TWEED STAGE OF THE

NORTHERN RIVERS RAIL TRAIL

(MURWILLUMBAH TO CRABBES CREEK)

BUSINESS CASE | 2016

DISCLAIMER: All figures and data presented in this document are based on data sourced from the
Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), other government agencies and ID.com.au. This document is
provided in good faith with every effort made to provide accurate data and apply comprehensive
knowledge. No responsibility is accepted for inadvertent errors.

VERSION CONTROL

COPY NUMBER VERSION ISSUE DATE ISSUED TO

1 2.0 17 February Leon McLean
2017
2 2.1 23 February Leon McLean
2017
Table of Contents
04 TWEED REGIONAL PROFILE

07 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

13 LITERATURE REVIEW

15 TWEED STAGE OF NORTHERN RIVERS RAIL TRAIL

24 ECONOMIC IMPACTS

29 SOCIAL ANALYSIS

34 ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS

38 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

45 GOVERNANCE & OPERATIONS

52 TOURISM INTEGRATION

58 STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT

67 CAPACITY TO DELIVER

71 ANNEXURES
THE TWEED REGION
Tweed Shire is located in the northeast corner of New South Wales, about 860
kilometres north of the Sydney CBD and around 100 kilometres south of the Brisbane
CBD. Tweed Shire covers 1303 square kilometres and adjoins the NSW shires of
Byron, Lismore and Kyogle, with the NSW/Queensland border to its north where it
divides the twin towns of Tweed Heads and Coolangatta.

Tweed is the largest local government area in the Northern Rivers region. For the
past previous 3 years, Tweed itself has had one of the fastest and largest population
growths in NSW, growing by over 2000 people per year and reaching over 92,460
residents in 2015 (ERP ABS 2015). The population is estimated to reach more than
126,000 by 2036. The diverse population is geographically spread between urban
communities, coastal and rural towns and more than fifteen villages.

The Northern Rivers region is forecast to be the fastest growing region in NSW during
the next twenty years, with population forecast to grow at 1.2% per annum (0.4%
above the state average). According to the Australian Government Department of
Health and Ageing, the Northern Rivers region is projected to grow from 283,615
in 2007 to 359,720 in 2027. This population growth is driving high investment and
employment growth, bringing demand for infrastructure e.g. houses, roads, and
shopping centres; and demand for recreational facilities, health and education
services, and other community services.

Tweed Shire’s Gross Regional Product is estimated at $2.89 billion and the main
industry by employment is Health Care and Social Assistance generating 4,678 local
jobs in 2014/15. There are 28,289 local jobs in the Tweed Shire for residents, however
over 34,000 residents are employed which demonstrates the need for the provision of
additional job creation in the area to meet growing demand.
TWEED REGION PROFILE
Tweed is one of the fastest growing regions in NSW,
with a current population of 91,210, and is forecast
to grow to 126,000 by 2036. Increasing population
puts pressures on existing services and physical
infrastructure.
In line with this population growth, the number of
dwellings in the Tweed is forecast to grow from 40,452
in 2011 to 48,427 in 2026, with the average household
size rising from 2.38 to 2.39 people by 2026.
In 2011, the unemployment rate of the 15 to 24 years
was 16.1% in Tweed compared to 12.9% in Regional
NSW demonstrating the need for the provision of low
or unskilled labour in the Region.
In the September quarter 2016, Tweed LGA reported an
unemployment rate of 5.74%, which was higher than
New South Wales average of (5%) or Australia (5.1%).

Between 2011 and 2026, the age structure forecasts

‘‘Tweed Shire has had strong
for Tweed Shire indicate a 28.3% increase in population population growth over the
under working age, a 27.3% increase in population of
retirement age, and a 15.5% increase in population of past 10 years at around 1.6%
working age. pa, significantly higher than the
Tweed Shire has long been acknowledged as a Northern Rivers Region average.’’
retirement destination, the age profile of the Shire
reflects an ageing population, particularly in the urban
areas around Tweed Heads. The population aged 55 Data published by Destination NSW and sourced from
and over comprises 38% of the population in urban Tourism Research Australia indicates that the LGA
areas; in rural areas, the same age group represents of Tweed attracted approximately 534,000 overnight
30% of the population. visitors in 2014 (measured as a four year annual average),
generating a total of 2,054,000 visitor nights. Domestic
There is obvious pressure on living standards. Most
travel contributed the majority of visitors (96%) with
residents (69%) work outside the Tweed in a reasonably
512,000 overnight visitors and 1,807,000 visitor nights,
diverse set of industries. The median household income
reflecting an average length of stay of 3.5 nights.
in the Tweed is 50% less than the State average. More
than 60% of these households earn less than $1,000
International travellers made up 22,000 visitors and
per week, ranking the Tweed as ‘disadvantaged’ on a
247,000 visitor nights (12% of total visitor nights) with
socioeconomic index.
an average length of stay of 11.4 nights. Total visitor
ABS Census data shows that the urban and rural expenditure in Tweed Shire derived from overnight
residential population are increasingly attaining visitors was estimated to be $257 million with $243
tertiary-level qualifications. In particular, postgraduate million or almost 95% derived from domestic overnight
degree holders more than doubled in rural Tweed Shire visitors.
between 2001 and 2011; in urban Tweed Shire, this
segment tripled over the same period. Certificate level
and Bachelor degree-holders continue to compose
the largest proportion of education-attainment in both
rural and urban Tweed Shire. Both qualification levels
saw substantial growth in the past decade.
THE TWEED REGION

NORTHERN RIVERS REGION

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 7

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Tweed stage of Northern Rivers Rail Trail involves the re-development of 24 kilometres
of disused rail corridor from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek creating a shared use Rail Trail.
The Tweed segment is seen as a core component of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail as it will
connect the regional centre of Murwillumbah with the villages of Stokers Siding, Burringbar,
Mooball and Crabbes Creek.
The Tweed stage would be the initial stage of the regional The Casino to Murwillumbah Transport Study was
Northern Rivers Rail Trail Project (NRRT), a 130km Rail released in 2013 and examined the feasibility, benefits
Trail extending from Murwillumbah to Casino. and costs of reinstating passenger services on the
130km line. The Study found that the rail line would not
The Rail Trail would attract valuable tourism to the area meet current or future transport needs and determined
and the increase in visitor numbers will sustainably assist that the rail infrastructure has deteriorated significantly.
in growing the regional economy, increase employment The feasibility report concluded $952 million would be
opportunities and improve the socio-economic well- required to bring the line back to a required standard to
being and physical environment of the Northern Rivers enable passenger transport (over $7 million per km).
community. The Rail Trail would also facilitate active
transport and recreation options for residents. Furthermore the study noted “The rail line does not
serve the major growth corridor between Lismore,
Ballina, Byron Bay as well as the rapidly growing Tweed
PURPOSE OF THE BUSINESS CASE region and connections to South East Queensland.
This report provides an assessment of the estimated
Improvements to bus services are much more effective
market demand and socio-economic impact of
in assisting residents to directly access health, education
establishing the Tweed stage of the Northern Rivers
and social services.”
Rail Trail. It considers the potential economic benefits
of rail trail tourism for the Region and NSW as well as
There has been little maintenance to the line since
identifying other key social and environmental benefits.
its closure, apart from keeping the line to a suitable
The Business Case has been undertaken reviewing all
safety standard, and some stations and vegetation
existing documentation related directly to the Northern
management of the corridor in towns. Even with a
Rivers Rail Trail and draws on research and anecdotal
reduced maintenance program, the annual budget for
evidence from established Rail Trails in Australia and
this work has averaged around $750,000 each year
around the world.
between 2007 to 2011 (Parliament of NSW, 2011).

THE RAIL LINE

The Murwillumbah railway line is a disused line in far ‘‘An investment of $13 million in
north-eastern New South Wales, Australia. The line ran
from Casino to Lismore, Byron Bay and Murwillumbah,
the construction of the rail trail
and opened in 1894. It is one of only two branches off is likely to bring significant socio
the North Coast line, (the other being the Dorrigo line).
Services on the line were suspended in April 2004. economic benefits to the region
In 2011, the NSW Department of Transport commissioned
and state. These benefits have
a feasibility study to reopen the Casino to Murwillumbah been demonstrated by other
line, focusing on the transport needs of the community’s
along the Rail line and investigating the potential to
rail trails in Australia and New
extend rail services in northern NSW to connect with the Zealand.’’
Queensland Rail system and Coolangatta Airport.

