Alpine Shire councillors have voted to object to a 400MWh battery storage plant proposed for farmland on the Yackandandah-Dederang Road in the Kiewa Valley.
David Byrne, a first-term councillor from Myrtleford led the successful push to dismiss a planning staff recommendation to make a formal submission to Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny in support of the facility in Dederang.
Minister Kilkenny will ultimately determine whether the project goes ahead. But the move by councillors is a timely boost for objectors
Falls Creek FoodWorks
Bogong High Plains Road, St Falls West
Ph: 03 5758 3009 | Fx: 03 5758 3034
Em: fallscreek@stores.foodworks.com.au
Open Peaks Weekend
Fri 7th: 10am – 7pm | Sat 8th: 8am – 7pm
Sun 9th: 9am – 7pm | Mon 10th: 9am – 3pm
Regular Hours: Weekdays: 10am – 5pm Weekends: 10am – 3pm
Mt Beauty Foodworks
4-16 Kiewa Crescent, Mt Beauty P: 03 5754 1400 F: 03 5754 4829
E: mtbeauty@stores.foodworks.com.au
Open Seven Days 8am – 7pm Labour Day Monday 9am – 5pm
who have been fighting against the proposal put forward by Mint Renewables in late 2023.
Cr Byrne cited the loss of agricultural land and fire risks among multiple concerns he had. The two hundred plus concerned residents who attended listened intently as he read his amended motion. The hall erupted in applause as the intent of his motion was realised.
Councillor Byrne’s amended motion stated: “After careful consideration of the proposal from Mint Renewables and residents in favour as well as feedback from concerned residents and experts, I have identified several critical issues that must be addressed before moving forward with this project. I urge the council to reject this proposal based on the following key concerns.”
“The long term environmental consequences of this development, particularly its impacts on the local environment, are simply too great to ignore.”
“There are widespread concerns that
Visitor Information Centre - OPE N F OR BUSI N ESS -
Mon to Fri: 9am – 5pm W/ends & Pub Hols: 9am – 3pm
Located upstairs in the Resort Management building, cnr
The next Hard Waste Collection will be Sunday 30th March
Drop Off Location: Snow Clearing Depot, Howman’s Gap.
Contact: 4 SITE Mb: 0437 306 799
Ph: 03 5758 1200
Em: info@fallscreek.com.au
Wb: www fallscreek.com.au
the addition of large scale industrial infrastructure would irrevocably alter the visual landscape.”
“One of the most concerning aspects of this proposal is the absence of detailed make good provisions at the end of the project’s life. Without clear plans for decommissioning and restoring the site, we risk leaving behind a lasting environmental and financial burden.”
“The proposal has encountered strong opposition from the community and it is important to highlight that Mint Renewables, the company behind the project, has failed to act in good faith in addressing the concerns of local residents.”
“(Dederang) is home to some of Victoria’s most productive agricultural land and is zoned farming and this proposal will contribute to the loss and fragmentation of this important zoning,” he said.
“Dederang is classified as high fire risk, indeed the entire shire is classed as bushfire prone.”
“Given the volatility of battery energy storage systems, particularly during extreme weather conditions, the risks can’t be ignored.”
“The possibility of fires caused by battery failures or malfunctions presents an unacceptable threat to the community and surrounding natural environment.”
Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy attended, as did James Trenery, Liberal candidate for Indi. Helen Haines declined to attend due to a previous engagement and did not send a representative.
This small but important battle may have been won by the community, but the war is not over, and we must keep fighting.
Democracy won last Tuesday night. To date the community have lodged 795 objections to the Planning Department. •
A recent news item mentioned that the Tasmanian Government is considering selling more of its assets to bring down spiralling debt.
Firstly, why does the government have spiralling debt and secondly, who ever thought selling off assets that belong to the community was ever a good idea. We are all suffering as a result of the decision to sell off the SEC, now we seem to be developing an attitude where big business are the only ones that can do anything while the average public are treated as ‘serfs’ or ‘peasants.’
A little anecdote that has been around for a while explains a real home truth: “Money is like shit – you concentrate it and it stinks! You spread it out – it’s like fertiliser and creates growth! Ed •
Monday 24th February could be put down as a pretty exciting day for the Falls Creek Mountain Bike Park as construction begins on the highly anticipated UCI Spec Downhill Trail. The renowned trail-building company Dirt Art has been awarded the contract, and World Cup Racer Darcy Coutts will be leading the project.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the highly experienced and passionate team from Dirt Art, led by Darcy Coutts to head this trail project. It’s going to be a huge milestone for our Mountain Bike Park and will attract riders from all over.” Said Falls Creek General Manager, Dean De Santis.
