January Business Connections: Become a tourist for the day at the Kiosk at the Dam
Kickstart the Year with CCCI’s First Business Connections Event: “Become a Tourist for the Day: Explore Your Local Wonders!
The Collie Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) is thrilled to kick off 2024 with its first Business Connections event, showcasing Collie’s unique tourism assets and fostering collaboration among local businesses. Supported by Workforce Australia Local Jobs South West, South32, and the Shire of Collie, the event invited participants to “Become a Tourist for the Day: Explore Your Local Wonders!” and immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty and tourism potential.
Held at the stunning Wellington National Park, this Business Connections initiative was a collaborative effort between the CCCI and the Shire of Collie. The event highlighted Collie’s attractions, strengthened local business networks, and championed the region’s tourism providers.
Rod Annear from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, and Attractions provided updates on the Wambenger trail network, nature-based tourism opportunities, and future developments within the National Park. Attendees also heard from local tourism leaders—including Kiosk at the Dam, Adventure Connections, and Forest Explorers—who shared valuable insights into their successes and offerings.
This interactive event helped local businesses and community members better understand visitors’ needs, encouraged community engagement, and empowered participants with up-to-date insights from tourism industry professionals. It also provided a platform for tourism providers to share their knowledge, showcase their offerings, and engage in meaningful conversations with attendees, fostering a deeper connection between businesses and the community.
Quotes attributed to:
Kym Gibson from Adventure Connections… “This event was a fantastic opportunity to showcase our new tours and hire hub in the National Park to the local community and businesses. Sharing updates on the services we offer and the feedback we’re hearing from visitors helps the community better understand how Collie is being experienced and appreciated. This insight is invaluable for fostering a shared vision for growth and ensuring we continue to meet the needs of both locals and tourists.””
Alison Melvin from Forest Explorers: “The first 2025 Chamber of Commerce Business Connections brought Collie’s tourism operators and attendees together, fostering a deeper connection and appreciation of our role in conservation and sustainable tourism practices, storytelling, local heritage, and more.
Beneath the eucalyptus canopy, everyone seemed delighted and at ease—nature truly has a calming effect.”
Quotes attributed to Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) Assistant Director of Park Services Rod Annear:
“Since 2019, the State Government through DBCA has invested more than $40 million to transform Collie into a world-class trails destination that attracts local, national and international tourists.
“This investment in quality tourism infrastructure includes 250km of mountain bike and walk trails, new campgrounds, water sport facilities and road upgrades, which will continue to support local businesses and create local jobs in the community.
“This event was a great opportunity to meet with local business representatives and showcase the fantastic new trails and visitor facilities at Wellington Dam and around Collie.”
Natalie Cook, Chairperson of Collie CCCI, expressed her gratitude: “We’re proud to begin 2025 with an event that celebrates Collie’s incredible tourism assets and fosters collaboration within our business community. It’s a chance to not only explore our local wonders but also to strengthen our collective vision for growth and prosperity.”
This Business Connections event embodies CCCI’s commitment to supporting local businesses and driving economic development through community-led initiatives.
About Collie Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI)
The Collie Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) is a proactive organisation dedicated to promoting business excellence, community growth, and economic prosperity in Collie. Through events like Business Connections, CCCI supports local businesses and individuals, empowering them to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the community.
