Lismore’s long-awaited 10.2-kilometre rail trail is finally set to open to the public tomorrow (Saturday, December 14, 2024)

The new trail, a significant addition to the region's tourism infrastructure, has been funded entirely by the federal government to the tune of $10.2 million.

The Lismore to Bentley Rail Trail section of the proposed Murwillumbah to Casino Rail Trail, boasts world-class standards of construction, according to Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg. The Mayor praised the work of contractors Hazellbros, Willow and Sparrow and O'Briens Electrical and Plumbing for their roles in delivering the project under budget and ahead of schedule.

“This is a really exciting opportunity for the whole Northern Rivers. This is the type of thing that brings our region together. These are the attractions that put the Northern Rivers as a whole on the map. Anything that can bring people into our region and into our city is got to be a good thing, and we're very appreciative of all the work that's been done behind the scenes, the years of lobbying to get the money, the work, the planning, and the effort it's taken.

"The reason these rail trails are so good is because the gradients are so small. Trains aren't designed to go up steep hills, and so these are literally fit for purpose for any ability, any age group or any demographic. Anyone can use a rail trail with the knowledge that it is safe and it is accessible to everyone,” said Mayor Krieg.

For those concerned about rhe Rail Trail's longevity, the trail is designed to be weatherproof and flood resistant, with the ability to withstand being submerged for a period of time.

“The work that Michael and his team did to make the rail trail weatherproof and flood resistant is fantastic. All the work can go underwater and sit underwater for a while, and when the flood water goes, the track is still there. It really is an amazing engineering feat led by a very capable design team.

"Also, the wonderful work that Lisa (from O'Brien's Electrical and Plumbing) and her team through Joel Jensen (Constructions) did. If you drove past this train station two or three weeks ago, there was still plywood on the windows, and it was in a real state of disrepair. To get it to where it is now and ready for Saturday's opening is a true credit to our local companies and local businesses employing local people, providing opportunities for our local residents. So congratulations to all the team and on an outstanding effort,” added Mayor Krieg.

The opening marks the culmination of years of planning and lobbying, with Mayor Krieg acknowledging the efforts of Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan in securing the initial funding. The project was initially conceived as part of a larger vision to create a continuous 120-kilometre rail trail from Murwillumbah to Richmond Valley.

“Let's get the whole thing done”, said Mayor Krieg when referring to the unfinished section of the rail trail.

“If you look from here to the south of us at how beautiful this section is, when we all know, if we look 100 meters north of where we're standing, I hate to say it, but how unkempt it is. Who wouldn't want this running through their city and beautifying and providing an opportunity for all of our residents, but tourists as well, to be able to come in and experience why we live.

"We live here because we think it's the best place on Earth. We love the environment, we love the location, and let's get anyone and everyone from all around the world to come and experience it. What better way than sitting on a bike and riding up through the hills to the Murwillumbah hinterland. You can stop at the Eltham Pub for a counter meal. There are so many opportunities that this will present, and I would love to see that completed right the way through to Murwillumbah and all the way as it is now, through to Casino. It is going to be amazing,” he added.

The Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail will be officially open tomorrow morning at 9am.