On track for expanded trail facilities

Amid exciting new changes to travel restrictions across the south-west due to an easing of the COVID-19 crisis, ventures in Collie are preparing for a new and improved tourism industry once the pandemic has passed.

Funds from the $2 million Collie Futures Small Grants Program have recently been awarded to the Harris River Estate winery to investigate plans for expansion. The potential expansion will build upon the $10m investment by the State Government to upgrade and build new world-class mountain bike trails in the Collie surrounds.

The family-run venture, just north of Collie, will use its funding to carry out a feasibility study to expand its winery, including more accommodation, an amphitheatre, honey processing facility, ropes course and a vineyard zip-line.

The project will look at modifying existing chalets and building new chalets to provide facilities for trail-users and universal access for users of the nearby Arklow Adaptive trail. Facilities will include bike racks, a repair station and a secure space to store bikes. This will create a fantastic opportunity for people to stay longer and experience easy access to world-class trails.