Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Kurth Kiln Regional Park is located near the town of Noojee in the Gippsland region of Victoria, Australia. The park is recognized both for its natural environment and its cultural history tied to the timber industry and wartime charcoal production. Covering native forests dominated by mountain ash, messmate, and wattle, the park provides habitat for native wildlife including swamp wallabies, lyrebirds, and a variety of bird species. One of the park’s major landmarks is the Kurth Kiln itself — a large wood charcoal kiln constructed in the 1940s to produce charcoal for the Commonwealth's wartime fuel needs. This kiln is preserved as a historical artifact and is accessible by a short walking track. Visitors can explore several walking trails that traverse open forest and fern gullies, offering opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and bushwalking. The park features picnic facilities and is a popular stop for travelers heading through the scenic mountain region. The surrounding area is characterized by hilly terrain, with pleasant views of the state forest and local farmland. The park’s relatively small size fosters a peaceful experience focused on history, nature walks, and interpreting early 20th-century timber industry technology. Although camping is not allowed within the park boundaries, nearby Noojee provides accommodations and facilities. Kurth Kiln Regional Park appeals to outdoor enthusiasts interested in combining light hiking and cultural heritage, making it a unique destination in Victoria’s forested highlands.
