and for a safe, healthy and prosperous New Year.

Alpine Valley Real Estate

7 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 4999

www.alpinevalleyrealestate.com.au

New Year’s

of the Mount Beauty Car Club at the Tawonga track is always a good day out with lots of action. Pic – Dianne Griffith

Thanks to the support of sponsors, NYE on the Green is a free, family friendly event for all to attend, however under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

The event is proudly supported by West Peak Hotel, Alpine Shire Council, Gather Festival, Champagne Club Kiewa Valley, Mount Beauty & District Chamber of Commerce, and Mountain Monk Brewers. •

Tennis

Mount Beauty Tennis Club is open all year round for fee paying tennis players. Court Hire is $10 per hour. If there are people waiting, you are asked to keep your play to an hour at a time. Further details from 0400 350 488. •

Christmas Wishes from...

Meryn, Ashleigh and Jane at Commonwealth Bank Mount Beauty wish all our friends and clients the very best for a joyful Christmas and for a safe and prosperous New Year

Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day Public Holidays 1 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 4344

Christmas Wishes from...

The team at Falls Creek Resort Management would like to wish our stakeholders, visitors and community the very best for a wonderful festive season and a safe and happy new year.

VIC Open 9am – 5pm weekdays

10am – 3pm w/ends & Public Holidays

Ph: 03 5758 1200

Christmas Wishes from...

Fiona, Greg and staff would like to wish all their clients, friends and families the very best for Christmas and for a healthy and fit New Year.

Kiewa Valley Physio

5A Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 1270

Wb: www.kvphysio.com.au

Em: info@kvphysio.com.au

Christmas Wishes from...

Dale and Danelle Neave would like to thank our clients for the wonderful support during this last year and we wish family, friends and customers all the very best for Christmas – and for a safe motoring and healthy New Year.

Mt. Beauty Auto Repairs

229 Kiewa Valley Hwy, Tawonga South Ph: 03 5754 1366

Em: admin@mtbeautyautorepairs.com.au Closed the main public holidays

Golf

The Mount Beauty Golf Club would have to be one of the most interesting golf courses in the area. Some challenges, and some excellent scenery. 18 holes, grass greens, clubs for hire, practice facilities and visitors are welcome. Located at the top of Tawonga Crescent, besides the road to Falls Creek. Ph: 5754 4569. Wb: www. visitmtbeauty.com.au/golf. •

Speedway

Mount Beauty Car Club are running their annual Burson Auto Parts New Year’s Day meeting at the track in Tawonga. Racing starts at 11am and a full day’s entertainment is assured.

Christmas Wishes from...

Heath, Rachael, the family and the team wish all their valued customers and friends the very best for Christmas and for a safe and prosperous New Year.

Fallon’s Falls Creek Coaches & Caltex Service Station

233 Kiewa Valley Hwy, Tawonga South Ph: 03 5754 4024

www.fallscreekcoachservice.com.au Weekends & Public Holidays: 8am – 6pm Weekdays: 7am – 7pm. Closed Christmas Day

Christmas Wishes from...

The wonderful team of volunteers at KV House Op Shop – and we would like to thank our community for the fabulous support during 2021. Best wishes to everyone for a great Christmas and for a healthy and happy New Year.

Kiewa Valley House Op Shop

1A Tawonga Crescent, Mount Beauty Open 10am – 2pm Daily Ph: 0419 615 732

Christmas Wishes from...

The Board of Directors and everyone at the Mount Beauty banking premises and Corryong Business Service Centre send their very best wishes for the festive season and a safe, healthy and happy 2023. We thank everyone for their fabulous support during the difficulties of this year, and also over the past 15 years of our community bank activities.

Mount Beauty & District Community Bank 28 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 4484

The

Day meeting

Events include: GOS Cars; Standard Saloons; Sports Sedans; Open Juniors; Open Ladies and Unlimited Sedans.

