About the Centre
Explore our interactive displays
Discover the amazing secrets of the mighty barramundi at The Les Wilson Barramundi Discovery Centre, the only Barramundi hatchery in the world to breed the Southern Gulf strain of this iconic fish!
From humble beginnings with second hand, donated equipment the Centre was started by a group of professional fishermen who set out to restock the local waterways with fingerlings to ensure a sustainable fishing future for years to come. They became known as the Gulf Barramundi Restocking Association.
The brand new interactive and state of the art Interpretive Centre provides the history, stories, lifecycle and habits of these sought-after fish. Discover the wetlands and mangroves and learn about the incredible birdlife and stunning southern Gulf flora.
Watch an amazing short film in our theatre – about Barramundi, the fishing industry and our wonderful community of Karumba, and hear stories from the Commercial fishermen who catch them.
Enjoy views over the saltwater lagoon, displaying flora and fauna straight from the Norman River.
Enjoy a quality coffee or scrumptious meal overlooking the beautiful lagoon at the Barra Bites Cafe!
Experience our Guided Barramundi Tours
Get all the background information on the unique Southern Gulf strain of Barramundi. See our amazing 1m+ retired brood stock as well as our special panda fish!
You get to hand-feed those amazing creatures – if you dare!
Make sure you have your camera or mobile phone ready for the action…
Plan your day
There is a lot to see and do at the Centre so plan on spending anywhere from 1 – 2 hours here depending on whether you take a tour or just want to explore at your own leisure. Tours are held throughout the day and take approx. 50 minutes. Tours leave promptly at the designated tour time and are subject to change without notice;
Feed-A-Barra – 9:30am & 11:30am* (*fees apply, bookings recommended and times and availability is subject to change without notice)
Click the BOOK NOW button to see the available tours for the day.
Please arrive 10 minutes before departure so we can check you in. Places are limited but you can book in advance online to secure your spot.
Be sure to allow some extra time to enjoy shopping for souvenirs, dining at the café or exploring the Art Gallery and the Visitor Information Centre.
Services and Facilities
To make sure that your visit is enjoyable and memorable there is an extensive list of services and facilities available that will help you plan your ideal Discovery Centre experience.
Accessibility
- Disabled parking
- Disabled amenities
- Guide/Service dogs are permitted with proof of registration – NO OTHER PETS ALLOWED
- Ramps, pathways and all internal areas are designed to be accessible by most transport aids contact us on 4745 2211 for more information
- Free admission for carers with government issued companion cards who will be performing this role during their visit
Facilities
- Online ticket sales
- Visitor Information Centre
- Retail Store
- Restaurant/Café
- Conference / Meeting Room
- Free car parking
- EFTPOS
- Air conditioning
- Free WiFi
- Extensive outdoor areas and
- Large saltwater lagoon