In 2015, a devasting fire ripped through the famous Waltzing Matilda Centre in the outback Queensland town of Winton.

The centre was built to commemorate the life of one of Australia’s finest writers, Banjo Patterson.

Now, a new centre has risen from the ashes and will be opened to the public this week.

Winton mayor Gavin Baskett tells Alan Jones the fire was a “kick in the guts for the community”.

“Unfortunately, most of the building was lost.

“An iconic building was gone overnight.

“Now, we’ve got a fantastic structure. The Opera House of the outback, it’s nothing like what used to be there.”

Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove will open the brand new facility on Friday alongside Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.

Click PLAY below for the full interview