Friday, Feb 01, 2008 at 21:05
As a former local and one that returns every 2nd weekend and that means Craigs Hut too, NO it doesn't look exactly like the "original" built for the movie. Come to think of it neither did the second rebuild either. Things change and as this is now both a tourist destination and a refuge it should and does meet certain standards. Yes at the moment it does look like a brand new just completed hut but given time and weather its character will come into its own. Craig the builder should be highly commended on such an excellent job and don't forget the volunteers that assisted him. Also cheers to those involved in the consulative commitee made up of local tour operators, volunteer organisations and the inevitable government departments given that it sits within Parks Vic territory. A lot of time and planning went into ensuring they stayed as faithful as possible to the hut built as a movie prop.The original had no floor and was becoming a
hazard before the first rebuild.Contrary to all you have heard of late in the media, Mr Burrows and the set builder were asked on several occasions to be involved with the current rebuild. I was at the opening on the 27th January and if you had been there too you would have been just as insulted as I with the comments made about the rebuild, the builder and the general public. Mr Dodson from the DPI was extremely graceful after having to stand through the indignant tirated of abuse put forward from Mr Burrows about "his original Cattlemans Hut". Well done to Craig the builder for sourcing as much aged items such as 100 year old glass for the windows. You have done a fantastic job. The volunteers - congratulations, Parks for getting the rebuild of a major tourist draw card for the
Mansfield region.
I have been going to Craigs Hut at Clear Hills for some 20 years and personally think that things like a rear veranda that allows for many more people to get that must have picture is great. There is a chimney in place and the timber will weather. As for the roofing material, it was due in part to the "original" bark roof that it burnt in the 2006/2007 fires. If you had the opportunity to visit after the fires you could clearly see that nothing else in the immediate vicinty actually burnt!!!!!!!
As for the cost - so what - you still have a great place to visit. As for the track leading up - the cross drains will be graded back into the track to keep it precious for the 4wd fraternity. As for us horse riders we'll continue to use the narrow horse only tracks and take our time to enjoy the scenery at a pleasant pace.
This is a place to be enjoyed by all, just remember to all user groups - RESPECT OUR HIGH COUNTRY
FollowupID:
549787