“We are excited to get started with works on the new Falls Creek downhill trail. With a range of technical terrain on offer, our teams are looking forward to creating an exciting new gravity trail, which will add a new style of trail to Falls Creek’s already diverse trail network”. Said Dirt Art’s Managing Director, Simon French.
This downhill trail is part of a larger project announced in 2021, aimed at expanding the mountain bike park by nearly 40 kilometres. In 2022, 11 kilometres of single track were opened, including trails Skyline, Heavy Metal, and Downtown. The addition of a UCI-spec downhill trail fills a crucial gap and will enable Falls Creek to host major national and international events in the future. The trail will run from the Top of the Summit
down to the Bottom of Gully, dropping roughly 270m elevation across 1.8km kms of trail. All going to plan, the project is expected to be wrapped up before the snow falls this winter and will be ready for opening next summer.
The UCI trail is one of eight projects funded by the Alpine Business Support Package, which aims to boost visitation, create business and job opportunities, and enhance 'green season' tourism in Falls Creek. This initiative supports the broader goals of increasing the region's appeal and economic vitality. •
Coffee, Drinks All Day Normal Hours 8am - 4pm Daily Slalom Plaza | Ph: 03 5732 8000 17 Bogong High Road, Falls Creek https://stfallsresort.com.au/ Talk to us about your wedding, function or corporate event!
Anyone who has ever attempted Peaks Challenge will understand the deep, personal connection that this physically demanding, emotionally challenging event creates.
I’ve felt that connection grow stronger every year since I took on my first Peaks in 2012. Over the years, I have visited the High Country many times, and it has become a second home - as I know it has for many. Peaks Challenge is more than just a ride - it’s a test of resilience, determination, and the incredible support of a passionate riding community.
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the townships of Falls Creek, Mount Beauty, Harrietville, and Omeo, who play a vital role in this experience, embracing our event and welcoming riders year after year. We were also thrilled to announce our five-year partnership last year, ensuring that Peaks Challenge will continue to call the High Country home for years to come.
This year, we are thrilled to celebrate our biggest event to date, with over 2,300 riders taking on the challenge from Falls Creek. It's incredible to see so many people ready to push their limits, whether tackling Peaks for the first time or returning to share in the spirit of this remarkable event.
We’ve seen riders flock to the mountains over summer, spending time in the High Country and exploring everything it has to offer, supporting the towns that embrace our event and the communities that look forward to hosting us each year.
Saddle up your determination, your endurance, your strength, and your courage. Pack a dose or two of generosity, spirit, encouragement, and camaraderie. These are the attributes that set Peaks riders apart and make this an event like no other.
So let’s really make it personal this year and conquer the challenges of 2025 together!
Alison McCormack Chief Executive Officer, Bicycle Network •
Falls Creek Alpine Resort is incredibly proud to host the Peaks Challenge for another year.
The event is the pinnacle of our road cycling offer and a special highlight on our summer event calendar. We look forward to hosting the many participants, crew and supporters over the weekend and trust that everyone will be able to enjoy all the experiences that Falls Creek has to offer – including fabulous accommodation, restaurants, bars and activities.
We recognise and applaud the commitment every participant has made in their preparation to get to the starting line and wish you all the best with the challenge ahead. On behalf of Alpine Resorts Victoria, our stakeholders, businesses and residents, we are delighted to welcome you to our alpine village in the majestic Bogong High Plains.
Good luck and safe riding
Dean De Santis
General Manager Falls
Creek Alpine Resort
This would have been 16 years of this fantastic event – had we not had a small landslip above Bogong Village on 12th October in 2022. As we all know, that slip knocked out the road to Falls Creek and consequently, businesses in the area are still doing it a bit tough. The good part is that there is a huge amount of effort going in to make sure this year’s event is one of those screaming successes – and it’s looking real good with entries exceeding every previous event. Bicycle Network CEO Ali McCormack has announced this year’s entries at 2300 – Fantastic.
Back in the 2006 AGL decided to dig a tunnel to run water from the McKay Creek Power Station to the new power station to be built underground at Bogong Village. This tunnel would be 6.5kilometres long and five metres in diameter. By my Handymath.com calculator, that works out to 12,762,716,912 cubic metres of rock – which was rated at about 200mpa (with average concrete rated at 20 to 30 mpa).
