Oldfields Hut
A superb photograph from the KHA records by Jane Wheaton.
Known as Oldfields Hut, Murray Creek Hut or Oldfields No. 1.
Location
Oldfields is located in the east of KNP almost at the border with Namadgi National Park and on the track that leads up to Murray’s Gap and Mt Bimberi, at Grid Reference 587502.
Brief History
Oldfields was built in 1925 by Jack Pheney for the Oldfield family. It replaced the Wards hut previously built nearby for the family in 1920.
An aboriginal circle of stones (a Bora Ring) used to exist in front of the hut, about 20 m directly in front of the main door, and about 12m in diameter. It was clearly visible until the early 1990’s. Recent careful searches have failed to find it and it may have been deliberately removed.
Construction
A typical slab hut measuring 10m by 3m, with vertical boards and a great veranda. The roof is of iron and the floor of stones and wood.
A vegetable garden is still visible at the front, plus stockyards about 500m to the east.
Value
Oldfields is a classic, with perfect positioning and construction style. It is considered a favourite hut by many walkers. It has exceptional value from both a heritage and recreational viewpoint.
It is an easy walk from the gate on the Tantangara Dam road, but is not on a common path, except for those coming from Orroral Valley or elsewhere in the ACT. A great cycle ride from Orroral Valley.
References
A KHA Brief, Notes and History exist for the hut.
KHA number 1601.
Hueneke Pp 200, 224, 228, 229.
GPS: