The grand three-storey building has stood for more than a century, yet for 13 years its doors have been shut to guests.

Governments have come and gone, promises made and funds stumped up, yet the accommodation house has stayed dormant.

On Thursday came news that the federal government is providing $3 million to restore the edifice.

This is welcome, but at the same time there needs to be a clearer focus on the future of the Island in the Sky.

Those with fond memories of the chalet and heritage-lovers want the state government and its agency Parks Victoria to put more muscle into how they envisage the building's destiny.

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Are they willing to see the guesthouse actually have overnight guests or do they simply want a cafe to cater for visitors?

There seems to be a strong segment of the public that would like the chance to stay again on the mountain, but Parks Victoria has not shown enthusiasm for that idea.

Indeed if you look at the Parks Victoria website for Mount Buffalo you will find barely a mention of the chalet and not a photograph of the landmark.

Such an approach lends credence to the belief Parks Victoria would not be fussed if the the chalet never re-opened for stays.

It has been estimated it would cost $38 million to reopen the guesthouse.

Yes that's a lot of money, but imagine all the spending by tourists that could have poured into the region if the chalet had been fixed years before COVID-19, which has forced Australians to holiday at home.

Victorian Regional Development Minister Jaclyn Symes in May said expressions of interest would be sought for "a year-round cafe in the front part of the chalet, which would offer regional produce along with self-guided tours of the chalet ballroom".

After 13 years of waiting there needs to be a stronger focus on bringing the entire building back to life, especially given the impetus for economic stimulus from COVID.

It is a unique part of alpine history in Australia which deserves to be animated not amputated by decision-makers.