Howqua Gap Hut
Known as Howqua Gap Hut, Howqua Hut or Woollybutt Saddle Hut.
Located at Howqua Gap on Circuit Road around Mount Stirling.
From Mansfield, take Mount Buller Road about 30 km to Mirimbah, then Stirling Road about 8 km to Telephone Box Junction. Follow the signed southern Circuit Road approach to Howqua Gap, approximately 14.5 km farther by the published driving route, making about 53 km from Mansfield.
The route beyond Mirimbah is gravel; ordinary-car suitability depends on current road condition but it is generally 2WD accessible. Park at the signed hut/camping area for a short walk. Do not take the steep summit tracks as a substitute for Circuit Road. Seasonal gates close the upper road in winter; check resort access before departure.
History
The hut is generally dated to about 1968 and was used as a logging base. Earlier accounts describe it as having been moved between forestry work sites. It should be distinguished from separately recorded older graziers’ hut remains in the Howqua Gap area.
Construction
Weatherboard walls, corrugated-iron roof and timber floor, with a fireplace, metal chimney, shelf and seat. Tongue-and-groove boards line the interior.
Caretakers
Earlier accounts identify Mount Stirling resort staff and Stirling Experience. The resort lists Howqua Gap among its public huts.
References
Mount Stirling resort walking map and hut information;
ExplorOz, Mount Stirling driving route;
VHCHA mapped location;
Hueneke, pp. 90 and 238.
Mapping Guidance:
GPS: provisionally 37.14444°S, 146.49076°E.
UTM Zone 55H: 454776 m E, 5888983 m N. Approximate VHCHA mapped position, treated as WGS84. ExplorOz places Howqua Gap Hut about 270 m north-east; the exact photographed building’s pin needs confirmation.