High Country Huts

[sschmez]

In light of the current fire situation and potentially the unfortunate loss of refuge huts (as occured in 2003) I've sent some photos to the good people:angel: at:

http://www.kosciuskohuts.org.au

I found this site through a link that waynep posted in the Craigs Hut thread: http://www.aulro.com/afvb/showthread.php't=32841
for the Victorian High Country Huts Association:
http://www.vhcha.org.au

Olaf Moon, from Kosciusko Huts Association is maintaining a register/database of refuge huts throughout the Vic/NSW high country and beyond and is happy to receive photos, info and GPS details about any huts where you may have visited.

Click on the "Huts" link :
http://www.kosciuskohuts.org.au/thehuts.html

and have a look at the lists, and whether you can fill any gaps before this history is lost forever.

Here's one I submitted a photo of earlier today:
http://www.kosciuskohuts.org.au/Hut%20Profiles%20VIC/Profile%20WhiskeyCk.htm

Stevo

I've also sent a couple of photos taken of the Cropper Creek Hut at Dandongadale that were taken during the recent AuLRO NEVic Gathering .........
I wonder how that one has fared :confused:

[waynep]

Yep sschmez, I think I'll join this Vic Huts Association. It's $30 or thereabouts per year. I think its a worthwile thing to try and put a bit back into the bush when we get so much enjoyment out of it..

They put together teams to go and rebuild huts after fires etc so any excuse to go bush is Ok with me! :D

[Disco300Tdi]

Yep sschmez, I think I'll join this Vic Huts Association. It's $30 or thereabouts per year. I think its a worthwile thing to try and put a bit back into the bush when we get so much enjoyment out of it..

They put together teams to go and rebuild huts after fires etc so any excuse to go bush is Ok with me! :D

Good luck.... I voluntered with the VHCHA to help maintain some huts in the high country (Builder by trade) as was treated as a leper.
I have never been involved with a group that were so clickey.

I was going to supply materials at no cost, labour for the satisfaction of the job done and the heritage involved,,, and never a phone call or e-mail returned.

I think they may of had a re-shuffle of the organisation since then. 2-3 years ago.

I myself would like to contribute to this cause and maybe AULRO could possibly sponsor a hut in the H/C.
It costs nothing to sponsor a hut, we only need to maintain it. (keep it in a good condition)i.e. replace broken windows with clear perspex, repair loose timbers etc etc.

I have sent an email to the relevant person concerned regarding the possibility of area 6
http://www.vhcha.org.au/regions/index.html

Any one else interested????

[hiline]

Any one else interested????

i'll put my hand up :D :D

[waynep]

Yep I think that's a good cause I'll be in - maybe a new thread asking for volunteers ?

[sschmez]

Any one else interested????

This is sounding better all the time .... well done 84RR

:D I'm in:D

What a great way to spend a weekend

4x4 to the hut the hard way,
bit of work (warm fuzzy feeling from your contribution to the community)
beers,:twobeers:
beers,:twobeers:
powernap
bit more work and a tidy up,
more 4x4
home

I'm there


(Who would have though ..... from a few details and photos to this)
love this forum

[hiline]

(Who would have though ..... from a few details and photos to this)
love this forum

we all under estimate the power this site has as a group :D :D

[WOLLAPIT85]

Any one else interested????


i'm up for it..

[River]

I'll be in that, seeing i'll be back from sunny QLD as of Feb :D

[hiline]

can we build them in mud brick instead :angel:

i'm used to playing with mud ;)

[Redback]

I'll put my hand up too, what about NSW, we have them too ya know:p

Baz.

[sschmez]

I can see it now Ray

A rough old bush hut,
with a dead straight chimney that's been rendered within an inch of it's life
:D :D :D

[sschmez]

Originally Posted by waynep
Yep sschmez, I think I'll join this Vic Huts Association. It's $30 or thereabouts per year. I think its a worthwile thing to try and put a bit back into the bush when we get so much enjoyment out of it..

They put together teams to go and rebuild huts after fires etc so any excuse to go bush is Ok with me! :D


PDF membership form is here:
http://www.vhcha.org.au/_pdfs/membership.pdf

I've just done mine

[hiline]

PDF membership form is here:
http://www.vhcha.org.au/_pdfs/membership.pdf

I've just done mine


:tease: :tease: :tease: ner ner we tricked you :D

none of us are joining :angel: ;)

[sschmez]

don't care !!!

:mad:

[D110V8D]

I can see it now Ray

A rough old bush hut,
with a dead straight chimney that's been rendered within an inch of it's life
:D :D :D

At least it will look authentic.......with all the cracks and stuff running through it.:D :D ;)

I'm in. :cool:

[Disco300Tdi]

Here is the e-mail I sent with the reply....

Might want to work out which area we would like to contribute too
http://www.hutsvictoria.org.au/regions/index.html

Dear Gavin,
Thanks for your offer - Fiona has passed this on to me owing to her being rather busy with fire related activities at the moment. We currently have an HMO for the Area 6 (Mansfield) however we have been looking for HMOs for Area 2 (Nunniong) and to share Area 7 (Howqua) which is very large and lends itself to a split of huts into Parks Vic administered and DSE administered. Chris Clarke is the current HMO for Howqua. We have another HMO with a monumental workload and that is Mick Vanderzalm in Gippsland who currently has Areas 4 (Licola) and 5 (Baw Baw) and he is looking for an assistant HMO or for someone to take on one of the areas.
Finally we now have a Huts maintenance coordinator - Rob France - and he is the correct person to be talking to about HMO positions. Rob's details are M 0411 813 352 E robert@mountainsoul.com.au
As I am sure you can appreciate we are rather busy at the moment fielding enquiries about lost huts and with so many of our members actively involved in fire related activities we are asking people to be patient with us. Rob will undoubtedly contact you when he can.
In the meantime you can register your interest in the huts association on our website www.hutsvictoria.org.au (http://www.aulro.com/afvb/www.hutsvictoria.org.au)
Regards,
Paula Tomsett
Vice President, VHCHA

[D110V8D]

HMO?? Hut maintenance officer??

