If you’re considering a short, cultural outing while exploring Western Australia, the Collie: Mural Town Tour offers a unique glimpse into a town that’s proud of its outdoor art scene. This 1.5-hour guided walk isn’t just about admiring murals; it’s a chance to connect with local history, Indigenous culture, and the natural beauty surrounding Collie.
What I love about this experience is how accessible it is—suitable for most ages, with a friendly guide who’s part of the artistic process herself. Plus, it’s a great way to see a different side of WA, away from the beaches and city lights. On the flip side, it’s a walking tour, so you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection.
This tour suits anyone with an interest in art, local stories, and outdoor adventures—a perfect fit if you’re after a laid-back experience filled with color and culture. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, you’ll find plenty of value in this leisurely stroll through Collie’s streets.
Key Points
- Accessible and family-friendly: Suitable for most ages with a relaxed pace.
- Cultural storytelling: Guided by Alison, who’s involved in creating the murals herself, adding authenticity.
- Environmental and indigenous themes: Murals reflect local history and culture, making it educational as well as visually appealing.
- Flexible options: The standard tour lasts 1.5 hours, but there’s an extension option for a picnic in Wellington National Park.
- Walk and learn: The route takes you through streets and alleys adorned with murals, crossing several streets—good shoes are recommended.
- Great for art lovers and history buffs: The murals tell stories spanning Collie’s 125-year history.
An In-Depth Look at the Collie Mural Town Tour
Setting the Scene: What’s the Tour About?
This tour is a walk through Collie’s outdoor art gallery—an award-winning collection of murals that celebrate the town’s environmental, cultural, and historical narratives. Starting at the Bendigo Music Shell on Forrest Street, the route takes you on a 90-minute journey across several streets. Guides like Alison, who played a part in the mural creation, make the experience more personal with storytelling that breathes life into each artwork.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on indigenous themes and local history, which are woven into murals by talented Western Australian artists. As you stroll, you’ll see murals that depict the local environment, Indigenous stories, and community resilience, offering a layered perspective of Collie that you might not get just by walking around on your own.
The Murals and Their Stories
You’ll encounter around twenty-five murals during the walk, each with its own story and style. These murals are more than just pretty pictures—they serve as visual narratives of the area’s past, present, and future. For example, some murals highlight Indigenous culture, honoring the traditional custodians of the land, while others celebrate Collie’s natural surroundings.
One of the reviews mentions how the murals do a fantastic job at showcasing themes like the environment and indigenous culture, making it a meaningful experience for those interested in local stories. The guide—Alison—adds depth by sharing her own involvement in the process and providing insights into what each mural represents.
Practical Details: What to Expect
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, covering a walk on pavement with some street crossings. It’s accessible for most people and includes a last-minute opportunity to use toilets—important for those with small children or anyone needing a quick break.
The meeting point is at the Music Shell on Forrest Street, which is easy to find with the given coordinates. Be sure to wear a hat and comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be on foot for the duration. The tour is conducted in English, and the small group size ensures a personalized experience.
More Great Tours NearbyWhy This Tour Is Worth It
If you love art and storytelling, this tour offers a local perspective that’s hard to find in typical sightseeing experiences. The murals are beautifully maintained and thoughtfully curated, providing a colorful timeline of Collie’s identity. Since the guide is personally connected to the murals, you get authentic, behind-the-scenes insights—something that many self-guided walks lack.
Plus, the tour’s themes are relevant and respectful—highlighting indigenous culture and environmental consciousness. It’s an educational experience without feeling didactic, making it perfect for a leisurely morning or afternoon outing.
Extended Options and Value
For those wanting more than just a mural walk, there’s an extended extension available—a five-hour picnic in Wellington National Park, where you can view the striking dam mural by Guido Van Helten, covering 8,000 sqm. If you’re a fan of outdoor scenic views, art, and relaxing picnics, this upgrade offers a memorable full-day experience.
Considering the Cost
The tour is offered with a flexible booking policy—reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. While the base cost is not explicitly mentioned, the experience is quite affordable given the personalized storytelling, local insights, and the visual feast of murals you get to see.
Real Traveler Perspectives
One reviewer commented how the guide’s personal involvement in the murals added a special touch, making the stories more engaging. Others appreciated how the murals covered diverse themes, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This tour is ideal for art enthusiasts, history lovers, and those curious about indigenous culture or environmental themes. It’s perfect if you’re after a relaxed, walking experience with meaningful stories woven into colorful visuals. Families with older children might find it engaging, especially if they enjoy street art and local stories, but it’s not specifically designed as a kids’ activity. The pace and outdoor setting make it well-suited to those who enjoy light walking and open-air exploration.
Final Thoughts
The Collie: Mural Town Tour offers a genuine, visually appealing way to get to know a Western Australian town from a cultural perspective. It’s a thoughtful way to appreciate local art while learning about Collie’s history, Indigenous culture, and natural environment. The guide’s personal touch makes the experience more authentic and memorable.
If you’re looking for a calm, educational outing that combines art and storytelling in a relaxed outdoor setting, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers who value cultural authenticity and enjoy discovering local stories through vibrant murals.
Collie: Mural Town Tour
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the 1.5-hour walk is generally accessible, and older children who enjoy street art and stories should find it interesting. Be sure to bring sun protection and comfortable shoes.
How long does the tour last?
The standard tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, but there’s an option to extend your visit with a picnic in Wellington National Park for up to five hours.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Music Shell on Forrest Street in Collie, with coordinates -33.35874938964844,116.1529541015625.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most visitors.
Is there a chance to use toilets during the tour?
Yes, toilets are available in the last 30 minutes of the tour, which is helpful for families or anyone needing a quick break.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve your spot with the option to pay later.
What themes do the murals focus on?
The murals showcase themes like environmental issues, Indigenous culture, and local heritage.
Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The guided experience offers a friendly, small-group environment, ideal for solo travelers wanting local insights.
What’s the best time to do the tour?
Check the availability for your travel dates, but generally, a clear, sunny day will make the murals pop and keep the walking comfortable.
If you’re after a relaxed, colorful exploration of Collie’s community stories and art, this tour might just be your perfect fit. It’s a genuine experience that combines visual beauty with meaningful storytelling—an easy way to add a splash of culture to your WA trip.
You can check availability for your dates here: