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Centre built to minimise impact on natural environment

The recently opened Yaraandoo Environmental Interpretive Centre, located on the popular Waterfall Way between Armidale and the NSW coast, represents a complete commitment to the local world heritage listed environment. The Centre provides tourist information, adventure activities, accommodation, a restaurant and convention facilities.

Visitors to Yaraandoo can embark on an exploration of 60 hectares featuring rainforest, woodlands and swampland habitats. The Centre has been designed to be self sufficient and have minimal impact on surrounding eco systems.

Building materials include recycled timber from old local bridges plus stone and soil excavated during site preparation. Rammed earth and mud brick walls have been used to provide insulation and reduce the demand for power for heating and cooling systems. The siting of the building also captures sunlight in winter and shade in summer. A granite guard foundation acts as a natural termite barrier.

Electricity is provided by a gas powered generator while water is collected in above and below ground collection tanks. Grey water is treated on site for re use in toilets and on gardens. A worm farm is used for the treatment of sewerage.

Yaraandoo Manager Christine Harvey said these systems represent the very latest procedures in terms of ecologically sustainable development, and are as much a part of the centre's education programs as its surroundings.

"In many ways Yaraandoo represents the way buildings will be designed in the 21st century," she said. "It is positive proof that we can create modern, comfortable living spaces without destroying the environment."

Constructed over four years by Dumaresq Shire for a cost of $2 million dollars, the centre is wholly owned and run by Council. Accommodation includes facilities for backpackers, family groups, conference delegates, tour groups, day trippers and school groups. Access for people with a disability is included in the design.

For further information contact Christine Harvey, telephone (02) 6775 9219

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