Derschkos Hut
Photograph copyright Olaf Moon © 2002.
Also known as SMA, Linesmans or Jagungal Hut
Derschkos is located in the centre of the Jagungal wilderness,
hidden behind a hill near Pugilistic Creek, and about 2 Km from the
road junction from Grey Mare to Round Mountain fire trail. It is only
accessible on foot, or by approved access over a management firetrail.
Its grid reference is 216 992 on the Kosciusko map.
Brief History
The hut was built by the SMA in the early 1950's, and used by an hydrologist
named Derschkos.
The Construction of the hut is professional, with three rooms
covering an area of about 6.5m square. The roof is of iron, the floor
of timber and walls of weatherboards. The hut is lined with masonite.
There are four windows that may be opened.
This hut is fitted with a pot belly stove, although a walk is required
to find firewood. Water is available in a small creek 10m from the building.
There is also a separate "loo with a view" and a locked storage
shed. The latter was burnt down in the 2003 fires, creating a fear that
the actual hut had gone, but that was not the case.
Caretakers - SPAN Unlimited
Value
Being the nearest hut to Jagungal, it is particularly popular with
skiers and walkers. In the 1970's it was in pristine condition, being
regularly re-painted, including a candy striped roof.
A number of lives have been saved by this hut, as for Mawsons.
References
- Hueneke K, "Huts of the High Country" P 43-45.
- KHA number 2317,
- KNP Plan of Management Schedule number is L.55.
Derschkos in 1975, substantially the same as today,
but much cleaner! Photo by Ted Fleming © 1975 (I need to refind
this one!)
Profile last updated 7 July 2007.
