09 May 2023, 10:05 PM
Trains and rail trails have been heavily debated around the Northern Rivers for quite some time. The debate can become passionate depending on which side of the fence you sit on.
Currently, the Byron Railroad Company’s Solar Train is a 3-kilometre journey, which travels from Byron Bay to North Beach Station near the Sunrise Beach Estate, the Elements of Byron Resort and the Byron Industrial Estate.
The next goal is to extend the track through to Tyagarah and ultimately have the railway line open between Casino and Murwillumbah then north to connect with Queenslands light rail system
The Northern Regional Railway Company (NRRC) was recently granted a 12-month Minor Activities Licence between Bangalow and Yelgun by Transport Asset Holding via Transport for New South Wales and UGL.
Northern Rivers Rail Ltd released a statement congratulating the NRRC on its success!
"This licence will enable us to accurately cost the repair of the railway throughout the Byron Shire and pave the way for the return of railway services. We understand that this may be a controversial issue, but NRRL and NRRC want to make it clear that we are not against rail trails. We are, however, against the removal of railway lines, especially when they can create significant financial and social benefits for regional and rural communities, like the Byron Shire.
"With over 2.21 million visitors in 2019, Byron Bay is undoubtedly one of Australia's most sought-after destinations. However, the lack of transport services has limited the community's integration and productivity. The revival of the railway corridor can be a game-changer for Byron Bay, as it can connect the town with other parts of the region, making it easier for visitors to explore and for locals to commute. It can also help ease traffic congestion and reduce the impact on the environment.
"At NRRL, we are the local face of the railway. We will directly interact with the community to manage the day-to-day operations of the local railway. This includes scheduling, ticket sales, events, public relations, and asset acquisitions, such as trains and carriages, station construction/upgrades, and more. We are committed to working closely with the local community to ensure that the railway benefits everyone.
"Our slogan is ‘Trains for a Better Community’. We believe that the railway can help create a more integrated and productive community, and we are dedicated to making that a reality.
"Join us on this exciting journey as we work to bring the railway back to the Byron Shire and beyond!"
Find out more information via the website www.northernriversrail.com.au.