Collie River Valley

Local History of Collie River Valley

The Collie River Valley is a region located in Western Australia, around 200km south of Perth. The area is home to a number of towns and communities, including the town of Collie, which is the largest settlement in the valley. The history of the Collie River Valley is long and varied, dating back thousands of years to when Indigenous Australians first inhabited the area.

The Indigenous people of the Collie River Valley were part of the Noongar language group, and lived a hunter-gatherer lifestyle. They had a deep connection to the land and relied on its resources for their survival. Evidence of their presence in the area can be seen in the form of rock art, which can be found in various locations throughout the valley.

The first European explorers to visit the Collie River Valley were the Dutch, who sailed along the coast in the early 1600s. However, it was not until the 1800s that European settlement began in the area. The first European to permanently settle in the valley was a man named Thomas Little, who established a farm in Collie in 1841. Over the next few decades, more and more settlers arrived in the area, and towns and communities began to spring up throughout the valley.

The Collie River Valley played an important role in the development of Western Australia in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The area was rich in coal, which was mined and transported to Perth to fuel the city's growth. The town of Collie became a major center for coal mining, and the industry remained a major source of employment in the area for many years.

During World War II, the Collie River Valley once again played an important role in the history of Western Australia. The area was used as a training ground for soldiers, and a number of military installations were built in the valley. The town of Collie also played a role in the war effort, with many residents working in support of the troops.

In the post-war era, the Collie River Valley experienced a period of growth and prosperity. The coal mining industry continued to thrive, and the area also became a popular destination for tourists, thanks to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Today, the Collie River Valley is a thriving region that is home to a diverse range of communities and industries.

In conclusion, the history of the Collie River Valley is a long and fascinating one that spans thousands of years. From its earliest Indigenous inhabitants to its role in the development of Western Australia, the valley has played an important part in the history of the region. Today, the area continues to be a vibrant and important part of Western Australia, with a rich and diverse cultural heritage that is celebrated by residents and visitors alike.