Makuru season has arrived in Collie, bringing cool air, flowing rivers and fresh green landscapes
As Makuru brings cooler days, misty mornings and flowing waterways, it's the perfect time to experience a different side of the Collie River Valley.
Winter in Collie has its own unique charm. During Makuru, the Noongar season known for rain, cold weather and rejuvenation, the landscape transforms with lush greenery, rushing streams and crisp forest air. Whether you’re chasing outdoor adventures, warming up beside a fire or exploring local history and culture, there’s plenty to discover in Collie this season.
Tucked away in WA’s South West, Collie blends outdoor adventure with country charm. You can spend the day paddling across turquoise lakes, exploring forest trails or wandering through town discovering murals and local history, then settle in for a hearty pub meal and a comfortable night’s sleep.
If you’ve been searching for an autumn road trip destination close to Perth, this is your sign to head for the hills.
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What Makes Winter in the Collie River Valley So Magical?
Visiting Collie during winter offers a completely different experience from the warmer months. Flowing rivers, vibrant forests and peaceful trails create the perfect setting for a winter escape. Add welcoming cafés, fascinating heritage attractions and seasonal events, and you’ll quickly see why winter is one of the best times to explore the Collie River Valley.
Fun Facts: Winter in Collie
- Season: Makuru (June–July)
- Best for: Nature lovers, cyclists, families and weekend explorers
- Distance from Perth: Approximately 2 hours
- Weather: Cool temperatures with regular rainfall
- What to pack: Warm layers, waterproof jacket, sturdy footwear and a camera
Makuru Magic: Discover the Beauty of the Wettest Season
Makuru is a time of renewal across the South West. Rain fills rivers and dams, native landscapes come alive and the forests surrounding Collie become even more spectacular.
Top Outdoor Winter Adventures in Collie
Makuru is a time of renewal across the South West. Rain fills rivers and dams, native landscapes come alive and the forests surrounding Collie become even more spectacular.
Wellington National Park
Winter brings fresh energy to Wellington National Park. Flowing waterways, misty mornings and towering jarrah forests create a stunning backdrop for walks and wildlife spotting.
Why it’s special: Home to the world-renowned Wellington Dam Mural and some of the region’s most scenic natural landscapes.
Scenic Drive
A relaxing drive along the Collie River, the Collie Scenic Drive is a great way to take in the region’s winter landscapes from the comfort of your car. In Makuru, the scenery is especially lush, with flowing waterways and misty forest views.
Why it’s special: This is one of the best ways to see Collie’s winter transformation up close, with winding forest roads, sudden river glimpses and the Collie Suspension Bridge offering a striking moment suspended above the valley floor.
Photo credits: Russell Ord
Want an Indoor Activity to Stay Warm and Dry?
When the winter weather rolls in, Collie’s creative and cultural spaces are the perfect place to slow down, stay warm and discover a different side of the Collie River Valley. From colourful galleries to hands-on history, there’s plenty to explore indoors while the rain does its thing outside.
Collie Art Gallery
Located right in town, the Collie Art Gallery is a bright and welcoming space showcasing works from talented local and regional artists. Exhibitions change regularly, so there’s always something new to discover. From bold contemporary pieces to classic landscapes of Collie.
Step inside: Wander through the gallery at your own pace, get inspired by local creativity, and enjoy a quiet, cosy break from the winter chill.
Collie Coalfields Museum
If you’re curious about how Collie came to be, this is where the story comes alive. The Coalfields Museum is packed with fascinating artefacts, photographs and displays that trace Collie’s mining, timber and railway history.
Step inside: Explore the stories of the people who shaped the town, uncover quirky historical finds, and get a real feel for Collie’s past, all from the comfort of indoors.
Underground Coal Mine Experience
Step beneath Collie’s mining history at the Collie Underground Coal Mine Experience, located inside the Collie Visitor Centre. This interactive attraction recreates life in the 1950s coal mines through sound, story and immersive underground-style sets.
Adventure awaits: Feel the rumble of a coal blast, discover hidden critters in the tunnels, find out what’s behind the curtain and interact with hands-on displays that make history anything but boring. It’s fun, a little dramatic, and perfect for a rainy-day escape.
Where Can You Warm Up on a Rainy Day in Collie?
Not every winter day needs to be spent outdoors. Collie offers plenty of cosy spots where visitors can relax, recharge and enjoy local hospitality.
Rainy Day Favourites
Grab a Coffee and Watch the Rain at The Collie Providore
A cosy, locally loved Providore on Collie’s main street, perfect for escaping the winter rain while enjoying a warm drink and discovering South West WA flavours.
Why you’ll love it: The Collie Providore is more than just a shop, it’s a gourmet experience. With artisan cheeses, local condiments, gift hampers and takeaway coffee, it’s an ideal spot to warm up, browse and taste your way through Collie’s local produce. Right on the main street, it’s the perfect place to stop, watch the rain fall, and watch the world go by with a warm coffee in hand.
Enjoy a Classic Country Pub Meal and Drink at The Club Hotel
A classic Collie pub and a go-to spot when the winter rain sets in, The Club Hotel offers hearty meals, cold drinks and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere right in the heart of town.
Why you’ll love it: With its cosy interior and comfy lounge chairs, it’s the perfect place to settle in on a wet winter day. Enjoy a warm meal, sink into a lounge seat by the fire with a beverage in hand, or challenge friends to a game of pool at the pool table. A great way to warm the soul and stay entertained while the weather rolls through Collie.
Trail of the Month – Munda Biddi Trail
Why Ride the Munda Biddi Trail?
Makuru is a time of renewal across the South West. Rain fills rivers and dams, native landscapes come alive and the forests surrounding Collie become even more spectacular.
The Munda Biddi Trail is one of the world’s longest off-road cycling trails, passing through some of the South West’s most beautiful forest landscapes.
Winter provides cooler temperatures that many riders find ideal for exploring sections of the trail around Collie.
Whether you’re tackling a longer adventure or simply enjoying a shorter day ride, the region delivers incredible scenery and rewarding trail experiences.
What makes the Munda Biddi Trail Special?
Few places offer such an immersive cycling experience through Western Australia’s unique forest environment.
- Ride through towering jarrah and marri forests.
- Experience peaceful natural surroundings away from traffic.
- Discover scenic campsites and forest shelters along the route.
- Connect with some of the most picturesque landscapes in Collie.
Local Tip
Check trail conditions before setting out, particularly after heavy rainfall, and carry appropriate wet-weather gear.
What's On In June
For full list of events click here.
Short Track Test 'n' Tune
12th June, 2pm – 5pm: Collie Motorplex Lot 643 Powerhouse Rd
Collie Farmers Market
13th June 8am – Central Park, Forrest St
Beers, Beef & Boots Hoedown
27th June 8pm – 11.30pm: The Club Hotel Collie, 138 – 148 Forrest St
Winter is one of the most beautiful times of year to experience the Collie River Valley. Whether you’re exploring forest trails, discovering local culture, warming up with a hearty meal or attending a community event, winter offers countless opportunities to connect with the region.
Start planning your winter escape today, visit the Collie Visitor Centre for local tips, and discover even more seasonal inspiration on the Visit Collie website.
Ready to Plan Your Collie Escape?
Whether you’re chasing outdoor adventure, a relaxing road trip or a cosy weekend away, the Collie River Valley has everything you need for the perfect winter escape. Just a short drive from Perth, Collie combines nature, creativity, local hospitality and scenic experiences into one unforgettable destination.
- Explore the lakes and trails
- Enjoy local cafés and pubs
- Experience Wellington National Park
- Stay somewhere cosy and slow the pace down
- Discover hidden spots around the region
And because Collie is so close to Perth, it’s an easy road trip without the long-haul drive.
Photoworthy...
A tourism project initiative proudly supported by South32 Worsley Alumina.
Photography credits: Russell Ord, unless otherwise specified.
