- Three local projects to share in $250,000 from the Collie Futures Small Grants Program
- Short-stay accommodation, cultural walk trail and mobile food business among the successful recipients
- Cook Government remains committed to supporting Collie's transition through economic diversification and jobs creation
The Cook Labor Government continues to back local business and tourism initiatives in Collie, today announcing that three local projects will share in $250,000 funding from the Collie Futures Small Grants Program.
A $100,000 grant has been allocated to the Leschenault Catchment Council towards the Collie River Cultural Walk - Walking on Country project.
The funding will support a feasibility study for reinstating 75 kilometres of the historic Noongar cultural walk trail along the Collie River.
In a further commitment to Collie's future, $100,000 funding will assist with the refurbishment of a commercial building in town into purpose-built short-stay accommodation.
The completed Collie Trails Lodge will cater to the trails market, leveraging off considerable investment in enhancing the Trail Town's appeal as a must-visit destination.
The lodge will further diversify and complement the tourism accommodation offerings in Collie, with a range of short-stay initiatives having already been supported through the Collie Futures Fund.
A $50,000 grant has also been allocated to establishing the Muja Pizza Bar on Wheels mobile food business.
Already shaping up to be popular, the business will service visitors and residents, including at catered functions, events and tourism-related venues.
The Collie Futures Small Grants Program is part of the Collie Futures Fund. Through the small grants program, grants of up to $100,000 are available to support businesses and not-for-profit organisations that will stimulate the local economy and support community needs.
As stated by Regional Development Minister Don Punch:
"By backing the aspirations of this community in transition, whether that be a business idea or tourism initiative, we are unlocking opportunities that diversify and build resilience into the local economy.
"By attracting major new industries and supporting established businesses to grow, the Cook Labor Government is proud to be creating a strong future for the Collie community."
As stated by Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns:
"I am delighted to have seen first-hand the local initiatives take shape thanks to the Collie Futures Small Grants Program.
"It's been great to share in their individual journeys, and I look forward to seeing the latest grant recipients take this exciting next step with assistance provided by the Cook Labor Government.
"We are committed to continuing to work with the community to set up Collie for a strong future, and it is fantastic to see not only the direct benefits but also the benefits flow on to the community."
