Rail trails are well established in other Australian states and overseas. Following the route of disused railway lines, they provide a safe corridor for fitness and leisure activities.

The scenic 21km stretch of unused rail corridor from Tumbarumba to Rosewood in southern NSW could become a vibrant new tourism corridor after its selection for a pilot rail trail program. 

In early 2015, the NSW Government sought expressions of interest (EOI) in a pilot process targeting organisations interested in creating rail trails along the Casino to Murwillumbah and Tumbarumba to Rosewood rail corridors. 

Minister for Regional Development John Barilaro said the pilot project decision followed an independent assessment of 12 rail trail funding applications. 

“Tumbarumba Shire Council put forward the strongest application which sought $5 million for the Tumbarumba to Rosewood rail trail. 

“The Government feels the Tumbarumba proposal is worthy of further investigation as we progress this pilot process. 

“Council’s application demonstrated an effective plan for community consultation, a viable operating model and potential for the initiative to generate economic and tourism benefits for the region. 

“Further work is required in order for the proposal to be fully developed and then further evaluated, but the proposed trail would potentially run through some of the most scenic countryside in NSW and help to link vineyards, a museum and other small businesses,” Mr Barilaro said. 

“Rail trails are popular for cycling, horse-riding and walking as they’re low impact, encourage healthy lifestyles and environmentally friendly.”. 

NERT President David Mills said the announcement is a positive sign for rail trail enthusiasts across NSW.

“It is pleasing to see that the government is supporting this study and we will follow the progress with interest,” he said. “The work being undertaken in the south of the State will provide a basis for all those wanting to establish rail trails in NSW, including the New England.”