- New
visitor hub at Wooleen Station set to diversify tourism in the Murchison
- The
project was supported by a $100,000 grant from the Cook Government's Regional
Economic Development (RED) program
Regional Development Minister Don Punch has officially opened a new
visitor hub at Wooleen Station today, which is set to diversify the tourism
experience in the Murchison.
The owners of Wooleen Station have relocated and refurbished a
100-year-old shearer's shed kitchen and have transformed it into its reception,
café and art studio.
Originally situated 7km from the homestead, it's relocation to the entry
of Wooleen Station will provide a distinct focal point for visitors with its
curved, domed tin roofline.
While not heritage listed, given its age and architectural construction,
the structure holds regional significance, so creatively repurposing it as
tourism infrastructure preserves its integrity and the history of the area.
The building will enhance the quality of visitor experiences, support
Aboriginal culture, retain local heritage and create awareness of regenerative
and sustainable pastoralism to enable local and regional economic growth.
The project was supported by a $100,000 Regional Economic Development
(RED) Grant.
Comments attributed to Regional Development
Minister Don Punch:
"The owners of Wooleen Station have done a fantastic job of bringing the
history of Wooleen to the fore and making it accessible for the modern era.
"It demonstrates that when heritage is embraced and valued, it can
become a valuable asset for the community and a tourism drawcard.
"The shearer's shed kitchen transformation into a visitor hub
contributes to growth and diversification of Wooleen's business structure and
aids in the long-term sustainability of the pastoral industry.
"Our Regional Economic Development Grants are supporting locally driven
projects right across the regions, creating new jobs and driving economic
diversification."
