Charlie Hut

Amongst the many historic landmarks dotted around the Scenic Rim, south of Brisbane, is the small simple building called ‘Charlie Hut’ adjacent to the Carney’s Creek Road in Carney’s Creek. This was the home of William Charles Curtis who was known as Charlie by the locals. Charlie was born on 7th June 1890 to mother Annie Curtis who was the only parent listed on official records, He was raised at St Vincent’s Orphanage. The St Vincent's Orphanage, in Nudgee, was operated by the Order of the Sisters of Mercy. It was established in 1867 when children were transferred from New Farm St Vincent's to the property at Nudgee. In 1935 the name was changed to St Vincent's Children's Home.

Charlie came to Croftby, from St Vincents as an adolescent to work for a local grazier William Kerwin on his property called “Mona Lea”. William Kerwin was born 21st March 1861 and died 23rd December 1940 at rhe age of 79. During his time at Mona Lea, Charlie was taught to care for and manage cattle, mend fences, maintain equipment and machinery, as well as water conservation, all of which were to prove assets in his future business. Charlie was a hard working farmhand and often helped local farmers with fencing, tree management and mustering. He was a great supporter of the local community and was well thought of by all the locals.

At some stage Charlie bought a grazing block on the banks of Carney’s Creek where he lived for most of his life in the small house called the Hut. It is here that there appears some conjecture as to the heritage of the building. It was thought to possibly be the old Carney’s Creek School building which stood a short distance away and closed around 1907. Either way the small historic building still stands and continues to be a symbol of our pioneering heritage, memorably recorded by many interested photographers.

Charlie also purchased a 73 acre paddock nearby and when he sold this property he asked the new owner to preserve two massive Hoop Pine trees that were landmarks of the property. They remain today and the property is known as Curtice Mountain. Another property bought and sold by Charlie was called Pine Park. He remained a well known character until his death on 1st September 1967 and is buried in Boonah Cemetery in a modest resting place. His home of many years remains an interesting link to the past and rightfully is called ‘Charlie Hut’.