The money was donated by Glencore and will go towards restoring the centre's maintenance and storage building that was damaged when the blaze tore through in May.

Hunter Wetlands Centre chief executive Kenneth Bayliss said the fire was a devastating blow compounded by the struggles of COVID-19.

"Thousands of dollars of equipment was lost in the fire earlier this year, including a ute, mowers and farming equipment," Mr Bayliss said.

He said the funding would benefit the centre's team of volunteers plus the tens of thousands who attended the wetlands each year.

"It really makes our volunteer work worthwhile and helps us improve the centre's overall visitor experience," Mr Bayliss said.

Glencore community relations manager Craig Strudwick said when the wetlands centre played an important role in educating the local community about ecology and wildlife.

"The volunteers do a fantastic job and we hope to see the team delivering the best possible environmental education and visitor services for many years to come," Mr Strudwick said.

Construction on the new maintenance complex is expected to begin this year.