Rail trail wins national tourism silver

THE Northern Rivers Rail Trail has won silver in the Tourist Attractions category at the 2025 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

The award was announced last Friday at a national ceremony in Fremantle, Western Australia, where more than 170 finalists competed across 26 categories.

The Rail Trail secured its place in the national awards after winning top honours at the NSW Tourism Awards earlier in the year.

Northern Rivers Rail Trail regional lead Dean Cooper said the recognition reflected the trail’s growing impact across the region.

“To be acknowledged on the national stage is an incredible achievement for our team and our community,” he said.

“It highlights the diversity and quality of the Rail Trail experience. From scenic cycling and nature walks to the vibrant villages and local operators that make every visit memorable.”

The awards ceremony was held at Fremantle Prison and attracted more than 800 tourism industry representatives from across Australia.

 

Australian Tourism Industry Council chief executive officer Erin McLeod said this year’s medallists reflected the qualities that make Australia a leading destination for visitors.

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail currently has two sections open to the public, from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek covering 24 kilometres and from Casino to Lismore covering 29.7 kilometres.

Organisers said improvements over the past year have included better accessibility, signage, visitor engagement and heritage interpretation along the trail.

The trail was also recognised for its response to Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, with operators restoring access and communicating safety information to visitors.

Cooper said the award reflected the work of councils and businesses across the region.

“This recognition belongs to our operational member councils at Tweed Shire, Richmond Valley and Lismore City, as well as our operators, supporters and the many visitors who support the trail,” he said.

“It’s a proud moment for the Northern Rivers and a testament to what we can achieve together.”

BY STAFF REPORTER