Perth Hills Visitors Centre declared open

26/4/07
Environment Minister David Templeman today officially opened the new Perth Hills National Parks Centre near Mundaring Weir.
"The visitor centre is the latest development under the State Government's Protecting Our Old Growth Forests policy, which has seen the number of national parks in the Perth hills double from five to 10," Mr Templeman said.
"Run by the Department of Environment and Conservation, the new centre is a focal point for people seeking information about the area's national parks, regional parks, picnic facilities, walk and bike trails and the interpretive activities offered here.
"DEC is working closely with both the Kalamunda and the Mundaring Tourism Associations to provide information that covers the whole of the northern Perth hills."
The upgraded visitor facilities replace the former Hills Forest Discovery Centre, which operated on the site since 1991.
About 35,000 people visited the discovery centre or took part in activity programs based there last year.
"With extended opening hours covering weekends and public holidays, the new Perth Hills National Parks Centre is expected to attract twice as many visitors this year," the Minister said.
"The focus is on providing visitors with information about recreation and nature-based tourism opportunities in the Perth hills.
"The centre will also be a base for DEC's popular Nearer to Nature programs for families and for eco-education programs for schools.
"These programs are designed to encourage an appreciation of the natural and cultural heritage of the Perth hills."
Mr Templeman said the centre would help connect people with their environment and increase their knowledge of conservation and environmental issues in the local area and across Perth.
The Minister said the new visitors' centre was showing the Carpenter Government's commitment to protecting the environment so it could be enjoyed by people today and into the future.
For more information about Western Australia's parks and environment, visit http://www.naturebase.net
Minister's office - 9220 5050