Heritage grant awarded to Mawson’s Huts in Antarctica

Work will be undertaken to protect one of Antarctica’s most historically significant sites into the future.

One of Antarctica’s most historically significant sites is being protected for future generations.

A heritage grant will enable work at the Mawson’s Huts Historic Site to conserve and protect the buildings.

Tasmanian Liberal senator Eric Abetz said the project would include several updates.

“Mawson is an icon of Antarctic exploration. His legendary tale of survival against all odds has ensured his name and legacy lives on, not just through the naming of the heritage-listed huts but also through the Antarctic station named after him,” Mr Abetz said. “It is of national importance that we honour Mawson and his company by continuing to conserve and manage this site, so that it continues to be a part of our rich Australian Antarctic heritage and pioneering spirit.”

A penguin walks past Mawson's Hut in 2012. Picture: AAP/DEAN LEWINS

Mr Abetz said as part of the $321,000 project, any necessary repairs to the huts will be made and access to the main hut will be improved.

“Snow from the main hut will be cleared, potentially uncovering lost artefacts and an automatic weather station will be installed so that we may monitor conditions at the hut in real-time,” he said.

Federal Environment Minister Sussan Ley said the Government was supporting the protection of nationally significant sites such as the huts through a $5.3 million national grants program.

“I am delighted to see the huts and site of Mawson’s legendary expedition will undergo much needed conservation to ensure the spirit and legacy of our pioneering Australians lives on for another hundred years,” she said.