To help better understand the needs of potential users of the proposed Bundaberg to Gin Gin Rail Trail residents and visitors can take part in a survey.
The community survey will provide vital information about what potential users see as important aspects and features that would encourage them to use the proposed rail trail.
The survey, targeting landholders along the proposed rail trail route, local residents and potential visitors from surrounding areas, comes as Bundaberg Regional Council and the Queensland Government jointly fund a business case.
The business case will develop advice on the preferred staging of the rail trail delivery.
Bundaberg Regional Council Mayor Jack Dempsey encouraged as many members of the community as possible to participate in the survey.
“We’re seeking feedback from a range of stakeholders, from property owners along the proposed route and residents to trail enthusiasts who would be enticed to visit the region if we had a rail trail experience on offer, to get a really clear understanding of what our community’s expectations are and what users consider to be important factors of a successful trail,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“Early estimates have made it clear that the Bundaberg to Gin Gin Rail Trail proposal is a multi-million dollar undertaking and, as with any investment of this scale it is best practice to consult and engage.
He said the original route and extent of the Bundaberg to Gin Gin Rail Trail would be reviewed as part of the survey.
About 46 km long, the proposed rail trail route would follow the old Bundaberg to Gin Gin rail corridor.
The Gin Gin end of the rail trail has the potential to connect to the existing Watawa Recreation Trail to further enhance the existing trail along the old rail corridor to Tirroan.
The business case will investigate options and seek user feedback on how the Bundaberg to Gin Gin Rail Trail would interact with the 295-metre historic Splitters Creek Bridge.
“We’re looking at all viable options to get the best outcome for the trail users to balance the overall cost of the project to get the best outcome for all involved.”
Take part in rail trail survey:
The Bundaberg to Gin Gin Rail Trail survey is now available on the project page, with paper copies available at any Council service centre.
“I encourage anyone with an interest to take part in the survey.
“When constructed the Gin Gin Rail Trail will be a fantastic community asset so it’s important we have the opportunity to incorporate the views of locals and potential visitors for the development of this business case.”
The Bundaberg to Gin Gin Rail Trail survey will take approximately 10 minutes to complete and will close on 9 July 2023.