8 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

RAIL TRAILS
Rail Trails have been successfully developed in all
other states in Australia as well as New Zealand, North
America and Europe. States such as Victoria and South
Australia have an advanced network of Rail Trails that
attract significant visitor numbers and have resulted in
economic benefits through the establishment of “cycle
friendly business’ and injection of tourism dollars into
local and regional economies.
There are currently over 135 rail trails listed on the Rail
Trails Australia website with 55 new trails listed since
2009. Victoria has a strong Rail Trail network, with over
35 Rail Trails, many being old timber tramways that were
formerly used for logging being converted to trails (Rail
Trails Australia 2005). There are currently 8 Rail Trails in
South Australia managed by state government agencies
and local councils including the Clare Valley Riesling
Trail (27km) and the Mawson Trail, a 900km trail linking
Adelaide to the Flinders Rangers. Western Australia
is home to approximately 18 Rail Trails including the
Munda Biddi Trail (900km) with approximately one third
of the distance being on old railway formations. Some
20 Rail Trails are located in Tasmania, 2 in the Northern
Territory and several in the Australian Capital Territory.
Rail Trails in New South Wales are mainly found in the
Newcastle area. In June 2015, the NSW Government
announced funding for the Tumbarumba – Rosewood
Rail Trail with Tumbarumba Shire Council invited to work
on the development of the pilot project with other NSW
Government agencies.
The Tweed stage of the NRRT will assist in building
NSW’s capacity to provide key tourism infrastructure
for the growing cycling market. An assessment of
potential visitor numbers is based on the considerable
amount of market research undertaken on Rail Trails
which demonstrates a growing demand for accessible
recreational tourism product to cater for the strong
growth trends in cycling and walking.
Economic IMPACTS
The Rail Trail will attract new visitors to the Tweed
region, extend the stay of visitors already flocking to the
region and provide a timely boost to the jobs market for
residents.
The Victorian Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail
attracts approximately 45,000 tourists per year,
an increase of 45 per cent over the period 2001-
2010.
Otago Central Rail Trail in New Zealand
experienced an increase in visitors from 10,000
in 2008 to 14,000 in 2011, representing an
average increase of 14 per cent per annum.
New Zealand’s Hauraki Rail Trail attracted
41,000 visitors in its first year of operations (to
June 2013).
Tasmania’s North East Rail Trail, expects to
draw 22,800 visitors at five years following
construction, rising to 29,900 at ten years
following construction, and 35,300 at fifteen
years.
The Rail Trail will provide a significant boost to the local
economy during the construction phase of the Project
supporting 70 jobs in the first year and 26 jobs in the
second year. Upon completion, the Rail Trail will attract
more than 27,000 visitors per annum creating additional
jobs in the tourism sector, provide health benefits for local
residents that utilise the Trail and assist in revitalising
the small communities along the route.
A Cost Benefit Analysis on the Tweed stage of the
Northern Rivers Rail Trail identifies the economic
impacts of the Project during and post construction
(Annexure 1). Using the central discount rate of 7 per
cent, the Rail Trails Project is estimated to generate a net
present value of the net cash flow of approximately $7.1
million with a benefit cost ratio of 1.53. As the benefit
cost ratio is greater than 1 and the net present value is
positive, the Project can be deemed an efficient use of
funds.
The estimated economic impact of the construction
phase of the Rail Trail on Tweed LGA is:
• $9.23 million in GRP and 70 Full Time Equivalent
(FTE) in Year 1; and
• $3.4 million in GRP and 26 FTE in Year 2.
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 9
The above calculations suggest an average FTE
employment per annum across the construction period
of 51 positions.
The Rail Trail Project provides an important opportunity
to help address relatively high unemployment through
boosting sustainable economic tourist activity. The
Tweed Stage of the NRRT is critical to help address the
regions ongoing high unemployment.
In addition to the construction benefits, the development
of the Rail Trail has the potential to contribute to a range
of benefits beyond the construction period. These
include:
• Increased health benefits for the community;
• Increased visitation to existing tourist activities in
the Tweed region; and
• Creation of additional jobs.
ADDRESSING SOCIAL
DISADVANTAGE
The Tweed region faces significant challenges due to
increasing existing & forecasted population growth,
an ageing population and associated health issues,
high overall & youth unemployment & instability of the
tourism industry.
These demographic & industry challenges place pressure
on existing services & require additional investment in
infrastructure to support the needs & expectations of
the community into the future. The Rail Trail will assist
in addressing these disadvantages through the creation
of employment opportunities by increasing visitation
and tourism spend in the Region; diversifying the
region’s tourism asset base; and the provision of a key
recreational facility to encourage residents to be active
and healthy.

The Trail will pass through a number of smaller

villages including Stokers Siding, Burringbar, Mooball
The Project will generate $9.23 million and Crabbes Creek linking these communities and
providing a greater sense of connectedness and pride
in GRP and 70 FTE in Year 1 and $3.4
in their region. Furthermore the Rail Trail will become
million in GRP and 26 FTE in Year 2 an educational asset for the Region where students and
residents can learn about local heritage, environmental

TABLE 1: SHORT, MEDIUM, LONG TERM BENEFITS OF THE TWEED STAGE OF THE NRRT
PERIOD TWEED & COMMUNITIES NORTHERN INLAND NSW
SHORT Creation of short term jobs through trail Potential employment opportunities during Recognition of support that meets NSW
TERM design and construction construction phase Government Infrastructure, health, transport
and tourism policy outcomes

Foster community spirit of Project moving to
construction stage
MEDIUM Employment growth indirectly related to
TERM the Trail and cycle way development, in
the tourism, accommodation and services
sectors
Employment growth directly related to rail
trail operations
Increased collaboration between operators,
industry and Government
LONG Income generation and move to a self
TERM sustaining model
Economic growth through the economic
growth of the communities in the Tweed.
Stakeholder engagement and
diversification of Regions tourism product
Regional investment in the cycle trails and
related businesses
Flow on effects to Region due to increase
length of stay
Recreational opportunity provided to
residents of Northern Rivers Region (day
trippers)
Increased tourism expenditure in the
Region therefore increasing GRP
Economic development opportunities
created
Collaboration between tiers of Government
and community
Greater attraction of a high value and fast
growing segment of NSW’s visitor market
(increase in cycle tourists)
Diversification of Tourism Product
Increased employment and economic
development opportunities for the NSW
economy
Increased complementary benefits for
NSW such as active transport, recreation,
health, social, environmental and cultural
experiences
Cost savings as Rail Trail moves to a self
sustaining model

10 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

ecosystems and food production. activities through television, radio and newspaper.
The ongoing engagement has ensured local stakeholder
ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS support and expectations are met and the Trail has
The Rail Trail has many benefits for the environment with
accurately prepared cost estimates that meets the
a primary goal being the protection of the Trail’s natural
needs of the communities.
areas while offering safe and enjoyable recreational
opportunities for all natural environment users through
the creation of a sustainable multi-use trail system.
Environmental management principles underpin the
GOVERNANCE
Extensive investigations have been held into the
planning, design and future management of the trails
governance options and best practice structures to lead
natural ecosystem.
and manage the ongoing operations of the Rail Trail.
Environmental benefits include:
It is important to recognise that the Tweed Stage of
• Establishment of habitat and wildlife corridor
the NRRT is the first section of what will become the
• Educational and interpretive opportunities and
full 130 Km NRRT from Murwillumbah to Casino Rail
increased environmental and cultural awareness
Trail corridor. As such, the governance structure that is
and appreciation;
established for this section should be one that is suitable
• Provision of green commuter journeys leading to
for the entire trail. A government-appointed Trust is
a decrease in the use of motorised vehicles for
recommended to be the appropriate model for the NRRT.
transportation and recreation. This helps reduce
the production of emissions that cause global
In this format the land will be under the control of NSW
warming and respiratory problems;
Government. The Trust will be established by the relevant
• Increased community ownership which helps to
Minister under existing legislation and appointment to
preserve natural and cultural values; and
the Trust is made by the Minister, based on skills and
• Opportunities for community participation in
including stakeholder representation.
conservation and re-vegetation work therefore
creating and facilitating cultural awareness and
The Trust would manage the rail trail including the rail
appreciation.
corridor and its buildings. The Trust would employ its
own staff to operate and manage the trail and engage
The short, medium and long term benefits of the Tweed
other entities to undertake portions of its functions
stage of the NRRT for the Tweed, Northern Rivers and
outside the staff skillset. A key role performed by the
NSW are summarised in Table 1.
Trust is fundraising. Most trail systems have a non-profit
arm for purposes of attracting corporate and private
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT funding sources for both capital and maintenance. In
Community and stakeholder engagement has been an addition the Trust would market the Trail working in
integral part of the development of the regional Northern partnership with regional and state stakeholders to
Rivers Rail Trail and also specifically for the Tweed increase awareness and visitation levels.
stage of the Trail. Consultation has been guided by a
Community Engagement Strategy developed by NRRT The applicant, Tweed Shire Council, is well recognised as
Inc. in 2013. a leader in project management and community service.
Council is prepared to manage design and construction
Engagement activities have been diverse and wide of the Rail Trail and maintain the trail until such time as
ranging to ensure reach and gather information and a central governance body is in place.
feedback on the Project including usage, issues and
benefits. Activities have ranged from face to face with
key stakeholders, community forums and market stalls
through to online mediums such as Facebook, website
presence. In addition there has been over 360 media

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 11

TOURISM INTEGRATION
The Rail Trail will underpin the current tourism industry,
boost destination appeal and diversify the existing
tourism product base therefore encouraging visitors to
stay longer therefore injecting much needed tourism
dollars into the local economy. The Trail will assist to
address the current decline in visitors to the region and
the associated tourism employment by stabilising key
recreational infrastructure whilst supporting projected
population increases and provide a central community
hub for recreation and socialising.
The Trail will provide opportunities for package
development with other tourism operators in the
Region. Partnerships with arts and culture, food & wine,
adventure and other nature based operators will assist
in lengthening visitor stay and expenditure in the Region.
The Trail will act as a major artery through the rural areas
of the Tweed and assist in circulating visitors around the
Region.
It is recommended that once governance arrangements
are in place a marketing plan be developed for the Trail.
STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT
The development of the Rail Trail will assist in achieving
many objectives outlined in a series of strategic plans
which are currently in place and being implemented.
These include (but not limited to):
• Northern Rivers NSW Government Regional
Action Plan (2012)
• The National Sport and Active Recreational
12 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE
Framework
• Tourism 2020
• NSW 2020
• Visitor Economy Action Plan
• Northern Rivers Regional Social Plan 2013-2018
• Draft North Coast Regional Plan 2016
• North Coast NSW Destination Management Plan
• Tweed Shire Council Community Strategic Plan
• Tweed Shire Economic Development Strategy
• Northern Rivers Catchment Management Plan
2013
• Tweed Shire Access and Inclusion Plan - 2023
• Tweed Shire Environmental Sustainability
Prioritisation Strategy (ESPS)
CAPACITY TO DELIVER
Tweed Shire Council has the experience and capacity
to project manage the delivery of the Tweed stage of
the Rail Trail. The Council currently manages a $194m
operating budget and allocates a healthy proportion of
funding for maintenance, improvement of and addition
to the Regions strategic physical assets.
The Council is experienced in managing and acquitting
State & Federal Government grants, successfully
acquitting over $130m of grant funding over the past six
years ($21.6m pa). The Project will be managed by fully
qualified and experienced engineering staff within the
Engineering Division.
ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS
There will be numerous economic, social and environmental opportunities to be gained from the proposed NRRT
Tweed Stage:

• Greater employment, both during the construction phase and once

completed as new and existing businesses employ more staff.
• Development of new and existing businesses to support users of the rail
trail, such as: cafés and restaurants, accommodation providers (B&B’s,
campsites, hostels, hotels, farmstays, lodgings), cycle provision, hire and
repair companies, stables and saddleries and gift shops.
• Increased revenue from rail trail tourism leading to higher spending on
local services such as transport, food, accommodation and tour guides.
Evidence suggests that rail trail users are high yield tourists (Beeton,
ECONOMIC 2009).
• Attract visitors inland, providing a required boost to NSW regional
economy.

