The McGowan Government is progressing tourism-focused projects in Collie, to support the local economy and create jobs as Western Australia looks to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Stage 1 of the $5.7 million Lake Kepwari development is close to completion, which will turn the former open cut coal mine into a key destination for water-based recreation, featuring areas for boating, waterskiing, swimming, camping and picnicking.
Works including construction of a boat ramp, access road and parking, are expected to be completed by the end of this month.
Stage 2 is already under way, including the construction of a ski-beach, swim beach, picnic areas and campground.
As part of the McGowan Government's commitment to improving road infrastructure in the Collie-Preston area, visitors can now enjoy a picturesque drive along the Collie River, following the recent completion of upgrades to Collie Scenic Drive.
Further sealing of this road is planned over the next 12 months. The sealing of Wellington Forest Road in Wellington National Park in early 2020 is another scenic drive that visitors can enjoy in the region.
Works are also continuing on the Collie Adventure Trails, with 12 kilometres of new mountain bike trails in Arklow forest expected to be completed by mid-June.
The additional 12 kilometres will bring the total length of new and upgraded mountain bike trails in the Arklow forest to almost 30 kilometres.
In addition, six artists have been shortlisted to paint a huge mega-mural on the Wellington Dam. The artists will now be required to develop draft concept and installation methodology, with the lead artist/s to be appointed by the end of June.
At approximately 7,300sqm, the mural will be one of the largest in the world, and is expected to bring visitors to Collie, supporting the local economy.
It is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year, and will be the centrepiece of the Collie mural trail which will include a trail of smaller murals throughout the Collie township.
Premier Mark McGowan also joined Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray today to announce $50,000 for the Connecting to Collie-Preston project, an initiative designed to support local businesses by driving visitation to Collie-Preston.
The McGowan Government has a comprehensive plan to secure Collie's future, which is supported by the $20 million Collie Futures Fund and the $60 million Collie Industry Attraction and Development Fund.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
"With the phased easing of regional travel restrictions as part of the State's recovery from COVID-19, now is a great time to explore Collie and the South-West.
"There has never been a better time to holiday at home.
"The McGowan Government is committed to supporting and enhancing the future of the Collie-Preston area and we are on track to establishing Collie as a hub for adventure-based tourism.
"Waterskiing, mountain biking and camping are all on the cards for Collie, as the McGowan Government delivers on projects to revitalise the South-West townsite as a hub for adventure-based tourism.
"Following the easing of some regional travel restrictions, I encourage people who have the opportunity to visit Collie and other regional towns, to support local businesses and the local economy."
As stated by Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray:
"It is vital that we continue to diversify regional economies, like Collie, to ensure a strong future for residents and the creation of new jobs in a range of industries.
"We have a comprehensive plan to support Collie's economy into the future. As COVID-19 restrictions are eased, Western Australians should know that Collie is open for business.
"Projects like these are supporting the creation of employment opportunities around the Collie area, both during construction and afterwards through the provision of recreational and tourism services."
Premier's office - 6552 5000
