A Collie firm has won the contract to manage the restoration and conservation of the heritage-listed Collie Roundhouse, ensuring local engagement and jobs in realising the vision to transform the unique building into a thriving tourist attraction.
HRE Consulting has been engaged to project manage the first stage of conservation works on behalf of the National Trust of Western Australia.
The appointment brings the landmark building – Western Australia’s only remaining in situ railway roundhouse – a step closer to being upgraded to a standard suitable for public use.
The works carried out will prepare the site for future heritage, tourism and commercial development that will build upon the landmark status of the precinct.
The Collie Roundhouse was constructed in the 1950s to house 14 steam locomotives. The building, along with a turntable pit and turntable, are among remaining infrastructure that serve as a reminder of the role rail played in the emergence of Collie as source of coal.
The National Trust of WA received $998,532 towards the initiative through the McGowan Government’s Collie Futures Industry Development Fund.
Both the $18 million Collie Futures Industry Development Fund and $2 million Collie Futures Small Grants Program are part of the $20 million Collie Futures Fund, which aims to diversify Collie’s economy and create new jobs.
For more information about funding opportunities designed to support Collie’s economic diversification and how to apply, visit https://www.swdc.wa.gov.au
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
“The Collie Futures Fund is about unlocking new opportunities – and it is clearly working. Opportunities for local businesses are already opening up through this exciting project to restore and conserve the heritage-listed Collie Roundhouse for future use.
“The McGowan Government continues to invest in projects that will help Collie fulfil its potential.”
As stated by Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray:
“Collie is home to many capable businesses and skilled workers, so I am delighted the contract to manage the restoration and conservation of the Collie Roundhouse has gone to a local firm.
“I look forward to seeing more subcontractors and suppliers engaged throughout this exciting project, as well on other projects as the initiatives funded through the McGowan Government’s Collie Futures Fund progress.”
As stated by National Trust of Western Australia CEO Julian Donaldson:
“The National Trust is thrilled to see economic and social benefits flowing into the Collie community right from the beginning of this project to conserve and redevelop this significant place.”
