Northern Rivers Rail Trail – Lismore to Bentley section
The Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is now open.
For more information visit Northern Rivers Rail Trail
The Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT) is converting the disused railway line that was abandoned in 2004 into a 132km trail, showcasing the diverse towns, villages and spectacular countryside between Casino and Murwillumbah.
November 2024 Update
Northern Rivers Rail Trail – Lismore to Bentley
The wait is soon to be over. The much-anticipated launch date for the Lismore to Bentley section of the Rail Trail has been set for Saturday 14 December 2024. So, mark your diaries!
Over the past month, construction crews have worked hard to put the final touches on the trail.
Works are being completed at Bungabee car park, South Lismore car park, (at the Lismore Railway Station), and the shared path connection to Nesbitt Park.
A local South Lismore supplier has repurposed existing railway steel into various artifacts. First is a commanding Lismore sign at the Lismore Railway Station which features railway steel from sections of the original line. Seats at the trailhead have been constructed from historic bridge timbers with brackets made from repurposed railway steel, as have horse-hitching rails. Finally, a 4-metre-long bike rack made from railway steel will be installed for launch.
All rest areas (5) are now built and feature a shelter, picnic tables, bike racks, and a hitching rail and water trough (for horses).
The timber finishes at the crossings are being finalised in the coming weeks before the official launch. Likewise, external upgrades to the iconic heritage-listed Lismore Railway Station precinct, including new turf and pressure cleaning existing surfaces, will be completed creating a charming trailhead.
This project has been made possible thanks to funding provided by the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.
Local businesses wanting further information on the launch of the Rail Trail and what they can do to get involved, can refer to the information flyer - Are you ready for launch.
October 2024 Update
Northern Rivers Rail Trail - Lismore to Bentley
It is great to see so many people eager to use the Lismore to Bentley section of the Rail Trail that is getting closer to opening. It won’t be long until we all have access to an incredible resource for locals and visitors to enjoy.
You might have seen signage going up in the past week, which has encouraged people to have a sneak peak, but safety is our first priority. Construction crews are still hard at work along the 16km section, working on bridges, road crossings, drainage, rest areas and improvements to the South Lismore Railway precinct. These works will continue until late 2024, leading up to the official opening which is soon to be announced.
The project team have also confirmed 10kms of the Lismore section between Kyogle Road and Back Creek Bridge will be open for horse riding. Sandstone blocks will be placed along this section to assist with mounting horses, with parking for horse floats to be made available at Bungabee Road. A review of horse riding on the Lismore section of trail is expected to be carried out mid-2025.
Consultation continues with our Aboriginal community and Ngulingah Local Aboriginal Land Council to include signage for the trail showcasing the land, stories and significant sites.
The project team are working towards finalising all the elements that will make this a great trail, so please be patient. We know people are keen to use the trail, but it won’t be too much longer. As soon as an open date is confirmed, we will let you know!
This project has been made possible thanks to funding provided by the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.
Background
The project will convert the disused railway line which was abandoned in 2004. To be delivered in four stages, the 132km trail is expected to draw thousands of visitors each year to explore and discover the natural beauty of the Northern Rivers.
Funding has been provided by the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund for Lismore City Council to commence on Stage one. This 16.3km section will connect the former South Lismore railway station with Bentley via some of the most scenic rural landscapes in the Northern Rivers.
It will follow the route of the former rail line and be constructed in four stages as it passes through the local government areas of Tweed Shire, Byron Shire, Lismore City and Richmond Valley Shire. The Tweed section was officially opened in March 2023 with the Casino to Bentley section due to be completed in March 2024.
The trail will be a safe and fun way for locals and visitors alike to explore and connect with the natural beauty of our environment. The project will tap into the rapidly growing hinterland tourism market and create exciting growth opportunities for new and existing businesses that support local jobs.
The Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is now open.
For more information visit Northern Rivers Rail Trail
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August 2024 Project Update
Share August 2024 Project Update on Facebook Share August 2024 Project Update on Twitter Share August 2024 Project Update on Linkedin Email August 2024 Project Update linkLismore’s 16.3km Rail Trail section achieved another milestone this month with 80% of the twenty bridges and ten bypasses now complete. Lismore City Council is pleased to share the time-lapse construction of Back Creek Bridge Leycester, showcasing the progress achieved, moving Lismore closer towards opening its section later this year.
