Collie
Situated on the Collie River after which it is named. The river was named after Dr Alexander Collie who along with Lt. William Preston discovered the river in 1829.
Just over 200 kilometres south east of Perth, the drive from the coastal plains and along the Darling Scarp to Collie is one of the prettiest in the State, with spectacular views of rolling farmlands, forests and valleys.
In addition to its natural beauty Collie is a town with a rich industrial heritage through its coal mining, power generation and timber industries. Tours of the replica underground coalmine offer an insight into the working conditions and lives of the underground miners, whilst the Coalfields Museum, located in the historic Roads Board Building, houses a wonderful collection of memorabilia. Rail enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Old Collie Goods Shed. Once a bustling depot for steam trains, it now echoes to the sounds of visitors to the regular Sunday morning markets. Across the railway line, the Collie Railway Station houses model railways and memorabilia.
Take a stroll around Collie to view some wonderful examples of its early architecture. The Courthouse, Post Office, art deco Miner’s Institute, old Roads Board Building, and the many Aussie style pubs reflect the optimism and prosperity of the early mining days. All Saints Anglican Church, built in 1915, is a fine example of the Norman design of the early Italian Churches. A life size mural of saints and settlers, painted by well known stage painter Philip Goatcher compliment the extensive use of Australian timbers including jarrah, banksia and Australian ebony.
The Collie River Valley has an abundance of natural attractions, with something to offer everyone. The long distance Munda Biddi cycle trail beginning in the hills east of Perth winds its way through forests and valleys to Collie. The trail uses a network of bush tracks, firebreaks and disused railway formations. Cyclists can enjoy a peaceful morning ride or challenge themselves to a longer forest adventure. Huts situated about a days ride apart, offer basic camping facilities, with sleeping shelters, tent sites and toilets. The Collie to Darkan rail trail, stretching for 46 kilometres east of Collie through to Darkan, offers another challenge to riders looking to explore the region further.
The Collie River twists and tumbles its way from east of town to Wellington Dam and onto the coast, with some spectacular picnic and recreation sites along its length. Minninup Pool and Long Pool are calm stretches of the river, great for canoeing or swimming. Other sites include the Rapids, Big Rock and Little Rock, all wonderful places to enjoy the Collie River, deep in the forested valleys of the Wellington National Park. Water skiers can enjoy Stockton Lake only seven kilometres east of the town.
Flora Road, a seven kilometre scenic drive through jarrah and marri forests, celebrates the seasons, with winter bringing tumbling rapids. Springtime sees the ground carpeted in wildflowers and in summer, enjoy the simple acts of picnicking, fishing and swimming.
Campers can pitch a tent and enjoy the tranquillity of bush campsites at Honeymoon Pool and Potters Gorge. For those not keen on camping, Collie has plenty of accommodation from small intimate bed and breakfasts, hotels, caravan parks and four star motels.
Bushwalkers are spoilt for choice in the Collie River Valley. The world acclaimed Bibbulmun Track passes through the Shire of Collie. Visitors have the option of long or short walks in the district, passing through thick jarrah, marri and sheoak forests, over streams and rivers on its way south to Albany. Shorter walks in the Wellington National Park introduce walkers to the amazing beauty of the lower Collie Valley whilst the nine kilometre townsite River Walk and Discovery Walk pass attractive parks and gardens, historic buildings and the tranquil waters of the Collie River.
Collie River Valley, more than you think!