MT. ELLIOT
| Grid Reference |
EV 87?94? |
Department |
DEPI |
Work Depot |
Corryong |
Region |
North East |
Grading |
? |
Elevation (ASL) |
939m |
Height |
10m |
Construction |
Timber |
Cabin size |
? |
Public access to site |
? |
In use since |
19??
|
CFA Region |
24 - North Eastern |
Photo (Mar1963) supplied by the Melbourne Walking Club (Robin Bailey)
In notes supplied by David Bannear and dated 11th November 1959 it is recorded:
"Several potential towerman have expressed unwillingness to man this lookout in the absence of an efficient form of lightning conductor. Some safety device would be required for the protection of an observer on the platform (wooden structure approx. 30' (10m) above ground level) or while occupying the hut (not yet erected). The storms in this area are quite violent and in my opinion the lack of confidence of these men is well grounded. Could you please offer any ideas which might alleviate the situation?"
The reply was prompt, dated 27th November 1959:
"In reply to your query of the 11th Mr. X has advised that he does not know of any form of lightning conductor for a fire tower which will give a full guarantee of protection. He states that the hut is more likely to be struck than the tower unless a lid is placed on the chimney during the storm. Investigation in England has shown that the chimneys are struck because of the up-draught of air through them even when no fire is present causes ionisation of the air which induces a strike. He suggests that when an electrical storm is imminent, the observer should vacate the tower, place a lid on the chimney and take refuge in the hut which would be the safest place provided the lid was on the chimney".
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