This incredible amount of rock – which had not been designated for any purpose –would surely be enough to seal the 32km of the Bogong High Plains Road from Falls Creek to Shannonvale. And so the process started and as a result of that sealing – many activities have now been able to take place. The good news is that the 10.5km of Bogong High Plains Road from the East Gippsland Shire boundary (this side of Mt Cope), past Cope Hut, Wallace’s Hut and Watchbed Creek to the Rocky Valley Dam wall has now been re-sheeted with a hot-mix bitumen – and is beautiful to ride – making your trip home just that little bit more enjoyable.
Having just completed 200km, with about 35km to go, riders turn left at Shannon Vale and… That sign on the road says ‘Seriously WTF? The altitude here is around 720m ASL, and in the next 14km, riders climb to around 1520m ASL. A great effort. Pic – Courtesy Bicycle Network
One of the first and still the biggest event is what was then called the Bicycle Network
Three Peaks that took place on Sunday 7th March 2010. 1852 riders entered, with some electing to ride from Falls Creek to Dinner Plain and others electing to do the second half – Dinner Plain to Falls Creek. The weather on Saturday was great – but Sunday – Oh dear! It rained and it was cold – especially climbing Hotham –with many pulling out at Dinner Plain.
Over the years many locals have ridden the event. Names like Bernie McArdle, Andy
GOLF CLUB Sunday 23rd & 30th March Sunday 6th & 13th April
4pm Start –Play for Two Hours
No Cost to members
$5 non members
Drinks available at the bar after play.
Enquiries to Liz, Mb: 0447 467 022
Mero, Justin Hanlon, Tina Cook, Mitch Cook and Larry Franklin are just a few that come to mind. Then later we have Brian Peacock from Rocky Valley Bikes and Meredith Iaria; Ron Gallagher; Mandy Bland; Atilla Kerestes; Shaun Power (having done if five or six times) Kevin Bradley, Iain Morrison and more recently Lyn Landry and Alex Smit.
And as the weekend approaches, we must simply say thanks to the team at Bicycle Network and to all of the volunteers who make this event happen.
One thing we can do is welcome everyone who has made the effort and make sure they understand that we appreciate their support and the effort they have made to get here.
Let’s all have a wonderful weekend and enjoy the challenge!!! •
Bikes – Road | Mountain | E Bikes Bikes for Kids to Adults Bike Gear & Accessories
Fishing Gear, Licences & Bait Tubes for the river!
New Café doing Brekky Fri to Sun, Lunch Wed to Sun
Outdoor seating for coffee, snacks & smoothies 7 days a week
from 8am ~ 7 Days a Week
PEAKS CHALLENGE 2025 FROM 5:30AM MARCH 9
Equivalent to a mountain stage of the Tour de France, Peaks Challenge is a 235km loop ride with 4000 plus metres of climbing and a 13-hour deadline. More info HERE
WATERSPORTS & FISHING
Rocky Valley Lake is the jewel of the high country, 250 hectare of crystal clear water waiting to be explored! Head to the foreshore area (just before the dam wall) for grassy banks, picnic spots and a safe entry point to paddle or swim
JUNIOR PEAKS PUMP TRACK DERBY 2025 FROM 11AM MARCH 9
After the adults set off, the junior fun begins in the village bowl from 11am Sunday. Register for the Pump Track Derby at the Falls Creek marquee in Slalom Plaza on Saturday.
HIKING & TRAIL RUNNING
Explore the High country’s undulating plains for the vibrant alpine wildflowers. With a variety of walks to enjoy, from an easy 1/2 hour stroll to scenic vantage points to more challening day or overnight hikes.
DISC GOLF
Try your hand at Disc Golf with friends and family! Much like traditional golf, players aim to complete each hole in the fewest number of strokes; except instead of a golf ball players use a frisbee! Open Now! Head to the Visitor Information Centre to hire your discs
RESTAURANT
1550 @ St Falls
Blue Dirt Cafe
Foodworks
Feathertop Restaurant
Frying Pan Inn
JB’s Restaurant & Bar
Lakeside Bar & Eatery
Ory’s Restaurant
Slides Cafe
Snonuts
Spud Shack
The Chophouse
The Last Hoot
The Man Hotel
Friday - Sunday 8am - late
Monday 8am - 4pm
Weekends 8am-5pm
Monday - Saturday 10am - 3pm
Friday - Sunday 5pm - Late
Friday - Sunday 4pm - late
Friday - Sunday 12pm - late
Friday - Sunday 5pm - late
Friday 4pm - late
Saturday - Sunday 8am - late
Monday 8am - 2pm
Friday 8am - 4pm
Saturday 7am - 4pm
Sunday 5am - 4pm
Monday 7am - 11pm
Saturday 10am - 6pm
Sunday 12 - 7.30pm
Saturday 12pm - 6pm
Sunday 12pm - 7.30pm
Wednesday–Friday: 4pm–12am Saturday: 3pm–12am Sunday: 3pm–11pm
Daily 5pm - Late
Saturday - Tuesday 5pm - Late
Serving up some seriously tasty breakfast and lunch. It’s the perfect place on a sunny day to enjoy a beverage on the terrace with stunning views down the valley.
