Western Australia’s largest and only remaining railway roundhouse – located in Collie – will be transformed into a unique tourist attraction, as part of the WA Government’s continued efforts to unlock local potential and drive diversification in the South-West town.
WA Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan and Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray announced $998,532 towards restoring the site so that it is suitable for public use.
Built in the 1950s, the landmark building was originally constructed to house 14 steam locomotives using a turntable pit and turntable. It is one of several pieces of infrastructure remaining in Collie that are reminders of the significant role rail played in the emergence of Collie as a source of coal.
The grant will enable the National Trust of Western Australia to upgrade and conserve the site, a first step towards realising a vision to breathe new life into the landmark building and surrounding site, which connects to the Collie Visitor Centre and town centre.
The works are expected to unlock heritage, tourism and small business opportunities which will support new local job opportunities and go a long way to strengthening the town’s tourism industry.
Other State Government initiatives supporting the growth of Collie’s tourism sector include the $10 million Collie Adventure Trails initiative to establish Collie as Western Australia’s premier ‘trail adventure town’.
Source: WA Government