Works will start next week on the construction of the $1.5 million Wonthaggi Centennial Centre at Fincher Street Reserve, Wonthaggi.

Bass Coast Shire Council’s Economic Development Manager, Peter Francis, said the Centre was a joint project between the Wonthaggi Rotary Club and Council.

“The Centre is designed to deliver a landmark building to celebrate the Centenary of Wonthaggi,” said Mr Francis.

“The building will house a new accredited Visitor Information Centre and a multi-purpose room which will be available for meetings, training, exhibitions and functions.

“The building design is environmentally friendly and remains true to a design by Caroline McPhee, who won the architectural competition for the design of the building in 2008,” continued Mr Francis.

The project is funded through a $1 million Federal Government Grant, with the remaining funding contributed by the State Government, Council and the Wonthaggi Rotary Club.

The Centre is expected to be finished by September 2011 in preparation for the busy summer season.