I would be interested in any area but I think the Licola/Baw Baw areas would be best and at least closer to Melbourne so perhaps more likely we would get more done, more often.

Just my opinion.:)

[sschmez]

Lets give the new bloke in area six a hand....
learn the ropes, see how it goes

Maybe, jump in when there's stuff to be done in other areas.

Then we'll see if we can make (who can/wants to) make the comittment as a group and step up the contribution.

just a thought

Stevo

[rangieman]

Im in to help !

[hiline]

HMO?? Hut maintenance officer??

I would be interested in any area but I think the Licola/Baw Baw areas would be best and at least closer to Melbourne so perhaps more likely we would get more done, more often.

Just my opinion.:)

i'm with mick try get somewhere close :D :D

[hiline]

Here is the e-mail I sent with the reply....

Might want to work out which area we would like to contribute too
http://www.hutsvictoria.org.au/regions/index.html

Dear Gavin,
Thanks for your offer - Fiona has passed this on to me owing to her being rather busy with fire related activities at the moment. We currently have an HMO for the Area 6 (Mansfield) however we have been looking for HMOs for Area 2 (Nunniong) and to share Area 7 (Howqua) which is very large and lends itself to a split of huts into Parks Vic administered and DSE administered. Chris Clarke is the current HMO for Howqua. We have another HMO with a monumental workload and that is Mick Vanderzalm in Gippsland who currently has Areas 4 (Licola) and 5 (Baw Baw) and he is looking for an assistant HMO or for someone to take on one of the areas.
Finally we now have a Huts maintenance coordinator - Rob France - and he is the correct person to be talking to about HMO positions. Rob's details are M 0411 813 352 E robert@mountainsoul.com.au
As I am sure you can appreciate we are rather busy at the moment fielding enquiries about lost huts and with so many of our members actively involved in fire related activities we are asking people to be patient with us. Rob will undoubtedly contact you when he can.
In the meantime you can register your interest in the huts association on our website www.hutsvictoria.org.au (http://www.aulro.com/afvb/www.hutsvictoria.org.au)
Regards,
Paula Tomsett
Vice President, VHCHA





Gav why dont put your name down as our team leader for this site

then we can all work together as a group rather than all individuals stuck with other groups:angel:

just a thought you being a builder :D

[Vandermorph]

How old do you have to be? Its in Victoria isnt it? Well id join if there wasnt an age limit and if it was closer too home

[waynep]

Licola /Baw Baw / Gippsland sounds OK to me too.

Maybe if this takes off we can ask Incisor to set up a seperate forum section for it ?

Real good PR for the AULRO too.

[waynep]

How old do you have to be? Its in Victoria isnt it? Well id join if there wasnt an age limit and if it was closer too home

There are bush huts in NSW too ! Maybe you can get together with some of the NSW guys and contact the Kossy Huts Association ,and do a similar thing there. Refer to the earlier posts for their site.

[rangieman]

Licola /Baw Baw / Gippsland sounds OK to me too.

Maybe if this takes off we can ask Incisor to set up a seperate forum section for it ?

Real good PR for the AULRO too.

yes i think the Baw Baw area will need some help:angel:

[cameron]

I'll put my hand up too, what about NSW, we have them too ya know:p

Baz.

Hey Baz,
I would be keen to help with one in NSW as well.

I have been wanting to help Mervyn V out with the Hut work for the Sydney Landrover Club but unfortunately whenever a hut trip has been planned I have not been able to make it.

Cameron
Sydney

[Disco300Tdi]

Gav why dont put your name down as our team leader for this site

then we can all work together as a group rather than all individuals stuck with other groups:angel:

just a thought you being a builder :D

Any one objecting?

[Disco300Tdi]

Had a phone call from Robert France the Huts Maintenance Co-Ordinator

He has sent this email to the area officers in relation to our proposal



Good Morning Mick, Chris and Gavin.
I have just got off the phone with Gavin who is a member of the Aust United Land rover Owners club, a large organisation with many Trades level members willing to offer assistance.
It appears also that they fell through the cracks a couple of years ago when the organisation started up, and we put a few people offside in our own caution of trying to balance enthusiasm with caution.
I have suggested to Gavin that the AULRO may like to initially help out in a couple of regions closer to Melbourne and get involved in a few projects before committing as a group to being HMOs of an area, as despite being a recreational activity, there are, as we all know, much admin work to be done too.
What I would suggest is that The AULRO help out with areas 5, 7 and 4, all of which is also great 4WD territory enabling them to combine their activities with good trips.
I appreciate Mick that you may be needing a hand given that the fires have been prevalent in your area.
The original intent of HMOs was that they would coordinate and supervise the activities of keen people in their own areas, rather than doing all the work themselves, and this seems like a perfect opportunity, especially given the amount of assessment work required post fires.
Post fire assessment will involve a lot of driving and photographing, and will require people and vehicles well suited to the terrain, prepared to clear access roads on their way in, as areas open up.
The other important aspect of the HMO role will be coordinating resources and skills, something the AULROs membership base would be well suited to. I have compiled an Expression of Interest form on my own website at www.mountainsoul.com.au/huts_interest.asp (http://www.aulro.com/afvb/www.mountainsoul.com.au/huts_interest.asp)
<www.mountainsoul.com.au/huts_interest.asp (http://www.aulro.com/afvb/www.mountainsoul.com.au/huts_interest.asp)> so that individuals can also get involved. (this will hopefully be incorporated into the huts website at www.hutsvictoria.com.au (http://www.aulro.com/afvb/www.hutsvictoria.com.au) <www.hutsvictoria.com.au (http://www.aulro.com/afvb/www.hutsvictoria.com.au)> when our webmaster gets
time.)
I would encourage both Mick and Chris to get in touch with Gavin and see what we can do, bearing in mind that the area will likely be closed for some time yet, possibly as late as next spring. I have also mad it clear to Gavin that from an OH&S perspective, all activities with us will need to be either part of a "Gazetted Club Trip" or the individuals will need to be members of the VHCHA as individuals.
>From an admin perspective the club would only have a single vote at all
meetings.
Gavin's contact details are email as above
Personal Email Robert@Mountainsoul.com.au or vichuts@mountainsoul.com.au



Any comments fellas...????

[waynep]

Oops 84RR there goes your personal email and phone numbers in a post...... you may want to delete that out.

I think you will be a great coordinator. My trade is not a useful one for hut building, but but am willing to work under guidance :D

[sschmez]

Well done Gav.


Any one objecting?

You're the MAN




Sounds like a while before we can get our hands dirty

[ladas]

I would like to get involved in this, I do not have a trade that would be suitable for 'hut work' can't see fluid dynamics and mechanical engineering being of much use - but I can work under supervision and if any admin/documentation would be required I'd be happy to get involved with that side.

[sschmez]

Hey Ladas

The more the merrier, I'd say

(I'm sometimes allowed to hold the idiot end of a tape measure:D )

[DiscoDave]

Good work you VIC blokes! Don't forget to keep the rest of us AULRO members informed when you get started on your projects. :thumbsup:

[hiline]

well done Gav :D :D

your the man ;) and we the followers :angel: ;)


what forms do we need to fill in as a group ???
or just sign up as singles for the time being ???


i'm starting to feel all warm and fuzzy:eek:

all i can say is thanks to all of you blokes for getting on board :clap2: :thumbsup:

[D110V8D]

Yep good one Gav.

How do we go about the oc health and safety side of things?

I'm happy to be in charge of all glassblowing projects of course.;) ;)

Or I can just dig a hole where you tell me to.:D

[sschmez]

How do we go about the oc health and safety side of things?

just sign up as a member...... the membership form HERE (http://www.vhcha.org.au/_pdfs/membership.pdf) and $ means you're covered according to the email.

Interesting politics already though:

From an admin perspective the club would only have a single vote at all
meetings.as a member "club" I guess.

Individual members have full voting rights ........ do they think we'll take over:confused:

I just wanna do my bit ... stick ya politics up ya rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrs

[hiline]

Hell yeah lets do the take over :D :D

that'll fluck them ;)

[waynep]

I observed the VHCHA from the time it really got going after the 2003 fires.

There was a lot of politics with Parks Victoria and other authorities, where because many of the huts were in National Parks, there is a general policy to not rebuild man made constructions if they are destoryed. VHCHA only could get permission for huts to be rebuilt if they were a faithful reproduction of the original.

This also goes for maintenance etc. ( ie similar materials and construction methods should be used as on the orginal hut )

So I expect we too will need to follow those guidelines, which is probably fair enough.

I guess as long as we quietly just go up there and do our bit, stay out of the politics and have a bit of fun and a few beers :D :D at the same time it will go well.

[hiline]

all goes well with beer :D

[Disco300Tdi]

I observed the VHCHA from the time it really got going after the 2003 fires.

There was a lot of politics with Parks Victoria and other authorities, where because many of the huts were in National Parks, there is a general policy to not rebuild man made constructions if they are destoryed. VHCHA only could get permission for huts to be rebuilt if they were a faithful reproduction of the original.

This also goes for maintenance etc. ( ie similar materials and construction methods should be used as on the orginal hut )

So I expect we too will need to follow those guidelines, which is probably fair enough.

I guess as long as we quietly just go up there and do our bit, stay out of the politics and have a bit of fun and a few beers :D :D at the same time it will go well.

Spot on Wayne....

Most times it is only a few simple things, like a door off a hinge. Left unfixed it soon becomes firewood for the few clowns that do venture the H/C.

I will keep you all informed as any more news becomes available....:) :)

[sclarke]

Do we get to rebuild it after the fires have destroyed Dubbo to Hobart????

if there is a Hut standing after this Summer i'll shout you all a nice cool glass of........................... Tap water.....

I'm up for it to help out guys... we can make a nice plaquey thing to put on it.

shame my profession will only allow me to hand out beers. ETU states. "If one does not have the skills required, then one must be available during that shift to hand out beers"

Clarkie, Sober and Silly

[D110V8D]

My profession will only allow me to drink them.:D :D ;)

[hiline]

now boys this is a serious venture:mad: :mad:

all will not be taken up with beer:angel:

if your not up to it pull out now :p


Gav can i be Vice leader ???? :D :D

[Pedro_The_Swift]

from that email maybe our rep preceded us??

(or does everyone in VIC know hiline???:p)

anyway great idea guys,,

:thumbsup:

cant see why we couldnt have a little plaque stating "maintained by AULRO"
and a nice little glass windchime next to it,,,,,:angel:

[hiline]

cant see why we couldnt have a little plaque stating "maintained by AULRO"
and a nice little glass windchime next to it,,,,,:angel:



we already have one made up :D :D

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2006/12/85.jpg

[mcrover]

You can include me aswell, I would prefer around Mansfield area 6 as thats where I grew up but I will go anywhere as I live in Melb. now.

