Top Crossing Hut
Photograph courtesy of Rooftop Maps © 2003
Known as Top Crossing Hut
Located at the upper King River near Buckland Spur. From Cheshunt, follow Upper King River Road south to Lake William Hovell, approximately 18 km. Continue on the unsealed approach past Sandy Flat and follow Top Crossing Track to the hut, described in earlier accounts as about 10 km above the lake. The exact total road distance needs checking; that upstream distance is approximate. The final track requires a high-clearance, low-range 4WD as it crosses the King River several times. Park in the hut camping area and walk the short distance to the building. Always check the river water depth!
A 2WD visitor should stop at the lake recreation area.
History
Built by the Crown Lands Department of Victoria in 1957, by employees Frank Burrows and his son, Snow Burrows, with assistance from Nifty MacDonald and Ken Bustle.
Four pack horses were used to cart the materials. When built, the employees used it to carry out their duties such as wombat or dog trapping.
A mining track is close by, built in 1897 to aid access to the nearest railway from the Buckland Valley goldfields.
Construction
Built around a pole frame with battens and no lining. Externally framed chimney and iron roof and walls.
Caretakers - Wangaratta 4WD Club
References
Hueneke Pp 245
Butler Pp318 - 320
VHCHA, Top Crossing Hut;
Hema Maps, Stringy Bark Creek and Powers Lookout route.
Visit Wangaratta, Lake William Hovell Recreation Area.
Mapping Guide:
GPS: approximately 36.96405°S, 146.441583°E.
UTM Zone 55H: 450291 m E, 5908970 m N. Approximate ExplorOz hut-site position; WGS84 assumed, not field-verified. Distinct from their river-crossing pin about 220 m away.