Bibbulmun Track link: 56km Wiilman Bilya trail and pedestrian bridge opened in Collie

A new hiking trail crafted for both thrill-seekers and eco-tourists — and linking up to the State’s world-class Bibbulmun Track — has been added to Collie’s catalogue of adventure-tourism options.

Environment Minister Reece Whitby and Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns opened a 56km section of the Wiilman Bilya trail on September 12, which includes a new 94m pedestrian bridge and overnight campsites.

The new section can be linked up to the Bibbulmun Track, WA’s world-renowned 1000km walking trail, for a four-day return hike from Collie.

When all sections are complete, the 87km trail will offer hikers a five-day, four-night hike around Wellington Dam that starts and ends in Collie.

The opening of the new trail comes just weeks after Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman was in the town to open the new Kylie Trail, adding 10km to the region’s trail network

Both trails are named for the traditional Aboriginal landowners, the Wiilman Noongar people, with the term Bilya meaning ‘river’ in Noongar, and the word ‘Kylie’ meaning boomerang.

Mrs Hanns said the new trail was the latest addition to the growing network of trails and adventure attractions for the region.

“The addition of the suspension bridge to the trail gives Collie locals and visitors alike the opportunity to truly experience and enjoy the beautiful surroundings we have to offer in the region,” she said.

Mr Whitby said the trails and were another way of diversifying Collie’s economy.

“The trail is the perfect training ground for hikers planning a longer walk on the Bibbulmun Track as it gives them a chance to test their equipment and fitness,” he said.

“What better time than now in spring to explore the trail surrounded by nature at its best.”

On August 24 Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman opened the new Kylie Trail for mountain bike riders, also announcing WA trails construction companies Magic Dirt Trailworx and Three Chillies Design had been selected to create a further 47km of trail as part of stages two and three of the Wellington National Park trail network.

In all, 110km of mountain bike trails are being built, including 58km added to Wellington National Park, 29km in Arklow forest, north of Collie, as well as new mountain bike jump trails linking to the existing trails in Arklow forest.