Friendly crew. Local hangout. Come and sit by the fire and enjoy true mountain hospitality.
A good selection of fresh food and a bottle shop.
Enjoy drinks and dinner in this cosy atmosphere with great views!
Enjoy classic craft beers and superbly prepared BBQ dishes in an elegant gastropub atmosphere. Please book online or call 03 5758 9100.
JB’s offers a range of European inspired baked goods and coffee in the morning, with an authentic German dinner menu in the evening. Dinner by pre-booking only please call 03 5758 3278
Fresh summer menu, sunset views from the balcony & $15 house cocktails and specials! Kids Meals, billiard table and games room to keep everyone entertained! Bookings Essential
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner on select days and times. Enjoy top-notch coffees, delightful cocktails and a locally sourced menu!
Situated in Slalom Plaza Slides is meeting place for visitors to Falls Creek and locals… and it’s always a hit with the kids. Serving up coffees, hot choclates and refreshing drinks
Offering the famous decadent Milkshakes, French Crepes (GF), Snonuts Donuts & coffee all freshly made to order.
The Spud Shack offers simple and quick hearty meals and snack options.
Louisiana inspired menu which is complimented by house cocktails, our locally sourced wines and our craft beers with a warm and inviting atmosphere for everyone. Bookings can be made online or Phone 03 57 58 3888
Your go to spot for delicious pizza, burgers and friendly vibes. Always open, always great. Bookings recommended, call 5758 3088, takeaway available.
A classic Falls Creek pub known for their epic pizzas, drinks, pool table and other pub games. A bottle shop is available on site from 4pm daily on opening days.
Saturday 1st of March and with sunrise still an hour away, people arrived for the mandatory Gear Check and Registration, collecting their timing bib whilst taking a few deep breaths as night turned to day and the mighty challenge of hiking/running a 21km loop of Victoria’s highest mountain to 1986m began!
Mount Bogong Conquestathon does provide everyone participating a huge feeling of achievement and to see those huge smiles at the end is the best feeling. First though, there is one very long steep climb of 1410 vertical meters in only the first 9km up Staircase Spur, only continuing, with the 12km return decent down the rocky track of Eskdale Spur via Camp Creek Gap and along Mountain Creek Track!
Great crowd in the morning light. Pic – Courtesy
Committee A great place to be at any time – let alone during the conquestathon. Pic – Courtesy Conquestathon Committee
The Mount Bogong Conquestathon raises funds for our local Birkebeiner Nordic Ski Club, Search and Rescue and because of this; most of the ‘on mountain’ volunteer marshals are from this local B.N.S.C S&R. This team also stay on the summit the night before to set up and provide an accurate weather assessment, ready to support participants. This crew of amazing volunteers assist police to locate people that get lost or need help in our alpine areas.
Earth Core gardening supplies, rakes, mowers, blowers, drip systems, all trades tools, Wattyl Paint Distributor, Professional laundry powder, Hills clothes lines, garden sheds and shelving, chain saws (service and sharpening also), air compressors and lots more!
Plus: we supply water filters, Supa Gas and offer a glass cutting service. We also have tools and equipment for hire!
It was superb to see many families with several younger people participating this year. Although Conquestathon does need to have firm cut off times for the safety of all participants and our volunteers, our event provides a safe way for people who would perhaps not otherwise hike Mount Bogong alone, the opportunity to do so in a supported way. To have families sharing this experience is a true highlight to observe in addition to the more competitive, who are out to run Mt. Bogong quite quickly!
From the 295 people who started, only 28 people were from the three most local postcodes of 3697, 3698 and 3699. This has demonstrated that this event brought many more people into our local community from several hours away, including interstate to spend the day or perhaps stay overnight and through the weekend with friends and their families. THANK YOU for being part of it! All event organisers on the committee are volunteers and meet regularly to plan for and prepare this event months before. Thank you Warren (Sheepy) Sanders, Nicholas (Nikko) Wright, Nathan Roberts, Michelle Davies and Owen Davies. Appreciation also for Mary Hall, our Race Secretary from the Kangaroo Hoppet. Nikki (Nik Nok) McKilliam has also been a huge contributor for this event and also featured in our video where she shared some excellent recommendations to help other people. Not forgetting all the many willing volunteers who contacted us wanting to help and who came to assist with registration, helping on the day and with the event pack up.
