The Dalwallinu Resource Centre

The Dalwallinu Resource Centre was initiated by the Shire of Dalwallinu for the benefit of its local community.

The facility includes an amphitheatre, library, commercial kitchen, public facilities and two commercial premises. It incorporates an environmental interpretive display, arts room, government services, youth support and an information centre.

The building design integrates elements and materials that are representative of the surrounding wheat belt region, including farming land and the region’s famous wild flowers.

Of particular note is the use of load bearing steel columns in the shape of wattle trees and a self-supporting curved roof structure. The curved roof helps minimise the need for heating and cooling, while enabling rainwater harvesting.

The innovative design and high level of detail earned a Commendation from the Australian Institute of Architects in 2010, in the Steel Architecture category.

Construction consisted of a steel strut frame, tilt up concrete panels and external cladding. The unique design and distance of the site from Perth presented a number of construction challenges, which were overcome through well-planned coordination of materials and clear communication.

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