Im a mechanic that has renovated a crappy old house before so I think I could be usefull but then again its wheather all you think im usefull that counts.

If Im not that usefull with the tools I can also hand out beer and as I dont drink Im trust worthy of that job.

Maybe PM people when something is coming up so you can get deffinate numbers.

My wife is usefull for admin purposes, and she's not bad on a camera so I'll dob her in as well.

[Disco300Tdi]

now boys this is a serious venture:mad: :mad:

all will not be taken up with beer:angel:

if your not up to it pull out now :p


Gav can i be Vice leader ???? :D :D


I see why not....anyone objecting to the gentle giants' proposal

[hiline]

I see why not....anyone objecting to the gentle giants' proposal



pick me :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :D

[sschmez]

The list so far:


1.)...84RR ..............Gav ..........Camp Captain, Leader and AULRO-Vic HCHuts Coordinator
2.)...Hiline ..............Ray ..........2ic, vice, chief cook and beer taster
3.)...Waynep ..........Wayne
4.)...Sschmez .........Stevo
5.)...Wollapit85........Justin
6.)...D110v8d ..........Mick
7.)...Rangieman .......Chris
8.)...Ladas .............Ladas
9.)...Sclarke ...........Steve
10.)..McRover .........Damo
11.).. Mudnut .........Ken
12.)..River ..............................in NSW till Feb

13.)..Redback ..........Baz ..........Camp Captain, Leader and AULRO-NSW HCHuts Coordinator
14.)..George130 .......Edd ..........NSW
15.)..Cameron .........Cameron ....NSW
16.).. Dobbo ...........................NSW

So are you NSW guys going to start something or help in Vic ???

BTW, just wondering, has anyone found and emailed any info and/or photos for the data base at Kosciusko huts (olafmoon@ozemail.com.au)???
To repair/rebuild/recreate also needs reference material ....:D

Well done all

[ladas]

The list so far:


1.)...84RR ..............Gav ..........Camp Captain, Leader and AULRO HCHuts Coordinator
2.)...Hiline ..............Ray ..........2ic, vice, chief cook and beer taster
3.)...Waynep ..........Wayne
4.)...Sschmez .........Stevo
5.)...Wollapit85........
6.)...D110v8d ..........Mick
7.)...Rangieman .......Chris
8.)...Ladas .............Ladas
9.)...Sclarke ...........Steve
10.)..McRover .........Damo
11.)..River ..............................in NSW till Feb

12.)..Redback ..........Baz ..........NSW contingent
13.)..Vandermorph ...................NSW
14.)..Cameron .........Cameron ....NSW

So are you NSW guys going to start something or help in Vic ???

BTW, just wondering, has anyone found and emailed any info and/or photos for the data base at Kosciusko huts (olafmoon@ozemail.com.au)???
To repair/rebuild/recreate also needs reference material ....:D

Well done all

So HiLine is in charge of Vice !!!! that'd be about right :wasntme:

[Redback]

If there is enough interest in a sponsoring hut from the NSW members i'll do what i can to see about maybe helping with any upkeep on one of the Kosiosko huts, there are quite a few with no caretakers so shouldn't be to hard to get one to look after as best we can.

Baz.

[hiline]

If there is enough interest in a sponsoring hut from the NSW members i'll do what i can to see about maybe helping with any upkeep on one of the Kosiosko huts, there are quite a few with no caretakers so shouldn't be to hard to get one to look after as best we can.

Baz.

good work Baz i'm sure you'll find a few of the NSW boys to put their hand up

[Phoenix]

I just stuck my head into this thread, and woah !!!!!

I must say I do love the high country, just wish I was closer to be able to spend more time there. Good to see a lot of people chipping in to help preserve these huts.

[Mudnut]

I would be up for lending a hand. I am a non practicing carpenter (have other job in the medical field), but would love to lend a hand. Even have a 5 1/2 year old apprentance, who wants to get involved if it includes camping and four wheel driving.
Have hammer and chainsaw, so can't see why we can't build something!!
:D
Ken

[D110V8D]

from that email maybe our rep preceded us??

(or does everyone in VIC know hiline???:p)

anyway great idea guys,,

:thumbsup:

cant see why we couldnt have a little plaque stating "maintained by AULRO"
and a nice little glass windchime next to it,,,,,:angel:

Actually I was thinking each hut deserves it's own "still". That way when someone stumbles in on a wet and chilly night theres always a nice tumbler of rocket fuel to warm the belly.:cool: :nazilock:

[George130]

Let me know the details. I could give a hand.

[dobbo]

Actually I was thinking each hut deserves it's own "still". That way when someone stumbles in on a wet and chilly night theres always a nice tumbler of rocket fuel to warm the belly.:cool: :nazilock:


Yeah but what happens when the moonshine reacts to the extreme heat of the next string of bushfires?


Is it a bird?
A plane?
No it's a hooch propelled bush hut

Brewing Biodiesel in them could be a possibility though

[D110V8D]

Nah mate, it wont happen...........these fires are a one off thing.:rolleyes: :rolleyes: ;) ;)

[Vandermorph]

There are bush huts in NSW too ! Maybe you can get together with some of the NSW guys and contact the Kossy Huts Association ,and do a similar thing there. Refer to the earlier posts for their site.
Yeah?!!:) What about the age limit?:(

[Vandermorph]

The list so far:


1.)...84RR ..............Gav ..........Camp Captain, Leader and AULRO HCHuts Coordinator
2.)...Hiline ..............Ray ..........2ic, vice, chief cook and beer taster
3.)...Waynep ..........Wayne
4.)...Sschmez .........Stevo
5.)...Wollapit85........
6.)...D110v8d ..........Mick
7.)...Rangieman .......Chris
8.)...Ladas .............Ladas
9.)...Sclarke ...........Steve
10.)..McRover .........Damo
11.)..River ..............................in NSW till Feb

12.)..Redback ..........Baz ..........NSW contingent
13.)..Vandermorph ...................NSW
14.)..Cameron .........Cameron ....NSW

So are you NSW guys going to start something or help in Vic ???

