- Walkway to offer a brand new perspective on gigantic Wellington Dam mural
- Walkway opens to the public tomorrow in time for Easter school holidays
- Allows walkers to complete 87 kilometre Wiilman Bilya trail around reservoir
- Part of $10 million initiative to expand trails network to boost tourism and create local jobs in Collie
Walkers will be able to experience Collie’s Wellington Dam and its spectacular mega-mural from new heights from tomorrow.
A new walkway is opening tomorrow across the 367 metre dam wall, providing fresh angles of Guido van Helten’s iconic artwork ‘Reflections’.
It will initially open on weekends, public holidays and school holidays, and will be open daily by the end of the year.
The walkway allows hikers to complete the five day, four night 87 kilometre Wiilman Bilya Trail that starts and finishes in Collie, circling Wellington Dam.
It forms part of the Reflections Trail, which when finished will include new boardwalks and lookout points for wheelchairs and prams, providing access to experience the sweeping views from the top of the dam down the Collie River Valley.
Automated gates will be installed and a Water Corporation road bridge is being built below the dam to allow pedestrian and vehicle access across the river.
The walkway is part of the $10 million Collie Adventure Trails initiative to establish the town as a premier trail and adventure destination and create new local jobs as Collie continues its transition to a sustainable future.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
“This new walkway across Wellington Dam provides another reason to visit this spectacular part of our State and view the mega-mural from a different perspective.
“Through our significant investment, Collie is quickly becoming an adventure town and home to a world-class network of trails that will lure visitors to the area, boosting the local economy and creating local jobs.
“Standing on top of the dam and looking down on the mural gives you an appreciation of the monumental task to create this impressive artwork.”
As stated by Environment Minister Reece Whitby:
“It’s fantastic the walkway will open for the Easter school holidays. This will be a major drawcard for both locals and tourists.
“We’re continuing to deliver exciting attractions and experiences to the region. The trail network will guide mountain bike riders and bushwalkers to explore more of the area.
“I encourage visitors to experience all Collie has to offer with a camping getaway and enjoy the new facilities surrounded by nature at its best.”
As stated by Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns:
“The new walkway and the wider trails project showcases Collie’s stunning surroundings. This is the perfect opportunity to explore all the region has to offer.
“Our local business community is already stepping up to support this new wave of trail tourism. I’d like to thank everyone for their hard work and investment in transforming Collie into a must-visit destination.”
