Local cycling and community groups are set to take the reins of the Bundaberg to Gin Gin Rail Trail project, setting an ambitious timeline for the start of construction.
Following a cost blowout that led to Bundaberg Regional Council’s withdrawal, organisations including the Bargara Social Cycle Group, Coral Isle Cycling Club, The Pink Flamingos and Bundaberg Mad Cycologists are now spearheading the development and are hopeful works can begin by July 2025.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said while Council would no longer take on the project, she was pleased to instead announce in-principle support for the community groups to take the lead.
“We understand the importance of this initiative for both locals and visitors and we’re happy to be a collaborator, but it’s not possible for us to do everything for everybody,” she said.
“Council’s decision to provide non-monetary support will allow these groups to move forward in consultation with the Department of Transport and Main Roads, who remains the owner of the rail corridor.”
What is the Bundaberg-Gin Gin Rail Trail?
The concept first emerged in 2017 when the Queensland Government launched its Queensland Cycling Action Plan.
The plan outlined a commitment to invest in shared-use paths (walking, cycling, and riding) on disused State-owned rail corridors in partnership with local governments.
This provided the opportunity to explore potential railway corridors that could be converted into recreational trails, including the Bundaberg to Gin Gin corridor.
Local groups step up for rail trail
Coral Isle Cycling Club’s Bernie Kemps said many locals were passionate about bringing the rail trail idea to life in the region.
He said he was excited to get plans underway.
“The Council is going to support us, and I think it’ll be a great initiative for the community and the community of cyclists we have here,” he said.
“The next step is to get a committee together… and it’s surprising how much support there is out there and how many people have asked me if they could be part of it already.”
Rodney James from the Bundaberg Mad Cycologists said there were many benefits to having a rail trail as part of the community.
“Rail trails bring tourism, even international visitors,” he said.
“You can get out in the country and see things you wouldn’t normally see when you are driving.”
Bargara Social Cycle Group’s Nick Page agreed and added it was also an initiative that would benefit all sorts of people, not just cyclists.
“It’s a great concept for runners, horse riders and more,” he said.
“It would be really fantastic to have something like this on our doorstep.
“Our group loves to do these kinds of adventure rides, and we love to support those local communities along the routes as well.”
Bernie said now, the organisations were working with TMR to forge ahead with planning.
“TMR will give us a licence to move onto the land and investigate what needs to be done,” he said.
“We will then organise a community meeting for all who want to be involved.”
Bernie said he was hopeful construction could begin in 2025.
“I know it seems ambitious, but I am hoping that we can start construction by July this coming year.
“I am hoping we can have it all done within two years.”
Those interested in becoming part of the committee can phone Bernie on 0414518511.
