Store Point Hut gets a new lease on life

16 May, 2012

Store Point Hut on Donnelly Creek Road in Aberfeldy has been restored to its former glory, once again able to provide shelter and warmth to passing campers and four wheel drive enthusiasts in the historic gold mining district.

The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) approached the Victorian High Country Hut Association for help and together they have worked to resurrect the ageing hut and give it a new lease of life.

DSE’s Project Manager Suzette Fullerton said the Association, led by Hut Maintenance Officer Wayne Peterken, was keen to restore the hut.

“The hut was seriously deteriorated – it was leaking water, the roof was held up by props, the beams were decayed and leaning over, and the chimney all but disintegrated,” she said.

“Over two weekends, a group of very dedicated volunteers, who love the bush, and are passionate about protecting these historic huts, replaced the structure, walls and roof of the building. We are most grateful to the work of these volunteers in protecting and enhancing our forest assets,” she said.

The volunteers included members of the Pajero 4WD Club led by trip leader Alan Sellars.

The Store Point township was established in the late 1800’s during the gold rush and at various times included a post office, school, police station and several other shops and houses. The Store Point Hut was built by Ben Kesper in 1975, who had a gold prospecting claim in the area. Ben, now 77 years of age, resides in Queensland.

The Hut can be accessed via Springs Road Seaton, turning left into Donnelly Creek Road.