South32 $40,000 donation helps Collie museum preserve slice of region’s history by restoring artefacts

South West residents and visitors will be able to catch a glimpse of quintessential West Australian living during the early 20th century when historic artefacts are restored and put on public display.

The restoration work comes thanks to a $40,000 donation by South32 Worsley Alumina to the Coalfields Museum and Historical Research Centre in Collie, which will use the money to help bring new life to 17 important artefacts including a bakery van and wagon used by market gardeners during the 1920s and 1930s.

Museum chair Joe Italiano said the partnership would allow significant artefacts to be brought out of storage and be made ready for display.

“Our visitors love iconic pieces which have been restored — such as the Della bus and Geldert truck,” Mr Italiano said.

“This funding will enable us to continue with our restoration work and the preservation of historic Collie pieces.”

South32 Worsley Alumina operations vice-president Erwin Schaufler said the company was proud to support the local community and help showcase part of the town’s rich history.

“The Coalfields Museum and Historical Research Centre is already a popular tourist attraction and we hope that by helping to restore these historic artefacts, the museum will attract even more visitors to the area,” he said.