Our Story

The Centre has a rich history, the remnants of which are still visible in and around the campus. The area was originally used as a family farm, then as a council dog pound and later as a centre for scouting activities!

The Wetlands Centre opened its doors for the very first time in 1993 as the “Cockburn Wetlands Education Centre”. A fledgling organisation at the time we had sprouted from the vision of the Wetlands Conservation Society; a vision to create a wetlands-focused centre that serviced the southern suburbs.

The Wetlands Conservation Society managed the centre for the first seven years with an agreement from the City of Cockburn. During these crucial developmental years, we formed the basis of our existence – from our mission and vision to our daily work plan and community outreach. And soon we were able to manage ourselves more independently following our incorporation in 2000.