¶ RESTORATION of the Mungalup hut is one step closer after it was transported to the old depot yard in Coombes Street last week.
Having been carefully removed from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions’ Wellington District depot, the hut was placed in a specially manufactured rack, which will allow for access during its restoration.
Rotarian John Bylund said its transportation would not have been possible without Robert’s Tilt Tray and South West Pilot Services.
Mr Bylund said the next stage of the project is keenly anticipated.
“The restoration will be essentially a good clean up, specifically on the inside,” he said.
“The other biggest part of it will be replacing the tongue and groove panelling on the outside, which has deteriorated over the last 65 years.”
A compass rose and interior map table will be restored, and the hut will be repainted on the inside, restored to its authentic colours.
Rotary last year outlined a plan to Collie Shire Council under which it proposed relocating, restoring and re-erecting the Munro fire tower in Collie and pairing it with the Mungalup hut.
Under the plan, the first stage involved restoration of the hut and the second establishing the fire tower.
However, councillors raised concerns about ongoing costs associated with maintaining the tower.
Mr Bylund told councillors at the time that the project’s first stage could be carried out independently should the second stage not proceed.
Mr Bylund said the intention now is to have the hut ready for display at the Coalfields Museum and Historical Research Centre.
“I see Rotary’s mandate to restore the hut and have it ready for the museum,” he said.