new-draft

Serving Up What Matters

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 06:25:28 GMT

“Good food remains one of the biggest influences on the working-away experience.”

After decades of accommodating remote and regional workforces, Geoff Stowe from Collie Hills Village has noticed a pattern.

When workers talk about their stay, the conversation usually comes back to two things: whether they slept well and whether they got a decent feed.

That understanding helped shape the recent redevelopment of Collie Hills Village. While millions were invested in new facilities and accommodation, food remained firmly on the agenda.

"When we were planning the redevelopment, we knew we could spend millions of dollars getting everything else right, but if we skimped on the dining experience, we might as well not have bothered," Stowe says.

It's a view backed by research into the working-away accommodation sector. Studies, including those conducted by Edith Cowan University, have found that food is one of the strongest drivers of guest satisfaction.

For Chris Brettig, Village Manager and chef, the findings simply confirm what years of experience have already shown. "That's why we were firm on investing in our own in-house catering team of experienced chefs and hospitality professionals. Preparing meals on-site each day ensures greater control over quality, consistency and variety," Brettig says.

Guests have access to catered buffet breakfasts and dinners, crib meals for shift workers and freshly prepared evening meals include chicken, fish, or a steak cooked to order by chefs. Fresh ingredients are sourced locally wherever possible, supporting regional suppliers while ensuring guests enjoy freshness.

“The region is a major food bowl in Western Australia, so it’s not hard to follow our policy of sourcing local first, such as a partnership with Dardanup Butchering Company ” Brettig adds.

Guest feedback and online reviews show that long-term workers consistently cite the food as the best they’ve had across similar villages in Australia.

One thing is for certain: if you are booking accommodation for workers with us, you won’t have complaints about food.

'' Excellent! Food is second to none, you can really taste the chefs and cooks care about what they put out. I have been all over Australia and the food here is the best by far.

Thanks chef Abby for giving a damn and to all the staff that have pride in there work .This village feels comfortable and makes the longer stints much more comfortable. Great energy, it is amazing what a good meal can do.''

May 2026, Ben Collins QLD boilermaker

Worker Accommodation Near Collie: Options for Mining & Construction Teams

Thu, 21 May 2026 11:24:26 GMT

When your crews are working long shifts, travelling to and from site, or mobilising for shutdown work, accommodation becomes part of the project operation.

For companies searching for workers accommodation in the South West, the focus is usually on four things:

proximity to site
reliable meal options
comfortable long-stay rooms
the ability to accommodate teams at scale

That’s where purpose-built contractor accommodation differs from standard hotels or short-term rentals. Especially in drive-in drive-out (DIDO) arrangements.

Supporting Shift Workers & Crew Safety

Accommodation for industrial crews working long shifts needs to support demanding schedules and rotating rosters while promoting rest and recovery. For DIDO workers, long commute times after shift can quickly contribute to fatigue . Accommodation in the region helps reduce unnecessary travel and gives workers more time to rest between shifts.

Additionally, Project Managers are often coordinating multiple contractors at once, making it important to keep teams housed together in one location rather than spread across different providers.

Why Purpose-Built Contractor Accommodation Works Better

With nowhere in region providing this, Collie Hills Village underwent massive modifications to provide a purpose-built village. Unlike tourist accommodation, contractor accommodation in Collie is designed around long stays and operational consistency. That includes:

reliable meal services & crib meals
parking for work vehicles
Wi-Fi access
shift-worker friendly environments
easy check-in for rotating crews
scalable room availability for shutdowns & project peaks

For companies with active projects across the South West, having accommodation organised properly removes a major logistical headache from the project.

Supporting WA’s Mining & Infrastructure Workforce

Demand for mining accommodation in WA continues to grow as projects expand across energy, infrastructure and resources. This includes the establishment of the $230 million Collie Industrial Transition Fund to attract major projects and new industries to the town. A further $300 million was allocated toward the decommissioning of Muja Power Station and Collie Power, creating an ongoing pipeline of work opportunities.

Significant infrastructure projects and roadwork upgrades like this have stoked demands, with a call for 11,000 new resource workers across WA—with many placements in South West.

Collie Hills Remains a Key Operational Hub for Contractors Throughout the Region

Whether you’re mobilising a short-term crew or coordinating longer project stays, choosing accommodation that understands industrial operations makes day-to-day management significantly easier.

