Waratah-Wynyard Council has celebrated the 20th birthday of the Wonders of Wynyard (WOW) Exhibition & Visitor Information Centre, marking two decades of service to locals, visitors and the broader Tasmanian tourism community.
Today’s morning tea was held at the WOW to recognise the milestone, attended by MP, Roger Jaensch, WOW volunteers and centre staff.
Mayor, Mary Duniam said the WOW was a standout example of what a regional community can achieve through collaboration and pride of place.
“For 20 years, the Wonders of Wynyard has been a shining example of what community passion, collaboration and regional pride can achieve,” the Mayor said.
“This centre has welcomed visitors from across Australia and around the world, while showcasing the very best of our local heritage, culture and natural beauty. I thank the volunteers, staff and supporters who have shaped the WOW into an award-winning destination and a cornerstone of our community.”
Wynyard’s visitor services have evolved significantly since the first Visitor Information Centre operated from Gutteridge Gardens, before relocating to Jackson Street in 1995. The current facility was officially opened on 13 December 2005 by then Premier Paul Lennon, establishing a new gateway to Wynyard’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and the acclaimed Ransley Veteran Car Collection.
The Ransley Veteran Car Collection is a standout feature of WOW, showcasing an exceptional range of early vehicles, including the 1903 Ford Model A, recognised as the equal oldest Ford in the world. The collection was assembled and restored over many years by Wynyard identity Francis Ransley OAM, who received the Medal of the Order of Australia in 1999 for his service to preserving vintage and veteran cars, as well as contributions to local government, power boat racing and the community. In 2022, the collection was purchased by Dale Elphinstone, who has committed to keeping it in Wynyard for locals and visitors to continue enjoying.
The WOW has earned a strong reputation for visitor information services, including induction into the Tasmanian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame (Visitor Information Services), with multiple awards across 2016–2021. At the national level, WOW was awarded Gold in Visitor Information Services at the 2021 Australian Tourism Awards.
The Council said WOW’s success continues to be driven by its people. The Centre currently operates with 18 active volunteers and three staff, continuing the tradition of warm and genuine hospitality for which Wynyard is known.
As the WOW enters its third decade, Council says the Centre remains committed to delivering exceptional visitor experiences, promoting the region’s heritage, and strengthening WOW’s role in Tasmania’s tourism story.
