Taste

From cafes, restaurants, friendly Aussie style hotels, takeaways and more, Collie has something to suit different tastes and budgets.

Marron, a very popular fresh water crustacean, can be caught in the Collie River and dams in season. The marron season is short, and a licence is required. In most of Collie’s waterways fishing for marron is by the “bushman’s pole” method - a challenging and fun activity. If catching your own marron doesn’t appeal, or it’s not marron season, this isn’t a problem - marron can be bought all year road at the Café at Wellington Dam, or from one of the local hotels.

Trout, redfin perch and freshwater cobbler are to be found in the surrounding waterways. Settle back on the riverbank and enjoy nature at its best along a tranquil stretch of the Collie River. (Licenses for fishing and marroning can be obtained from Australia Post or Fisheries Department offices.)

Located near picturesque Harris Dam is Collie’s first winery to open to the public. Visitors can sit on the deck overlooking their lake and state forest to the north, or on weekends, enjoy a meal in the restaurant.

In season, plump cherries, fresh blueberries and fruit can be purchased from the farm gate or market stalls. The Visitor Centre stocks local jams and fruity olive oil, made from the time honoured manual tradition with a hand press.

A new craft brewery, producing fine hand crafted beers opened in March 2007 at Allanson, 5km west of Collie. With a focus on traditional Irish and English style ales, the beers are made from the highest quality malts, hops and yeasts. Open Thursday to Sunday for tastings and sales. After a day touring, what could be nicer than enjoying a chat with the brewer while you relax in their tasting room with an ice cold Bucks Bitter or Powerhouse Pale Ale.

In summer, a visit to the local lavender farm will delight the senses with a sea of beautiful lavender blooms, wonderful perfume and views across to the waters of Glen Mervyn Dam. Enjoy a Devonshire tea while you browse through the variety of lavender products on sale.