25/09/2026
Did you know renowned modernist architect, Hugh Buhrich, designed the first extensions of the KPSC Lodge in Perisher?
In 1967, Hugh Buhrich, a friend of Hans Butow, was tasked with designing an extension, to increase the number of beds available to 11 and provide more "living space”. The front wall of the lodge was removed and several bedrooms were constructed. The “join” was along the middle of the current hallway. The floors of the existing and new part were abutted, and this joint still squeaks along this line to the present day. One of the existing bedrooms was incorporated into the current lounge-room. These designs are held at the NSW State Library.
How did KPSC come to buy ‘Tyrol Ski Club’? the KPSC Committee heard about a small lodge that had gone on the market in Perisher Valley, called the ‘Tyrol Ski Club’ – cheap – for quick sale! There was a story that the owner of the two-bedroom lodge was one of the Perisher ski instructors who had been using the lodge as a ‘massage parlour’, servicing the needs of the Snowy workers. Someone had dobbed the fellow in, to the authorities and he needed to off-load the lodge in a hurry. It was small, with a small kitchen/dining area and two bedrooms. But it was well situated, with a fantastic view across the valley and proximity to the ski areas. KPSC officially acquired its ski lodge in Perisher Valley in August 1966. The two-bedroom configuration was quickly switched to a pair of 4 bunk bedrooms.
The lodge in Perisher exists because of the tireless commitment of the Butow family - Hans & his son John driving from Sydney to Kiandra across to Thredbo, Charlottes Pass and Perisher. Han’s friendship with Hugh Buhrich secured the lodges first extension, and subsequent extensions were built by his son John.
