Master Bushman, Fred Fry, built his riverside high country home in the late 1930s.

Using split timber and his own personal style of workmanship he erected many huts in the region including Jamieson Hut, Ritchie’s Hut, Gardiner’s Hut and Noonan’s. Fred lived a solitary existence for many years in the Howqua Hills area, prospecting and packing supplies for government agencies and fishermen. His life in the Howqua Valley was the basis of Neville Shute’s 1950 novel ‘The Far Country’.

Overnight camping is not permitted in Fry’s Hut, however, there is an extensive camping area adjacent to the hut. Take the 1.5 hour return Howqua Hills Historic Walk from Sheepyard Flat to Fry’s Flat all year round. Horse yards are available and bookable on the Parks Victoria website. Campsites are not bookable but operate on a first in first served basis. Drop toilets and fireplaces are available.

Please note access by vehicle is not possible from June to November due to seasonal track closures in the High Country. Seasonal closures generally operate from King’s Birthday long weekend in June through to the beginning of November but may be extended due to seasonal conditions. Most tracks reopen on the Friday prior to Melbourne Cup Day long weekend.