BTW, just wondering, has anyone found and emailed any info and/or photos for the data base at Kosciusko huts (olafmoon@ozemail.com.au)???
To repair/rebuild/recreate also needs reference material ....:D

Well done all

ME?:D Are you serious my mum would go nuts:eek: but its a good cause;) So she shouldnt mind:) But :o She wouldnt go along:mad:

[Vandermorph]

What about Mud_bogger6? Im pretty sure HIS parents would go along with it the feel strongly about Australian Heritage.....I Think

[Disco300Tdi]

BTW, just wondering, has anyone found and emailed any info and/or photos for the data base at Kosciusko huts (olafmoon@ozemail.com.au)???
To repair/rebuild/recreate also needs reference material ....:D



I presume that when the Hut Maintenance Officer contacts me we will need to do a bit of a recon thing and check all the huts in a particular area, take photos, do a condition report, take a GPS reading (comes in handy to mark our own maps). Then after that work out a scheme of attack with the VHCHA, in conjunction with Parks Vic and DNRE

[hiline]

I presume that when the Hut Maintenance Officer contacts me we will need to do a bit of a recon thing and check all the huts in a particular area, take photos, do a condition report, take a GPS reading (comes in handy to mark our own maps). Then after that work out a scheme of attack with the VHCHA, in conjunction with Parks Vic and DNRE

sounds good Team Leader :D :D

now do we join as a group ???

or just register by ourselves ???

[Disco300Tdi]

sounds good Team Leader :D :D

now do we join as a group ???

or just register by ourselves ???

We could join as a group, which with the money saved be used for other things when away ;) ;)

[sschmez]

From:
http://www.kosciuskohuts.org.au/index.html


19 December - Hutters have confirmed the loss of both Craigs (http://www.kosciuskohuts.org.au/Hut%20Profiles%20VIC/Profile%20Craigs.html) Hut and Gantner Hut (http://www.kosciuskohuts.org.au/Hut%20Profiles%20VIC/Profile%20Gantner.html)in the fires this summer. Gantner was famous for its A Frame construction and is the only hut to have won an architectural award.


Gantner Hut profile is here:
http://www.kosciuskohuts.org.au/Hut%20Profiles%20VIC/Profile%20Gantner.html

and from:
http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/incidents/incident_updates.htm#1409154078407


CFA and DSE advise residents & visitors in the Sheepyard Flat, Tobacco Flat and Hawqua Hills area (near Mansfield) of the possibility for ember attack in this area. The fire has jumped containment lines.


This will put many other well known huts into the path of the fire:( see a map HERE (http://www.kosciuskohuts.org.au/Maps/Hot%20Spot%20Map%20-%20Howqua.htm)

[dobbo]

I have no idea what would be involved in the maintenance side of things but if your hut needs rebuilding due to a bushfire, what materials do you use to rebuild it? Surely the surrounding wood would allready be burnt, or do you have to supply and transport your own materials?

I wouldn't mind helping out with unskilled labour as a one off for a NSW hut in a few months time but a long term commitment that far away from home is a bit too much for me at this present time.

[waynep]

Yep, the hut at Fry's Flat is well known and was very nicely restored.
Lovicks Hut was recently pulled down and rebuilt by Parks Vic.
Over Walhalla way there are huts in near Aberfeldy and O'Tooles Flat area that may ? have gone.

Dobbo, I think it is expected that you transport in replacement materials. This will probably be the biggest hurdle for us - getting someone to provide/donate timber and hardware - the VHCHA may be able to help with that though.

[sschmez]

I have no idea what would be involved in the maintenance side of things but if your hut needs rebuilding due to a bushfire, what materials do you use to rebuild it? Surely the surrounding wood would allready be burnt, or do you have to supply and transport your own materials?


Have a look HERE (http://www.vhcha.org.au/projects/past.html) and follow the links for descriptions of past projects


I wouldn't mind helping out with unskilled labour as a one off for a NSW hut in a few months time but a long term commitment that far away from home is a bit too much for me at this present time.

You're on Baz's(Redback) list now Dobbo:D

[Disco300Tdi]

.
Over Walhalla way there are huts in near Aberfeldy and O'Tooles Flat area that may ? have gone.

After tonight, Walhalla might not be there either....

http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/incidents/incident_updates.htm#1409167899977


Walhalla and Maidentown Threat Message 5.50pm

Urgent advice for residents in the Walhalla and Maidentown vacinity.
19/12/2006


CFA and DSE wish to advise residents in Maidentown and Walhalla that the fire is active and the area is currently under ember attack.
Residents need to activate their bushfire plans immediately.
Supporting Messages
Residents in this area are advised that embers may be landing around their property soon and that they should take all measures to put them out as they arrive.
It is important that all residents protect themselves from radiant heat by wearing the correct protective clothing. Residents should wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, sturdy boots, and a broad brimmed hat. On no account should synthetic material be worn.
Keep a portable radio with batteries handy in case of power failure.
For general fire information, please call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.

