Wambenger Trails, Collie Project

Cyclists riding along the Collie trail. Photo Nick Quinn/Arklow MTB Trails

Collie has long been associated with outdoor adventures due to its lush vegetation, imposing granite outcrops and connection with the spectacular Collie River. The varied landscapes and topography surrounding Collie provided an ideal foundation on which to establish a world-class trail network.

In 2019, the $10 million Collie Adventure Trails project was initiated, funded by the State Government. The project aimed to create more than 100km of new mountain bike trails extending through Wellington National Park, Westralia Conservation Park and Arklow Forest Block, catering for a range of riders from beginner to advanced, as well as users of hand cycles.

Further funding has been provided by the State Government, including $3.1 million for the Collie Tourism Readiness and Economic Stimulation project, $2.6 million for the Wellington National Park Public Access Improvements works, and $2.9 million for the Wellington Dam Kiosk Redevelopment.

The Collie Adventure Trails network, renamed Wambenger Trails, is nearing completion and ready to enjoy. The trail network was named after the Wambenger, or Brush-tailed phascogale - a small and lively marsupial which lives in the jarrah forests around Collie.

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Construction of expanded parking, road improvements and pathway upgrades in the Wellington Dam precinct.
Construction of new walkways and public access to Wellington Dam to view the ‘Reflections’ mega mural.
Construction of 47 kilometres of new high quality, dedicated mountain bike trails when combined with the upgraded existing trails, have created a network of almost 95 kilometres in Wellington National Park. These 'World-Class' trails have already attracted national and international events.
A 20 kilometre realignment of the Munda Biddi Trail linking Wellington Dam with Collie, providing options for multi-day cycle loops.
Construction of 10 kilometres of new high quality, dedicated mountain bike trail in Westralia Conservation Park providing a loop option from the Collie town centre. This trail passes through some of the region’s most iconic sites including Minningup Pool.
Construction of 27 kilometres of new, high quality, single track mountain bike trails which will create a total network of 54 kilometres in Arklow Forest Block located north of Collie.
Development of the 87 kilometre 5 day/ 4 night Wiilman Bilya Trail which provides a loop for hikers along the Collie River and around Wellington Dam. The trail can also be walked in sections with pick up and drop off points shown on the hiking maps. This trail connects to the world-famous Bibbulmun Track.
The Wiilman Bilya Trail features the 94 metre Kaniyang Wiilman pedestrian suspension bridge over the Collie River. A modern reimagining of a rope bridge with winter rapids just upstream, this is an attraction in its own right. The bridge is located just off Collie River Scenic Drive in the Westralia Conservation Park.
Construction of the Djinang Koorliny Lookout over the Collie River Valley on the Collie River Scenic Drive.
Upgrade of River Road in Wellington National Park to dual direction including parking and pick-up / drop off points to allow “shuttling” on the newly built trails.
Provision of public facilities such as trailhead signage, tool stands and bike racks in the Collie town centre and at other key trailheads.
Signage upgrades along the 61 kilometre Collie-Darkan Rail Trail which is used by gravel riders, hikers and horse riders.

Cyclists riding down slopes on Collie Trails. Photo Nick Quinn/Arklow MTB Trails

Riding along the Collie Trail network. Photo DBCA

Upgrade to the Jabitj Walk Trail between the Wellington Dam precinct and Honeymoon Pool.
Redevelopment of the Wellington Dam Kiosk.
Upgrade of Falcon Road from the Kiosk to the River