Category Winners:
Male Open:
1. Ian Best from Canberra
2. Hugo Lee, Melbourne
3. Harri Silvester, Mount Beauty
Female Open:
1. Jas Vollmer, Melbourne
2. Nik Nok McKilliam, Falls Creek
3. Mimi Bennett, Tawonga South
Male Under 18:
1. Mason Harris, Wodonga
2. Rowan Jones, Kancoona
3. Harper Wilson, Porepunkah
Female Under 18:
1. Eleanor Chlebna, Bright
2. Sierra Davies, Mount Beauty
3. Claudia Neil
For full detailed results: visit Alpine Timing website: https://www.alpinetiming.com.au/ results/r549/
We are so lucky to have the professional services and support of Michal Trnka at Alpine Timing. Michal provides a top quality event timing and registration service.
Fastest Team Award And Largest Team Award
“Bridge Road Brewers Run Club” were the team to win both categories!
THIS TEAM supported the event by encouraging 18 people to enter a team and support each other during their Conquest of Mount Bogong!
Their award is for two nights free accommodation for the whole team that
participated in the event at, (and sponsored by) Howmans Gap Alpine Discovery Camp, Falls Creek.
The three fastest finishers of this same team, also won the “Fastest Team” category and were each awarded a pair of ALTRA Trail Running Shoes and a $250 Voucher for Grass Valley Refreshments in Tawonga South - a fantastic local business!
Altra Running, came to support the event by providing seven pairs of Trail Running Shoes for all open and under 18 category winners in addition to the Fastest Team!
Many more people were lucky winners of our Spot Prize Draw, sponsored by AGL listed here:
Alpine Outfitters $150; Crank Handle Brewery $160; Farm to Fork Butchery 2x $75; Gather & Harvest Gift Pack; Grass Valley Refreshments $250; Impact Massage $90; • Kiewa Valley Sports & Spinal Physiotherapy $100; Pizzini Wines; Rocky Valley Bikes $150; Ski Plus 2x $75; The Park, Mount Beauty $200; Treats $150; Tawonga Baker 2x $50.
Local businesses who also supported the event are:
Crank Handle Brewery - for hosting the volunteer briefing dinner and some drinks;
Foodworks Mount Beauty - all the lollies and chips for the checkpoint and finish line; Lilli Pilli Green Door and Food Store - for the delicious food & lunch for our volunteers; Settlers Tavern - for the ice to keep the water and food cool; Vegitation Wholesale - all the healthy fruits including the most popular watermelon.
In 2026, Mount Bogong Conquestathon will take place on Saturday 28th of February, so save the date and well… It’s never too early to start some hill climbing preparation to make next year even more enjoyable for you!
Please follow / like our event Facebook page to scroll back through updates and preparation video and to hear more in the lead up to the next. https://www.facebook. com/MtBogongConquestathon/ • Nikko
Come join us at 4SITE for Winter 2025 4SITE is a family owned and managed business.
At 4SITE we have a wide variety of indoor and outdoor jobs for you to choose from. Here is a list of available roles:
• Administration Services
• Guest Services
• Car Parking crew
• SnowCat Operators
• Waste Management Team
• Freight Services
• Cleaning Services
4SITE will be employing multiple applicants for each position.
Our incredible team work together to operation.
Variety is the spice of life! If you like to mix things up, 4SITE is the place for you.
If you are looking for a great crew to work with Please supply by scanning QR code or go to: http//4siteaustralia.au.deputy.com/jobs
Closing date for applications is 5pm, 1st April 2025.
In the annals of the history of Falls Creek, there is one man who is often overlooked. He did not set up the first ski tows or lifts; he did not operate a commercial lodge; nor was he a ski instructor. Nevertheless Tom Mitchell played a significant role in the development of the village and is deserving of recognition for the role he played, if not as a ‘founding father’ but as a guiding ‘godfather.’
The Mitchell family were among the early settlers in the Upper Murray area and it was at the family property Towong Hill that Thomas Walter Mitchell was born in 1906. Tom Mitchell first learned to ski on a family holiday at Klosters in Switzerland when he was seven years old. It was fourteen years later while studying law at Cambridge University that he developed his passion for skiing. In the 1930’s he was four time Australian champion in slalom, twice in downhill events and four times combined champion. On a number of occasions he captained the Australian team in inter-dominion competitions with New Zealand. He made a strong impression when
Tony St Elmo and Tom Mitchell ski out across Bakers Spur to plant a flag on Mt Hillary in 1953, north of Mt Nelse, and which now seems to have been lost off the map. Pic – The St Elmo Collection.
he won the 1932 NZ national championships on Mt Ruapehu, “his high standard of skiing an inspiration to the local skiers, demonstrating techniques not previously seen on the mountain.” In 1937 Tom published Ski Heil, the first Australian handbook on skiing technique. The same year he was instrumental in establishing the Australian National Ski Federation. Tom Mitchell married in 1935 and taught his wife Elyne to ski. She, too, became a champion - winning the Canadian downhill championships in 1938. However it was as an author that she is most remembered, especially for her ‘Silver Brumby’ series for children set in the Snowy Mountains.