Further details from: Mb: 0499 595 921. Admission: $15, U14 Free. Camping and Canteen available. •

Walks

What a great way to appreciate the area –feel the wind on the face – hear the birds singing – smell the fragrance of the bush –and feel the earth under your feet – all the while enjoying all of those aspects that we loosely call ‘beauty!’ That’s what a walk does – it gets you out there.

The Upper Kiewa Valley and the Bogong High Plains cover an area in excess of 1600 square kilometres – so you are not going to appreciate it all in one little walk.

You could start with the Pondage Walk, just on 2.7km. Pebble Beach track to the very end, about 6km from the Visitor Information Centre.

Then there’s the Gorge Walk – also from the VIC. Add to this the walks around Mountain Creek at the base of Mt Bogong. You may then like to have a crack at climbing Bogong – about 20km, 1300 metres vertical and you’ll need a minimum of eight hours.

Christmas Wishes from...

The doctors and our wonderful staff would like to wish the whole community, our clients, friends and families all the very best for a wonderful Christmas and for a safe and healthy New Year.

Refer Display Advert for Christmas Trading Hours

Mount Beauty Medical Centre

2D Tawonga Cres, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 3400

The Gorge Walk in Mount Beauty ends up at this fantastic clear little paddling spot. Pic – Roslyn Ann Photography. http://www.roslynannphotography.com.au/

The Mt Bogong Conquestathon is an organised walk to the top of Victoria’s highest at 1986 metres and this year will take place on Saturday March 4th. Further details in future editions.

If you would like more on walks, call in to the VIC, Bogong High Plains Road, Mount Beauty. Refer ‘Information’ above. •

Christmas Wishes from...

The Volunteer Team at the Op Shop would like to wish the community, their friends and families all the very best for a wonderful Christmas and for a safe New Year. We thank everyone for their valued support and look forward to contributing more to the community next year!

Mount Beauty Opportunity

Shop

Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty

Christmas Wishes from...

Courtney, Gabby and Bronte would like to wish all of their friends, clients and family the very best for a wonderful Christmas and for a safe, healthy & prosperous New Year.We also thank everyone for the valuable continued support.

Mountain Creek Property

215 Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga South Ph: 03 5714 9730

Em: Courtney@mountaincreekproperty.com.au Wb: https://mountaincreekproperty.com.au/

Christmas Wishes from...

Emma and her wonderful team at Lilli Pilli Larder & Café would like thank their wonderful clients, family and friends and wish everyone a delightful Christmas and a safe, healthy and fun-filled New Year.

225 Kiewa Valley Hwy, Tawonga South Open Daily during summer!

Christmas Wishes from...

Elissa and her team at Ski Plus

Would like to wish their clients, friends and family the very best for a wonderful Christmas.

We thank you for your support during the year and we are all looking forward to a healthy, happy and fun New Year.

243 Kiewa Valley Hwy, Tawonga South Ph: 0409 062 244 • www.skiplus.com.au

Open Mon to Sat from Christmas - On

Christmas Wishes from...

The friendly team at the Pharmacy would like to wish the whole community, our customers, friends and families the very best for a wonderful Christmas and for a healthy and happy New Year.

Mount Beauty Pharmacy

11 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty Ph: 03 5754 4224

Closed 25th, 26th & 27th Dec and 1st Jan Limited hours on Tues 28th

Christmas Wishes from...

Frank, Meredith and David and the team would like to thanks all of our wholesalers for their continued support. We wish you and your families, our friends and families all the very best Christmas and for a safe healthy New Year.

Vegitation

Wholesale Fruit & Vegetable Distributors Ph: 03 5754 4226

Mill Rd, Mt Beauty, www.vegitation.com.au

Great Art – Great Spot

The name Charlie Brown is synonymous with Falls Creek. The first Charlie Brown grew up in the 70’s to 90’s in Falls Creek as the son of the late Julian Newton-Brown and mum Beth Brown, the wonderful mine hosts of the popular Julian’s Lodge (now Elk).

