Goolwa’s visitor information centre has officially relocated to the Signal Point Experience Centre, with Alexandrina Council proceeding with the move despite a majority of community feedback opposing the decision during consultation.
The relocation shifts visitor services from the old post office building on Goolwa Terrace into the Goolwa Wharf Precinct, where a new visitor desk, brochure wall and expanded retail space featuring South Australian makers is now operating.
The change follows a council decision earlier this year to co-locate visitor services with the existing tourism attraction at Signal Point, with council saying it will deliver significant cost savings and strengthen the precinct as a single visitor hub.
Alexandrina Council says the move will save around $261,000 per year, with an estimated 10-year benefit of approximately $3.15 million.
However, the decision drew some community opposition during a consultation.
Of the 200 people responding, 67 per cent opposed the relocation, while 27 per cent supported the move, with the remainder either neutral or not clearly indicated in the consultation summary.
Community concerns included the visibility of Signal Point for passing visitors, access and parking limitations for caravans and larger vehicles, and whether the relocation would dilute the old post office’s role as a dedicated visitor gateway.
Local groups including Cittaslow and Little Scotland also raised concerns through petitions and direct lobbying of council, arguing the old post office offered stronger street presence and easier access for tourists entering Goolwa.
Alexandrina Council Mayor Keith Parkes said the relocation reflects changing visitor behaviour and financial pressures on local government.
“Signal Point Experience Centre’s new addition of visitor services has further enhanced the space not only visually but operationally,” Mayor Parkes said.
“This move responds to changing visitor trends and aligns to council’s approach to identify cost reductions by reducing borrowings which will contribute to a stronger financial position now and into the future.”
Signal Point will now operate as a seven-day-a-week visitor hub, open from 10am to 3pm, combining tourism services with exhibitions, gallery space and food and beverage offerings.
He said the future use of the old post office building will now form part of a broader strategic review of the Goolwa Wharf Precinct, expected to be presented to council later this year.
“The new visitor service area in the Signal Point Experience Centre looks fantastic and it’s ready for the community and visitors to enjoy and explore,” he said.
Council says the move is now complete and visitor services are fully operational at Signal Point.
