The Y’s Howmans Gap Alpine Discovery Camp is helping unite the regional and remote community of Falls Creek and the Kiewa Valley in time for the ski season.
The alpine region suffered a major landslide at Bogong High Plains Road landslide last year and despite the roadworks the effects are still being felt. The local team at Howmans Gap sprang into action to help residents feel a sense of belonging.
Nicholas Wright, Program Officer at Howmans Gap Discovery Camp, has been part of the team leading these efforts. Wright's extensive experience in outdoor education and his passion for community engagement has contributed to several initiatives aimed at overcoming the barriers of isolation.
Our idea was to connect what we do at Howmans with the community by providing a mountain bike shuttle service for five weeks over February and March. This allowed local residents to enjoy an afternoon of biking, building healthy social connections Nicholas Wright, Program Officer
"There are only a few dozen permanent residents in Falls Creek, and the isolation was compounded by the landslide. Our goal was to create opportunities for people to connect with their natural environment and with each other," he explained.
One of the standout initiatives was the Community Mountain Bike Shuttle, the Y’s bright red bus, which provided free rides for Falls Creek residents. "We didn't charge for the service. It was our way of showing kindness and engaging with the community," Wright added. The feedback from locals on seeing bus that enabled them to enjoy physical activity generated more goodwill. In addition to the bike shuttle, more local events were arranged to bring tourism and economic benefits to the area. The Mount Bogong Conquestathon, co-organised by Wright and fellow Y Victoria leader and volunteer Warren ‘Sheepy’ Sanders, is one such event.
"The Conquestathon challenges participants to hike or run up and down Mount Bogong, Victoria's tallest mountain. It's a community event that attracts people from far and wide, bringing much-needed tourism to our local businesses," said Wright.
Community activities reflect the core values of Howmans Gap Alpine Discovery Camp, emphasising the importance of connecting people with their sense of place and promoting healthy social connections. "When people feel connected and valued, communities thrive. Our goal is to show that Howmans Gap is a kind, compassionate, and caring place that provides opportunities for people of all abilities," Wright concluded.
The camps at Howmans Gap, with over 100 years of history, continue to be a vital asset.