New rail trail section opens

THE newest section of the Northern River Rail Trail opened on Saturday, stretching 16.3km from Bentley to the South Lismore Railway Station, marking a significant step forward in connecting the whole 132km trail.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the trail highlighted the history of rail in the region, with more than 1600 tonnes of cast iron steel rail line salvaged and reused as features along the trail.

“It stands as a reminder of a bygone era and tells the story of how the railway once connected all our communities,” Cr Krieg said.

He said the rail trail was a game changer for local tourism, and hinted at developments to come.

“The outstanding success of the already opened Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek and Casino to Bentley sections highlights the real economic and social benefits this new section will bring to Lismore,” he said.

“We’ve got plans in place. We’ve already identified a site to create a bridge to link the CBD with the rail trail. We want to embrace the river. We want to spend $1 million for our river regeneration along that section. Let’s make Lismore an iconic place to come and visit.”

Cr Krieg credited the council staff and all of the teams who worked on the project for the quality of the design and skill put into the rail trail.

Page MP Kevin Hogan said the $9.9 million of federal funding for the project was a good investment because the rail trail would become a world-famous tourist landmark.

“This trail provides a fantastic opportunity to attract visitors, boost local businesses, and offer a healthy, exciting way for people to explore our beautiful region,” Mr Hogan said.

Vice President of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail Association, Cameron Arnold said the popularity of the completed sections of the rail trail had exceeded expectations, and they were yet to market it internationally.

“Originally, we predicted about 25,000 to 30,000 would use it in the first year. We were blown away with 160,000,” Mr Arnold said.

Northern Rivers Rail Trail has plans to partner with Queenstown in New Zealand to offer long-haul visitation opportunities.

Locals using the trail for the first time were impressed with the trail that connects Lismore and Casino.

Dan Hill of Casino said he would ride to work on the track in future.

Megan Williams of Goonellabah said it gave families something to do.

“It’s good to have something to do. We can take our time. It’s easier to have the rail trail than to ride on roads through town, Ms Williams said.

Work is underway to secure funds for the remaining 20.9 km of the Lismore section between Lismore and Booyong, and an announcement is expected soon about funding for the final Byron Shire section.