Playground Green Light

 MAJOR upgrades to Collie’s Soldiers’ Park playground will be undertaken in 2027.

 The signing of a Financial Assistance Agreement by the State Government and Collie Shire Council last week will also lead to the construction of storage and administration facilities for the Collie Swimming Club and the upgrading of the toilet blocks at the Collie Speedway. This is in addition to funding of $450,000 recently secured for the Expansion and Upgrade of the Collie Visitor Centre.

 Shire Chief Executive Officer, Phil Anastasakis said the $1.325 million playground upgrade has been some time in the making and work at the site will not start until the middle of next year, but it will be “well worth the wait”.

Prior to work starting, the Shire will appoint a Project Manager and Project Control Group.

 Mr Anastasakis said all equipment currently at the park will be removed after the 2026/27 summer season and be repurposed to other parks around the town.

“There may be some disruptions in the lead up to the new equipment being installed and we will be seeking the community’s patience during this period.”

 Mr Anastasakis said there would be no new expenditure on the existing playground and equipment.

“That would be a waste of ratepayers’ money,” he added.

 In addition to the $1.325 million for the playground, the Shire also secured $250,000 for the swimming club’s administration and storage facility at the Collie Pool and $225,000 for project management.

Mr Anastasakis said an additional $25,000, held in council reserves and set aside for the swimming club, would also be used on the pool project.

 The Shire will provide guidance to the speedway project which has been funded directly to the club.

 Conceptual plans for the Soldiers’ Park and Collie Pool projects are based on community consultation and further engagement on the playground will occur through the Project Control Group.

Both projects are to be completed within 18 months – by March 2028