The Queensland government has announced funding for a rail trail that could become the longest in the country.
The Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail is a proposed shared-use trail spanning 270km along a disused rail corridor between Gayndah and Taragoola in central Queensland.
Three sections of the trail are operational and offer around 70km of combined adventure bike riding across sand, gravel, bumpy sections and steep pinches in and out of picturesque gullies. Mountain bikes are recommended.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads has committed a further $188,000 in funding for upgrades of existing sections.
This includes refurbishing Slab Creek Bridge between Gayndah and Mundubbera with new decking and handrails to improve safety so trail users don't need to navigate the steep and tricky terrain either side of the creek.
Other improvements include resurfacing the trail and surrounding infrastructure to make it more resistant to weather, including Queensland's heavy rains.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads has granted the Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail community group with a licence to improveme the trail, and pursue construction of the full 270km route.
The next longest rail trail in the country is the 161km Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, which runs from Ipswich to Yarraman.
“I know a lot of Gladstone locals love to strap on their helmets and head out to the rail trail, so I’m glad they’ll see these upgrades become a reality," says Member for Gladstone Glenn Butcher.
“I’m proud to deliver another milestone for this iconic site which could soon be celebrated as Australia’s longest rail trail.”
Or become our friend and subscribe to receive our fortnightly newsletter.