[Disco300Tdi]

Will be on "Chat" Wednesday night 2100 Hrs AEDST if anyone has questions or ideas they would like to discuss.............(9.00pm Ray)


;) :angel: :( :eek: :question: :idea:

[hiline]

Will be on "Chat" Wednesday night 2100 Hrs AEDST if anyone has questions or ideas they would like to discuss.............(9.00pm Ray)


;) :angel: :( :eek: :question: :idea:

9pm you say :D :D is that after lunch or before lunch:angel:

[D110V8D]

I would like to discuss some questions please thank you.:p

[hiline]

I would like to discuss some questions please thank you.:p




yes you may discuss things with us very polite Mick :D :D

[Ralph]

Gavin,
well done on getting this ball rolling.

I am new to this forum and have been 4wd'ing for a few years. I have renovated a couple of houses and woud love to help out as required. So can you add me to the 'list' and PM me of any needs.

I used to be an avid bushwalker, cross-country skier many (MANY) years ago and used the huts (more in NSW coz I lived in Canberra then). So I'd love to help maintain the huts.

[sschmez]

The list so far:


1.)...84RR ..............Gav ..........Camp Captain, Leader and AULRO-Vic HCHuts Coordinator
2.)...Hiline ..............Ray ..........2ic, vice, chief cook and beer taster
3.)...Waynep ..........Wayne
4.)...Sschmez .........Stevo
5.)...Wollapit85........Justin
6.)...D110v8d ..........Mick
7.)...Rangieman .......Chris
8.)...Ladas .............Ladas
9.)...Sclarke ...........Steve
10.)..McRover .........Damo
11.).. Mudnut .........Ken
12.).. Ralph............Ralph (??)
13.).. EchiDna...................
14.)..River ..............................in NSW till Feb

15.)..Redback ..........Baz ..........Camp Captain, Leader and AULRO-NSW HCHuts Coordinator
16.)..George130 .......Edd ..........NSW
17.)..Cameron .........Cameron ....NSW
18.).. Dobbo ...........................NSW

[hiline]

14.)..Redback ..........Baz ..........Camp Captain, Leader and AULRO-NSW HCHuts Coordinator
15.)..George130 .......Edd ..........NSW
16.)..Cameron .........Cameron ....NSW
17.).. Dobbo ...........................NSW

good work Baz :D :D

keep on the recruitment trail ;)

[Mud_Bogger6]

I'm in, for sure, but I reckon my mum would be along the same lines as Vandermorph's

[EchiDna]

happy to join in... 'unskilled' labourer :)

I've previously been a certified chainsaw operator by DSE (now expired) and have built/repaired post and rail fences as a teenager with my grandfather using traditional methods (adze, morticing axe etc)

if and when I'm in the country and it ties in with a planned event, I'm available....

[hiline]

happy to join in... 'unskilled' labourer :)

I've previously been a certified chainsaw operator by DSE (now expired) and have built/repaired post and rail fences as a teenager with my grandfather using traditional methods (adze, morticing axe etc)

if and when I'm in the country and it ties in with a planned event, I'm available....

glad to have you on board :D :D

as to all the other guy's and girls that have joined to Force:D :D

[sschmez]

From: Push For The Bush [mailto:pushforthebush@mcmedia.com.au (pushforthebush@mcmedia.com.au)]
Sent: Monday, 18 December 2006 9:15 AM
Subject: Push For The Bush News - Media Release



CATTLEMEN PROVE GRAZING REDUCES BLAZING

Mountain cattlemen engaged in a dash to protect a High Country heritage hut
from bushfire have proven that cattle grazing reduces fire risk and provides
refuge for animals.

"Push for the Bush supporters have been devastated and puzzled by the
loss of Craigs Hut which was built as a set for The Man From Snowy River
movie and the reported loss of other significant huts in the high country
during the current fires.

It appears that DSE resources have been stretched to the point that even a
warning and a call from DSE for experienced people to go to Craig's Hut and
save it, was too difficult."

Given the loss of Craig's Hut, Push for the Bush supporters were determined
not to allow the Bluff Hut to meet the same fate without a fight. A small
group picked a cool day ( last Saturday) and using two 4wdrives and
extensive safety strategies ran the creeping fire front around the Eight
Mile and cleaned up the leaf litter around the Bluff Hut and checked on the
rebuild program at Lovick's Hut.

There was fire almost all around them at various distances but the group
went out on top of King Billy where it was noted that the fire roared up the
Howqua Valley to the Divide, then went out as it hit the grazing areas which
are still short and green behind King Billy One and Two. Further down in the
ungrazed areas it crossed the Divide between King Billy and Mt Magdala and
incinerated the head of the Macalister. As it came back up into the grazed
snowgrass areas, it again went out.

The group got out with only hours to spare before the fire crossed the road
and it became very dangerous.

"At this point of time the fire is all around the Bluff with the only areas
not likely to be burnt being the areas grazed on the tops up to 2005. We are
not confident about the future of the Bluff Hut because of cinders, but we
have given it our best," said Push For The Bush organizer Bob Richardson.

"The Bluff Hut was resumed by Parks Victoria after the Cattle were removed
and the Stoney family lost the lease. Since then, leaves were inches thick
on the roof and it was a sitting duck for any fire. Despite the fact that
Parks are claiming ownership and control of the Bluff Hut, not one
maintenance task has been done at the Hut since the Stoneys's lost the
lease."

"There was even an incident last year where some locals, who love the hut
and use it each Winter, were on the roof of the hut securing some iron and a
passing ranger ordered them down and stopped the work!"

Photo Caption: Pictured among the Push for the Bush Supporters who made
the run in an attempt to save the Bluff Hut are Mountain Cattlemen Charlie
Lovick and Graeme Stoney and Push for the Bush organizer Bob Richardson.

