Tasmania's Governor Peter Underwood officially opened the unusual-shaped cancer centre in Launceston's Howick Street, across the road from the Launceston General Hospital's Holman cancer treatment clinic.

Watching were federal Health Minister Tanya Plibersek and her state counterpart Michelle O'Byrne, Cancer Council Australia chief executive Ian Olver, Cancer Council Tasmania chief executive Simon Barnsley, and representatives of all the groups and businesses that have been part of the $4.3 ?million construction.

The centre has been operating since last December when cancer support services moved into its circular shaped rooms and offices and started tending the 10 different gardens behind the curved sandstone wall.

The centre was modelled on the Maggie's Cancer Caring Centres in the UK which aim to provide all cancer-related support services for patients and their families in surroundings that are as least like a hospital as possible.

Ms O'Byrne said that the centre would make life easier for cancer patients and their families and friends by providing support groups, advice, relaxation classes, psychological support, informal lounges and reflective gardens.

State and federal governments contributed $1.55 million each towards the cost of the centre and the Cancer Council Tasmania provided land worth $1.2 ?million.

A special presentation was made to Cancer Council stalwart Harvey Cuthill for his involvement in the centre.