• Encourage nature/environmental appreciation and eco-tourism.

• Protection of nearby environmentally sensitive areas.
• Maintenance of the rail corridor to allow for low-ecological impact rail
services to be reinstated in the future.
• Allow proper maintenance and land management along the corridor.
ENVIRONMENTAL

• Educational trips to learn about local heritage, environmental

ecosystems, and food production, among others.
• A way to promote, encourage and enable health benefits to all age
groups.
• Walking is suitable for all levels and abilities, can increase fitness and
life-expectancy, aid weight management, be sociable and increase
confidence. It also requires no expense or equipment. Any form of
physical activity reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2
diabetes, some cancers, a variety of other chronic conditions and
premature mortality.
SOCIAL • Increased community well-being, both during the implementation of
the rail trail as communities work together to realise the project and on
completion as communities enjoy the benefits of the trail.
• Connected communities by creating a free, environmentally friendly and
healthy option to travel to work, to access services, to visit friends and
relatives.
• An area for healthy recreational pursuits, social gatherings and events,
including races and charity events

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 13

LITERATURE REVIEW
REPORTS & STUDIES
RELATED TO THE NORTHERN
RIVERS RAIL TRAIL
• Arup (2012) Transport for NSW Casino to
Murwillumbah Transport Study
• ARUP (2014) Casino To Murwillumbah Rail Trail
Study
• NRRT Inc. (2013) Perspectives in the Feasibility
of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail.
AUSTRALIAN
• Beeton, S. (2003). An economic analysis of rail
trails in Victoria, Australia. Bendigo: La Trobe
University.
• Beeton, S. (2006). Regional communities and
cycling: the case of the Murray to the Mountains
Rail Trail, Victoria, Australia. Bendigo: La Trobe
University.
• Beeton, S. (2006). Sustainable tourism in practice:
trails and tourism – critical management issues
of multi-use trails. Tourism and Hospitality
Planning and Development,
• Beeton, S. (2009). Cycling in Regional
Communities: A Longitudinal Study of the Murray
to Mountains Rail Trail, Victoria, Australia. La
Trobe University, Australia.
• Beeton, S. (2010). Regional community
entrepreneurship through tourism: the case
of Victoria’s rail trails. International Journal of
Innovation and Regional Development,
• Bruce Ashley Environmental Consulting (1997).
Cycleways along railway corridors. Final report
to NSW Department of Transport. Sydney: NSW
Department of Transport.
• Crompton, John L. (2000). The impact of parks
and open space on property values and the
property tax base.
• Crompton, John L. (2001). Perceptions of how
the presence of greenway trails affects the value
of proximate properties. Journal of Park and
Recreation Administration,
• Dowson, B., & Doxford, D. (1997). Planning for
recreational cycling—meeting local demand?Land
Use Policy,
• Fábos, J.G. (2004). Greenway planning in the
United States: its origins and recent case studies.
Landscape and Urban Planning
• Faulks, P., Ritchie, B. and Fluker, M. (2007) Cycle
Tourism in Australia: An Investigation into Its
Size and Scope. Gold Coast: Sustainable Tourism
Cooperative Research Centre.
14 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE
• Faulks, P., Ritchie, B., Brown, G., & Beeton, S. (2008).
Cycle tourism and South Australia destination
marketing. Gold Coast: CRC for Sustainable
Tourism.
• Lamont, M. (2009). Independent Bicycle Tourism:
A Whole Tourism Systems Perspective.Tourism
Analysis,
• Lamont, M., & Buultjens, J. (2011). Putting the
brakes on: Impediments to the development of
independent cycle tourism in Australia. Current
Issues in Tourism,
• Lamont, M., & Causley, K. (2010). Guiding the Way:
Exploring cycle tourists’ needs and preferences for
cycling route maps and signage. Annals of Leisure
Research.
• Lumsdon, L. (2000). Transport and Tourism: Cycle
Tourism – A Model for Sustainable Development?
Journal of Sustainable Tourism.
• Maher Brampton Associates (2003). Oakbank to
Mt Pleasant railway corridor future use feasibility
study.
• Merom, D., Bauman, A.,Vita, P., & Close, G. (2003).
An environmental intervention to promote walking
and cycling – the impact of a newly constructed
Rail Trail in Western Sydney.
• Mike Halliburton Associates & Transplan Pty
Ltd (2008). Atherton Tablelands rail trails
feasibility study. Report prepared for Queensland
Government.
• Mitchell Shire (n/d). Tallarook to Alexandra Rail
Trail feasibility study. Braodford: Mitchell Shire.
• Morpeth, N. (2000). Diversifying wine tourism
products: an evaluation of linkages between wine
and cycle tourism. In: Wine tourism around the
world: development, management and markets
(pp. 272-282): Butterworth-Heinemann..
• Transplan Pty Ltd & Mike Halliburton Associates
(2009). Murrumbidgee Valley Rail Trail feasibility
study. Report prepared for the Riverina Regional
Development Board and Gundagai Shire Council.
• Transplan Pty Ltd & Mike Halliburton Associates
(n/d). Riverina Highlands rail trails feasibility study.
Report prepared for Riverina Shire.
• Turco, Douglas, Gallagher, Laura, & Lee, Kerri.
(1998). Resident attitudes toward rail-trail
development.
• Urban Enterprise Pty Ltd (2006). Goulburn River
High Country Rail Trail: Concept design and
business plan.
• VanBlarcom, B. & Janmaat, J. (2013). Comparing
the costs and health benefits of a proposed rail
trail. Journal of Policy Research in Tourism,
• Willard, P. (2009). Rail trail tourism: a study of
the expectations of rail trail cyclists visiting long
distance rail trails in Victoria. Bundoora: La Trobe
University.
• Willard, P., & Beeton, S. (2012). Low impact Expe-
riences: Developing Successful Rail Trail Tourism.
Tourism Planning & Development.
TWEED STAGE
MURWILLUMBAH TO CRABBES CREEK

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 15

TWEED STAGE OF THE
NORTHERN RIVERS RAIL TRAIL
Situated at the most northern section of the Casino to Murwillumbah rail corridor, the Tweed
is positioned as the border gateway to the region and Murwillumbah itself, the recognised
start of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. The NSW Government has supported the Project
committing $6.518 million towards the Project.
BACKGROUND • The Rail Trail will break even (i.e. a BCR of 1.0)
In April 2013 the NSW Government released a detailed assuming visitors of 34,802 p.a. As such, visitors
study focusing on the transport needs of the community in excess of 34,802 p.a. indicates a positive return
along the Casino to Murwillumbah rail line. The Casino to for the project. All case studies examined, apart
Murwillumbah Transport Study examined the feasibility, from one, have higher visitations than the break-
benefits and costs of reinstating passenger services on even scenario provided in the Report.
the 130km line. The study found the rail line would not
meet current or future transport needs because the line
did not service two of the three biggest centres in the
Business Case
The Tweed Stage of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail
region, namely Tweed Heads and Ballina. It also found
Business Case covers only the Tweed stage of the
there was no commercial demand for it to be reinstated
Casino to Murwillumbah Rail Trail (Northern Rivers Rail
to carry freight.
Trail). An independent economic assessment including
a cost benefit analysis has been undertaken with all
The study recommended that further investigations be
economic impacts modelled as per the Commonwealth
held to assess the potential demand, benefits, costs and
Government Treasury Guidelines.
feasibility of the line being utilised as a Rail Trail. As a
result, in November 2013, the Department of Premier
and Cabinet, appointed Arup Pty Ltd to undertake a
scoping study to investigate converting the corridor into ‘‘Subject to funding, the scoping
a rail trail.
assessment has demonstrated
The Department of Premier and Cabinets “Casino potentially strong benefits for
to Murwillumbah Rail Trail Study, Final Report” was
released in early June 2014 and reported that the rail the community and that the
trail could attract more than 88,000 visitors and would
be economically viable paying for itself in just five years.
project is likely to be viable.”
Casino to Murwillumbah Rail Trail Study Final Report (2013)
The Report noted the preliminary capital cost estimate
for the development of the total Northern Rivers Rail
Trail to be $75.5 million.
THE ROUTE
The Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek Stage of the
The results of the economic analysis indicated:
Northern Rivers Rail Trail is 24 kilometres of trail, and
• The Rail Trail would be financially viable at the
occupies a corridor averaging 40 metres wide and totals
Base Scenario of 88,320 visitors, with an expected
88 hectares.
Net Present Value (NPV) of $121.8m and Benefit
Cost Ratio (BCR) of 2.54. Under this scenario, the
Commencing at the Murwillumbah Railway Station,
project payback period would be approximately
cyclists and pedestrians will be able to traverse rolling
four to five years. This analysis conservatively
farmland along the easy graded journey taking in
assumes day visitors only.
spectacular hinterland and mountain views along the
way.
16 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE
The Murwillumbah railway station will be used as the rail
trail base where cyclists and hikers can plan out their
day trip to the surrounding attractions including the
Tweed Regional Gallery and National Parks which take
in the fantastic panoramic hinterland views. The Tweed
stage of the Rail Trail will also form the backbone linking
the historic rural villages of Stokers Siding, Burringbar,
Mooball and Crabbes Creek.
The Trail also links magnificent natural features such as
Mooball National Park, Mt Jerusalem National Park and
Wollumbin/Mt Warning. It will also connect the regions
art galleries and creative industries, featuring the Tweed
Regional Gallery and the exciting Margaret Olley Art
Centre.
This project would be the initial stage of the regional
Northern Rivers Rail Trail Project, a plan to establish a
130km rail trail all the way from Murwillumbah to Casino.
PROGRESS
The Project is extensively planned with strong
stakeholder support. Tweed Shire Council resolved in
May 2013 to support the establishment of a Rail Trail
on the Casino to Murwillumbah rail corridor. Since this
resolution, Council officers have conducted various
planning, design and community consultation activities
to advance the establishment of a Northern Rivers Rail
Trail on the Casino to Murwillumbah rail corridor and to
encourage community feedback on the proposal.
Tweed Shire Council has undertaken detailed costings
and estimates for the development of the Rail Trail.
These have been completed by qualified engineers and
informed by independent estimates therefore providing
a realistic estimate of the costs involved to convert the
disused Rail Line into a functioning Rail Trail. The works
to complete the Rail Trail would take three main stages
and be undertaken over a two year period.
The first stage is the preparation of the Rail corridor
which involves clearing the current overgrown rail line,
removal of rails, rotten timbers and rehabilitation of
stormwater drainage systems. A detailed inspection,
survey and final design will then be prepared. This stage
is estimated at $1,713,208.
Stage two involves the formation of the Rail Trail where
the Trail itself will be defined by forming pavements,
sealing and forming links to adjacent villages and
attractions. Tunnels and bridges will also be retrofitted
or rehabilitated to ensure suitability for pedestrians and
cyclists. This stage forms the main works for the Trail at
a cost of $10,126,169.
Lastly, the Trail is then prepared with interpretive signage,
furniture and fencing. Local volunteer organisations
will assist with bush regeneration. This is estimated at
$1,196,161.
Tweed Shire Council has expended over $129,038 to
progress the Tweed Stage and has made further budget
arrangements with allocated funding in the 2016/17
forward infrastructure and operational plans.
TOURISM
Tweed offers a range of destinational experiences
for visitors to the Region. With over 37 kilometres of
coastline the beach forms a central drawcard for the
Region however there is an identified need to diversify
the Region’s tourism product to ensure a range of
product offerings for visitors and encourage longer
length of stay.
As highlighted by Tourism Research Australia (2015)
“The outlook for the next 10 to 15 years suggests
that existing visitor flows through Australia’s Green
Cauldron will intensify, mainly through the Brisbane and
Coolangatta gateways and along the current road and
rail transport corridors such as the Pacific Highway.”
By 2025, it is estimated that one quarter of Australia’s
population will live between northern New South Wales
(especially the Northern Rivers Region) and South East
Queensland.
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 17
This is likely to result in increased visitation to Australia’s
Green Cauldron from nearby centres of population and
from visiting friends and relatives from other states.
Experiences and Services
The Rail Trail will provide a range of experiences and
services for users of the Trail through the integration with
existing attractions and development of tours, activities,
infrastructure, signs, interpretation and facilities. The
Trail will create stronger connections between the coast
and hinterland and offer visitors an all encompassing
experience.
Tweed Stage of the Rail Trail.
These include:
• Mountain biking/ state forests/accommodation
package
• Integrated hiking ,walking trails
• Packages for adventure seekers
• Bird watching trails/networks
• Interpret unique flora, fauna and National Parks
in the region either half or full day

