Get ready to get on your bikes and ride next Saturday (14 December). That is the official date the long-awaited Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail will open.

The project was first funded in October 2021 after Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan announced a $9.9 million dollar grant that would allow ongoing work on the rail trail to extend another 16.3km from Bentley to Lismore Railway Station. Of course, the February 2022 flood occurred, diverting attention to the flood rescue and then recovery.

Importantly, the 16.3km of stunning scenery will be open for the Christmas/New Year holidays. New pushbikes, e-bikes, skateboards and rollerblades will get a workout throughout December and January.

The Lismore to Bentley section starts adjacent to the heritage-listed Lismore Railway Station. The trail winds through lush farmland, passing the hamlets of Tuncester, Leycester and Fernside. You will discover historic bridges, such as the incredible Back Creek Bridge at Leycester, before ending at Bentley or continuing on to Casino for those a little fitter. Total length just short of 30km.

Lismore City Council has outlined the highlights:

• 29 historic bridges showcasing the region’s railway heritage
• Constructed using compacted gravel for durability with asphalt and concrete sections at key entry points for improved accessibility.
• Rest stops with shelters, seating, and picnic areas
• A seamless connection to the Richmond Valley section for a 29.7km journey of the southern end of the Rail Trail from Lismore to Casino!

Next Saturday's official ceremony will occur at the Lismore Railway Station, with speeches and a ribbon cutting from 9am to 10am.

Below is what will be available on the day:

• Visitor Information (Sat 9am to 2pm, Sun 9am to 12pm) - Free maps, local guides, and info on South Lismore businesses.
• Better by Bike, Bike Hire (8am to 4pm) - Explore the trail with e-bikes, regular bikes, or e-trikes. Prices start at $35.
• Cycling Without Age (10am to 2pm) - Free 20-minute trishaw rides for elderly or less-mobile visitors. No booking required!
• Bike n’ Blend - Pedal for 30 seconds to create a free smoothie, thanks to NRRT Inc. and Lismore City Council.
• Live Music by Luke Vassella (8:30am to 12:30pm) - Local legend performing live.

NRRT Supporters Information Stand (8:30am to early afternoon) - Bungabbee Road Carpark Activities:

• Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service
• Sausage sizzle fundraiser supporting 24/7 aeromedical services

Bentley Carpark Fun:

• Snow Cones & Soft Serve Vendors
• Bentley Fire Brigade Demonstrations

For more information or to keep up to date with further information, click Northern Rivers Rail Trail.