Community Caring for the Collie River

The Leschenault Catchment Council have recently completed an 18 month, community led project to restore and rejuvenate the Collie River foreshore in central Collie, adjacent to Soldiers Park.

The project received $49,900 from the 2024 State NRM Community Stewardship Grants Program, with additional financial support from the Shire of Collie through South 32 funding under the Shire’s Collie River Revitalisation Strategy. Further financial contributions were provided by Premier Coal, while the Friends of Collie River volunteer group and local Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades made significant in-kind contribution to the project.

A range of on-ground restoration activities were undertaken, including the removal of woody weeds and introduced grasses, planting of 4000 local native seedlings, rubbish removal, tree guard maintenance and summer watering to support the establishment of the new plants. These activities were made possible through the generous efforts of community volunteers, whose contribution was integral to the success of the project.

The project also created opportunities for community members to actively contribute to improving habitat for native fauna. Community members took part in habitat making workshops, and as a result of these workshops 10 bat boxes and 4 possum dreys were installed throughout the project site to provide additional habitat for local wildlife.

Importantly, the project brought together Noongar Traditional Custodians and members of the Collie community through a range of interactive events. These activities provided opportunities to learn about the natural and cultural values of the Collie River while getting hands-on experience in caring for and restoring the river foreshore.

This foreshore rejuvenation project complements the Upper Collie River Aquatic Habitat Restoration program. Together these initiatives are helping to improve the ecological health of the Collie River while strengthening community connection, participation and stewardship of this important local environment.