20/10/2026
You are invited!
Care For Hedland is preparing to celebrate a landmark achievement in environmental stewardship, community engagement, economic development and regional tourism with the opening of the town’s first tourism‑dedicated Port Hedland Turtle Interpretative Centre.
At Dempster House, located at 6/15 Wedge Street, the Turtle Centre pilot will officially open on 30 October 2026 at 6pm, marking a significant step forward in how Hedland shares, protects and promotes its iconic Flatback turtles, one of Australia’s most unique marine species.
The Centre pilot has been made possible through the generous support of principal partner BHP, alongside Town of Port Hedland, Pilbara Ports, Department Biodiversity Conservation & Attractions and Santos. Their combined investment reflects a shared commitment to strengthening local conservation, enhancing visitor experiences and supporting sustainable economic development in Port Hedland.
A pilot designed as a year‑round tourist attraction for learning, volunteering and hands‑on engagement, the Port Hedland Turtle Interpretative Centre will offer interactive displays, educational resources and insights into the life cycle of Flatback turtles and the importance of Hedland’s coastline as a critical nesting habitat. Visitors will also learn about local conservation initiatives, including the innovative Cemetery Beach sand cooling pilot, which is helping safeguard future generations of turtles.
Importantly, the Centre will also play a strategic role in supporting Hedland’s tourism continuity. Through a formal agreement with the Town of Port Hedland, Care For Hedland will deliver transitional visitor servicing during the upcoming refurbishment of the Port Hedland Visitor Centre. This partnership ensures that while the Visitor Centre undergoes important upgrades, Hedland’s tourism sector remains supported, local businesses continue to benefit from visitor engagement and travellers receive consistent, high‑quality information and service. It also reinforces the Centre’s role as a catalyst for increased foot traffic, longer visitor stays and new opportunities for collaboration among local operators, artists, suppliers and community groups.
Care For Hedland Environmental Association, which has led turtle conservation efforts for more than two decades, will operate the Centre. Their established volunteer network, scientific partnerships and community outreach programs will be strengthened through this dedicated space, enabling deeper engagement with tourists, schools, families, industry partners and visitors from across Australia and beyond.
Hoping that you can join us for this exciting opening event!
For more details please contact Care For Hedland email: [email protected] or (mob) 04399 41431.
