Pinnacles Desert Discovery officially opened

The new visitor interpretation centre at the Pinnacles in Nambung National Park was officially opened today by Environment Minister Donna Faragher.

"The Pinnacles Desert Discovery will be a major new tourism asset for the Turquoise Coast which, thanks to its pristine coastline and stunning natural attractions, is rapidly growing in popularity," Mrs Faragher said.

The facility was designed by John Nichols from architecture firm Woodhead for the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC).

Construction commenced in June 2006 and local materials were used to enable the structure to reflect the story of the formation of the landscape.

"The result is a centre that is part of the environment, both in its design and in the way the interpretive displays invite visitors to explore their own relationship with the landscape," the Minister said.

"The Pinnacles is a significant tourism asset for the local community and Western Australia. The new visitor centre will cater for visitors' needs and enhance their experience."

The centre's tall, free-standing limestone walls evoke the limestone pillars of the Pinnacles and the parallel vertical beams are tuart, as are the trees in the northern woodland which is being slowly swamped by sand.

Mrs Faragher said the centre had been designed using sustainability principles and features included a hybrid solar system to generate power, harvesting of rainwater and minimisation of water use.