Wheelers Hut
Photo courtesy of Jack Palmer 1997.
Known as Wheelers Hut, and Old Toolong hut
Located at GR 127 025 about six kilometres south of Tooma Reservoir and under the Big Dargal. There is a carpark on the road and a short day’s walk in.
Brief History
Wheelers is considered to be the quintessential KNP hut, and often referred to as "their favourite" by some people. It is perfectly placed, with a stunning view and classic atmosphere.
The hut was built by "Wingy" Wheeler for grazing, around 1900, and moved to the present site in the 1920's. He was known as Wingy because he had one arm, but could ride, smoke and crack a stock whip all at the same time, with that one arm.
Adjacent to the hut are the Toolong Diggings, active from 1893 to 1904 with water races, mullock heaps and mining equipment still remaining.
In the fires of 2003, damage was done to the immediate surrounds, but not to the hut. However a visitor lit a fire that was too hot and damaged the chimney. This was repaired in early 2004 by a team lead by Noel Gough.
Construction
Wheeler’s is a classic horizontal wood slab hut, with two rooms, two verandas and a roof of iron. The hearth is a slab of stone and the chimney is of iron. There is an external toilet, but more importantly, an old iron bath tub at the front.
Value and Caretakers
Wheelers would be considered one of the most valuable huts in the Park, for both recreational, visual and historical reasons.
References
KHA Reference number is 2304
KNP POM is L.20.
A Conservation Study exists
History notes also exist.
GPS: