The first section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail has opened today, putting the multi-million-dollar project on track to transform the disused rail corridor into a world-class tourism destination.
The Tweed section of the trail follows the old North Coast railway line between Murwillumbah and Crabbes Creek, and is now open for people to walk, ride and explore.
It also preserves the area’s railway heritage by including the heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, 18 railway bridges and passing through two railway tunnels.
The 13.4-kilometre second section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, connecting Bentley to Casino, is under construction and expected to open in late 2023.
Once complete, the full 132-kilometre Rail Trail will stretch from Murwillumbah to Casino, and pass through some of the most scenic and beautiful countryside in the state.
For more information on the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, visit northernriversrailtrail.com.au.
Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
“I’m glad the Australian Government has helped bring this region-shaping project to life.
“This new trail will be a drawcard for walkers, hikers, runners and cyclists alike, giving locals more to see and do at their very doorstep while bolstering the visitor economy.
“Locals and visitors can use the trail to immerse themselves in nature, discover more about the region’s heritage and have fun exploring what this area has to offer.”
Quotes attributable to NSW Deputy Premier Paul Toole:
“The project will drive thousands of visitors to the region each year and inject tourism dollars into local economies.
“We have created a world-class scenic trail for an estimated 82,000 visitors each year along a 24-kilometre stretch of stunning hinterland, across 18 historic bridges and through multiple tunnels.
“Whether you take the trail by foot or by bike, this project is taking tourism in the Tweed up a gear.”
Quotes attributable to State Member for Tweed Geoff Provest:
“The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is investing in the game-changing project to bolster tourism across the region.
“The Tweed stage will help drive growth for the regional NSW visitor economy and increase tourist numbers to the Northern Rivers, which is more important than ever.
“The Tweed Rail Trail is a great example of what the Restart NSW fund is designed to deliver, and I look forward to seeing the benefits it will produce for the region.”
Quotes attributable to the Tweed Shire Council Mayor Chris Cherry:
” I am confident the Rail Trail will be embraced by the local community, providing an exciting new corridor between villages.
“This is going to be such an incredible new asset for the community and will provide a safe new link between Murwillumbah and the villages of Stokers Siding, Burringbar, Mooball and Crabbes Creek.
“The Rail Trail is a first-class attraction which not only connects our community and neighbours but also to the wider world.
“I’m sure this new attraction will be enthusiastically embraced by the community and will give families a great way to connect with each other via a safe corridor which celebrates the incredible scenery of the Tweed Valley.”