At the outbreak of World War II Mitchell joined the AIF. After the fall of Singapore he
became a prisoner of war; one of the founding members of the ‘Changi Ski Club’. Interest in skiing had not diminished during the war years; in fact membership of the Ski Club of Victoria (SCV) had grown from 459 members in 1940 to 1,000 by 1945. Of this number 200 were serving in the armed forces.
The November 1945 edition of the SCV’s magazine, Schuss, included an article about the Changi A.I.F. Ski Club of which “Capt T.W Mitchell, with his usual enthusiasm for all skiing affairs, was president.” At a meeting of the club on 5th February, 1943, the subject was about “increasing and improving accommodation and conditions in the snow areas of Australia.” Mitchell led the discussion proposing the development of alpine villages, suggesting that ski clubs should adopt one particular resort and spend their energy in developing that particular resort.”
CFA RAFFLE NIGHT
All Welcome!
Join the locals and have a fun night supporting the local CFA Thursday Nights
The Man Restaurant Slalom Plaza
March 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th
From around 6pm.
Raffles Drawn around 8pm
PUBLICATION SCHEDULE:
Ed 09 * 21.03.24 * MTB de Femme – Falls Creek. Victorian Interschools Cross Country MTB Championships.
Ed 10 * 04.04.25 * Alpine Challenge. Run for Resilience. Easter Festival Falls Creek.
Ed 11 * 17.04.25 * Easter Festival Falls Creek and Easter Activities through-out the Valley.
Ed 12 * 16.05.25 * Mount Beauty Running Festival. Welcome to Winter 2025 Ice Plunge at Falls Creek
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
After the war Mitchell returned to the family property near Corryong, becoming a member of the Victorian Parliament in 1947. His passion for skiing had not waned, nor had his vision for the development of alpine villages.
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In her memoirs, Skippy St Elmo writes about Mitchell’s visits to Falls Creek and the discussions held about the potential for the area to develop as a ski resort. By this time the members of two ski clubs, Bogong Ski Club and the newly formed small Skyline Club, had become enthusiastic about ski racing and joined the North Eastern District Skiing Association (N.E.D.S.A). In 1948 Mitchell organised a bus trip for the other member ski clubs (from Albury, Bright, Myrtleford, Wangaratta and Beechworth, Tallangatta and Benalla) to visit Falls Creek. Shortly thereafter Albury applied to build a club lodge followed by Myrtleford.
During his time as a politician (1947 to 1976), and as Victorian Attorney General (1950-52) Mitchell was able to have a direct influence on the development of Falls Creek. Indeed, he was instrumental in the easing of barriers placed by the SEC powers-that-be on accessing the ski fields, be it on receiving permits to build lodges or permits to use the road. By 1951 the village as had been envisioned by Mitchell as a POW was taking shape. He too had committed to building a small Dawn Ski Club lodge with Dale Crookes.
Mitchell continued to encourage and support the trans-Tasman ski competitions and in the early 1950’s visits by local clubs became more commonplace. In 1953 a team from New Zealand visited Falls Creek for the first time. This was some months after Edmund Hillary and Nepalese Sherpa Tenzing Norgay became the first climbers confirmed as having reached the summit of Mount Everest.
Aware of this, Tom Mitchell and Toni St
VALLEY FUN & FITNESS CLASS
Every Tuesday at 9am at the Ladies Facility, Dederang Recreation Reserve. Bring a drink bottle and towel. $10 per session. Classes by Narelle Jones. Enquiries: Sharon McEvoy 0438 289 293 (the6maccas@bigpond.com) THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“There are people sitting there who are deliberately waiting for the thrill of being offended. They want to be offended because it gives them a sense of moral superiority.” John Cleese. FOR SALE
ROLA Roof Racks to suit Commodore VB, VC, VH, VK & VL. Were anodized but faded, so they’ve been powder-coated. $295. Ph: 0400 350 488 FOUND
Gold Band wedding Ring picked up near Ariel’s Laundrette. Give me a call & describe it. 0400 350 488. FOUND
GPS found up the West Kiewa by a fisherman. Give me a call with details and it’s yours. Ken: Mb 0400 350 488 MISSING BOOK
A hard-bound copy of Dr Ruth Lawrence’s Thesis titled ‘The Interaction between Land Use, the Environment and the Hydrology of the Bogong High Plains between 1850 and 1985’ was given to this community in the care of the late Bill Sutton. It has been loaned out –and not returned. This is a vital piece of the history of this area and it would be fabulous to have it returned. Any news, please call 0400 350 488.
