Tweed Rail Trail in Top 10 TripAdvisor global attractions

THE Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail has moved from a controversial proposal to one of the region’s most heavily used outdoor recreation assets, attracting strong visitation and national recognition since opening.

The trail has welcomed more than 200,000 visitors in its first two years, exceeding early visitor projections and placing it among the top-rated attractions on TripAdvisor.

Since opening, the Tweed section has received multiple tourism, heritage and engineering awards at state and national level.

These include a gold award at the NSW Tourism Awards, recognition at the North Coast Tourism Awards, Sustainable Tourism Accreditation, an IPWEA Engineering Excellence Award, and a National Trust Heritage Award.

Ongoing upgrades by the Northern Rivers Rail Trail project team and Tweed Shire Council have focused on improving accessibility along the trail.

The introduction of Cycling Without Age, based in Murwillumbah, has expanded access for people of all ages and abilities.

Infrastructure upgrades in Murwillumbah have included accessible ground-level public toilets, accessible parking, improved pedestrian crossings, smoother step-free paths, additional bike racks, a southern entry platform cut-through, and new bench seating and picnic tables.

Digital accessibility has also been improved, with the Northern Rivers Rail Trail website now offering adjustable contrast settings, dyslexia-friendly fonts and a detailed accessibility statement to assist visitors in planning their trips.

Northern Rivers Rail Trail regional lead Dean Cooper said the past year had marked a period of steady progress for the project.

“The continued evolution of the on-trail and digital experience was highlighted by infrastructure upgrades, improved accessibility, disaster recovery efforts, major tourism awards, and strengthened community and council partnerships,” Cooper said.

“We look forward to plans for trail expansion through Byron Shire and Lismore, working towards a more connected Northern Rivers, while developing an events and activation strategy along the trail.”

Cycling tourism continues to contribute to the regional economy, with Tourism Research Australia data showing domestic trips involving cycling are associated with higher visitor spending and longer stays.

Tweed Tourism Company general manager Sally Scott said the rail trail continued to support the region’s visitor economy.

“The trail draws both day visitors and overnight stays, from locals to interstate and international travellers,” Scott said.

“It has had a positive impact since opening, with people walking, riding and running while engaging with the region’s natural environment and outdoor lifestyle.”

For more information, visit northernriversrailtrail.com.au.