Previous Rail Trail feasibility studies note a number of

core variables that should be assessed when considering
the suitability of a region for a Rail Trail (for example
Halliburton & Transplan 2008 a,b). They include, but are
Visitors will be able to follow
not limited to: the trails that link the coast
• Access/proximity to a large population centre.
• Community and adjacent landholder level of
and the hinterland; get close to
support. and explore the Tweed’s people,
• Existing/easily developed visitor infrastructure in stories and landscapes; visit
or near settlements along trailplaces to eat, stay
and explore. character filled villages, find a
• Highly scenic surrounds with views of the luxury retreat or B&B down
surrounding landscape.
• Provision of a unique experience, eg: natural/ a country road and stay the
cultural heritage, trail type. night, camp out on the journey;
• Existence of interesting rail history features, eg:
original buildings, bridges and tunnels.
experience the stillness and
• Potential for short, medium and long length rides/ forests of the ancient volcano,
walks along the trail.
• Natural terminuses in major centres or towns.
stop for supplies at a roadside
• Opportunities to access other regional stall or country store; refuel at
experiences.
• A well maintained trail providing good signage
a café or pub; take the roads
and interpretation. less travelled and ride through
The Tweed Stage of the NRRT meets the criteria and
National Parks to Nimbin or
can support all aspects of experiences and services Mullumbimby.
criteria. Table 2 summarises the Tweed’s advantages
and opportunities for developing a world class rail trail
experience.

Furthermore, the Tweed Destination Management

Plan, a key guiding document for Tourism in the
Region, identifies a range of product and experience
gaps associated with the region’s nature, outdoor, and
adventure based assets which align with the aims of the

18 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

 TABLE 2: TWEED STAGE EXPERIENCES & SERVICE ALIGNMENT
REQUIREMENT TWEED STAGE OF THE NRRT
Access/proximity to a large With Murwillumbah as one of the track heads, the trail will be easily accessible to the large population base in SE
population centre Queensland, and with the proximity of the Gold Coast Airport, to the region’s major domestic markets as well as
international visitors.
Existing/easily developed • The proposed rail trail would travel through the villages of Stokers Siding, Burringbar and Mooball.
visitor infrastructure • A review of current accommodation options suggests that Uki District with 17 choices of accommodation,
including accommodation for groups, could be developed as a hub and gateway to a number of the rides and
bushwalks.
• Uki can be accessed via Smiths Creek Road – a quiet country road regularly used by cyclists.
• Group accommodation is also currently available at Hosanna Farm Stay at Stokers Siding. There are also a
range of accommodation options scattered across the valley associated with the many options associated with
the trail network that can be linked to the rail trail
• From Mooball there is also easy access to the range of coastal accommodation via Pottsville road or further
along the trail via Wooyung Road.
• All three villages have some commercial activity and opportunity to expand with suitable vacant premises.
• Murwillumbah has all the facilities of a regional town with a range of services. The Tweed Regional Art Gallery is
in close proximity to the line
• Basic facilities such as toilets are available at Stokers Siding, Burringbar and Mooball as well as Murwillumbah.
Needs to be scenic At Murwillumbah there is the picturesque Tweed River with Wollumbin as a backdrop. Through Stokers Siding there are
views to Mount Nullum and Mooball NP. The route passes through the Burringbar Range. The many optional add on side
trips provide more opportunities to explore the scenic Tweed Valley and World Heritage listed NPs.
Interesting Features For the railway buffs the Tweed section of the rail trail has:
• Dunbible Creek Railway Bridge – one of the first railway bridges to be built using the American Pratt Truss
Design and an excellent example of the work of Henry Deane responsible for many of the design features of the
North Coast Railway.
• The bridge is on the State Heritage List
• Murwillumbah Station and Yards contain a number of features. These include sections of the 1920’s Station,
some of the outbuildings and the water tower.
• The 500 metre long Burringbar Tunnel with glow worms and micro bats would also be a special feature.
Potential for short, medium Numerous user entry and exit points have been investigated. They include options in the Tweed Valley and opportunities
and long length rides/walks to enter or leave the trail to and from other parts of the Green Cauldron. Trail users will have access to an array of
optional tour routes across the hinterland and coast – suitable for cycling, mountain biking and longer distance walking.
along the trail Some of these are suited to an itinerary of several days.
A few examples of options include:
• From Stokers Siding via Smiths Creek Road and Uki to Mount Jerusalem NP with waterfalls, swimming holes,
viewpoints and the option of cycling or walking through the NP into Byron Shire and vice versa.
• From Crabbes Creek/Mooball via either Pottsville or Wooyung Roads to and from the coastal villages, resorts
and coastal bikeway and vice versa.
• From Stokers Siding to Mount Jerusalem NP and through to Clarrie Hall Dam.
• Brunswick Heads to Murwillumbah via Main Arm/Uki/Stokers Siding
• From Burringbar via Cudgera Creek Road into Mooball NP and potentially on to Murwillumbah or the coast
• Stokers Siding to Uki and via Cadell Road into Mebbin NP with camping at Cutters Camp on to Tyalgum via
Byrill Creek Road and through Chillingham into Murwillumbah
• There is potential for horse riders to enter at the Crabbes Creek end and exit via Cudgera Creek Road into
Mooball NP which permits horse riding. Horse riding is also permitted in both Mount Jerusalem and Mooball
NPs

Opportunities to access There are a wide range of regional experiences potentially available to trail users, for example:
other regional experiences • Package tours that could include for example: ride to Murwillumbah and then canoe or kayak down the Tweed
River, or cycle through Mount Jerusalem and kayak the highly scenic Clarrie Hall Dam.
• On the coast, access to surfing, snorkelling on the Cook Island Marine Reserve reef, beaches and whale
watching
• Dining out at the many excellent restaurants and cafes scattered throughout the coastal and hinterland villages
featuring fresh local produce
• Visit the Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre
• Visit the eclectic, character filled Café/Galleries of the Shire’s villages
• Take a river cruise and sample fresh local seafood, or visit Tropical Fruit World
Anecdotal evidence from both Australia and the USA indicates that a large part of demand for trails is supply driven –
trail users are attracted to trails that are both known to user groups and/or promoted, and that provide facilities such
Promote or build it and they as signage and interpretation, parking, toilets and water. While Australian research data is limited, several Western
will come Australian Trails are examples with evidence of steadily growing usage once established. For example, walks on the
Bibbulmun Track have steadily increased from 10,000 walks in 1998 to 35,000 in 1999-2000, 137,500 in 2003 and
167,206 in 2008 (Transplan 2010 ; Colmar Brunton 2009).

