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31 October 2023

Northern Rivers Rail Trail welcomes over 100,000 guests in seven months

Rail Trail set to be the region’s top visitor attraction

Rail Trail users

The Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail has already attracted 108,829 users in its first seven months.

Mayor of Tweed Chris Cherry

The Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT) has surpassed expectations with data revealing an astonishing 108,829 guests have visited the trail since its opening on 1 March.

Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry said the Tweed section of the NRRT, stretching from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek, has led the way with quality experiences and amenities.

"Since the Rail Trail's opening in March, the Tweed has hosted 108,829 trail guests. On average, that’s 16,329 visitors per month, 3,726 people per week or 532 people daily. This achievement is nothing short of remarkable," Cr Cherry said.

"Our busiest day is Sunday with weekends the busiest overall and Monday and Tuesday the quieter of the week. Most people are out on the trail between 9 am – 11am on average."

Cr Cherry said the success of the Tweed section of the NRRT could be attributed to the unique nature and outdoor recreation opportunities the trail provides, especially as a free, safe and family-friendly experience.

“The Rail Trail provides an opportunity to reconnect with nature, breathe in fresh air and soak in the breathtaking beauty of the Tweed's landscapes and the charming village life at our seven rest stops,” she said.

“The popularity of this attraction reflects well for our destination as we showcase the strengths of nature and outdoor recreation that is accessible for all. The Rail Trail fosters wellbeing and keeps the community active and connected.”

The 24 km Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is the first stage of the project, which will eventually connect Murwillumbah and Casino.

Cr Cherry said this landmark success would inspire confidence for neighbouring Councils who are either considering or committed to connecting to the Rail Trail.

“Connecting this project across the Northern Rivers region will enhance and connect our communities and make the Rail Trail a regional asset for locals and visitors,” she said.

“This landmark success further highlights the benefits of this project in terms of community wellbeing, tourism and the economy. We are really proud of what we have achieved so far with more Rail Trail activations on the way as we prepare for summer and peak periods.”

The Richmond Valley section of the NRRT is making impressive progress and remains on schedule for a soft opening in December 2023.

Byron Shire Council has resolved to move forward with planning and approvals for the Rail Trail expansion extending from Mullumbimby to Crabbes Creek, encompassing the old Byron Bay station through Bangalow to Booyong. Additionally, Byron Shire Council is actively exploring various funding opportunities to revitalise the Byron Shire rail corridor.

For more information on the Rail Trail, visit northernriversrailtrail.com.au/

Two Albert's Lyrebirds caught on camera at Mt Nullum
The Rail Trail provides unique nature and outdoor recreation opportunities, especially as a free, safe and family-friendly experience.

Downloads

Photo 1: Rail Trail surpasses 100,000 visitor mark
Caption: The Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail has already attracted 108,829 users in its first seven months.

Photo 2: Family enjoying the Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail
Caption: The Rail Trail provides unique nature and outdoor recreation opportunities, especially as a free, safe and family-friendly experience.

Connection to Council’s Community Strategic Plan:

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Tweed Shire Council wishes to acknowledge the Ngandowal and Minyungbal speaking people of the Bundjalung Country, in particular the Goodjinburra, Tul-gi-gin and Moorung – Moobah clans, as being the traditional owners and custodians of the land and waters within the Tweed Shire boundaries. Council also acknowledges and respects the Tweed Aboriginal community’s right to speak for its Country and to care for its traditional Country in accordance with its lore, customs and traditions.
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