Mawsons Hut
Photograph Courtesy of Peter Sundstrom © 2001.
Known as Mawsons Hut, The Grand, Valentine Hut or “Mawson The Grand”.
Location is under Mt Gungarten on the Big Bend of the River at Grid Reference 260903 on the Khancoban 1:50,000 map. Some old yards sit below the hut and footpads lead to it (visible in summer!)
Brief History
Mawsons was built by Herb Mawson (the manager of "Bobundra" Station) , plus Lindsay Willis, Con Bolton and Jack Bolton in 1930.
The ceiling and linings were put in, in late 1930 and the chimney in 1933.
For decades, the Exclusive Squirrels Ski Club maintained the hut, and were renowned for keeping a good library. More recently, the new squirrel members have undertaken replacement of the lining of the hut.
The hut also has a fearful reputation for internal wildlife, but its size and location makes it a favourite with XC skiers. It can be a devil to find in a white-out and a GPS position is sought!
Construction
The hut is large at 7m by 4m, with two rooms and a wood store. The roof and walls are of iron and the floor of wood. The chimney has a concrete base and an iron flue. There is also one window and an outside toilet.
Caretakers - The New Squirrels
References
Hueneke Pp xvi, 37, 49-51, 128, 151.
KHA reference number is 2325 and
KNP POM Number is L.87.
KHA History notes exist for this hut.
GPS: S 36.221865 E 148.403481 (Check this one!)