Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns said there was now a mountain bike trail to suit everyone in Collie. Photo: Collie Adventure Trails Facebook.
Western Australia’s largest network of mountain bike trails has officially opened following the completion of 47 kilometres of tracks in Wellington National Park near Collie.
Riders now have almost 100 kilometres of national park trails to explore in Collie’s Wambenger Trails network, which links Wellington Dam, Honeymoon Pool, Mount Lennard and the spectacular Collie River Valley.
“We’ve put Collie on the map as a world-class trails tourism destination,” Premier Roger Cook said.
“The Wambenger Trails network will draw thousands of visitors to Collie each year, supporting local businesses and creating local jobs in the community.
“As Collie continues its transition away from coal, new industries like tourism are helping to diversify the economy and secure a strong future for the town.”
The newly expanded trails cater for experienced and competition riders, complementing the previously completed beginner trails near Wellington Dam.
Funded through the $10 million Collie Adventure Trails initiative – which was one of the first major projects as part of Collie’s transition – the new Wambenger trails are helping to transform Collie into a world-class trail destination that can attract local, national and international tourists.
A new bike hire outlet has opened in Wellington National Park to support the trails, with a range of tour options also available to introduce new riders to the fun of mountain biking.
Environment Minister Reece Whitby said Collie was now ” the place to be for outdoor adventure enthusiasts”.
“With its recent accreditation as a Trail Town, and now being home to the State’s largest mountain bike trail network – Collie is the place to be …” he said.
“The Cook Labor Government is committed to ensuring Collie prospers into a world-class trail destination, investing more than $40 million to build and support the region’s tourism offerings since 2019.
“We’re continuing to invest in Collie by funding improved facilities, trails and walkways at Wellington Dam to better cater for increased visitation.”
Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns welcomed the initiative.
“There is a mountain bike trail to suit everyone in Collie, whether you are an adrenalin junkie or out on a leisurely ride with the family,” she said.
“In just a few weeks, Collie will host the AusCycling Mountain Bike National and Oceania Enduro Championships over four days, attracting hundreds of local, national and international riders to town.
“This is fantastic news for the local economy and community and just another reason why you should add Collie as a bucket-list destination.”