Looking for reliable worker accommodation near Collie? Contact Collie Hills Village to check availability for your crew.

What to Do in Collie After Work

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 01:08:34 GMT

A Guide for DIDO & Construction Workers

You’ve put in a long day on site. The tools are down, the boots are off, and you’ve got a few hours to yourself before it starts again tomorrow. So—what are the best things to do in Collie WA after a shift? More than you might expect, as it turns out.

Collie has become one of the more liveable regional towns in Western Australia. It’s got a river, a lake, mountain bike trails, a decent fitness scene, and a community that’s genuinely proud of where it’s from. For workers staying in DIDO accommodation in Collie, that matters. A good after-work routine keeps you physically fit, mentally sharp, and socially active.

Here’s a rundown of the best Collie after work activities—whether you’re here for a week or several months.

Get Outside: Collie’s Natural Playground

Wellington National Park & the Collie River

The Collie River runs right through town and into Wellington Dam—one of the largest dams in Western Australia and a genuinely impressive sight, particularly in the cooler months when the water is high. The surrounding Wellington National Park offers a range of walking and cycling tracks through jarrah forest, with routes suited to everything from a casual 30-minute leg-stretch to a proper half-day hike.

If you’re after something low-effort after a physical shift, the river walk through town is hard to beat. It’s flat, shaded, and gives you enough greenery to decompress.

Mountain Biking: One of WA’s Best Trail Networks

This one surprises a lot of people. Collie has an internationally recognised mountain biking scene, with over 100 kilometres of single-track trails managed by the Collie Mountain Bike Club. The trails range from beginner-friendly green runs to technically demanding black routes, so whether you ride regularly or haven’t been on a bike in years, there’s something here. You don’t need your own gear to get started—bike hire is available locally. A few laps after work on the trails is a solid way to clear your head.

Fishing

The Collie River and surrounding waterways are popular spots for freshwater fishing, with bream and bass among the common catches. It’s the kind of activity that doesn’t demand much—find a spot, set up, and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Keep Active: Fitness & Recovery

Gym & Training Facilities

Staying on top of your fitness during a long stint away makes a real difference—physically and mentally. Collie Hills Village has gym facilities available, with equipment suited for both strength training and cardio, no driving required.

Swimming

Collie Aquatic Centre offers a pool facility for those who prefer laps or water-based fitness. Swimming is one of the better options for workers managing physical fatigue or joint load after a demanding shift.

Recovery & Wellbeing

It’s easy to underestimate how much your body accumulates over a long rotation. Many workers in FIFO and DIDO roles find that building a recovery routine—whether that’s stretching, foam rolling, or simply prioritising sleep — makes a meaningful difference to how they feel by week three or four. The Collie Hills Village facilities are set up with that in mind.

Local Market Options

Markets & Fresh Produce

When they’re running, local markets are worth a visit—a good opportunity to pick up fresh produce and support local growers. Check local community boards or social media for current schedules.

Connect & Explore: Community Life

The Collie Motor Museum

A well-regarded regional attraction housing an impressive collection of vintage and classic vehicles. It’s an easy hour or two, and genuinely interesting even if you’re not a committed car enthusiast.

Collie Art Gallery

The Collie Art Gallery showcases local and regional artists and is one of those spots that offers a genuine change of pace from a site-based routine. Entry is low-cost and it’s centrally located.

Collie Speedway

For those who like a bit of noise and action, Collie Speedway runs events through the season. It’s a local institution, and the atmosphere on event nights is a good reminder that Collie has a strong community identity beyond the worksite.

Why After-Work Life Matters for the DIDO Lifestyle in WA

The DIDO lifestyle in WA comes with its challenges. Time away from home, disrupted routines, and limited opportunities to properly switch off can all add up. The experience is different, though, in places that make it easier to find a rhythm and genuinely enjoy time between shifts.

Collie is quickly becoming one of those places. With its expansive trail network, natural surrounds, evolving food scene, and a strong sense of community momentum, especially as the region continues to transform, it offers more balance than many expect.

At Collie Hills Village, we see it firsthand. Workers who build a routine here, whether it’s an early morning walk, a ride through the trails, or a weekend wander through the local markets, are the ones who stay longer and encourage others to do the same.

