 Following
the blazes that began on the 8th January 2003, and swept
through the entire High Country region, I contacted
Fiona Magnussen to suggest we do something - it was that
conversation that was the beginning of this Victorian
High Country Huts Association. The path of the massive
fire did not only destroyed livestock, property, fences,
wildlife and our beautiful country but also numerous
historical huts.
For
many, these huts hold some unique treasured memories
that will never be forgotten. Some of these huts are
very popular, whilst others are hidden and known to just
a few.
The
loss of Horse Hair Hut was a huge lost our heritage.
Being the oldest hut in the Alpine region, and being
registered with the National Trust, it held so many
historical aspects to our huts. Its construction
highlighted the unique pioneering skills of our fore
fathers, the style was a masterpiece of yesteryears
living, the interior held the mementos of the thousands
that stayed in her over 130 years and the chimney of
corrugate warmed the hearts of all that boiled the billy
during their stay. The importance of this hut was what
mad me make that initial phone call, as my grandparents
owned it, my mother was brought to is as a baby, we
stayed in it when I was a child and my husband Peter and
I were married in it.
We
can not change what has happened, but we can join
together and unite as one to ensure the safe havens that
are scattered throughout the region are retained,
repaired, protected, preserved and where necessary,
rebuild for the many generations to follow. Ensure that
they enjoy the remaining evidence of our heritage as we
and the generations before us have enjoyed it.
Whilst
each hut has its own story, served its own purpose, and
constructed to the times of its birth, all
of them join as one in a network of safe havens for
those in need, the loss of just one, breaks that network
and could in years to come result in the difference
between life and death.
We
sent out the feelers to see if there was enough interest
to form the Victorian High Country Huts Association. The
response has been beyond belief. People from all walks
of lives and a variety of interests have made contact,
from individuals to LARGE organisations.
We
have to ensure the procedures and avenues are explored.
We have made initial contact with Parks and DSE, who
have welcomed our endeavours, and we are confident that
we can work with them to ensure the future and heritage
of the High County Huts are restored.
Currently
we are making every effort to have a full assessment of
each hut, but due to the fires still hampering the high
country region, this will be a slower than wanted
process.
The
founding of this Association is as important to the High
Country as the Huts themselves.
www.vhcha.org.au
Following
the establishment of this association and two years as
President, I have resigned form the committee to pursue
other commitments, but this association is dear to my
heart and will continued to be supported by me and my
endeavours
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