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 19

PROJECT ACTIVITIES
PREPARE RAIL CORRIDOR $1,713,208
• Clear weeds and obstructing vegetation from rail corridor
• Preform detailed inspection, survey and design
• Remove rails and store or dispose of at the Rail Authority's direction
• Recycle or dispose of rotten timber sleepers
• Rehabilitate stormwater drainage systems

FORM RAIL TRAIL $10,126,169

• Retrofit or bypass bridges to allow for pedestrians and cyclists
• Rehabilitate tunnels and make suitable for pedestrians and cyclists (lighting)
• Import gravel and form trail pavement on existing rail alignment
• Bitumen seal trail pavement to improve rideability and minimise maintenance
• Establish links to adjacent villages and attractors (i.e. Art Gallery)

INSTALL TRAIL FURNITURE, SIGNAGE AND FENCING $1,196,161

• Fence the rail corridor where required and doesn’t currently exist
• Install educational and tourist advisory signage
• Build rest stops and associated facilities
• Bush regeneration in collaboration with local volunteer organisations

TOTAL PROJECT COST $13, 035, 538

20 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

 PROJECT PROGRAM

NOTE: Project timeframes to be amended and must start within 12 weeks of executing
the grant agreement” clause with Commonweath Government under the Building
Better Regions Fund

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

21
22 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 23
ECONOMIC IMPACTS

24 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

ECONOMIC IMPACTS
The Rail Trail will provide a significant boost to the local economy during the construction
phase of the Project supporting 70 jobs in the first year and 26 jobs in the second year. Upon
completion, the Rail Trail will attract more than 27,000 visitors per annum creating additional
jobs in the tourism sector, provide health benefits for local residents that utilise the Trail and
assist in revitalising the small communities along the route.

COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS
Tweed Shire Council commissioned an independent
cost-benefit assessment (CBA) of the Project which was
undertaken by Business Sense. Cost-benefit analysis is
a process of identifying, quantifying and comparing the
costs and benefits of a project in current prices. The
benefits and costs were compared against a baseline
which is the equivalent of maintaining the status quo, in
this case not constructing the Tweed Stage of the NRRT.
The capital costs associated with construction of
the proposed Rail Trail were provided by Tweed Shire
Council and were broken into $9.21 million in the first
year of construction and $3.82 million in the second year.
Additionally, the net cost of the on-going maintenance
(current maintenance of the existing rail corridor less
the expected cost of maintenance of the Rail Trail) is
approximately $68,000 per annum.
The key benefit of the Tweed Stage of the NRRT will be
increased visitor expenditure in the Tweed region as
a result of people utilising the Rail Trail. The analysis
used current tourism visitor numbers and expenditure,
and assumptions derived from similar Rail Trails in other
locations. This is considered a conservative estimate as
it doesn’t assume any visitor numbers from events that
may be run in the region utilising the Rail Trail such as
mountain biking or organised walks. Additionally, Rail
Trails and more broadly walking trails, are increasing in
popularity internationally and the addition of a trail in the
Tweed Region will be a source of increased international
visitor numbers.
Using the central discount rate of 7 per cent, the Rail
Trail Project is estimated to generate a net present value
of the net cash flow of approximately $7.1 million with
a benefit cost ratio of 1.53. As the benefit cost ratio is
greater than 1 and the net present value is positive, the
Project can be deemed an efficient use of funds.
Table 3 below illustrates the results of the cost benefit
analysis undertaken on the Tweed stage of the NRRT.
Modelling was also conducted on alternative scenarios
based on estimates of visitor demand and visitor
expenditure and the impact on the Cost Benefit
Assessment. The independent demand assessment
prepared by the Stafford Group was utilised as a basis
for the modelling.

TABLE 3: COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS OF PROPOSED TWEED STAGE OF THE NRRT – 2016 TO 2028
NPV OF NET CASH FLOW NPV OF COSTS (MIL- NPV OF BENEFITS BENEFIT COST
DISCOUNT RATE
(MILLIONS) LIONS) (MILLIONS) RATIO
3% $12.8 $14.2 $27.0 1.90

7% $7.1 $13.2 $20.3 1.53

10% $4.0 $12.6 $16.6 1.32

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 25

 As expected, lower demand will result in a lower
overall benefit-cost ratio. However, under Scenario
A, a lower demand model (Scenario A), at the 7 per
cent discount, the Rail Trails Project is estimated
to generate a net present value of the net cash
flow of approximately $2.52 million with a benefit
cost ratio of 1.19.
Under the scenarios with lower demand estimates
and lower visitor expenditure, both benefit cost
ratio are greater than 1 and the net present value
is positive, therefore the Project can be deemed an
efficient use of funds (Tables 4 and 5).

Lower visitor expenditure for domestic overnight

visitors resulted in a lower overall benefit-cost
ratio. However, a lower visitor expenditure model,
(Scenario B) at the 7 per cent discount, the Rail
Trails Project is estimated to generate a net present
value of the net cash flow of approximately $3.76
million with a benefit cost ratio of 1.28.

TABLE 4: SCENARIO A - LOWER DEMAND ESTIMATES - COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS RESULTS

NPV OF NET CASH FLOW NPV OF COSTS NPV OF BENEFITS BENEFIT COST
DISCOUNT RATE
(MILLIONS) (MILLIONS) (MILLIONS) RATIO
3% $7.01 $14.20 $21.21 1.49

7% $2.52 $13.21 $15.73 1.19

10% $0.15 $12.58 $12.73 1.01

TABLE 5: SCENARIO B - LOWER VISITOR EXPENDITURE ESTIMATES - COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS

RESULTS
NPV OF NET CASH FLOW NPV OF COSTS NPV OF BENEFITS BENEFIT COST
DISCOUNT RATE
(MILLIONS) (MILLIONS) (MILLIONS) RATIO
3% $8.39 $14.20 $22.59 1.59

7% $3.76 $13.21 $16.97 1.28

10% $1.31 $12.58 $13.89 1.10

26 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

ECONOMIC IMPACT ASSESSMENT
The economic impact of the proposed Rail Trail has been
assessed in terms of the impact of the construction
of the Rail Trail and the on-going impact of increased
tourist activity. The economic impact has been prepared
from the perspective of the impact on the Tweed Shire
Local Government Area as direct and flow-on impacts
will affect the local community in terms of employment,
household income and gross regional product.
The economic impact analysis was undertaken
utilising an input-output (IO) model developed for
Tweed Shire Council. IO analysis provides a detailed
picture of the structure of a regional economy at
a point in time and can be used to estimate the
contribution or impact of a particular sector of the
economy including flow-on or multiplier effects.
Marginal, rather than average, income and expenditure
relationships for the household sector were incorporated
in the analysis. As has been well documented, the
household sector is the dominant component of
multiplier effects in an IO model, as consumer driven
consumption and income tends to dominate local
economic activity. Capturing marginal income and
expenditure relationships for the household sector
can provide a more realistic representation of the
economic system and remove the strict linearity
assumption implicit in conventional IO modelling.
CONSTRUCTION Impacts
The economic impact of construction of the proposed
Rail Trail has been based on a total construction cost of
$13,035,538 and a timeframe of two years. The impact
has been measured using a final demand impact in input-
output analysis, incorporating marginal coefficients for
household expenditure which has measured the direct
impact of expenditure as well as the flow-on impact to
other sectors of the economy.
Based on the information provided by Tweed Shire
Council, the estimated economic impact of the
construction phase of the Rail Trail on Tweed LGA is:
• $9.23 million in GRP and 70 FTE in Year 1; and
• $3.46 million in GRP and 26 FTE in Year 2.
‘The estimated economic
impact of the construction
phase of the Rail Trail on
Tweed LGA is: $9.23 million
in GRP and 70 FTE in Year 1;
and $3.4 million in GRP and
26 FTE in Year 2.’
INCREASED TOURISM ACTIVITY
The economic analysis has indicated that the on-going
impact of the Tweed Stage of the NRRT will result in a
significant increase in visitors to the region. This will
undoubtedly lead to the creation of further jobs in the
tourism sector (and flow-ons to other sectors) helping
to address the higher than average unemployment rate
and the need for job creation as a result of a growing
population.
The economic impact of ongoing tourism activity as a
result of the proposed Rail Trail has been based on an
increased spend of $2.45 million per annum following
construction of the Trail (Annexure 1). Anticipated
visitor numbers were calculated following the same
methodology from the “Casino to Murwillumbah Rail
Trail” report prepared for Premier and Cabinet (2014).
The report calculated the per cent of domestic Rail Trail
visitors to total domestic visitors using the Victorian
Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail as a benchmark. This
equates to approximately 1.9% of Tweed Regions visitor
numbers in addition to the localised use of the Trail
(5,000).
Based on data from the economic impact of the
increased tourism expenditure, including flow-on effects
is:
• 29 FTE; and
• $3.66 million in GRP.
In assessing the impact in terms of employment, it
is important to ensure that there is sufficient spare
capacity in the existing local labour force at the required
occupation and skill level to meet the increased demand.
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 27

