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Following the destruction of the original building in the 2019/20 bushfires that scorched 211,474 hectares of Kangaroo Island, the new visitor centre in Flinders Chase National Park is scheduled to be completed by early 2024.

The $19.5 million Flinders Chase Visitor Centre will include cafe and retail space and is being built with a range of ecologically sustainable features to lessen the impact on the natural environment.

It is anticipated the centre, which is being built next to the national park’s eastern entrance by award-winning Troppo Architects, will be finished by mid-January.

Once landscaping, internal decorating, signage and final cafe fit out are complete, it is expected the centre will open in time for the Easter 2024 school holidays.

SA National Park and Wildlife Service Executive Director Mike Williams shares “this state-of-the-art visitor centre at Flinders Chase is an exciting addition to the island, which is home to some of our most beautiful national parks.

“We have strived to provide even better facilities than were available before the devastating fires.

“Visitors to the new centre will not only be able to learn more about this amazing destination and all it has to offer but also enjoy some of its finest local produce.”

Kangaroo Island’s tourism industry contributes about $187 million each year to the regional economy, and rebuilding key visitor infrastructure is vital for the recovery of the island and its community.

Troppo Architects has a strong focus on sustainability and the new centre will be able to generate and store its own power, including for electric vehicle charging.

Solar design based on the building’s site, climate and materials will minimise energy use to help keep the centre cool in summer and warm in winter.

Walkways and shelters will help collect rainwater and wetlands will help filter waste and stormwater.

The University of Adelaide is partnering with the state government to build research facilities at the centre and has contributed $2 million towards the project.

Conservation groups, research partners and commercial tour operators will be able to use the event space and local produce will be sold from the centre.

The work of local tradespeople, artisans and artists will be included in the architecture and design.

Susan Close Deputy Premier South Australia notes “Kangaroo Island’s comeback from the 2019-20 bushfires continues to gather momentum and this visitor centre is a vital piece of infrastructure that will be a great resource and attraction for locals and tourists.

“This building sets a new benchmark for ecological sustainability through its ability to minimise energy use and filter waste and stormwater.

“The reopening of this landmark in such a popular worldwide destination is an exciting time for the island and for South Australia.”

Related Articles

6th March 2023 - Expressions of Interest open to run cafe in new Flinders Chase Visitor Centre

28th January 2023 - Tourism Australia judges Stokes Bay on Kangaroo Island as the nation’s best beach

9th December 2022 - Construction commences on new Kangaroo Island golf course

28th September 2022 - Burnt heritage listed cottages in Kangaroo Island Park are restored and now reopened

14th February 2022 - $3 million upgrade for Kelly Hill Caves tourist destination on Kangaroo Island

23rd December 2021 - Kangaroo Island’s accessible boardwalk at Remarkable Rocks now open

27th October 2021 - Cape Willoughby to be latest tourist destination on Kangaroo Island

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