The Charlie Brown we are talking about here is pretty handy with a camera. His early days of photography started when he worked as a deck hand on the ferries out of Sorrento on Port Philip Bay, The number of dolphins that were spotted and who enjoyed the company of the passing passengers led Charlie to get the camera out, shooting the dolphins (with film) and then producing Post Cards to be sold to the passengers – as Charlie had the skills and the time to get the really good shots. This little exercise eventually earned Charlie more money than the deck hand caper.

In the 90’s, a love of all things snow – and the images that could be captured took Charlie to Hotham where he took and produced promotional imagery for the company and the resort.

It was around 1999 that Charlie moved to Falls Creek for the winter (while still

maintaining contacts down the peninsula) and began shooting imagery for the resort as well as capturing some classic shots of the brilliant skiers and boarders on the mountain.

During summer Charlie would do contact work, promotional photography for wineries was one element. Another was running photography classes on the high plains – a fabulous place to capture the beauty and the moodiness of our wonderful environment.

Having an ever-growing stock of brilliant images led Charlie to printing and mounting the shots and then to staging exhibitions in the metropolitan area, Albury, Dinner Plain and Falls Creek.

In the last six years, Charlie has been more freelance and a couple of years ago, the opportunity to rent a container, set up a studio to display the printed photography and sell a few coffees seemed too good to pass up, This lead to the location during winter of the gallery and coffee beside Kiewa Valley Ski Hire.

Once again, towards the end of winter an opportunity arose when the operator of Nourish (the health food shop on the

corner of the Kiewa Valley Highway and Wonnangatta Avenue) decide to restructure. This was the perfect opportunity to set up a permanent gallery in a highly visible location – while still providing a comfortable spot for a coffee.

And so it is – after quite a few renovations, the installation of counter space, decent lighting, a coffee window and a lick of paint and the Mountainside Gallery opened for business earlier this month with an opening night crowd spilling out onto the street. Therefore, while you’re in town, looking for some fine art or a fabulous gift, call in, enjoy a coffee and a couple of Hazel’s cookies and have a chat with Charlie Brown. Mountainside Gallery – open from 8am to around 2pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Ph: 0414543 397. •

WHERE 2D Tawonga Crescent.

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

HOW Ph: 03 5754 3400 for appointments

WHO Doctors: Mark Zagorski OAM, Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton, Lauren Cussen, Damian Heman, Daniel Florisson

Sat 31st Dec: 10am - 12noon. Sun & Mon 1st & 2nd Jan:CLOSED.

From Tuesday 3rd Jan - Normal Hours: 8.30am - 5pm

Medical Emergency: Ph 000 immediately!

If you need to see a Doctor, phone the hospital on 03 5754 3500.

A nurse will triage and contact the Doctor on call if required.

Charlie Brown in his new Mountainside Gallery. Pic – Ken Bell

Gardenesque 2023!

Most of us have heard of the Melbourne Flower and Garden show or Floriade, two prestigious events that celebrate all things flower and garden, but have you heard of Gardenesque?

Initiating back in 2019 to a whopping crowd of 7,000 people, you could say this small regional flower and gardening festival has the potential to GROW into something special.

Showcasing the Albury Botanic Gardens ‘Gardenesque’ formal style in which it was designed, reflecting its elegance and heritage charm, every part of this magical garden comes alive with exhibitors, entertainment, and workshops.With interactive spaces you can touch, see, and smell, Gardenesque is guaranteed to inspire the individual to get back into their gardens or start one.

Discover the architectural building properties of bamboo, check out the impressive Bonsai collection from Valibo Nurseries or get busy in the many handson workshops from origami, compost creations, sand sculpture to reclaimed potting boxes, all free for you to enjoy throughout the festival.

With a host of local experts sharing their knowledge and advice on a variety of topics, including Growing Modern Bearded Irises, Futuresteading, Organic and Regenerative Farming, to making musical instruments out of gourds, there is plenty of interesting subjects designed to inspire and educate.

If you’re looking for something to do this Summer holidays, Gardenesque is an attraction set to delight and intrigue all age demographics and interests. If you're an aspirational gardener or a more

Bogong Power Station Information Centre until further notice due to the landslide.

