Re launch of Rail Trails for NSW event

Northern Rivers Rail Trail Inc members, Pat Greer, Cameron Arnold, David Oxenham and Cr Barry Longland attended the re-launch of RailTrails for NSW event at NSW Parliament House on 22 March 2016. The purpose of the event, hosted by President John Moore and Patron Tim Fischer, was to showcase the development of Rail Trail proposals from across the State since the establishment of Rail Trails for NSW some two years ago. As well, it was an opportunity to present the proposals to members of the NSW Parliament, all of whom received advice of the event with many of them attending the opening address by Greg Aplin MLA on behalf of the Premier before the Parliamentary sitting day commenced. There was also an afternoon tea hosted by Rail Trails for NSW in the foyer following Question Time in the Parliament.

Disused railway line Tumbarumba

It was a time for an update on the government’s pilot project at Tumbarumba with presentations from departmental officials and the Tumbarumba team.Officials are still focused on its completion with some obstacles from the farming sector yet to be overcome. They also face the situation of necessary legislative change (common to all rail trailproponents), that needs to occur before any activity can commence on the corridor. Greg Aplin and the departmental officials indicated that work was progressing on the Parliamentary approval for the official closure of the disused corridors.

On the positive side, the NRRT presentation by Cr Barry Longland was well received and delegates were impressed and encouraged at the progress made with our first Stage from Murwillumbah to the Byron Shire border which is well advanced. The Business case for this stage is the subject of an application to the Federal Government’s National Stronger Regions Fund (Rd 3) and is now in Minister Barilaro’s office for consideration of partner funding from the State Government.

Dr Matt Lamont from Southern Cross University gave an impressive talk on cycle tourism.

The day was a very worthwhile event and served to maintain recognition of the public interest in rail trails in the State and inform our elected representatives of the importance of the projects to our regional economies – the theme of the event was “Let’s Make it Happen”.

Otago Central Rail Trail named 2016 NZ’s Favourite Place to Cycle

This month Bike Wise announced on Breakfast TV that the Otago Central Rail Trailwas NZ’s Favourite Place to Cycle!  Another reason to ensure you experience – NZ’s Original Great Ride…  Huge thanks to all our supporters who voted for the trail in this competition. We think the result is no small feat considering other trails that showcase some spectacular parts of NZ too!

Who says only “few lycra clad cyclists” will ride on a rail trail?!

Please go into this poll and let us know if you would ride on the rail trail from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek, if you haven’t already done so. Not too sure who started the poll.