Cradle Mountain visitor centre officially opens

A multi-million dollar contemporary, world-class visitor centre and supporting infrastructure befitting Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain’s reputation as a global destination for nature based tourism is now open for the public to enjoy.

Tasmanian Minister for Environment and Parks Roger Jaensch said it wasn't just a "ticket office" but a "gateway" to Cradle Mountain and the wilderness beyond.

The facility features modern amenities including a gift shop, café, tour operator interface, three undercover shelters, two amenity blocks, first‑aid room and space dedicated to those beginning their Overland Track adventure to prepare them for the days ahead and hear important briefings from Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) staff.

Minister Jaensch notes “Cradle Mountain is one of Tasmania’s iconic visitor destinations and a major visitor drawcard for our State, and we are investing to ensure it can continue to deliver high-quality experiences for future generations.

“The new visitor centre is part of the Cradle Mountain Gateway, a major entry point to the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and part of the State and Federal Government’s $86.8 million investment in Cradle Mountain.

“With travel now allowed throughout the State, and unlimited accommodation options now permitted, I am sure the community will be keen to see the new visitor centre for themselves and once again enjoy this iconic location.”

“The ongoing popularity of the park reaffirms our continued investment in Cradle Mountain to meet growing demand, while retaining the natural and cultural assets and delivering a world-class visitor experience.”

Minister Jaensch advised that the architecture acknowledged the shapes, colours and textures of the environment and added "the design of the whole centre is adaptable to changing numbers throughout the year, in the day but also over time.”

The Cradle Mountain visitor centre and services was designed by Cumulus Architects and built by Fairbrother, supporting local jobs and the North West economy.

The development also includes interpretive installations, a redesigned car park offering space for more than 236 vehicles, a shuttle turning circle, electric car charging stations and 24‑hour self‑service fuel bowsers.

The Cradle Mountain visitor centre and services is equipped with physical distancing floor decals and perspex screens to ensure COVID‑19 safety is upheld. Visitors are reminded that they should maintain 1.5 metres between their group, and maintain hand sanitisation hygiene.

Images courtesy of Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein/Facebook.