Port of Echuca Discovery Centre

Located on the traditional lands of the Yorta Yorta people.

The Port of Echuca, on the Murray River, is a site of state and national heritage significance. It draws visitors from across Australia and overseas through its status as Australia’s largest inland port and reputation as the country’s paddle steamer capital.

Jaws Architects worked collaboratively with a small team to create the new Discovery Centre at the Port of Echuca. The Centre is a compelling place for visitors to learn about, understand, explore and appreciate this important site, and to discover the Port’s rich collection of stories.

The building has been sensitively integrated into the streetscape and neighbouring buildings using modest, folded roof forms and timber cladding. Entry is marked by shady verandahs and veiled by screens of recycled wharf timbers—evoking light filtering through the River Red Gums and creating a strong connection with the land.

Inside, the roof forms an expansive canopy over the entry foyer, with thoughtful use of glass illuminating the space. An undulating timber ceiling floats above and helps to guide visitors on a journey through the Centre’s interpretive spaces, creating places where stories can unfold and offer a vivid sensory and storytelling experience.