Construction crews continue to focus on bridges, road crossings, drainage and rest areas.
The project team have welcomed input from community, historical and Aboriginal groups into the development of interpretive signage for the Rail Trail that is currently under development.
A project update and lunch was held with landowners, residents and construction crews on Friday 23 August to thank everyone for their involvement, provide future updates and discuss plans for opening the Rail Trail.
Business education workshops were also held in Lismore on Wednesday 28 August to help businesses gain the most from the Rail Trail, to understand the opportunities, as well as provide practical advice on how the Rail Trail can transform Lismore and provide greater benefits for local businesses.
Funding for the Rail Trail project has been provided by the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.
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July 2024 Project Update
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The Lismore section trail surface is now complete and construction crews are focussing on bridges and road crossings with good progress being made on the construction of the Bungabee and Back Creek bridges. Work is also continuing on the groundwork and drainage, with many of the rest stops now in place.
Many of the stockpile sites are being cleared and cleaned up, and planning is underway to construct the bridle trail and parking area near Bungabee.
The project team is currently working with the Aboriginal Advisory Group, local historical and national railway heritage groups to develop the interpretive signage along the trail. Anyone wishing to contribute ideas to the signage can email the project team at railtrail@lismore.nsw.gov.au
A project update and lunch will be held with landowners and impacted residents in August, to discuss progress and plans for opening the Rail Trail. This face to face consultation will provide an opportunity to ask any questions and ensure all concerns are addressed. If you are a landowner, or resident on the Rail Trail and did not recieve this invitation, please email the project team at railtrail@lismore.nsw.gov.au
Funding for the Rail Trail project has been provided by the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund. -
June 2024 Project Update
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Construction crews are focussing their work on bridges and road crossings with good progress on the construction of the bridges at Bungabee and Back Creek, along with groundwork and drainage also continuing.
Existing bridges and structures are being utilised in various ways in the construction of the Rail Trail. Following an evaluation of all the bridges and structures, some bridges were identified for restoration to be included as part of the trail, while other bridges were too dilapidated or not suitable to meet safety standards and are therefore being replaced with suitable structures depending on the topography of the land. Where bridges were unable to be utilised on the trail itself, they are being referenced with signage and provide a structural feature to be admired while on the trail. The project team is currently working on the development of interpretive signage along the trail.
The Northern Rivers Rail Trail continues to be a key driver of visitation to both the Tweed and Richmond Valley sections. Lismore businesses are encouraged to get ‘Rail Trail Ready’ with the Lismore section opening later this year. If you have a business that offers visitor experiences, services, or products, there are opportunities to leverage off the rail trail.
If you would like to understand how your business or idea can benefit, please contact business@lismore.nsw.gov.au.
Funding for the Rail Trail project has been provided by the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.
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Northern Rivers Rail Trail Workshop: Business Marketing Opportunities & Tourism Updates
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Benefiting from the Northern Rivers Rail Trail – Project Update, Tourism Insights and Business Marketing Opportunities
Are you Rail Trail ready? If the answer is no, then you need to attend this event!
Construction of the Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is well underway and on track to launch in late 2024. Lismore City Council wants to ensure local businesses understand the opportunities this major tourism asset will bring to the region, by sharing information and marketing insights to get Rail Trail ready.
Come and hear how construction is progressing and how businesses can leverage off the Rail Trail.
Destination North Coast General Manager, Michael Thurston, will provide insight into how big this generational opportunity is for increased visitation from the Rail Trail, and the economic opportunities for businesses across the region.
Tweed Shire Council’s Program Leader – Destination and Industry Development, Nicole Manderson will share how your business can establish a fruitful connection with the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. Learn about the Connect Marketing Program and how your business can tap into signage programs, Rail Trail passes for commercial operators, and marketing opportunities for businesses and experiences along the trail and more broadly across the region.
