ACT Government Promised to Rebuild Huts in Namadgi National Park, But Progress is Slow

Deep in the heart of Namadgi National Park, the bush is coming back to life. But two heritage huts destroyed during the Black Summer bushfires remain in ruins despite promises to rebuild.

Demandering Hut and Max and Bert Oldfields Hut were destroyed in the 2020 Orroral Valley Fire. The ACT government pledged to build two new huts in 2023, following public support for the initiative. The new huts will be located near the original sites to allow visitors to see the ruins alongside the replicas.

While the NSW government has rebuilt 10 huts destroyed in the same period in Kosciuszko National Park, there has been no progress in the ACT's jurisdiction. Greg Buckman from the Canberra Bushwalking Club expressed disappointment at the lack of progress, emphasizing the historical and cultural significance of the huts.

Both Demandering Hut and Max and Bert Oldfields Hut hold historical value, providing a glimpse into a bygone era. The delay in rebuilding these structures is a concern for heritage conservationists like Geoff Ashley, who believe that simplifying processes could expedite restoration efforts.

Ultimately, the community stands to lose if the rebuilding of these huts does not happen, as they serve as important historical landmarks and contribute to the connection between people and the wilderness.

According to the source: Australian Broadcasting Corporation.