Tweed Local Government Area has consistently reported
unemployment rates significantly higher than both
regional NSW and NSW overall. Additionally, the Tweed
Shire has had one of the fastest and largest population
growths in NSW highlighting a need for job creation in
the region. A high unemployment rate and an increasing
population would indicate that there is sufficient spare
capacity to support the increased demand as a result of
the construction of the proposed Rail Trail.
Developing an additional attraction within a region, such
as a Rail Trail, will encourage new visitors to a region,
some that may not have visited previously. Tourism
is key component of the Tweed Region’s economy,
contributing more than 2,000 jobs and almost $280
million to the local economy.
To ensure the tourism industry remains strong, the
importance of new attractions, such as a Rail Trail, is
evident. The addition of a new facility will have flow
on effects and provide additional visitation at existing
attractions, thus providing a boost to many local tourism
operators.
The Tweed stage of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail will
pass through a number of smaller communities including
Stokers Siding, Burringbar, Mooball and Crabbes Creek.
TABLE 6: CURRENT AND EXPECTED VISITOR NUMBERS TO TWEED LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA,
Tweed LGA
1.9% additional visitor numbers from outside the region as 9,700
a result of Rail Trail
=28 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE
The economic analysis indicates that the on-
going impact of the Tweed section of the
Northern Rivers Rail Trail will be a significant
increase in visitors to the region
.
These communities may not attract the “typical” visitor
to the Tweed. The Trail will provide more customers to
the local businesses and allow for the revitalisation of
many of these communities.
The Rail Trail aims to sustainably grow the regional
economy by leveraging the regions natural beauty and
popular galleries located in and around the regional
villages. In turn this will increase activity-based tourism
in these picturesque villages. This can only benefit the
residents of these communities providing a boost to
their local businesses and creating more employment
opportunities.
The proposed Rail Trail will also assist to extend the length
of stay of the visitors to the region, a key component
of the Destination NSW strategy to double visitor
expenditure by 2020. This will provide opportunities
for existing businesses in the region to leverage these
visitors, adding vital expenditure to the economy.
Destination Tweed reports that the percentage uptake
of activities in the Tweed Region for domestic overnight
visitors (2009-2013) was 9% for bushwalking or rainforest
walks and 3.1 % for cycling indicating a strong existing
market in these sectors. The addition of a Rail Trail in
the region would likely increase the length of stay for
INTERNATIONAL
DOMESTIC OVERNIGHT DOMESTIC DAY TRIPS
VISITORS
512,000 910,000 22,000
17,000 400
these visitors. Additionally, the growth in the number of direct economic benefit to the community. The NSW
participants in cycling more broadly and the strength of Adult Population Health Survey indicates a significant
the walking tourism sector would also support a growth increase in the proportion of adults who are overweight
in visitation to the Tweed as a result of the proposed Rail or obese (41.5% in 1997 compared to 52.5% in 2014).
Trail. The costs of physical inactivity, obesity and associated
diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and
cardiovascular disease are well documented.
INCREASED EMPLOYMENT
Tweed Local Government Area has consistently reported
In 2007, a study conducted for Medibank Private
unemployment rates significantly higher than both
estimated that the net health cost associated with
regional NSW and NSW overall.
physical inactivity amongst people aged between 18
and 75 years (i.e. after deducting costs associated with
The latest figures published by the Department of
sports injuries and the cost of participating in fitness
Employment, show an unemployment rate of 8.9% for
related activities) was approximately $670 million.
the Tweed Region, substantially higher than the 6.0%
recorded for NSW. Additionally, the Tweed Shire has
Recent research by the National Heart Foundation
one of the fastest and largest population growth rates
ranked the Richmond-Tweed region sixth in New South
in NSW, highlighting the need for continual job creation
Wales in the national obesity and inactivity ranking. The
in the region.
research indicated 58% of people in the Tweed region
were overweight or obese and 70.5% were insufficiently
The economic analysis has indicated that the on-going
active to maintain good health.
impact of the Tweed stage of the Northern Rivers Rail
Trail will be a significant increase in visitors to the region.
There is also substantial research that indicates good
This will undoubtedly result in the creation of further jobs
facilities will increase participation in sport and leisure
in the tourism sector, with flow-on jobs in other sectors,
activities. The NSW Adult Population Health Survey
which will help to address the higher than average
results for 2011 outlined a number of key characteristics
unemployment rate and the need for job creation as a
that influence physical activity including provision of
product of a growing population.
facilities for physical activities, which may include
outdoor sports facilities, playgrounds and natural green
The impacts by industry sector in terms of employment
spaces.
generated are expected to be felt in the following sectors:
• Accommodation & food services; The Tweed stage of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail will
• Retail trade; provide a safe, easily accessible recreational facility for
• Transport, postal & warehousing; and the Tweed Community, as well as visitors to the region.
• Health care & social assistance.

INCREASED HEALTH BENEFITS ‘Upon completion, the Rail Trail

Whilst the key economic benefit of the proposed Rail Trail
is associated with attracting additional visitors to the will attract more than 27,000
region, the provision of a Rail Trail in the Tweed Region
will also be utilised by residents. There are established
visitors per annum creating 29
cycling, bushwalking and other sporting groups in the additional jobs, provide health
Tweed region that will access the new recreational Trail
and this will encourage other members of the community benefits for local residents
to experience the beautiful natural experiences along the
Trail whilst increasing their physical activity.
that utilise the Trail and
assist in revitalising the small
Studies have shown that increased exercise contributes
to better health outcomes which, in turn, provide
communities along the route. ’

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 29

SOCIAL ANALYSIS

30 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

SOCIAL ANALYSIS
The Rail Trail will provide a range of social benefits to the residents of the Tweed Region.
The Trail will pass through a number of smaller villages including Stokers Siding, Burringbar,
Mooball and Crabbes Creek linking these communities and providing a greater sense of
connectedness and pride in their region.
The Tweed region faces challenges over the medium and
longer term, with various forecasts indicating significant
population growth, an ageing population and high levels
of unemployment. The Tweed Region is fast growing
and requires support for infrastructure development.
The NSW Department of Planning & Infrastructure
population forecast identifies Tweed LGA as containing
37% of the Northern River’s region’s population. This is
expected to increase to 42% by 2036 where the Tweed
will have a total population of over 130,000 people.
Additionally, the Tweed Region has a higher proportion
of the population at post-retirement age (almost 30%)
compared to regional NSW (22%) and Australia overall
(almost 20%).
The tourism sector, which contributes almost 10 per
cent of direct employment in Tweed Shire, has shown
a significant decline across the Northern Rivers region,
in total number of visitors (down 7.5%) and visitor
expenditure (0.8% decrease) in 2012. This important
sector contributes vital employment in a region that
has consistently higher rates of unemployment (9.2%
compared to NSW 5.9% in Sept Qtr 2015).
The Tweed Stage of the NRRT will help address these
areas of social disadvantage by supporting the tourism
sector and providing vital recreational facilities for the
local residents. Further, the Tweed Stage of the NRRT
will pass through a number of smaller villages including
Stokers Siding, Burringbar, Mooball and Crabbes Creek
linking these communities and providing a greater sense
of connectedness and pride in their region.
UNEMPLOYMENT RATE
For the previous three years, Tweed itself has had one
of the fastest and largest population growth rates
in NSW, growing by over 2,000 people per year and
reaching over 91,000 residents in 2014. The population
is estimated to reach more than 130,000 by 2036. The
diverse population is geographically spread between
urban communities, coastal and rural towns and more
than fifteen villages.
Tweed Shire has long been acknowledged as a
retirement destination, the age profile of the Shire
reflects an ageing population. The population aged 55
and over comprises of 38% of the population in urban
areas; in rural areas, the same age group represents
30% of the population. Between 2011 and 2026, the age
structure forecast undertaken by .id for Tweed Shire
indicate a 28.3% increase in population under working
age, a 27.3% increase in population of retirement age,
and a 15.5% increase in population of working age.
Unemployment
The Tweed region has a volitile unemployment rate
This is reflected in a 5.4% rate in the 2016 September
quarter and 9.2% in the same period in 2015, which
was significantly higher than either the New South
Wales (5.9%) or Australia (6.1%). This is shown in
graph below.
QUARTERLY UNEMPLOYMENT RATE
Tweed Shire Regional NSW
NSW Australia

Population growth
Tweed is the largest local government area in the
Northern Rivers region. The Northern Rivers is forecast
to be the fastest growing region in NSW during the next
twenty years, with population forecast to grow at 1.2%
per annum (0.4% above the state average). 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
YEAR

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 31

In 2011, the unemployment rate of the 15 to 24 years
was 16.1% in Tweed compared to 12.9% in Regional
NSW.
The Federal electorate of Richmond, which includes
the Tweed Shire Council area, has 7,249 social security
(Newstart) recipients, which is proportionally one of the
highest in the nation (2014, Source ABC). The Socio-
Economic Index for Areas (SEIFA Index), published by
the Australian Bureau of Statistics, ranks the Tweed
Shire as relatively disadvantaged. The Tweed LGA
Australian wide rank is 227 (5 Decile/41 Percentile) by
relative socio-economic disadvantage, with a SEIFA
score of 949.
The Rail Trail Project provides an important opportunity to
help stablise and address relatively high unemployment
through boosting sustainable economic tourist activity.
The Tweed Stage of the NRRT is critical to help address
the regions ongoing high unemployment.
Tourism sector
Total visitor expenditure in Tweed Shire derived from
overnight visitors was estimated to be $257 million
with $243 million or almost 95% derived from domestic
overnight visitors. The value of tourism to the Tweed
economy is shown in the graph below.
VALUE OF TOURISM & HOSPITALITY 2013/2014
Tweed Shire NSW
as users of the Rail Trail, are growing in popularity
nationally and internationally. The Tweed Stage of the
NRRT provides an opportunity to capture additional
visitors in these growth areas, supporting the vital
tourism sector in the region.
Health benefits
The Tweed Stage of the NRRT will provide an opportunity
to promote, encourage and enable health benefits to all
age groups within the Tweed community. The Tweed
Region has a higher proportion of the population at
post-retirement age (almost 30%) compared to regional
NSW (22%) and Australia overall (almost 20%). This
will continue to increase over the next 20 years, with
significant growth in population along the Tweed Coast,
including an increase in the ageing population.
A study released by the Victorian Government reported
only 1 in 10 Australians aged over 50 exercised enough
to gain health benefits and that more than half of the
physical decline associated with ageing was due to a
lack of physical activity. Walking as a form of exercise is
recommended to older people as it is easily accessible,
safe and low cost.
Research indicates that all people who participate in
physical activity enjoy better mental health, are more
alert, and more resilient against the stresses of modern
living. Beyond Blue released a report in 2012 examining
the health benefits associated with green spaces and

Employment
‘The Tweed Region has a higher
proportion of the population at
TOURISM MEASURE

Employment
(FTE) post-retirement age (almost
30%) compared to regional
Output/Sales

Value Added NSW (22%) and Australia

0 5 10 15 overall (almost 20%) continuing
% of TOTAL INDUSTRY
to increase over the next 20
Adapted from .id 2016
years”
The primary reason for visiting the Tweed region was
for a holiday, comprising almost half of the market.
Bushwalking and cycling, two of the key groups identified

