Situated in the heart of Victor Harbor, in the historic Railway Goods Shed is the Victor Harbor Visitor Centre incorporating the SA Whale Centre. Built in 1864 the building was originally used for storing goods and produce transported along the Murray and onto the world.
The Railway Goods Shed Victor Harbor was built in 1864 during early European settlement. It was used for storing goods and produce transported along the Murray River and then on Australia's first public railway, pending shipment to the world from Goolwa via the Port of Victor Harbor.
The 150-year-old heritage-listed building was first used as a railway goods shed in the late 1800s. This explains why the walls are blackened with steam engine soot, why a wooden crane is still in the building and why steel rails are still visible under the floor. The large sliding doors on the western (entrance) side were to enable cargo be moved to and from wagons outside. The large wooden infills visible outside on the north and south ends of the building allowed steam trains to pass through.
The 150-year-old heritage-listed building was first used as a railway goods shed in the late 1800s. This explains why the walls are blackened with steam engine soot, why a wooden crane is still in the building and why steel rails are still visible under the floor. The large sliding doors on the western (entrance) side were to enable cargo be moved to and from wagons outside. The large wooden infills visible outside on the north and south ends of the building allowed steam trains to pass through.
In 1994 the Goods Shed became the SA Whale Centre. During the initial renovations the building was given a new roof, floor and the cellar was cleaned out to create the space for displays. Some of the original exhibits are still there including the mural and sperm whale vertebrae. The City of Victor Harbor council took over the SA Whale Centre with Dr Elizabeth Reed as first coordinator. The Whale Centre continued to expand its displays and activities including a comprehensive education programme for school children.
In 2021 the Victor Harbor City Council began the process of amalgamating the Visitor Centre with the SA Whale Centre. This meant closing the Whale Centre for two years to enable upgrading the building whilst retaining its heritage integrity. A new roof, white ant control, air conditioning, lift and modern toilets were some of the improvements.
The large marine wall mural by James Stewart remains while the much-loved floor mural, featuring a southern right whale (Buttons), and baby calf (Bobby), has been repainted by original artist (1994), Barbary O’Brien of Middleton.
On December 14, 2022 the new combined centre reopened to the public. The launch included a smoking ceremony conducted by Ngarrindjeri man Cedric Varcoe. At the opening the Victor Harbor Mayor Dr Moira Jenkins said “The Railway Goods Shed has significant historical value. Now the restoration is complete, it presents a warm and welcoming atmosphere for Victor Harbor’s 1.2 million annual visitors. It’s also a hub for locals to access resources and learn more about our diverse marine life. Our passionate volunteers and staff are ready to welcome you into the new space.” Today the centre provides a warm welcome to visitor and locals alike. It houses the Whale centre and promotes marine conservation while also offering fantastic information, local artisan products, childrens toys and local produce.
