The small town of Collie is receiving a significant boost from the Cook Government with a fresh wave of funding aimed at energising local businesses and attractions. A total of $380,314 has been allocated through the Collie Futures Small Grants Program to five local enterprises and not-for-profits, underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting economic diversification and job creation in the region.
Among the notable recipients is the Coalfields Museum and Historical Research Centre, which has been granted $95,000. This funding will be directed towards transforming the museum into a modern tourist destination. The financial support will cover the cost of internal concept design, create ready-to-build plans, and develop a business case for the museum’s redevelopment. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance Collie’s tourism appeal, following the success of other recent attractions like the Wellington Dam mural.
In addition, the Victoria Hotel is set to benefit from a $100,000 grant to upgrade its commercial kitchen. This upgrade complements ongoing improvements to the hotel’s accommodation facilities, addressing the growing demand for lodging in the area and supporting the town’s burgeoning tourism sector.
The local coffee scene will also see a boost with a $66,796 grant awarded to Coaltown Coffee. This funding will help fit out a new coffee van trailer and install a commercial coffee machine. The mobile coffee business will serve local venues, sporting events, festivals, and tourist spots including Lake Kepwari and Stockton Lake, aligning with the region’s expanding tourism.
The Collie Gallery Group has received $28,100 to host the Collie Art Prize 2025 at the Collie Art Gallery. This annual event aims to spotlight local artists and draw visitors to the town, thereby providing a boost to the local economy through increased tourism.
Finally, a $90,750 grant will support the expansion of a metal fabrication business. The Beer Industries Group will use this funding to acquire a computerised numerical-controlled bender, enhancing their capabilities to produce custom-built canopies, trays, and toolboxes. This expansion will not only bolster the business but also create new job opportunities for local tradespeople.
Regional Development Minister Don Punch highlighted that these grants are a crucial part of the Collie Futures Fund, which aims to diversify the local economy and generate employment across various sectors. The funding is intended to help businesses grow, rejuvenate existing venues, and support the emergence of new industries, thus fostering long-term regional growth.
Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns also emphasised the importance of preserving Collie’s heritage while investing in its future. She expressed satisfaction that the new funding will help redevelop the Coalfields Museum, ensuring that Collie’s rich history continues to attract visitors and contribute to the local economy.
This latest round of funding reflects the Cook Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting Collie’s transition from a traditional coal mining town to a diversified economic hub. As local businesses and attractions receive this financial boost, Collie is well-positioned to benefit from increased tourism and enhanced regional growth.
For more information on the Collie Futures Small Grants Program and to apply for funding, visit the South West Development Commission’s website.
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