Locally owned and independent
November 9, 2023
The Northern Rivers Times
NEWS 17
Northern Rivers Rail Trail welcomes over 100,000 guests in seven months The Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT) has surpassed expectations with data revealing an astonishing 108,829 guests have visited the trail since its opening on 1 March. Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry said the Tweed section of the NRRT, stretching from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek, has led the way with quality experiences and amenities. “Since the Rail Trail’s opening in March, the Tweed has hosted 108,829 trail guests. On
average, that’s 12,734 visitors per month, 2,907 people per week or 415 people daily. This achievement is nothing short of remarkable,” Cr Cherry said. “Our busiest day is Sunday with weekends the busiest overall and Monday and Tuesday the quieter of the week. Most people are out on the trail between 9 am – 11am on average.” Cr Cherry said the success of the Tweed section of the NRRT could be attributed to the unique nature and outdoor recreation opportunities the trail
provides, especially as a free, safe and familyfriendly experience. “The Rail Trail provides an opportunity to reconnect with nature, breathe in fresh air and soak in the breathtaking beauty of the Tweed’s landscapes and the charming village life at our seven rest stops,” she said. “The popularity of this attraction reflects well for our destination as we showcase the strengths of nature and outdoor recreation that is accessible for all. The Rail Trail fosters wellbeing and keeps the
community active and connected.” The 24 km Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is the first stage of the project, which will eventually connect Murwillumbah and Casino. Cr Cherry said this landmark success would inspire confidence for neighbouring Councils who are either considering or committed to connecting to the Rail Trail. “Co¬¬nnecting this project across the Northern Rivers region will enhance and connect our communities and
make the Rail Trail a regional asset for locals and visitors,” she said. “This landmark success further highlights the benefits of this project in terms of community wellbeing, tourism and the economy. We are really proud of what we have achieved so far with more Rail Trail activations on the way as we prepare for summer and peak periods.” The Richmond Valley section of the NRRT is making impressive progress and remains on schedule for a soft opening in December 2023.
Byron Shire Council has resolved to move forward with planning and approvals for the Rail Trail expansion extending from Mullumbimby to Crabbes Creek, encompassing the old Byron Bay station through Bangalow to Booyong. Additionally, Byron Shire Council is actively exploring various funding opportunities to revitalise the Byron Shire rail corridor. For more information on the Rail Trail, visit northernriversrailtrail. com.au/
The Rail Trail provides unique nature and outdoor recreation opportunities, especially as a free, safe and family-friendly experience.
The Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail has already attracted 108,829 users in its first seven months.
Time running out to apply to host a Landcare coordinator
Council opens tender process to lease NRLX
NSW Landcare groups, networks and regions planning to apply to host a Landcare coordinator have less than a week to get their application in through the NSW Landcare Enabling Program 2023-2027: Local and Regional Coordinator grants. The grants program, valued at $33.12 million, will lead to the employment of up to 83 full-time equivalent local and regional Landcare coordinators and support staff across NSW. The Landcare coordinators will be the foundation of the NSW Landcare Enabling Program 2023-2027, improving facilitation and delivery of onground projects while also ensuring effective collaboration between local and regional Landcare groups and networks, and Local
Land Services and Landcare NSW. Local Land Services Business Partner – Landcare, Julie Busuttil has been pleased with the level of interest in the grants since they opened on 9 October, and is encouraging any interested parties yet to apply, to get an application in. “These grants are a fantastic opportunity and will ensure there are dedicated positions to help deliver more local projects over the next four years,” Julie said. “Landcare coordinators are the backbone of the program, promoting partnerships and collaboration with other organisations, while also supporting Landcare and Landcare groups and networks to achieve positive environmental impacts and to become more sustainable.
“The work carried out by Landcare has many touchpoints, so whether you’re a farmer, landowner, industry group, Traditional Owner or a member of a Landcare or bushcare group, the chances are that you will receive benefit from this funding and the local projects and programs delivered in your community.” Funding is available to eligible NSW Landcare groups, networks and regions to host a coordinator, or coordinators and newly created support roles. Applications close on Friday 3 November at 11:59pm. For more information including a recording of a webinar on the grants and application process, to view the program guidelines and to apply, visit www.nsw.gov.au/ lep.
Richmond Valley Council is moving forward with its decision to lease the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX), with tenders to be called from tomorrow Thursday 26 October 2023. Council has appointed global real estate experts JLL to manage the tender process independently. The process will see JLL handle all inquiries, receive tenders from potential lessees, and evaluate them thoroughly for Council’s final consideration. Richmond Valley Council General Manager Vaughan Macdonald said JLL’s experience would help Council to find a lessee with a shared vision for the NRLX. “With significant funding support from
the Australian and NSW Governments, Council has invested more than $15 million to transform the saleyards into a modern, professional facility and, under our management, the NRLX has progressed to be one of the leading saleyards in NSW,” Mr Macdonald said. “We want to continue this journey by partnering with a lessee who is well-equipped to take the NRLX to the next level and develop the facility in a way that benefits our community and the broader livestock industry. He said the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange played a crucial role in our region, supporting beef producers and buyers while contributing significantly to the regional economy.
“We believe that by inviting tenders and securing the right lessee, we can unlock the full potential of this facility and ensure its continued success for years to come,” Mr Macdonald said. “We’re confident that JLL has the right experience to manage this process professionally and transparently and Council looks forward to receiving their final recommendations”. Tenders close 30 November, with the aim to appoint a successful tenderer in December, who takes control of the NRLX business early in 2024. Tender inquiries can be made to JLL representatives Chris Holger (0411 177 167) or Clayton Smith (0428 878 523).
