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Drawing of Bradleys and O'Briens Hut

Bradleys and O'Briens Hut

Built 1952–53 by Jack Bailey for Pat O'Brien and Jack Bradley
Condition ★★★★☆ (rebuilt post-2020 bushfires)

Historical Timeline

1952–53 Constructed by Jack Bailey with timber sourced from nearby ridges
1970s–90s Used by graziers and recreational campers; stables removed by NPWS
January 2020 Destroyed in bushfires during widespread alpine damage
2023–24 Rebuilt by NPWS, KHA, and volunteers with fire-resilient upgrades

Historical Overview

Bradleys and O'Briens Hut was originally built in the early 1950s by Jack Bailey, a builder from Tumbarumba, for graziers Pat O'Brien and Jack Bradley. Located just off the Cabramurra-Khancoban Road, the hut served as a base for summer grazing and alpine travel.

The hut was destroyed in the 2020 bushfires, but was rebuilt in 2023-24 with support from NPWS, the Kosciuszko Huts Association, and volunteers including the Wagga Four Wheel Drive Club. The new structure retains the original footprint and character, while incorporating fire-resilient design.

Today, the hut stands as a tribute to alpine resilience and community stewardship, offering shelter to hikers and skiers venturing into the Jagungal Wilderness.

Architectural Notes

The hut measures approximately 6.5m × 4m with a verandah at the front. It is built with timber framing and corrugated iron cladding, set on a concrete slab. The interior includes a sawn timber floor, solid fireplace, and angled iron-clad window sills for ember protection. The rebuild incorporated fire-retardant treatments and reduced gaps to improve resilience.

Conservation Context

The hut sits in a montane forest zone near the Tooma Road, offering access to the Jagungal Wilderness. It is listed in the KNP Plan of Management Schedule L.43 and supported by a KHA Conservation Brief.

The 2023–24 rebuild emphasized fire resilience, with design features to reduce ember intrusion and improve structural durability. The site is actively monitored and remains a popular waypoint for weekend visitors and ski tourers.

Conservation & Stewardship

Bradleys and O’Briens Hut is maintained by NPWS and KHA volunteers. The site benefits from regular visitation and community support, with stewardship focused on fire protection, structural upkeep, and interpretive documentation.

Photos

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References

  1. Kosciuszko Huts Association – Bradleys and O'Briens Hut
  2. Open Street Maps – Bradleys and O'Briens Hut Location
  3. Mountain Huts Australia – Bradleys Hut
  4. Mountain Huts Toms Outdoors - Bradleys and O'Briens Hut
  5. Australian Alps Iconic Heritage Huts 3D Digital Tours Project
  6. Tom’s Outdoors – Post-Bushfire Rebuild Feature