Lismore City Council’s Senior Project Manager for the Rail Trail, Matt Arnett, will provide a construction update and outline some of the exciting features to be found along the Lismore to Bently section of the Rail Trail.
This is a free event with breakfast provided so registrations are essential. Please provide any dietary requirements on your registration form.
We look forward to seeing you for a morning of networking, insights, and support opportunities for your business.
Date: 7 May 2024
Time: 7:30am - 9.00am
Location: Lismore Children’s Library: Upstairs at Lismore Central Shopping Centre, 44 Carrington Street, Lismore. Free parking underneath the shopping centre.
Cost: Free (registrations essential)
Link to register for the free workshop: https://lismore-events.bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ev_66bcbd5401054ea2949315589d4ac715
For further information phone or email Wil Polson:
Email: business@lismore.nsw.gov.au
Phone: 6625 0500
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May 2024 Project Update
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Northern Rivers Rail Trail - Lismore to Bentley
Construction of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, Lismore to Bentley section is moving ahead despite recent wet weather.
Council is pleased the entire gravel trail surface is now complete for the Lismore to Bentley section. Construction crews are now working on bridges and road crossings, with work starting on the construction of the bridge at Bungabee. Progress on groundwork and drainage is also continuing.
The project team is working on the development of interpretive signage along the track and is appealing to the community to share any cultural or historical information and photographs that may be relevant to the Lismore to Bentley section. Please email railtrail@lismore.nsw.gov.au if you have something to share.
Council held two briefing sessions with local businesses, landowners, and community last week to update on the Rail Trail project, and to share business opportunities to leverage off the Rail Trail. The figures continuing to come out of the Tweed section provide further proof that the Rail Trail delivers great economic benefit, attracting almost 3,000 visitors per week to experience the Rail Trail. Lismore businesses are encouraged to get ‘Rail Trail Ready’ with the Lismore section opening latter this year.
If you would like to understand how your business or idea can benefit, please contact business@lismore.nsw.gov.au. Further information, business interviews and marketing tools can be found at https://yoursay.lismore.nsw.gov.au/bentley-lismore-rail-trail
Funding for the Rail Trail project has been provided by the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.
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Media Release: Rail Trail workshop aims to boost local business opportunities
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Construction on the Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. Lismore City Council is stepping up efforts to empower local businesses as construction progresses on the Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT).
Council hosted a workshop this week designed to guide local operators on ways to capitalise on the potential marketing and sales opportunities the trail will provide, through the anticipated surge in tourism.
The 16.3km stretch from Lismore to Bentley has seen significant development since its commencement in January, with substantial strides including the removal of railway infrastructure, finalisation of designs, and completion of approximately 5kms of track.
Council is on track to deliver the Lismore section in late 2024. This section will connect with the Casino to Bentley section, which opens on Saturday, 23 March.
Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg emphasised the workshop's significance as part of a series designed to equip local businesses with insights into the diverse demographics of Rail Trail users and their preferred visitor experiences.
“In the first four months, the Tweed section of the Rail Trail attracted more than 70,500 people, smashing expectations of 27,000 people a year,” he said.
With the impending influx of tourists, the council is urging local businesses to gear up for the economic boom and ensure the delivery of top-notch experiences. Simultaneously, the council remains dedicated to leveraging the Rail Trail as a catalyst for economic growth within the community.
Mayor Krieg also hinted at the exciting prospects the Rail Trail holds for the Lismore community.
“The Lismore to Bentley section promises to substantially benefit the entire community by providing a fun and safe accessible pathway for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and people using mobility aids to enjoy and connect to our natural environment, as well as more job opportunities,” he said.
Lismore City Council Manager Destination and Economy Tina Irish echoed the sentiment, calling the Trail a game changer for the region.
“With insights gleaned from the Tweed section's successful launch, we can maximise our preparation”, she said.
“We know that over 94% of Northern Rivers Rail Trail visitors expressed a desire to return to the trail, we know the most popular days of the week, times of the day and how visitors like to experience the trail.
“We want to share this with our business community to help make the Lismore to Bentley section the best experience it can be so are working on some exciting new business initiatives with our community as part of Lismore’s Rail Trail offerings.”
