The whispering forests of Victoria’s High Country, the hush of its snow-laden plateaus, and the stillness of its deep valleys have long been the haunts of the daring, the desperate, and the deranged. These remote landscapes have provided refuge for murderers, crooks, bushrangers on the run, and hermits seeking to escape the daily grind of the world.
Historically, the mountains have served as a sanctuary for those fleeing from the law. The legend of Bogong Jack, a notorious figure from the 1850s, epitomizes this narrative. Said to have made his fortune by droving stolen horses over the Bogong High Plains between Omeo and the Ovens Valley, near present-day Porepunkah, Bogong Jack’s story is shrouded in mystery and myth. Despite his criminal activities, he managed to evade capture, leaving behind little more than his name attached to an old mountain cattlemen’s hut high above Mount Beauty near Falls Creek.
The Enigmatic Allure of the High Country
The allure of the High Country as a refuge persists into modern times. This week, the mountains once again captured national attention as hundreds of police descended on the Ovens Valley near Porepunkah in search of Dezi Freeman, a conspiracy theorist and survivalist. Freeman’s disappearance and the subsequent manhunt underscore the region’s continued role as a haven for those seeking to evade societal norms or legal repercussions.
According to local historian John Harrington, “The High Country has always been a place where people can disappear, whether they’re running from the law or just looking to live off the grid. The terrain is rugged and remote, making it difficult for authorities to conduct thorough searches.”
A Historical Refuge for the Rebellious
The High Country’s reputation as a refuge dates back to the gold rush era, when bushrangers like Ned Kelly roamed the region. These outlaws were often romanticized as rebels against the colonial authorities, and their stories have become an integral part of Australian folklore. The dense forests and hidden valleys provided the perfect cover for these fugitives, allowing them to evade capture and continue their exploits.
In more recent history, the mountains have attracted those seeking solitude and self-sufficiency. The counterculture movement of the 1960s and 70s saw a wave of individuals and families moving to the High Country to live in communes or isolated cabins, embracing a lifestyle of minimalism and self-reliance.
The Modern-Day Appeal
Today, the High Country continues to draw a diverse array of individuals. Some are attracted by the opportunity to live off the grid, while others are drawn by the region’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The area is popular with hikers, skiers, and adventurers looking to explore its rugged landscapes.
However, the region’s isolation can also attract those with more nefarious intentions. As the search for Dezi Freeman illustrates, the High Country remains a place where individuals can vanish, either by choice or circumstance. The dense forests and challenging terrain make it difficult for authorities to track down those who do not wish to be found.
“The High Country is a place of extremes,” says Dr. Emily Carter, a sociologist specializing in rural communities. “It’s a place where people can find peace and solitude, but it’s also a place where people can hide from the world. That duality is what makes it so fascinating.”
Looking Ahead: Balancing Preservation and Safety
The ongoing allure of the High Country poses challenges for local authorities and communities. Balancing the preservation of the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage with the need for safety and law enforcement is a delicate task. Initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable tourism and responsible outdoor recreation are key to ensuring that the High Country remains a safe and welcoming destination for all.
As the search for Dezi Freeman continues, the story of Victoria’s High Country as a refuge for the daring, the desperate, and the deranged endures. Whether drawn by the promise of adventure, the desire for solitude, or the need to escape, the mountains of Victoria’s north-east continue to captivate and challenge those who seek their sanctuary.