That’s no accident.

Planning Your Stay in Collie?

Enquire now to secure comfortable, worker-friendly accommodation at Collie Hills Village.

A Front-Row Seat to Collie’s Transformation

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 03:52:48 GMT

Collie is undergoing one of the most significant periods of change in its history. With major infrastructure upgrades, renewable energy projects, and industrial developments, the region is positioning itself as a centre for economic growth and innovation in Western Australia. These developments offer a unique opportunity to be part of a thriving, evolving community.

And at Collie Hills Village, we’ve got a front row seat.

Roadworks & transport infrastructure.

Improved transport infrastructure is not just about smoother journeys. It’s about safer roads, better connectivity, and creating a foundation for Collie’s economic growth. Key projects include:

1. Collie–Mumballup Road upgrade.

This important regional connection is being upgraded in stages to improve safety and driver experience. Stages 1 and 2 are complete, while Stage 3 is currently in planning, subject to funding. The project addresses safety risks on this frequently used route and supports efficient transport of goods and people.

2. Collie Lake King Road (M037) freight & climbing lane proposal.

Heavy vehicles often navigate this route , and a proposed climbing lane aims to improve safety and efficiency. Consultation and assessments are underway to ensure the project meets regional transport needs and supports future freight growth.

Major infrastructure & economic transformation.

Collie is at the forefront of Western Australia’s industrial and energy transition. These projects are reshaping the local economy and creating opportunities for employment, investment, and innovation.

Energy & renewable infrastructure.

Collie Battery Energy Storage System (Synergy)

Completed in 2025 , this large-scale battery storage project provides critical support to the WA electricity grid, helping to manage supply and demand while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

New solar & battery project

A $500 million solar and battery energy storage system ( BESS ) project has been approved for development near Collie, with targets for operation to begin by 2028. This project is the third major large-scale battery development approved for the region.

Industrial transition & light manufacturing.

Coolangatta industrial estate upgrades.

A $134 million investment is underway to unlock industrial land, upgrade transport access, power, and water infrastructure. These works will allow new industries to set up in Collie, creating long-term employment and boosting the local economy.

Collie energy industrial hub.

Rezoning and land title allocation are progressing, opening opportunities for industrial and light-industrial developments in the region. This hub will attract new businesses, diversify the local economy, and support the transition from traditional coal industries.

Green steel of WA Collie Steel Mill

With approvals completed, the Collie Steel Mill is set to start construction in 2027. Once operational (set for early 2028), the mill will produce low-emission steel, placing Collie at the forefront of sustainable manufacturing in Australia.

Tesla battery re-manufacturing facility.

Currently under construction, this Tesla facility is expected to commence operations this year. It’ll focus on servicing and renewing Megapack batteries, as well as service Powerwall batteries and EV charging equipment. This will create high-tech, specialised jobs in the region.

Other industrial developments.

Projects such as the Magnium Australia magnesium pilot plant and International Graphite battery anode materials facility feasibility studies are supported by State Government funding. These initiatives strengthen Collie’s industrial capabilities and diversify the local economy.

Regional transition & government support.

The Collie Just Transition Package is central to ensuring the region benefits from its industrial transformation while moving away from coal-fired power generation. Key initiatives include:

Workforce development. Expanding Jobs & Skills Centres to support retraining and upskilling for the local workforce.
Industrial attraction & funding. The $230 million Collie Industrial Transition Fund supports the development of new industries and infrastructure projects, creating economic resilience for the region.
Community programs. Supporting social and economic initiatives to ensure local communities continue to thrive during the transition.

Health & community infrastructure.

Collie Health Service has undergone a major redevelopment, delivering upgraded theatres, patient care spaces, and modern facilities. This redevelopment ensures the community has access to high-quality healthcare while supporting regional growth and wellbeing.

Why this matters for Collie Hills Village.

For residents in Collie Hills Village, these projects aren’t just distant plans. Improved roads, industrial investment, renewable energy projects, and modernised health infrastructure make Collie a more connected, resilient, and vibrant place to live (even temporarily) and work.

Staying informed about Collie’s growth ensures you can make the most of everything this exciting region has to offer—from lifestyle benefits to work opportunities.

Working on one of these projects? Or something else?

We can accommodate individuals as well as full teams.

Book your Collie Hills stay here.