[rangieman]

From: Push For The Bush [mailto:pushforthebush@mcmedia.com.au (pushforthebush@mcmedia.com.au)]
Sent: Monday, 18 December 2006 9:15 AM
Subject: Push For The Bush News - Media Release





fantastic mate :D

[D110V8D]

Not wanting to start a fire (pun fully intended:p )

but I have to disagree with the whole cattle grazing reducing fuel for fire thing.

http://www.terc.csiro.au/research.asp?program=FIRE&project=HIGHCOUNTRY

It has been proven that this is just not the case. Is it really possible that cattle reduce the fuel for fire in the alpine areas when the last native "mega fauna" (read big ass herbivore beast) was extinct some 20,000 years ago?

Just my opinion guys. Not startin nuffin.:D

[EchiDna]

Mick I doubt many will argue the case with regard to cattle eating enough grass/trees/fallen timber to reduce the impact of naturally occuring fires - but I think this has little to do with the Huts (the focus of the thread)

simple fact is, if someone is using the hut, they will take more care of it and clean up etc making it less of a hazard than when nobody is even allowed to clean the leaves from the roof!

I know when I've been hiking around bogong in the past, you couldn't find a piece of fallen wood within 200 metres of a hut due to the many users of the hut collecting and burning all the fallen wood for cooking and warmth during winter...

[D110V8D]

I was just replying to Schmezz's copy/pasted newspaper report thing on cattle grazing reducing fuel etc etc.

Back to hut topic.:D

[hiline]

chatting now guy's :D :D

[D110V8D]

Just an update here. We will have a recce to start with. Photos of damage etc then go from there.

I belive there is a gathering at Gav's (84RR) place on the australia day weekend for all that are fair dinkum on this venture.

Details to follow......

[Disco300Tdi]

There was a "chat" on tonight with 3 attending plus 1 apology,
not bad with 13 on the list of people with their hands up.

There is a w/end planned for the Australia day long w/end in January
at my place in Korong Vale, 1 hour N/W from Bendigo (2.5 from Melbourne)
to organize the events planned/discussion paper.

A thread will be started in "Upcoming Events"

Thanks Ray and Mick for your attendance tonight.

[hiline]

Thanks Ray and Mick for your attendance tonight.

no probs team leader :D :D

[sschmez]

but I think this has little to do with the Huts (the focus of the thread)

Thanx EchiDna, that was the point, but....... now :D someone rattled my cage, :D


can't say I've seen cattle eat fallen timber and leaf litter
Clearly they don't

Thanx for the link Mick.
It has been proven that this is just not the case:confused: :confused: :confused: :confused:
The scientific validity of a single study, after an event, to refute the entire "hypothesis" needs to be questioned.

No regard given to grazing behaviour of cattle (and the fact they don't eat dry sticks - as above), the "no fire" result in the pasture (where cattle do graze), cannot be used to say anything other than alpine grazing reduces blazing. Just because cattle may have access to areas which burnt in the fires does not mean they actually grazed there (grass is greener, why would they). Historically low stocking rates also ensure they don't need to .........

What of the fact that they destroy native animal habitat After 170+ years of grazing by cattle ,sheep, horses, deer, pigs it was still good enough to become a national park.:confused: .

their cloven hoofs also compact the soil....:confused:
Grazing by horses (Brumbies) deer and pig continues year round up to and above the snow line

Anyway, back to the huts

If anyone wants to discuss further, feel free to start a new thread

:angel:


Just my opinion guys. Not startin nuffin.:D

Stevo

Supporter:

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/

[Disco300Tdi]

Supporter:

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/

A member also :) ;)

[hiline]

A member also :) ;)

well i'm not :o and i aint going to either :D

[WOLLAPIT85]

Sorry Gav,
Been working at nigts and dont get down with the chat thingy.
But will see you on Aday for sure.

[D110V8D]

Green issues have no place here on a four wheel drive forum.

You'd think I would have learnt that by now.:D :D

[George130]

With materials I have quite a bit of secondhand tin roofing sheets.

[waynep]

:D :D :D Tried to join the chat but wouldn't boot up on my machine ...must be firewall settings or summit ...grumble grumble.

Update ...just tested again works now ....anyone wanna chat ?????:banana::) :D :p :p :cool: :banana:

[WOLLAPIT85]

15 million cows die in Australia each year..
SAVE YOURS..

:wasntme:

[sschmez]

You'd think I would have learnt that by now.:D :D

http://internoodle.com/Kermit/KermitPics/K50.gifIt's not that easy bein' green

[hiline]

The list so far:


1.)...84RR ..............Gav ..........Camp Captain, Leader and AULRO-Vic HCHuts Coordinator
2.)...Hiline ..............Ray ..........2ic, vice, chief cook and beer taster
3.)...Waynep ..........Wayne
4.)...Sschmez .........Stevo
5.)...Wollapit85........Justin
6.)...D110v8d ..........Mick
7.)...Rangieman .......Chris
8.)...Ladas .............Ladas
9.)...Sclarke ...........Steve
10.)..McRover .........Damo
11.).. Mudnut .........Ken
12.).. Ralph............Ralph (??)
13.).. EchiDna...................
14.)..River ..............................in QLD till Feb

guy's please check the upcoming events thread

we have a thread in there that needs attention;)

[rangieman]

The list so far:


1.)...84RR ..............Gav ..........Camp Captain, Leader and AULRO-Vic HCHuts Coordinator
2.)...Hiline ..............Ray ..........2ic, vice, chief cook and beer taster
3.)...Waynep ..........Wayne
4.)...Sschmez .........Stevo
5.)...Wollapit85........Justin
6.)...D110v8d ..........Mick
7.)...Rangieman .......Chris
8.)...Ladas .............Ladas
9.)...Sclarke ...........Steve
10.)..McRover .........Damo
11.).. Mudnut .........Ken
12.).. Ralph............Ralph (??)
13.).. EchiDna...................
14.)..River ..............................in QLD till Feb

guy's please check the upcoming events thread

we have a thread in there that needs attention;)


attention yes 2ic :p

im onto it sir:cool:

[hiline]

attention yes 2ic :p

im onto it sir:cool:

good man :D

[D110V8D]

So can anyone confirm if there has been any damage on the NSW side of the high country??