Elmo had proposed that an unnamed mountain to the north of Mt Nelse be named Mt Hillary to honour the event.
(Although the naming was apparently gazetted it has been lost over time in reproduction of maps of the area).
‘Ski Heil! Tom Mitchell, ski champion and champion of skiing!’ •
This article prepared by Diana Patterson, a former member of the Falls Creek Resort Management Committee and current member of the Falls Creek Historical Society.
OPEN: 8am - 8pm weekdays 9am - 7pm weekends & Public Holidays
41 Bogong High Plains Road, Mount Beauty · Ph: 0400 350 488
Go in the draw to win a 2025 Winter Resort Entry Season Permit
We value your feedback! Help Alpine Resorts Victoria continue to improve the Falls Creek summer experience. Scan the QR code to fill out the survey.
BOWEN THERAPY & MASSAGE
Tawonga South. Ph: Heather: 0428 993 125
BUILDING & ELECTRICAL
Duggan & Hanlon, your complete building service. Please cal Justin Mb: 0458 220 879.
CAR DETAILING
Give Steve a call in Tawonga South. Ph: 0423 499 086.
CARPET CLEANING
Call Nathan of NatWest Home Maintenance, your local Carpet Cleaning Service. 0429 933 492.
CARPENTRY & BUILDING SERVICES
Oztek Constructions Pty Ltd. We do local building work, renovations, extensions and maintenance. Email Dave at: oztekconstructions@gmail.com. Or Ph: 0466 990 862
CIVIL CELEBRANT – HEATHER MULL
Quality Ceremonies – All Types. Mb: 0428 993 125.
COLLECTABLES & HOMEWARES
I Dream Of Snow - Vintage snow collectables & brand new homewares. Open on-line all year round. www.idreamofsnow.com
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
Altitude Electrical – No job too big or too small. Domestic, Commercial & Industrial. Ben Svarc. Mb: 0419 801 109
FREIGHT – ALB – MTB – FALLS CREEK
Remo’s Transport from Albury/Wodonga to Mount Beauty and Falls Creek Tues to Fri inclusive. Refrigeration available. Ph: John or Esther 0417 414 320.
HAIRDRESSER
Natalie Raymond, Birds Nest Salon, 26 Hollonds Street, Mount Beauty. Open Six days a week and evenings by appointment. Ph: 03 5754 1177.
LANDSCAPING
Design and landscaping - quality work. Contact Hamish at External Solutions: Em: admin@externalsolutions.com.au. Mb: 0400 160 532.
LD’S HOME PET CARE
Pet Care and Dog Walking. Ph: Lisa 0407 541 695. LOCKSMITH & HANDYMAN
Codi Coutts – servicing the Kiewa Valley & North East Victoria. Ph: 0475 388 990. Em: kiewavalleylocksmith@yahoo.com
PAINTING SERVICES
Interior/Exterior, Domestic/Commercial.
Obligation Free Quotes. Quality & Service Guaranteed. KLM Alpine Painting Services. Ph: Laif: 0437 023 921.
PHYSIOTHERAPY
Kiewa Valley Sports & Spinal Therapy, 5A Hollonds St, Mount Beauty. Out of Hours & Home visits available. HiCaps. Ph: 03 5754 1270.
PILATES
Reformer, Group or Individual for a better quality of life. Wildflower Pilates Ph: 0433 017 660.
REMEDIAL MASSAGE
Altitude Physio, Massage & Myotherapy. Ph: 03 5758 3766
STORAGE
Caravans, Vehicles, Pallets, Large Lock-Up Units. Ph: 0428 361 497. www.alpinewarehousing.com
In 2025, the historic town of Tawonga in the Upper Kiewa Valley will mark a major milestone, celebrating 180 years of community and resilience.
Originally settled in the 1840s, Tawonga has grown from a colonial settlement into a cherished rural community, and this March, residents are coming together for a weekend of festivities to honour its heritage and celebrate its resilience.
From Friday, March 28, to Sunday, March 30, the Tawonga and District Community Association (TDCA), with support from the Upper Kiewa Valley Historical Society and Alpine Shire Council & the Kiewa Valley Flood and Landslip Community Grants Program 2024-25, will host a series of events for all ages.
The celebrations will include a family bush dance, community exhibitions, and an ecumenical service.
The weekend will also showcase the area’s rich history, with displays of family recollections, old maps, photos and displays at Tawonga Memorial Hall.
Farm equipment and old cars will be on display in Tawonga Pioneer Memorial Park, along with a BBQ sausage sizzle, an animal nursery, and plenty of other fun activities for children. District CFA will also be present with equipment and specialist services.
“This is a momentous occasion for Tawonga,” said Mark Redmond, TDCA President.
“We’re inviting everyone - locals, visitors, former residents and their families - to join us for this incredible weekend. Whether you’ve lived here for generations or just have fond memories of holidays in Tawonga, this celebration is for you.”
The event organisers are also encouraging the public to contribute any photos, historical items, or memorabilia related to Tawonga’s past.
MAR 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 Park Run. 8am at Bicentennial Park, Lakeside Ave. All welcome. Enquiries to: mountbeauty@parkrun.com
MAR 9 Peaks Challenge Falls Creek. 2000 cyclists take on the 235km ride around the High Plains. With lots of other activities. Ph: 03 5758 1200. Visit: www. fallscreek.com.au
MAR 14 The fabulous Longest Lunch – wining and dining in the High Country around Falls Creek. Ph: 03 5758 1200. Visit www.fallscreek.com.au
MAR 21 Victorian Interschools MTB Championships, Cross Country Olympic format. Falls Creek. https://www.fallscreek.com.au/listing/falls-creekvictorian-interschools-mtb-competition-fallscreek/
MAR 22 & 23 MTB de Femme returns to Falls Creek in 2025. Mb: 0449 293 008.Em: jo@allridemtb.com.au
“If you have old photographs, letters, or even small keepsakes from Tawonga, we’d love to display them during the event,” said Mr Redmond.
“It’s a unique opportunity to showcase the stories and people that have shaped this wonderful town.”
Weekend Schedule
• Friday, 28 March – Family Bush Dance, Pizzas and Supper at Tawonga Memorial Hall, from 6pm
• Saturday, 29 March – Community Festival at Pioneer Memorial Park, from 10am (Cake-cutting at noon)
• Sunday, 30 March – Ecumenical Service at St. Aidan’s Anglican Church from 10am, followed by a Devonshire Tea
“This 180th celebration will be a memorable gathering for all who hold Tawonga close to their hearts,” Mr Redmond said. “Let’s make this a weekend to cherish!” •
WHERE 2D Tawonga Crescent.
WHEN 8:30am – 5pm Mon – Friday 10am – 12noon Saturdays.
HOW Ph: 03 5754 3400 for appointments
WHO Doctors: Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delanay, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton, Lauren Cusson, Damian Heman, Daniel Florisson and Jacinta O’Neil.
WHAT Fully accredited General Practice with 42 years of service to the Upper Kiewa Valley.
CONTACT Ph: 03 5754 3400
Em: enquiries@mbmc.com.au Wb: https://www.mbmc.com.au/
If you need to see a doctor please contact Mount Beauty Medical Centre on 03 5754 3400. You may be directed to a doctor for a tele-health appointment. Our Doctors are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week from Mount Beauty.
APR 12 Alpine Challenge. The greatest Challenge on the High Plains. 100 mile; 100km, and shorter distances. https://www.runningwild.net.au/ alpine-runs/alpine-challenge.html
APR 12 Run for Resilience. A personal challenge and fund-raiser for the Stroke Foundation. See article this edition
APR 18 – APR 21 Falls Creek Easter Festival. Kids Games, activities, food and MTB Shuttles. Plenty for all. Ph: 03 5758 1200
APR 19 5km Easter Fun Run 10:30am More details in future editions
APR 19 Rotary Club of Mount Beauty Giant Easter Garage Sale, face painting, raffles, BBQ and a great time for all. Secondary College Oval 9am –1pm. Ph: 0400 350 488
APR 26 & 27 Mount Beauty Music Festival. More details in future editions
MAY 6 & 7 Trade Fair @ Falls Creek. Open to all members of the Hospitality Industry. Ph: 0400 350 488
MAY 17 Mount Beauty Running Festival. Starts 10am Mount Beauty Secondary College Oval. This is one of Australia's most scenic foot races with an emphasis on fun for all the family. https://www. visitmountbeauty.com.au/listing/mt-beautyrunning-festival-mount-beauty/ For further details on coming events, go to: https://www.fallscreek.com.au/whats-on/events/
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