Harmony Day
Come along to Central Park on Saturday for a taste of the many different traditions and customs brought to Collie by the many who "from all the lands on earth" have come to live among us.
Harmony Day will be celebrated with free tastings of traditional dishes, plus attractions to suit all the family.
You are promised drums, dancing, food and friendship - all free.
There will be giant games to play, and the weather forecast is very favourable.
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Social badminton
Thursday night social badminton starts tonight.
Players of any age or expertise are welcome to go along to the Badminton Hall at Wallsend Ground from 7pm onwards to play some social games and have a bit of fun.
This is a great way to keep fit during the colder, wetter months.
Queries to Sara 0439 795 323.
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Historic bikes
Enthusiasts of another kind will be visiting Collie on a monthly basis soon, with events at the Motorplex for the Historic Competition Motorcycle Club of WA starting this year's round on March 23 and 24.
The first event will be a stand-alone non-championship round.
Saturday will be devoted to tuning and practice from 9am.
On Sunday, there will be a riders' briefing at 8.30am, with racing beginning at 9am.
Road registered bikes are welcome, but conditions do apply.
If you like bikes of all sizes and shapes, including sidecars, you will see models from as early as the 1930's to modern bikes.
There will be junior races as well.
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Art Gallery
If you haven't visited the Art Gallery recently, take the time to call in and see the latest exhibition, by Di Clarke, Di Verse, as well as works by other Collie artists.
Also on display are many works which would be suitable for gifts, particularly if you are sending them out of town.
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Music trail
The Philharmonic South West orchestra is organising a Ferguson Valley Music Trail on Sunday, April 7.
There will be eight mini concerts at Ferguson Valley wineries, followed by a full orchestral concert at St Aidan's Winery at 3pm.
This is a free event, and a great chance to sip some wine while listening to classical music.
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More music
Classical music lovers may wish to help raise funds for cystic fibrosis at Peel Manor House on Sunday, April 27, when Opera at the Manor will be held from 12 noon to 3pm.
Performance by Divalicious, and a sumptuous high tea, with bubbles on arrival, will cost $85 per person, but proceeds go to a great cause, cystic fibrosis.
For more information go to peelmanorhouse.com.au.
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Burning period
The prohibited burning period has been extended for 14 days, until March 29.
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Volunteers needed
The fortnightly markets at the Goods Shed have been a feature of Collie life for some years now. They attract locals and visitors alike with their bustle and activity, helping to make the main street a vibrant place.
However, the markets are run by volunteers, and more are needed to keep them going. If you can help, contact John Vlasich on 0428 341 470.
If you have a craft or hobby, or something to sell, you may like to take a stall at the markets. There is room for you, so contact John for information.
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Word for the week
I was doing some research at the Coalfields Museum, and found newspaper articles from the past very entertaining.
The Collie Industrial Co-operative Society Ltd was an interesting subject, and I found it had suffered a number of break-ins and thefts in its early days.
One write-up said the premises had been "burglariously entered in a bold manner".
Well, Shakespeare invented quite a few words, why should the rest of us hold back.
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Australind disruption
Just a reminder about the disruption to the Australind service. It has been suspended until April 15, due to mechanical issues.
Rail replacement road coaches will be used during the interruption to the Australind service, but this will not be easy for those requiring disability access.
Passengers who require disability access are advised to contact Transwa on 1300 662 205 to make arrangements.
It is to be hoped that the Australind will be up and running again, as it is provides much better service for people with mobility problems.
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Send it in
Items for not-for-profit organisations are welcome for this column.
You can email information to me at nrg@highway1.com.au by 5pm on Mondays, or drop off notes in my mailbox at 87 Jones Street.
Please include a contact name and phone number in case I need to check information.