Bouddi gets a bold look: Maitland Bay Information Centre Revamp
ON the outside not much has changed, but inside, the Maitland Bay Information Centre at Killcare has taken a leap into the 21st century. The Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife provided funds to make this possible.
Since it was built in the1940s, the building has beena home, a shop, an informationcentre, a community meeting place, and a focal point of environmental conservation activities.
On Saturday a crowd gathered for the official opening of the revamped centre, which has been two years in the planning and construction. The project cost $60,000, jointly funded by the Federal Government, the Foundation for National Parks & Wildlfe, and the NationalParks and Wildlife Service.
Interactive displays now teach visitors and school groups about the natural wonders of the area. Improved facilities will makelife easier for the Killcare-Wagstaffe Trust volunteers who keep the centre open almost every weekend.
The refurbishment features three major artworks designed by indigenous art teacher Maurice Goolagong, completed with help from students from Kariong Correctional Centre.
A large mural depicting the flora, fauna and landscapes of Bouddi was contributed by volunteers Jim Doe of Woy Woy Bay and John Paff of Empire Bay.
Meg Fromel of Killcare has volunteered at the centre for almost 20 years. "The place really needed a new face - more variety - to cater for the new age," she said.
NPWS ranger Vicki Elliot agreed. "I love the new look. It'sbright, it's interactive, it's hands-on." she said.
Drop in and See
The newly refurbished Maitland Bay Information Centre is on The Scenic Rd at Killcare, open 11am to 3pm on weekends and public holidays.
Interactive displays allow visitors to see, hear and touch aspects of the natural world they are likely to encounter in nearby Bouddi National Park. Some history of the area is also covered.
