Collie, Western Australia – A new adventure lodge, Voltage Lodge, officially opened its doors in August, offering a unique accommodation experience for visitors to the South West region. Situated in Collie, the lodge is housed within a reimagined 90-year-old building that formerly served as the Collie Co-op storeroom. This development aims to provide a central and welcoming base for tourists seeking to explore the area’s natural attractions and outdoor activities.
Voltage Lodge: A New Base for Exploration
Voltage Lodge is designed to cater to a range of visitors, particularly those interested in outdoor pursuits. The facility offers both private and shared accommodation options, alongside communal spaces intended to foster connection among guests. A key feature is its dedicated bike facilities, underscoring its appeal to the cycling community. With the capacity to host up to 30 guests per night, the lodge provides a comfortable and convenient stopover point for exploring Collie and the broader South West.
The establishment of Voltage Lodge was supported by significant government initiatives. Funding was provided through the State Government’s national park tourism experiences development program and the Collie futures small grants program. These programs are designed to enhance tourism infrastructure and encourage economic development in regional areas.
Government Support and Regional Development
The opening of Voltage Lodge has been met with positive reception from state officials, who highlight its role in boosting regional tourism and the local economy. Premier Roger Cook emphasized the importance of investing in quality regional accommodation as a driver of job creation and economic growth.
“Voltage Lodge is an ideal base for mountain bikers, trail walkers and outdoor enthusiasts, and it’s fantastic to see this purpose-built accommodation open in Collie, giving visitors even more opportunities to experience the region’s world-class adventure offerings and stunning natural attractions,” Premier Cook stated. “That’s why initiatives such as the national park tourism experiences development program play an important role in bringing projects like this to life. Tourism infrastructure such as the Voltage Lodge encourages visitors to stay longer, explore more of the South West, and inject valuable tourism dollars into local businesses and communities.”
Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns also welcomed the new facility, noting its significance for the local area. Acting South West Minister Jackie Jarvis echoed these sentiments, pointing out that projects like Voltage Lodge contribute to strengthening regional communities, enhancing the visitor experience, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
“The transformation of the former Collie Co-op storeroom into a modern adventure lodge has given new life to an important local building while creating a valuable asset for the region’s tourism industry,” Minister Jarvis commented. “As more visitors come to experience Collie’s trails, forests and waterways, local businesses and the wider community will benefit from increased tourism spending and economic activity.”
Collie’s Growing Adventure Tourism Scene
Collie has been actively developing its profile as an adventure tourism destination. The town is known for its extensive network of walking trails and mountain biking tracks, attracting enthusiasts from across the country. The opening of Voltage Lodge is seen as a crucial step in supporting this growth by providing the necessary infrastructure to accommodate an increasing number of visitors.
The lodge’s strategic location offers easy access to these natural attractions, including the Collie River, local forests, and the numerous trails that wind through the surrounding landscape. By providing comfortable and well-equipped accommodation, Voltage Lodge aims to encourage longer stays, allowing visitors to immerse themselves more fully in the region’s offerings.
Economic Impact and Future Prospects
The economic benefits of Voltage Lodge extend beyond direct employment at the facility. Increased visitor numbers are expected to stimulate local businesses, including cafes, restaurants, retail outlets, and tour operators. The government’s investment underscores a broader strategy to leverage natural assets for economic development in regional Western Australia.
The transformation of the historic Collie Co-op storeroom into a modern lodge also represents a thoughtful approach to heritage preservation and adaptive reuse. By repurposing a significant local building, the project honors the town’s history while creating a forward-looking asset for its tourism industry. This approach is often cited as a model for sustainable regional development, where existing structures are revitalized to meet contemporary needs.
As Collie continues to build its reputation as a premier destination for outdoor adventure, facilities like Voltage Lodge are vital. They not only provide essential services for tourists but also contribute to the vibrancy and economic resilience of the local community. The lodge’s opening marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance Collie’s appeal and capitalize on its natural and recreational potential.
