Police are investigating a robbery at Australia’s highest historic display in the Old Kiandra Courthouse/Chalet.
National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) staff discovered in late July that the old Courthouse/Chalet had been broken into and historic artefacts from the birthplace of Australian skiing and the nation’s “coldest” gold rush in 1859 stolen.
NPWS Park Operations Area Manager, Matt White, said: “The Courthouse/Chalet is on the State heritage Register and housed a heritage display with numerous open days and group tours held during the year.
“The display included items illustrating skiing, gold mining, law enforcement, and life at Kiandra using information and relics.
The burglars damaged the courthouse door and display cabinets to steal wooden skis, ceramic pots, original photos and historic crockery, all of which was used to tell the story of Kiandra’s rich history.
In addition, damage was done to a door to gain entry and to the display cabinets.
“It’s particularly concerning for the many people associated with Kiandra’s history including members of the Friends of Kiandra volunteer group who have helped raise money to purchase relics and conduct open days.”
“We’re very keen to get this irreplaceable material back. While it may not have a high monetary value, it is irreplaceable.”
The building was used as a ski chalet from the 1940’s until the early 1970’s during which time it was extensively modified and expanded to include accommodation, a service station and a licenced bar.
The Court House was partially restored by NPWS between 2012 and 2014.
Monaro Police District are currently investigating the break and enter and anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Adaminaby Police Station on or Crime Stoppers: or
Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report crime via NSW Police social media pages.
