Wellington National Park expanded by in boost for conservation and continued push to grow Collie tourism

Wellington National Park is set for a landmark 7000ha expansion which Premier Mark McGowan says will “preserve it forever” and provide further opportunity to grow Collie’s tourism industry. The announcement came as part of Premier Mark McGowan’s trip to Collie on Sunday, which also included $2 million in new funding for the Collie Futures Small Grants. The national park now extends south towards the Preston River and covers 25,000ha of land. It will mean more of the region’s high quality jarrah and marri trees are protected and provide expanded tourism and recreation opportunities, including the park’s network of mountain bike trails. Mr McGowan said as well as the boost for conservation, the expansion would continue to help evolve Collie’s tourism sector. “This will be great for conservation, but also terrific for tourism,” he said. “As part of this we are also putting in place more bike and walking trails so people can experience and enjoy them. This area here is absolutely stunning, it is wonderful for tourism and it is great for preserving native flora and fauna. Preserving them forever is part of the legacy we want to leave for future generations of West Australians.” Environment Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said the announcement was a “key milestone” for the State Government’s Plan for our Parks program and followed on from the decision to end logging of native forests from 2024. “It is an ambitious plan and it is important in conserving our beautiful natural environment,” she said. “This complements our recent announcement to end native logging in our South West forrests and to expand the softwood estate with a $350 million investment.” The Premier also announced the completion of the park’s new Kaneang Wiilman Bridge — a 90m suspension bridge included in the Wambenger Trails Initiative. The first $2m round of funding for the CFSG helped support 28 business and not-for-profits in Collie, with grants of up to $100,000 available as part of the fresh funds pool. “This program has already transformed Collie through a wide range of projects, generating economic benefits and creating local jobs,” Mr McGowan said.