The Banrock Station Wine and Wetland Centre is an international tourist drawcard and an inspiring demonstration of our commitment to the environment. The Centre has received awards for tourism, building development, and in 2002, the globally-recognised Ramsar Wetland Conservation Award for promoting the conservation and wise use of wetlands. Over 80,000 visitors each year discover how our care for the environment goes hand in hand with the care that we take making our wine. The Wine and Wetland Centre sits on a ridge offering elevated, panoramic views of the Banrock Lagoon, working vineyards, flood plains, native mallee woodlands, the Murray River and beyond. Visitors can enjoy meals in this magnificent setting. Dishes featuring local produce team with Banrock Station wines to showcase the very best flavours of the region.
Features
The Centre reflects our care for the earth, which goes hand in hand with the care that we take in making our wine. The Banrock Station Wine and Wetland Centre was specifically designed to blend with the environment. Built of rammed earth from local soils, the building is in keeping with our commitment to the environment.
The timber comes from Australian forests that are sustained through regeneration and new plantings.
Energy Saving Design
The Banrock Station Wine and Wetland Centre uses as little energy as possible. The building is designed to catch cool breezes from the lagoon and the roof has double the usual amount of insulation to retain heat in winter, and to maintain a cool temperature during the hot summers. The large glass windows are east facing and act as a glasshouse in winter - generating heat at no cost to the environment. The dark slate tiles absorb the heat during the day and radiate it back at night.
Solar Power Generation
Three large solar panels convert the sun’s rays to electricity and direct it straight to the grid. The building then draws its power from the grid so ensure that during busy periods when the sun doesn’t shine, all our power needs can be met. This ensures the safety and comfort of our customers.
The newly built electric fence that protects our endangered species is run entirely from solar panels as are the soil moisture probes in the vineyards.
Use of Natural Light
The Wine & Wetland Centre was strategically positioned to gain maximum light to minimise energy requirements. Large, open windows allow sunlight to fill the building. This reduces the need for powered lighting during the day.