The Lismore to Bentley leg of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is funded by the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions program and is poised to unlock a wealth of opportunities for local businesses and communities alike.
To stay up to date on the Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail or to enquire about workshops and business development support, go to https://yoursay.lismore.nsw.gov.au/bentley-lismore-rail-trail.
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Business Education Workshop - Northern Rivers Rail Trail Cycling Economy
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Lismore City Council, in partnership with Richmond Valley Council, is pleased to offer local businesses the opportunity to learn how to leverage the upcoming Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail for marketing opportunities and to bolster sales.
The workshop will provide participants with insights into the types of people coming to enjoy the new Rail Trail and the experiences they are seeking.
Topics covered will help businesses adapt and appeal to new markets, and how to identify new business opportunities. The workshop is open to all businesses across the Local Government area, not just those within proximity of the Trail.
Date: Monday 4 March, 2024
Time: 7.30am – 9.00am
Location: Gordon Pavilion, Oakes Oval, 144 Magellan Street, Lismore
RSVP: REGISTER HERE
Breakfast provided.
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Building Business Success with the Northern Rivers Rail Trail
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Lismore City Council, Richmond Valley Council and Tweed Shire Council are collaborating to deliver a program to help businesses leverage opportunities for the Northern Rivers Rail Trail.
The program will be delivered by Meredith Wray, a leading regional tourism expert.
The program will help businesses to understand the economic opportunities surrounding the Trail and how they can capitalise on the new regional asset. It will include insights from ambassadors from the Tweed section of the Rail Trail, updates on project construction at Casino and Lismore, and knowledge sharing to support business growth and diversification.
LISMOREDate: Thursday 16 November
Time: 5.30pm – 7.30pm
Venue: Two Mates Brewing
RSVP: REGISTER HERE
CASINO
Date: Thursday 9 November
Time: 5.30pm – 7.30pm
Venue: Casino Golf Club
RSVP: REGISTER HERE
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Concept design available for feedback
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Design has commenced on the Rail Trail linking Lismore to Bentley with the Concept design now available for comment.
The project will transform 16.5km of the disused rail corridor into a destination for residents and visitors to enjoy. This section joins the Casino to Bentley section currently under construction by Richmond Valley Council, opening up a 29.5km route from Lismore to Casino.
The project team has been meeting with adjoining landowners during May and June to ensure existing property amenity and operations are adequately safeguarded. The landowners have been overwhelmingly positive about the opportunities the Rail Trail will bring to our region. Interest in this project has peaked following the successful opening of the Tweed to Crabbes Creek section.
We now have the concept design and are starting to engage with the wider Lismore community. There will be further opportunities to provide feedback before construction starts in late 2023.The $9.9 million project is funded by Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund to boost recreation opportunities, tourism, and local economies.
Review the concept design HERE.
Concept Design for Lismore to Bentley Rail Trail
Detailed Design Plans
Fact Sheet - Lismore to Bentley section
FAQs
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Community
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Landholders
- What if somebody comes onto my land and steals or damages some of my property?
- My property backs onto the rail corridor. What if somebody trespasses on my land and gets injured? Am I liable?
- There are a lot of weeds on the rail corridor. What will happen to them? How will they be stopped from spreading?
- Is Council going to fence the entire corridor to keep people separate from stock and adjacent private lands?
- How will emergencies be managed?
- I have paddocks on both sides of the rail corridor and frequently transfer stock across the line. Will I still be able to do this if a rail trail is established?
- Will people dump rubbish?
- My house is close to the rail line. A rail trail will reduce my privacy. What will be done to avoid this?
- What if somebody starts a fire on the rail trail?
- How will motorcycles be kept off the trail?
Who's Listening
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Phone 6625 0500 Email council@lismore.nsw.gov.au -
Manager Destination and Economy
Phone 6625 0500 Email council@lismore.nsw.gov.au
Videos: Business Marketing Opportunities
Video: Lismore to Bentley Rail Corridor Fly Over
Lismore to Bentley Rail Corridor Photos
Funding
The construction of the Lismore to Bentley Rail Trail is funded by the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.
