British Expats - Question for Helena of PERTH

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The town of Collie, declared a townsite in 1896, lies in a valley formed by the Darling Ranges and is 200 km south of Perth. The region has much to offer visitors, be it the area's abundant natural attractions, rich coal mining and timber heritage, or the newer industrial, agricultural and aquaculture tourism opportunities.
Underground mining ceased in 1994, with all mining now by the open cut method. This coal is primarily used for power generation, supplying both Muja and Collie Power Stations.These industries and the attractive Collie townsite, with its river walk, well laid out parks and gardens and tidy well kept streets, all reflect the community's pride in their town which continues to play an important role in the ongoing prosperity of Western Australia.
Much of the Shire is either National Forest, State Forest or Conservation Park, offering picturesque walks and drives through large stands of Jarrah, Marri, Sheoak, and Blackbutt forests. Collie's varied waterways offer a wide range of activities, from a quiet canoe paddle at Minninup Pool, on the upper reaches of the Collie River, to white water rafting on the challenging rapids below the wall of Wellington Dam. Bush camping, swimming, fishing, water-skiing, and marroning (in season) are some of the recreational pursuits available to visitors to the Collie River Valley.

Collie has distinct seasons, with warm to hot summers (great for the variety of water based recreation available), cool clear autumn days before crisp winters with lots of misty mornings (terrific for photographers) and, in many winter seasons, enough rain which may provide for the amazing vista of Wellington Dam overflowing - a sight not to be missed. In spring the bush will burst with colour from an amazing and diverse range of wildflowers.

The central business district offers a variety of shopping options, with two supermarkets, speciality shops including clothing, giftware, sports and camping, chemist, newsagents, banks and many others. Two air conditioned shopping arcades make shopping comfortable whatever the weather. Markets, selling home grown and home made wares, are held in the heritage listed Goods Shed on Forrest Street on alternate Sunday mornings - contact the Collie Visitor Centre for dates.
Accommodation caters for all styles and price brackets, ranging from a four star Motel, through to older heritage style hotels, guesthouses and farmstays. Enjoy a counter meal in one of the friendly local hotels, or perhaps relax in a cafe or restaurant in the town. Fresh marron is available at one of the hotels - there's no need to worry about the season when you can choose your own from their tank. Takeaways are also catered for, as is the option of using the gas bbqs provided in Soldiers Park or Wyvern Park. Anglers may be lucky and catch a perch, trout or freshwater cobbler, while scenic drives around the area will take visitors past many farms selling local produce, excellent for a picnic by the Collie River.

Collie is proud of its long mining heritage. Visitors can gain an understanding of the way of life of underground miners through a visit to the Replica Underground Coal Mine, located next to the Collie Visitor Centre.
Free tours of the impressive Muja Power Station are available daily. These interesting and informative tours will give you an insight into what's involved when you next turn on that light switch.

Collie, with its population of approximately 8500, is well serviced with modern medical, dental and hospital facilities. Excellent sporting facilities abound, including grass tennis courts, two golf courses, indoor recreation centre, PCYC, lawn bowls, football, swimming pool, hockey, bmx, motocross and speedway.

The Collie River Valley is an ideal region in which to base yourself for a visit to our beautiful south west. We look forward to meeting you.