Rail Trail finalist in NSW Tourism Awards

THE 2024 NSW Tourism Awards has named the Northern Rivers Rail Trail a finalist in the Tourist Attractions category.

The inaugural awards celebrate the businesses and operators delivering exceptional visitor experiences, with more than 200 nominations across NSW.

A total of 103 finalists were recognised for 2024, with some operators listed as finalists in multiple categories.

Trail management said it was a testament to the team’s dedication and passion and the community’s support.

“The team and the community supporters have poured into creating a stunning and accessible trail for everyone to enjoy. We couldn’t be more excited as we gear up for the NSW Tourism Gala Night,” a statement said.

The broader trail continues to progress around the region. A joint funding application with Lismore City Council has been submitted to support constructing critical sections of the Byron Shire rail corridor, including the segments from Bangalow Industrial Estate to Bangalow Showgrounds and Mullumbimby to Yelgun and Crabbes Creek.

The South Lismore to Bentley section is scheduled to open by the end of this year.

Judging for the awards has been expanded and now features more than 50 leading tourism experts, with each judge selected to bring exceptional knowledge and expertise in evaluating the finalists’ achievements.

All entries were required to be in line with the Quality Tourism Framework Sustainable Business Standards.

Six other local businesses are also finalists. The Tweed Tourism Company, The Brooklet, Potager – A Kitchen Garden, Pipit Restaurant, Husk Distillers and Cape Byron Distillery also made the cut, with the northern region punching well above its weight.

The NSW Tourism Awards is the only pathway for NSW businesses to compete nationally in the Australian Tourism Awards. Winners will be announced in Sydney on Thursday, November 28.

To visit the trail, head to northernriversrailtrail.com.au