The $1.2 million building is due to open in April and incorporates facilities for large functions and events along with a commercial kitchen for the operation of the cafe/restaurant.

Significant progress on the building was made before Christmas and the roof has been put in place since work resumed this year.

Most of the internal framework is done, providing a combination of natural timber and steel.

The building is situated overlooking the wetlands.

Site development manager Julie Flack said she was happy with the progress made.

“So far everything has been going along well. With a project of this size you always encounter challenges along the way, but you overcome these and keep going,” Ms Flack said.

“We are using a Benalla-based building company and the majority of the trades are local to the region.

“So it is really good having people involved who are keen to see the project succeed.”

The construction of the hub is one of the key elements identified in stage one of the Winton Wetlands project.

Another is the construction of bike tracks, which will allow people to access the area.

“The hub is really going to really going to be the heart of the wetlands where people will be able to meet up for food and coffee at the beginning or end of a bike ride, a walk or a drive to explore the site,” chief executive officer Jim Grant said.

“It will also be the perfect facility for a wide variety of events and private functions.”

Friends of Winton Wetlands president Geoff Barrow is pleased to see the progress of the new development.

“It is looking great at this stage and we are very keen to see it finished,” he said.

“It is going to be a fantastic facility when it’s complete and, as a group, the Friends of Winton Wetlands are looking forward to more people coming out to explore the wetlands.”

Winton Wetlands is looking for a suitable partner to occupy and run the cafe and function facility and anyone interested can contact Jonathan Correll by phoning (03) 5762 7031.