Shire of West Arthur’s Hillman Reserve Walk Trails project to benefit from WA sustainable trails grant

The Shire of West Arthur has received a grant of $6750 to put towards the proposed Hillman Reserve Walk Trail project as the State Government invests about $300,000 in the industry across WA. “This investment in our trails has clear social and economic benefits for individual communities, regional tourism and the State as a whole,” Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman said. Grants of up to $25,000 have been awarded to 16 walk, cycle and trail bike projects around WA in an effort to attract visitors and support the industry’s growth. The Shire will use the grant to fund an Aboriginal Heritage assessment of the walking trail, a topographic assessment and community consultation. “With increasing demand for trails across Western Australia it’s important that we provide the best trail experience to both locals and visitors,” Mr Templeman said. “Tourism is now playing a more significant role in the development of trails as people look for interesting and unique experiences as part of their holidays and travels.” Shire of West Arthur project manager Kerryn Chia said that the proposed trail would link the reserve to the existing Collie Darkan Rail Trail. “The development of a spur trail from the Dardadine section of the Collie to Darkan Rail Trail will provide locals and visitors alike the opportunity to visit the Hillman Nature Reserve.”