Published on Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 9:00:00 AM
The Town of Port Hedland will assume management of the Port Hedland Visitor Centre from 1 November 2026, marking the next chapter in the facility's role as a gateway to the region for visitors from across Australia and around the world.
The transition follows a review of the Visitor Centre's future operating model and will support greater alignment between visitor services, tourism promotion, economic development initiatives and the Town's emerging place brand.
As part of the transition, the Visitor Centre will temporarily close from 1 November to allow refurbishment works to be undertaken, with reopening scheduled for late January 2027.
Town of Port Hedland Mayor, Jacinta Behrend said bringing the Visitor Centre under Town management will help strengthen the visitor experience and support the continued growth of tourism in Port Hedland.
"This transition presents an opportunity to build on the excellent work already being delivered at the Visitor Centre, creating an even more seamless and coordinated experience for visitors while ensuring the centre continues to play an important role in showcasing everything our region has to offer," Mayor Behrend said.
While refurbishment works are underway, core visitor service functions will continue to operate from the Turtle Interpretive Centre, adjacent to the Visitor Centre on Wedge Street and managed by Care for Hedland.
Visitors will still be able to access destination information, brochures and tour bookings, while phone, email and social media enquiries will continue as normal.
The Town acknowledges and extends its gratitude to the Seafarers Centre, which has successfully managed the Visitor Centre for the past six years.
"We sincerely thank the Seafarers Centre for its dedication, professionalism and commitment to promoting Port Hedland throughout its management of the Visitor Centre over the past six years," Mayor Behrend said.
"Their work has helped connect thousands of visitors with our community, local attractions, businesses and unique experiences, making a valuable contribution to our regional tourism industry.
"We would also like to recognise and thank Terri, Debbie, Gina, Danielle, Nina, and Zoe from the Visitors Centre for their outstanding service and commitment.”
“Their local knowledge, passion and welcoming approach have made a lasting impression on countless visitors, and they have been wonderful ambassadors for Port Hedland over many years."
Further updates on the refurbishment program and reopening timeline will be provided as works progress.
For visitor information and enquiries during the closure period, community members and visitors are encouraged to contact the Town of Port Hedland or visit the Turtle Interpretive Centre.
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