32 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

found that “the range of psychological benefits for
people who visit green, open spaces is vast and includes
improved mood, lower levels of anxiety, lower stress
levels, lower levels of depression and increased physical
activity”.
This is further supported by a Deakin University study
which examined the linkage between nature and health
and wellbeing and concluded “contrary to popular
thinking, humans may be dependent on nature for
psychological, emotional, and spiritual needs that are
difficult to satisfy by other means”.
The Tweed Stage of the NRRT will link magnificent
natural features of the Tweed Region such as Mooball
National Park, Mt Jerusalem National Park and
Wollumbin/Mt Warning and allow residents (as well as
visitors) to experience the beautiful natural environment
along its route. The 24 kilometre Trail incorporates two
tunnels (one approximately 500m long with glow worms
and bats), 27 bridges and provides picturesque views of
the Tweed Caldera landscape. Research indicates that
access to community recreational facilities and natural
open spaces such as the Rail Trail, can assist with
improving the wellbeing of the individual participant as
well as the overall community.
Improved community
connectedness
Community connectedness is the interaction a person
has with others in their community and the community
as a whole. It provides the opportunity to engage,
which enables people to achieve shared goals. The Rail
Trail project aims to increase community wellbeing,
both during the implementation of the Rail Trail as
communities work together to realise the project and
on completion as communities enjoy the benefits of the
Trail.
It will connect communities by creating a free,
environmentally friendly and healthy option to travel to
work, to access services or to visit friends and relatives.
In addition to linking the communities, the Rail Trail
will provide a number of recreational areas inside the
local villages for healthy pursuits, social gatherings and
events, including races and charity events. Additionally,
these areas will provide a ‘neutral space’ in which people
can gather from different backgrounds and interact
socially. While personal goals are pursued, community
building and increased social capital will emerge. This
sense of connectedness will be evident in the people
‘In addition to linking the
communities, the Rail Trail
will provide a number of
recreational areas inside
the local villages for healthy
pursuits, social gatherings
and events. ’
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 33
that use the area and foster a greater sense of trust and Region
cooperation among individuals. These social dynamics
will promote community wellness and social cohesion for The Rail Trail will increase community well-being, both
the wider Tweed region. during the implementation of the rail trail as communities
work together to realise the project and on completion as
communities enjoy the benefits of the Trail. The Trail will
Educational benefits connect communities by creating a free, environmentally
The Rail Trail will be designed to encourage educational trips
friendly and healthy option to travel to work, to access
for students to learn about local heritage, environmental
services or to visit friends and relatives.
ecosystems, and food production. The Project will deliver
heritage and interpretive elements during and beyond
construction with Tweed Shire Council professional
museum staff guiding and overseeing this aspect of the
proposal. Additionally, the Project will integrate Aboriginal
cultural heritage elements and foster the recognition of
the local Aboriginal people and their culture. ‘The Rail Trail will connect
the youth of the Tweed
Currently, approximately 14 per cent of the Tweed
population is made up of the 12-24 age group and the community with the key
Region has begun to show growth in young families
attracted to the region for its lifestyle attributes. A facility
historical, natural and cultural
such as the Rail Trail has the potential to connect younger aspects of the Northern Rivers
members of the Tweed Region with the key historical,
natural and cultural aspects of their community. region. ’

Cultural economic benefits

The Tweed Region boasts a significant art and cultural
community, housing more artists per capita than any other
region in Australia. The Margaret Olley Art Centre located
in Murwillumbah is amongst the best regional art galleries
in Australia. The Tweed Regional Art Gallery conducted
research in 2014 and estimated that tourists visiting
the Gallery from outside the Tweed Shire contributed
approximately $7.38 million into the local economy
through their expenditure on dining, retail, accommodation
and transport. Further, 70% of patrons returned each year
and 98% indicated that the Gallery met their expectations.

However, cultural facilities are much more than the

contribution they make to the local economy. Linking local
communities through arts activities leads to improved
community networks and capacities. The Rail Trail will
provide linkages between the large arts community in
Murwillumbah and the artists and groups located in the
smaller settlements and rural hinterland. It will improve
the access of residents and tourists to the broader cultural
community, provide linkages with the artists and their
activities thus improving the social connectedness of the

34 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 35

ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS
One of the goals of the Rail Trail is to ensure the protection of the Trail’s natural areas while
offering safe and enjoyable recreational opportunities for all natural environment users
through the creation of a sustainable multi-use trail system. Environmental management
principles underpin the planning, design and future management of the trails natural
ecosystem.
The Tweed stage of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail will
result in an array of environmental benefits. In summary
these include:
• Establishment of habitat and wildlife corridor
• Educational and interpretive opportunities and
increased environmental and cultural awareness
and appreciation;
• Provision of green commuter journeys leading to
a decrease in the use of motorised vehicles for
transportation and recreation. This helps reduce
the production of emissions that cause global
warming and respiratory problems;
• Increased community ownership which helps to
preserve natural and cultural values; and
• Opportunities for community participation in
conservation and re-vegetation work therefore
creating and facilitating cultural awareness and
appreciation.
HABITAT & WILDLIFE CORRIDOR
The Rail Trail will provide a habitat and a wildlife corridor
that reconnects an assortment of forest remnants. The
trail will be able to deliver interpretive displays of most
of the types of ecosystems to be found in the region and
will be able to showcase the biodiversity for which the
Northern Rivers is famous. With long sweeping vistas
in both directions, spotting animals or watching for birds
will be one of the signature experiences for trail users.
Iconic Australian wildlife including koalas and wallabies
(in the wild) will be a key tourism drawcard.
The NSW State Government in the Landholder Notes
(15) outlines the benefits of the establishment of
habitat and wildfire corridors. The publication defines
a wildlife corridor as a “link of wildlife habitat, generally
native vegetation, which joins two or more larger areas
of similar wildlife habitat. Corridors are critical for the
maintenance of ecological processes including allowing
36 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE
for the movement of animals and the continuation of
viable populations. “
The Tweed stage of NRRT will reconnect an assortment
of forest remnants and ecosystems and provide
connections between areas of habitats therefore
enabling migration, colonisation and interbreeding of
flora and fauna and animals within the Region.
The Rail Trail will act as a wildlife corridor,
and preserve an important environmental
feature of the Region. Tweed Shire Council
place considerable importance on the
protection and sustainability of the Region’s
environmental features and recognise
that the environmental objectives of the
Trail will be an important part of the Trail’s
Management Plan. These objectives have
been identified as:
• To reduce the ecological effects of
habitat fragmentation caused by urban
development, transport infrastructure
and land uses inimical to wildlife;
• To link natural habitats and assist in
conserving biodiversity across and
between the urban and rural landscape;
• To facilitate natural dispersal and
movement of animal wildlife in the
“bush capital”;
• To provide for natural ecological
processes to continue at the landscape
scale; and
• To maintain ecological links to the
region.
EDUCATION AND CULTURAL
AWARENESS
The Rail Trail will provide a unique opportunity to
educate users on the environmental aspects of the
region by engaging users whilst en-route and providing
a destination for educational and community groups.
Interpretive signage will be utilised throughout the rail
trail to highlight local heritage, flora and flauna and facts
about the Region and Trail.
The Rail Trail will operate as a shared outdoor education
campus. Local and regional schools and universities
could utilise the Rail Trail to run classes with content
being developed for delivery onsite and in doing so the
education system could contribute to and benefit from
the development and management of the Trail.
‘“Trails can help instil a
conservation ethic among
users, and be a means
of educating users about
the attributes of an area,
especially when good
interpretation is a feature of
the trail. “
PROVISION OF GREEN COMMUTER
JOURNEYS
The Rail Trail will act in itself as a form of active
transportation and public transport which will assist
in minimising the use of motorised vehicles for
transportation. Cycling and walking are environmentally
friendly modes of transport as they are silent and
produce no emissions. A report prepared by the NRRT
Inc (2013) notes “For every trip in a fossil fuelled vehicle
replaced by a bike journey 99% of carbon emissions are
saved.”
Motor vehicle usage will be reduced in key areas
by:
• Replacing commuter trips;
• Trips shortened by using cycles to commute
and linking with private and public transport
• Attract more visitors who will be content to
use bicycles
• More visitors who come specifically for the
Trail and cycling in general.
• The Trail will help develop a “cycling”
mentality within the Region as well
as supporting bike tourism through
infrastructure development. It is estimated
that for every 10km cycled instead of
driving saves an average of 1.3 tonnes
of greenhouse gas emissions each year
(Bicycle Network: 2013).
IMPROVEMENT OF WATER
QUALITY
Green space created by the natural Trail corridor
will help to mitigate storm-water runoff and
encourage water table recharge. It will also serve
as a natural filter, trapping pollutants from urban
runoff, eroding areas and agricultural lands in order
to keep the region’s water supplies healthy.
IMPROVEMENT OF AIR QUALITY
Tree cover provided by the Trail will contribute to
air quality by removing substantial amounts of
particulate matter and carbon dioxide from the
atmosphere. The Trail will also encourage non-
motorised means of transportation, which can
significantly reduce air pollutants.
PARTNERSHIPS & STEWARDSHIP
The Trail provides the opportunity for environmental
groups to be involved in the management and
protection of the natural ecosystem. Tweed Shire
Council has a strong focus on the protection and
sustainability of the natural environment within the
Region.
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 37
With long sweeping vistas in both directions, spotting
animals or watching for birds will be one of the signature
experiences for trail users.

The Council manages a biodiversity program with

the main target areas being bushland management,
threatened species and communities. The Rail Trail
fits within this strategic program and will provide an
opportunity for partnerships to form between Council,
local businesses, community organisations and
volunteer groups.

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail organisation has focused

on building partnerships through the development of the
Trail. It currently has over 20 corporate sponsors, and a
large network of supporters or “friends” of the Rail Trail.

