Waroona Visitor Centre boasts financial draw, bringing just under $1m to the WA economy

Waroona’s one-stop shop for a cow in a costume, local artwork and information for travellers is a financial boon for the community, according to new data.

Research and data from the Tourism Council of Western Australia has revealed visitors to the Waroona Visitors Centre and Gallery have spent an estimated additional $997,138 within WA, which can be directly attributed to the centre.

The revenue gained from the centre generated the equivalent of three full-time tourism jobs by attracting visitors to spend on accommodation, hospitality, attractions, activities, events, tours and retail.

Tourism Council WA (TCWA) estimated the spend profile of 7900 users of the centre in 2023-24, with travellers often staying longer and spending more.

TCWA chief executive Evan Hall said the research proved visitor centres were a valuable asset for the WA economy.

“Visitor centres are central to the social cohesion and community values of many regions and towns through Western Australia,” he said.

“Not only do visitor centres provide information on their local area, they are also great at promoting the values of their region and upselling local attractions, to the benefit of local businesses.”