The property had been used as an outdoor education centre by the Essendon-based group since 1963.

It will take the association about six years to rebuild.

President Peter Duma said there had been a "lull" before Christmas but that the new year and one year anniversary had spurred the community to get back on track.

The association has been back to the campsite only once officially for a family day last November. Its annual end of year camp was held interstate.

"With the anniversary it's all coming back and everyone's focused," Mr Duma said.

"We definitely need to rebuild. It's a milestone for us to say we will continue. It really is that new dawn."

He said the association had yet to start rebuilding and was still working on the design process.

Planning had included extensive research into the creation of an environmentally friendly building with better views than its predecessor.

"We're looking at it as a clean slate and an opportunity to build something that better services the needs of all the community.

"The feedback has been amazing. The flood of tears and remembrance.

"We still count ourselves very lucky. We had no lives lost. We lost some assets and we will replace those. What we didn't lose is memories.

"Those memories are the driver to say that we need to rebuild."