Kangaroo Island celebrates an important milestone in its recovery from the devastating 2019-20 bushfires this week, with the official opening of its new visitors’ centre tomorrow. The event marks a critical step in rebuilding efforts following the fires that caused extensive damage across the island.
The new facility replaces the Rocky River Visitors’ Centre and Café, which was destroyed in the bushfires. It features enhanced protective measures, including large buffer zones to shield against future fires. Additionally, the centre has been constructed using Australian timber known for its heat-resistant properties, aiming to ensure longer-lasting resilience against potential fire threats.
Former Environment Minister and current Leader of the Opposition, David Speirs, highlighted the significance of the new centre during a recent tour of the nearly completed facility. He said, “It is an incredible feeling to see this former Liberal Government project come to an end to mark a special new beginning for Kangaroo Island after the devastating 2019-20 bushfires.”
Designed by the acclaimed architectural firm Troppo, the new visitors’ centre is equipped with state-of-the-art environmental technologies. These include a stormwater harvesting system and a self-sufficient power supply to ensure continuous operation during emergencies. This makes the centre not only a gateway to the natural wonders of Flinders Chase National Park but also a showcase of sustainable design and technology.
Mr Speirs stressed the vital role of the visitors’ centre in the local tourism sector, which is a significant contributor to the island’s economy. “We know Kangaroo Island’s tourism industry is worth almost $200 million every year and we can only hope this figure continues to grow with the opening of the new visitors’ centre,” he stated.
The centre’s strategic location offers visitors easy access to popular attractions such as Flinders Chase, Kelly Hill Caves, Admiral’s Arch, and Remarkable Rocks. Its opening is expected to attract an influx of tourists, keen to explore both the natural beauty of the area and the resilience of a community rebuilding after adversity.
Mr Speirs continued, “It is without doubt that the new visitors’ centre will be bursting with tourists in the near future as word spreads about the opening and I can’t anything but eagerly await my own return to Kangaroo Island to experience the rebuild for myself,” he said.
He also took the opportunity to thank everyone involved in bringing the project to fruition, acknowledging the collective efforts of numerous individuals and organisations.
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