Get up close and personal with ABC’s Gardening Australia host, Costa Georgiadis (Sunday only) as he shares his love and passion for gardening and sustainability.

With 12 taps now installed we can offer a great range of fine ales and beers – all brewed on site!

Plus, we have the re-fillable ‘Growlers’ (2ltr) and ‘Squealers’ (1ltr) so you can take your favourite beer home with you!

DECEMBER OPENING HOURS:

Thurs 22nd: 5 - 8pm (Kitchen 5 - 7:30pm)

Fri 23rd: 12 - 9pm (Kitchen 12 - 2 & 5 - 7:30pm)

Sat 24th: 12 - 11pm (Kitchen 12 - 2 & 5 - 7:30pm)

Sun 25th: CLOSED

Mon 26th - Thur 29th: 2 - 8pm (Kitchen 5 - 7:30pm)

Sat 31st: 12 - 8pm (Kitchen 12 - 2 & 5 - 7:30pm)

Sun 1st: CLOSED

Curly Fries All Day

Happy Hour: Fridays 4pm – 6pm With regular Live Entertainment!

experienced and avid lover of plants, succulents, trees, and flowers, or simply want a great family day out, you won’t want to miss Gardenesque 2023! There really is something for everyone!

10am to 4pm, Saturday 28 January 2023 & 10am to 3pm, Sunday 29 January 2023 at the Albury Botanic Gardens. Tickets on sale now, pre-sale discounts apply.

For more information including tickets and program insights, visit: www.alburycity.nsw.

211 Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga Sth Ph: 03 5754 4443

Em: hello@crankhandlebrewery.com.au

Wb: www.crankhandlebrewery.com.au

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

The ABC’s Gardening Australia host, Costa Georgiadis will be at ‘Gardenesque 2023’ Pic – Courtesy Gardening Australia

Hard Waste Collection

FALL LINES

Congratulations

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. •

Congratulation to Helen McDougal, this year’s deserving recipient of the Alpine FM Warwick Randall Award. The award is given for excellence in volunteering at the station, and Helen has been an exemplary example of an outstanding volunteer at Alpine FM over the past 12 months. She spent much of the year as the Secretary of the Alpine FM committee, ensuring that the administrative aspects of the committee ran smoothly.

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.

Helen is also the Volunteer Coordinator for the station, and has done an amazing job of making sure that any volunteers concerns and needs are seen to, in a very kind and understanding manner.

If you have any specific agenda items, please email http://joprothero@fallscreek.com.au. We look forward to seeing you all there. •

Helen also presents three weekly programs at the station, and always does so in a professional and inviting manner, that make her shows loved by so many.

CHRISTMAS WISHES

Karen, Campbell, their family & the fabulous staff wish all their clients, customers, family and friends all the best for Christma and a safe, healthy and Happy New Year.

on Friday the 28th April 2017 in the Village

and Field Championships. Alec came 1st in the U15 3000m.

Well done Alec, we are all proud of your sporting achievements. •

for all members of the hospitality industry to prepare for winter and do some serious saving on product needs for the season.

Open for Easter Holidays

From every volunteer and member of Alpine FM, we congratulate Helen, for being so deserving of the Warwick Randall Award, and for all your work to help make the station a wonderful environment to be involved in. •

anyone who wishes to attend and pay tribute. Commencing at 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. •

Falls Creek

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

The Good News - Tawonga Caravan Park will reopen to the public in time for the Easter 2023 school holidays, after extensive underground infrastructure works and a refreshed look.

To be held at the Frying Pan Inn, in the Village Bowl at Falls Creek, the Trade Fair will take place on Tuesday 2nd May from 10am to 5pm and again on Wednesday 3rd, from 9am to 4pm.

Bookings will be live in January, and the park will open its doors on Monday 3rd April 2023.

