This pack saddle was thought to be owned by the Forests Commission and used by fireguards from Orbost at remote fire towers like Stringers Knob, or by forest assessors measuring stands of timber.
They could spend up to a week away at time and the saddle was designed to be secured on the back of a horse to carry heavy loads, like food and radio batteries.
The saddle would rest on a blanket or pad to spread the weight and the underside is curved to fit the shape of the horse.
From the collection of the Orbost & District Historical Society
https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/55ecfa672162f1139860f3d4
Victoria’s Forests & Bushfire Heritage 
I donât have a WordPress account, but:
I saw several packsaddles in a shed at the Orbost Forest District depot in September 1964. They were stored on projecting forms high up on the wall.
Rob
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