Minnamurra Rainforest, Budderoo National Park

Construction has commenced on a $2.17 million refurbishment of the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre in Budderoo National Park.

The eight month renovation will transform the Centre into an ecotourism facility, capable of generating income for the Park through its hospitality operations.

The Centre already attracts 100,000 visitors a year.

The NSW Minister for Environment Matt Kean MP says the investment in the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre will ensure many more visitors can enjoy the new open-plan space which will include a new café, education and function areas, a new information counter and more toilets.

“The investment will benefit the entire South Coast community, converting the centre into a compelling shared space with stunning, sustainable design,” Mr Kean said.

“The centre is already a favourite for many local school excursions. Every year, more than 10,000 students visit the centre to learn about rare rainforest plants, wildlife and historic Aboriginal coastal rainforest culture.”

The ceilings will be laser-etched with bronze alloy to resemble the form of the native cabbage-tree palm, the floor will have brown natural hues to mimic the colours of the rainforest floor, and the walls will be timber-clad to resemble the rainforest canopy.

The construction work is due to finish early December 2019. The café will continue to operate during that time, but the gift shop and centre will be closed.

All walking tracks and trails will remain open.

The refurbishment is part of the NSW Government’s investment of $4.7 million over three years, which began with improvements to Minnamurra Falls walking track and viewing platforms.

The Jamberoo Ratepayers & Residents Association has arranged for the Director of National Parks and Wildlife, South Coast, Kane Weeks, to speak about the proposed changes and developments at its next meeting.

Details: The JVRRA meeting is on Tuesday 4 June, Club Jamberoo, 7.30pm. The Minnamurra discussion will be at the beginning of the agenda. All welcome.

The Park is open every day but Christmas, 9-5pm