Alpine Shire Mayor John Forsyth said while Council was hoping to have the park open in time for Christmas, contractor delays

Companies invited to exhibit include Bedding Suppliers, Linen, Manchester and Window Furnishing suppliers, Wine and Spirit merchants, Wholesale Food Suppliers, Chemical, Cleaning and Toiletry suppliers and equipment suppliers. Prepare for the season and save money. Visit the Trade Fair @ Falls Creek. Further details from: Mb: 0400 350 488. •

discovering (too late) that your Brake Pads had worn out - just as you’re heading for the tree. Regular servicing is important for the good health of your vehicle - and for your good health and safety! A Motoring Tip brought to you by: Rick @ Mount Beauty Service Centre, Kiewa Valley Hway, Mount Beauty, Ph: 5754 4261

Bowl at

for

from Milestone

Helen McDougal with Alpine FM Committee President, Linda Parkinson. Pic – Courtesy Alpine Radio

and lease negotiations have slowed the process down.

“We want to make sure the park is ready to welcome guests,” he said.

“Our new park operators BelgraviaPRO will upgrade the existing cabins, and there is still some external path work, drainage and landscaping to be completed.This work will be complete by Easter, which means park guests will get the best possible experience when they visit.”

“The Tawonga Caravan Park is an important asset to the local economy, so it’s essential that we bring it to a modern standard while still preserving the character and charm that visitors enjoy so much.”

Council has invested significant funds into the infrastructure below ground, including upgrades to sewer infrastructure and electrical and fire services.

Cr Forsyth said most of the project budget has been used for these essential service upgrades, particularly in addressing serious wastewater issues.

“Visitors will be able to experience a refreshed version of the park they already know and love, with improvements to the renovated amenity blocks, camp kitchen and the new office and kiosk modular building at the front of the park.

“Belgravia will be investing over $2 million into park infrastructure over the coming five years, including new cabins, a playground, bike storage, playrooms and other capital works.” •

FOR SALE

One brand new pair of ASICS Tennis shoes, size 46 Euro (11.5 US). Worn once. Too tight for me. Retail Price: $159.95. Will sell for $120. Ph: 0400 350 488. Stubby series 1000 universal woodturning lathe, as new, $9,000. Ph: 0408 466 790.

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

Blade X rollerblades, as new not yet used, men’s size 43, $100. Ph: 0408 466 790.

ALTERATIONS, DRESSMAKING & REPAIRS

Call Kerry Mb: 0407 814 114 for all sewing needs.

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

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.

Congratulations

A huge shout out to local photographer Matt Rousu on getting a fabulous shot on the front page of AMB Australian Mountain Bike magazine. The shot of Chris Panozzo in action with Mt Bogong in the background really promoted the area. The edition also featured an article ‘Road Tripping Victoria’s High Country’ and Matt’s photo from our Big Hill mountain bike park sets the standard.

Many of Matts images have appeared in this paper and your Ed is eternally grateful. Being a member of Team Mount Beauty, Matt has also supplied an article this week on some of the coming MTB events. Well done Matt. •

Falls Creek Gift Guide

Buy your loved one an inspired gift from your favourite mountain village.

We know it’s been another busy year for you all, and for many, another year of resilience building with challenges along the way. With a landslide affecting access to Falls Creek at the moment, our local businesses are being challenged once again. So we have put together a list of gifts you

can buy that will help support our local families and businesses, but also put a big smile on the face of your loved ones.

The other great thing about purchasing a gift from our list is if you’ve left it to the last minute for your gift purchases, these will appear in your inbox almost immediately and you can pop them under the tree without the stress of car parks, queues or busy shopping centres. It’s a win for everyone.

Scan the QR code to find the perfect mountain lover’s gift. •

TRADING POST CLASSIFIEDS

RM Williams Cuban Heel Boots, Bushman Tan, with added rubber protective sole. Almost brand new. Size 9 G. Retail $309.95 will sell for $250. Ph: 0400 350 488.