I am bored and want to go for a drive. Is there any access in the area of Long Plain, kosiosko etc?

[Bytemrk]

Mick,

All the fire maps I have seen show nothing north of the border - or even really close.

( But they are all CFA maps so would focus on Vic.)

Check here for up to date fire maps:

http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/DSE/nrenfoe.nsf/LinkView/3815545C812B0DF0CA256F890005DEBBB9087B000442FFBCCA 256F890006E18B

So petty sure you are right to go for that drive...

Mark

[hiline]

i've sent PM'S and e-mails to most people on the list in regards to this venture:D :D


anyone else up for it please log into www.oznomads.com (http://www.oznomads.com)

its in the General thread:D

many hands make light work;)

I'M REALLY TRYING TO KEEP THIS ALIVE

[D110V8D]

Keep what alive?:p ;)

[Tank]

If there is enough interest in a sponsoring hut from the NSW members i'll do what i can to see about maybe helping with any upkeep on one of the Kosiosko huts, there are quite a few with no caretakers so shouldn't be to hard to get one to look after as best we can.

Baz.
Baz, I'll put my hand up, I live on the South Coast (Moruya) of NSW, I'm a Mechanic, a Class1 Ticketed Rigger, Crane driver, Dogman, and I built my own house, so my experience may be of use. I dont mind whether the work is Vic or NSW, Regards Frank.

[waynep]

BTT ...

Just BTTing this old thread ( if Blue Leader doesn't mind ) because the Upcoming Events section where this is now running is a bit harder to find these days, so a few may have missed it.

The meeting regarding this is on this weekend.

I think if more Vic people ( or even Southern NSW ) people want to come along tyhis long W/E they are welcome.

Refer to this thread for details.

http://www.aulro.com/afvb/showthread.php't=33090&page=7

[hiline]

BTT ...

Just BTTing this old thread ( if Blue Leader doesn't mind ) because the Upcoming Events section where this is now running is a bit harder to find these days, so a few may have missed it.

The meeting regarding this is on this weekend.

I think if more Vic people ( or even Southern NSW ) people want to come along tyhis long W/E they are welcome.

Refer to this thread for details.

http://www.aulro.com/afvb/showthread.php't=33090&page=7


thanks mate :thumbsup:

info here- I suppose I had better give a few directions

From Inglewood:

Depart INGLEWOOD, head N/E along CALDER HWY, INGLEWOOD 28.5 km Turn right on to BOORT-WEDDERBURN RD, WEDDERBURN 11 km
(Cross railway line) VERNON ST, KORONG VALE 200 m
Turn left into Mason Lane
Turn right at T intersection of laneway, 2nd house on right
rear entrance 25m
28 Mins total distance: 39 km 725 m

or

http://www.aulro.com/app/showphoto.p...0/ppuser/10183 (http://www.aulro.com/app/showphoto.php/photo/3617/cat/500/ppuser/10183)

or

S 36.21.378
E 143.42.171

Dont bother with mobile phones, (Digital or Next G), as reception cuts out 8km from Wedderburn. CDMA is OK

Anyone with any questions, dont hesitate to ask.......

[hiline]

hopefully i'll be leaving around 1pm today :D :D

if not sooner :D

see ya up there guy's ;):beer:

[waynep]

Thanks Gavin and Christine for hosting this weekend. I had a very enjoyable time even though I could only stay one night. I envy your lifestyle up there.
All the others five or six blokes and their families and dogs who were there, nice to meet you in person and have a few beers with you.
Hopefully we can keep the interest up until the High Country is opened up and we can do some hut recce trips.

[sschmez]

Home safely:)

Thanx to Gav and Chris for all their hospitality and hosting the weekend for the group.

Annette and I and the "family" enjoyed meeting all and catching up.

More later

Stevo

[hiline]

thanks to everyone that turned up :D :D


big thank you to Gav and Chris for putting up with our crazy bunch:D ;)

looking forward to our 1st reccie:D when ever that my be:angel:

[hiline]

how silly of me to forget about Lada's :angel: :angel:

thanks for the gas mate it was a nice chilly drive home:D

[Disco300Tdi]

Speaking of Ladas

Anyone inherit, adopt or find a saucepan belonging to Ladas?

[waynep]

Speaking of Ladas

Anyone inherit, adopt or find a saucepan belonging to Ladas?

No but I think I left my stubby holder up on the mountain !:( :D

[mcrover]

Sounds like it all went well for you folks, I still wish I could have got out of the Wang trip but I had to be there.

Pitty most of the other people who said they were going to be there didn't show up in the end but we had fun anyway, trying to talk my old man and his wife into buying a disco.

Keep me posted on whats happening as I still want to be involved as much as I can.

[hiline]

Sounds like it all went well for you folks, I still wish I could have got out of the Wang trip but I had to be there.

Pitty most of the other people who said they were going to be there didn't show up in the end but we had fun anyway, trying to talk my old man and his wife into buying a disco.

Keep me posted on whats happening as I still want to be involved as much as I can.

g'day mate

i've sent you a PM through the oznomads site :D

[hiline]

No but I think I left my stubby holder up on the mountain !:( :D

:o you certainly did leave it at the mountain carpark :(

but someone picked it up for you :D

but who it was dont ask me :angel: