Experience Collie during sunny Birak!
Learn about Birak in Collie, get the low-down on all there is to do and experience during the season of the young in Collie.
As the Noongar calendar turns to Birak, the season of the young and the first summer, Collie bursts into life. Running roughly from December to January, Birak is a time of renewal, warmth, and vibrant energy, when the bush is bursting with life, young animals take their first steps, and the days invite you outdoors.
Explore Collie’s Forests and Trails
Birak tends to be hot and dry, so early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for outdoor activities.
Beat the summer heat with a sunrise walk through Wellington National Park or explore the Wambenger Trails iconic walks and routes along the refreshing Collie River. Listen to the trills of birdsong and the scent of eucalyptus as you keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos feeding in the cool of morning, or young birds in nests.
Here are some of our favourite walk trails to discover during Birak:
Jabitj Trail
The Jabitj Trail (meaning running water in the Noongar language) is a 12 km return walk and cycle trail that follows the Collie River between Wellington Dam and Honeymoon Pool in Wellington National Park. Along the way, it offers beautiful views of rapids, pools, and forest scenery. The track includes steep, rocky sections and occasional log climbs, adding a touch of adventure.
Collie River Trail
Take on the Collie River Trail, a relatively easy 9km trail starting at Minningup Pool and follows along the Collie River all the way to Telfer Pool. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife along this scenic trail and relax into the idyllic bushland. Cycling along the trail is also a great way to see the track!
P.s Did we mention this track is dog-friendly?
Sika Loop Trail
The Sika Trail in Wellington National Park is a 10 km loop designed for both mountain biking and walking. Starting at the Kiosk at the Dam, it winds through scenic jarrah and marri forests. The trail offers a peaceful immersion in nature, with shaded paths and gentle terrain. It loops back via the Potters Gorge camping area, making it ideal for day visitors and campers alike. This shared trail is a great way to experience the park’s tranquil bushland and wildlife.
Images – Left: Little Rock; Middle: Collie River Walk; Right: Wellington NP Trail
Local Spots to Relax in Collie
After you’ve finished with exploration for the day, there’s no better way to recover than kicking back and relaxing at one of our favourite local spots.
Water Playground: Speaking of water playgrounds, exciting water play is in-store for visitors to Central Park. Families can let the children run-free while they sit at the picnic tables under shady trees.
Soldiers Park: Set beside the gentle flow of the Collie River and only moments from the town centre, Soldiers Park is a welcoming green space where you can find a shaded spot to enjoy lunch, a place for the kids to burn off energy, or a scenic resting point all at the same time! Created in 1921, the park is also a war memorial that honours the town’s soldiers.
Image: Central Park / Photographer: Russell Ord
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Beer Gardens Not to Be Missed in Collie
The Crown Hotel
The Crown Hotel Collie has a fresh look with a shady outdoor space, mouth-watering all-day menus and best of all, your favourite icy cold beers on tap. The perfect place to settle in after a day of exploring all Collie has to offer.
The Federal Hotel
Looking for that classic country-pub vibe? The Federal’s relaxed beer garden is where locals gather, travellers pull up a chair, and the live music drifts through on weekends. Grab a cold one, tuck into pub classics, and enjoy the easy-going atmosphere that makes this place a Collie favourite. Dogs welcome too.
The Club Hotel
The Club Hotel’s outdoor area brings old-school charm and a lively vibe. After exploring the Collie River Valley, this is the spot to cool off with a pint or step inside and enjoy a game of darts or watch some sport. With plenty of space, friendly service and that welcoming country-pub feel, it’s easy to settle in for a while.
The Vic
An iconic Collie pub since 1898, The Vic’s beer garden is ideal for a chilled drink outdoors. Enjoy alfresco dining, stretch out in the fresh air, and take in the character of this historic local. While you’re there enjoy the TAB facilities or a game of pool.
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Shop Till You Drop in Collie
If you’re in Collie in December, why not take the opportunity to bring home some memories of Collie for your friends and family for Christmas? The shops in this quaint little town run from charming wares to retro memories from the past.
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Cheeky Squirrel: A charming boutique where you can pick out gifts that will delight and inspire you! Each piece has been handpicked by the owner, promising an eclectic mix of luxury and eccentric.
Collie Providore: A true gourmet hub celebrating artisan flavours from Collie, visit and indulge in cheeses, charcuterie, condiments, and more. Visitors can enjoy coffee, picnic packs, gift boxes, and locally made treats while connecting with the region’s food culture. The store champions small-batch producers, offering friendly advice and a vibrant space to explore Collie’s edible delights.
Collie Florist: Nothing says love like a bouquet of flowers! Collie Florist has some of the most beautiful flower arrangements in Collie.
Bloom & Brush: Visit Bloom and Brush, the florist/art shop where creativity meets sustainability! Whether you’re looking for a vibrant bouquet, a low maintenance indoor plant, or a one-of-a-kind gift that’s kind to the planet, they’ve got something special for you.
Collie Artist Den: A unique treasure trove where you will find an array of gifts that have been made by local artisans living in Collie! A space where local artists can showcase their work, pop in to get a taste of the art influenced by the local region.
Images – Top: Cheeky Squirrel; Bottom: Bloom & BrushÂ
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Summer Events in Collie
Birak in Collie comes with a range of fantastic events designed to celebrate the warmth of the season. Plan your visit so you can take part in the local community celebrations.
Carols in the Park
Spend the evening with your family and loved ones as the Collie community gathers for a festive evening filled with music, laughter and Christmas cheer. Get in to the holiday spirit with Carols in the Park on December 7 and delight in local performers, sing alongs, and grab a bite from the food stalls in attendance!
Annual Christmas Pageant
Join in the annual Collie Christmas Pageant on December 13 at 3pm for a fun family day out! Head to Central Park for face painting, markets and food vans, and even a mini farm. A Christmas parade would not be complete without photos with Santa, the street parade at 6pm a family-friendly movie in the park at 7.30pm for the older kids.
Summer Movie Series
Get comfy and get ready for a summer of FREE family movie nights in Central Park! Every Saturday starting December 13 (Shrek), rug up and get ready to take in a movie under the stars with your friends and family. The Collie Summer Movie Series concludes at the end of January.
Visiting Collie during Birak
Summer in Collie is an exciting time to visit, with the warm outdoors beckoning you to discover all that Collie has to offer.Â
A tourism project initiative proudly supported by South32 Worsley Alumina.