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

A POINT TO PONDER

Funny how millions of people on an internet platform where they can communicate instantly with people on the other side of the world using incredibly powerful

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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

FREIGHT – ALB – MTB – FALLS CREEK

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

HAIRDRESSER

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

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

VALLEY FUN & FITNESS CLASS

Every Tuesday at 9am at the Ladies Facility, Dederang Recreation Reserve. All equipment provided. Bring a drink bottle and towel. $6 per session. A great way to keep fit and socialise at the same time. Class usually followed by coffee at the Dederang Shop. Classes by Narelle Jones (Personal Trainer). Enquiries: Sharon McEvoy 0438 289 293 (the6maccas@bigpond.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.

SAFETY SCAFFOLD

Mount Beauty and Falls Creek area. Ph: 0418 578 500.

SECURE STORAGE

From 2m x 2m through to 3m x 7m. Ph: 0418 578 500.

SPORTS MASSAGE

Book On-Line: impactmassage.com.au

STORAGE

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

hand-held computers linked to orbiting satellites hundreds of kilometres in space still don’t believe in science!!

A great shot by Matt Rousu on the front cover of AMB! Pic – Courtesy AMB

Falls Creek

This Summer

The closure of the Bogong High Plains Road at Bogong Village could be termed a ‘bloody disaster!’ But, it could have been worse – imagine if it had happened for any part of winter.

For a while it looked like we may have lost power because of the slip at Bogong which could have meant the total closure of the village – fortunately that risk has diminished considerably and residents and some visitors are taking advantage of the Bogong High Plains and Rocky Valley Lake. Access to Falls Creek for the general public is via the Omeo Highway, coming north to Shannon Vale and then up the Bogong High Plains Road and over the dam wall to Falls Creek and even Pretty Valley.

Access from the north is down the Omeo Highway from Tallangatta via Eskdale and Mitta Mitta to Shannon Vale, then up the BHP Road to Falls. If you have time when travelling either way there are a couple of significant places to visit.

From the South, Omeo has many attractions

and the Blue Duck Inn at Anglers Rest is also a must stop. The spot is called Anglers Rest for a reason - the fishing in the Cobungra and Mitta Mitta Rivers.

From the north, the drive down the Omeo Highway provides beautiful scenery and you can visit Dartmouth and the dam, call into the Mitta Brewery or the Mitta Pub before heading to Shannon Vale and Falls.

The Falls Creek Visitor Information Centre will be open for business starting this coming Thursday 29th December and will be open seven days a week from 9am to 4pm.

The centre is located upstairs at the corner of the Bogong High Plains Road and Slalom Street (beside St Falls Resort). Ph: 03 575 1202. •

Falls Creek and the Upper Kiewa Valley have been severely impacted by the land slip on the Bogong High Plains Road at Bogong Village and subsequent total road closure. The current feeling is that the road may not be open until February 2023.

This paper and the Falls Creek website will bring you up-to-date news as soon as we get it. Below is a list of planned activities and events and their potential future dates.

NOV 11-13 AASHA Conference, Falls Creek. Moved to May 5th – 7th 2023

NOV 18-20 Ignition MTB Festival, Falls Creek Moved to 24 – 26th Feb, 2023

NOV 16-28 Alpine Challenge, Falls Creek & the Bogong High Plains Moved to 22 – 23rd April 2023

JAN 1 Mount Beauty Community Market 9am - 1pm. Hydro Park (opp the Post Office). You make it, bake it, grow it –you’re welcome. Enquiries to 03 5754 1118. NB: There will not be a market on Saturday 7th Jan.

JAN 1 Mount Beauty Car Club Annual New Year’s Day race meeting. From 10am at the track in Tawonga.

JAN 5 Twilight Market On the Green. 244-252 Kiewa Valley Highway. Tawonga South. 5pm-9pm. Live music. Fire performer. Food, wine, craft beer and stalls. Gold coin donation entry. BYO blanket or chair. Mb: 0412 226 753

JAN 14-15 Victorian XC MTB Series, Falls Creek This event will hopefully be moved to Mount Beauty but negotiations are still under way.

JAN 21-22 Victorian Down Hill Series Mount Beauty Round hosted by Team Mount Beauty.

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