Six years' hard work to raise close to $1 million came to fruition last October when the purpose-built facility was opened.
The efforts of those involved were recognised at the 2008 TrustPower Clutha District Community Awards when the society won the supreme award.
It gets a trophy and $1500 prize money and will represent Clutha at the national community awards in Palmerston North next March.
TrustPower community relations representative Melanie Gray said the diligent work of the society had given locals and visitors a chance to learn about the Catlins' heritage in a state-of-the-art facility.
Other winners last night:
Heritage and environment: Winner, Catlins Historical Society; runner-up, Waihola Looking Forward.
Commendations, Kaka Point Community Group and New Zealand Century Farm and Station Awards committee.
Health and wellbeing: Joint winners, Balclutha Volunteer Fire Brigade and South Otago Victim Support.
Arts and culture: Winner, Forest Films; runner-up: South Otago Festival Trust.
Sport and leisure: Winner, the Papatowai Challenge; runner-up, Black Gully Domain Board; commendation, Clinton Community Centre.
Educational and child/youth development: Winner, Kidzway Early Learning Centre; runner-up, Waiwera Wee Ones.
