Fleurieu Peninsula

NOW OPEN: Victor Harbor unveils new combined whale and visitor centre

Victor Harbor’s Visitor Centre and SA Whale Centre will now operate from the same location giving a boost to the region through tourism.

The historic Railway Goods Shed in Victor Harbor is now home to not one, but two South Australian visitor experiences.

The Visitor Centre and SA Whale Centre will now operate from the same location, ensuring a modern experience catering to the needs of Victor Harbor’s 1.2 million annual visitors.

Launched this week, it will now be referred to as the ‘Victor Harbor Visitor Centre’ or ‘VC’.

Victor Harbor Mayor Dr Moira Jenkins says the renovations will compliment other recent projects to enhance Victor Harbor’s town centre.

“The Railway Goods Shed has significant historical value. Now the restoration is complete, it presents a warm and welcoming atmosphere for visitors,” says Mayor Jenkins.

“But the redeveloped building isn’t just for visitors – it’s also a hub for locals to access resources and learn more about our diverse marine life. Our passionate volunteers and staff are ready to welcome you into the new space.”

The cherished heritage features of the building have been retained and restored, from the smoke-tainted walls that serve as a reminder of the steam trains that once occupied the building, to the timber beams and entrance archways.

The much-loved floor mural, featuring a southern right whale and baby calf, have also been repainted by original artist, Barbary O’Brien.

The Railway Goods Shed was built in 1864 during early European settlement. It was used for storing goods and produce that were transported along the Murray River and across Australia’s first public railway, pending shipment to the world via the port of Victor Harbor.

While the building has a strong connection to the region’s European history, the VC has worked closely with First Nations leaders to ensure stories of the Ramindjeri and Ngarrindjeri peoples are shared within the building.

The VC is open daily from 10am to 4pm, seven days a week, excluding Christmas Day. For more details visit the VC website.

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