38 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 39

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Community and stakeholder engagement and consultation on the Tweed stage of the
Northern Rivers Rail Trail has been an integral part of the development of the market research
that supports the Business Case.
Tweed Shire Council has undertaken extensive research community and the private sector wish to
as part of the development of the Rail Trail, recognising participate;
the value of input from local residents, adjoining • Ensure adjacent landowners are informed and
landowners, businesses, community organisations and concerns are addressed accordingly; and
government stakeholders. • Ensure the process allows for ongoing
communication to the public on how their input
Community engagement for the concept for the broader has been included in decision making
Northern Rivers Rail Trail commenced in May 2013
when the Northern Rivers Rail Trail Association Inc, was The Strategy outlined the purpose and the principles
formed by local philanthropists known as the Sourdough in which the Committee would undertake stakeholder
Group, community volunteers, staff from Councils and engagement and a deliverables matrix which has
staff and leaders of the tourist industry. Extensive assisted the development of the concept including the
engagement has taken place along the length of the identification of stakeholders and engagement tasks.
route as the Trail Group undertook a holistic approach to
plan the Trail in one length and then Stage the sections
of the Trail.
TWEED STAGE CONSULTATION
Tweed Shire Council has completed a Communications
Plan specifically for the Tweed stage of the NRRT
REGIONAL NRRT Community (Annexure 2). The Plan identifies the key stakeholders
and details the key messages to be utilised when
Engagement Strategy targeting these stakeholders and distribution methods
In 2013, the NRRT Inc., with input from Tweed Shire
to best reach each intended audience.
Council, developed a formal communications strategy
with the key aim to ‘continue to increase community
Tweed Shire Council has conducted extensive planning,
awareness and understanding of a Rail Trail in the
design and community consultation activities since
Northern Rivers’. Community engagement for the
May 2013 when Council formally resolved to support
Tweed stage of the Trail has been undertaken in line with
the establishment of a Rail Trail on the Casino to
the objectives of the Community Engagement Strategy.
Murwillumbah corridor. This consultation has been
supported by the broader Councils and stakeholders of
The objectives of the Rail Trail Community Engagement
the Northern Rivers Rail Trail concept and has followed
Strategy include:
the objectives of the NRRT community consultation
• Design a process that assists in making strategy.
sustainable decisions that reflect the aspirations
of the local community’s involved in the Trail;
The ongoing engagement has ensured local stakeholder
• Ensure that the community engagement support and expectations are met and the Trail has
process provides opportunities for the widest
accurately prepared cost estimates that meets the
possible participation particularly for those
needs of the communities.
groups who are traditionally disengaged from
these processes;
Initial meetings were held with the communities of
• Inform the community on progress with the Rail Stokers Sliding and Mooball, two of the regional towns
Trail;
located within the Tweed stage of the Trail.
• Ensure the process is responsive to how the

40 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

In addition in-depth consultations have been held along
the total length of the route to engage tourism operators,
community members, business and government
stakeholders to assist in the development of the Rail
Trail.
Community consultation activities undertaken specific
to the Tweed stage of the NRRT project, include:
• Exhibition of concept plans for the
Murwillumbah to Art Gallery Rail Trail Pilot (the
pilot project)
• Door-knocking South Murwillumbah residences
adjacent to the rail corridor
• Door-knocking business around Murwillumbah
Station and Prospero St precinct
• Meeting with rural landowners adjacent to the
proposed Pilot Project
• Creating a webpage, including ‘frequently asked
questions’, to provide information on the pilot
project
• Contacting all landowners sharing a boundary
with the rail corridor in Tweed Shire
• Personal, onsite briefings of adjacent
landowners where appropriate
• Various media releases
Engagement Activities
NRRT Inc. has undertaken a broad range of public
activities to gather input providing valuable insights
into the social, economic, environment and governance
issues and opportunities of the Trail.
The extensive engagement has included over 60
community forums, participating in 42 market stalls,
the development of online media including a dedicated
website, and social media through a facebook page and
dedicated printed collateral.
Engagement activities have been diverse and wide
ranging to ensure reach and gather information and
feedback on the Project including usage, issues and
benefits. Activities have ranged from face to face with
key stakeholders, community forums and market stalls
through to online mediums such as Facebook, website
presence. In addition there has been over 360 media
activities through television, radio and newspaper.
These activities are outlined in detail in Table 7
Community Consultation.
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 41
 TABLE 7: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES

TARGET MARKET ACTIVITY LOCATION

Northern Rivers and Brisbane, including Mullumbimby, Byron Bay, Bangalow,
Market stalls x 42
Lismore, Channon, Casino, New Brighton, Stokers Siding, Brisbane Expo and
Reach: 70,000
Murwillumbah.
Byron Bay 11 April 2014
Public Meetings Tweed Regional Gallery
Reach: Murwillumbah 27 June 2014
Lismore 30 May 2014
Community Forums Extensive and intensive. NRRT Inc. have initiated and attended many events. Eg.
Reach: Bangalow Chamber of Commerce, Bangalow Progress Society, Transport Options
GENERAL PUBLIC
Forum (Byron).
Bangalow Film night (3 May 2014),
Other BBQ and Bluegrass Festival (2 August 2014)
Reach: Bangalow Bowls Club Benefit (24 April 2015)
Circus Arts (24 May 2014)
At the October 2014 meeting, Council resolved to place the Pilot Project concept
Concept Design Exhibition design on exhibition. The plans were exhibited publicly from 27 October to 9
December and a total of 18 submissions were received

South Murwillumbah residences adjacent to the rail corridor

All properties, including those that were unattended at the time, were left with a
Adjoining Residents
letter inviting them to visit Council’s rail trail web pages, make submissions and
contact Council if any further information was needed.
Businesses around Murwillumbah Station and Prospero St precinct
All properties, including those that were unattended at the time, were left with a
Businesses
letter inviting them to visit Council’s rail trail web pages, make submissions and
contact Council if any further information was needed.
NRRT Inc. members have spoken with most Aboriginal Lands Councils and/or
KEY STAKEHOLDERS Aboriginal Land Councils representatives in the Region. Tweed Shire Council Officers have also attended
the Aboriginal Advisory Committee to discuss the project.
Byron Shire Council
Tweed Shire Council
Government Lismore City Council
Ballina Shire Council
Richmond Valley Council
Chambers of Commerce Mullumbimby, Bangalow, Ocean Shores, Murwillumbah, Brunswick, Tweed

Special interest groups Byron Bicycle Club annual meeting

ONLINE MARKETING

GENERAL PUBLIC Facebook 2130 likes

SUPPORTERS northernriversrailtrailsupporters Established 2013
SPONSORS

Tweed Shire Council has two web pages, each with a series of ‘frequently asked
questions’ to communicate information relating to the rail trail proposal and the
pilot project. The web pages went live on Council’s website on 3 June 2014. The
web pages and FAQs can be found at:
• www.tweed.nsw.gov.au/NorthernRiversRailTrail
GENERAL PUBLIC
Web Pages • www.tweed.nsw.gov.au/MurwillumbahRailTrail
SUPPORTERS
SPONSORS
northernriversrailtrail.com
The NRRT is a dedicated website that provides comprehensive information on all
aspects of the Rail Trail. Users can sign up to receive newsletters, support the Trail
and the website hosts a myriad of information pertaining directly to the Trail and
other Trails located around the world.
GENERAL PUBLIC Sent approx. fortnightly to 2200 members of the community
SUPPORTERS Newsletters and rail trail supporters and hosted on NRRT website
SPONSORS

42 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

 TARGET MARKET ACTIVITY LOCATION

30 April 2013 - Mayor backs rail trail

30 August 2013 - On track to investigate feasibility of Murwillumbah to Casino rail trail
25 November 2013 - National rail trail leader excited for local rail’s potential
24 March 2014 - Tweed leaders head to launch of rail trails peak body
31 March 2014 - Peak body launch boosts confidence for Northern Rivers Rail Trail
16 June 2014 - Rail trail campaign boosted by viability study findings
6 August 2014 - Significant donation for rail trail
2 December 2014 - Last week for submissions on pilot rail trail

Other media releases have been provided by State MPs and generally not have been
reproduced by Council, such as:
Media Releases
23 August 2013 - Don Page MP: NSW Government to Fund Study into a Northern
GENERAL PUBLIC Rivers Rail Trail
22 November 2013 - Don Page MP: Casino to Murwillumbah Rail Trail Feasibility
Study Successful Tenderer Announced
26 February 2014 - Don Page: Support For Northern Rivers Rail Trail Tabled In
Parliament
13 June 2014 - Andrew Stoner MP: Rail trail possibility for North Coast (Release of
Feasibility Study)
17 June 2014 - Don Page: Investment In Regional Tourism Could Fund Casino To
Murwillumbah Rail Trail
6 January 2015 - John Barilaro MP: Infrastructure Boost for Regional Tourism
ABC north coast
Radio Bay FM
ZZZ FM Lismore

Feedback • Omar Khalifa - Cofounder Go! Alliance

The exposure for the Rail Trail has resulted in extensive
community feedback which Council has taken into
careful consideration while assessing the feasibility,
design and developing costings for the Rail Trail. Council
and the NRRT group recognise that the success of the
Trail will only be achieved by working in partnership with
a number of key private and public stakeholders.
• Toni Zuschke - President Murwillumbah and Dis-
trict Chamber of Commerce
• Peter Morimore - President Bangalow Chamber of
Commerce
• Francis Clark - Byron Bay Chamber of Commerce
• Damian McCrohan - Rail Trails Australia

The Tweed section of Rail Trail concept and broader
Northern Rivers Rail Trail has received overwhelming
support from key stakeholders, community and
businesses.
Over 50 letters of support have been received from
industry, community members and organisations and
government officials (annexure 4).
Concept Design Exhibition
At the October 2014 meeting, Council resolved to place
the Pilot Project concept design on public exhibition.
The plans were exhibited publically from 27 October
to 9 December 2014 and a total of 18 submissions
were received. Generally, the comments received
were directed at the overall rail trail proposal and not
specifically the Pilot Project.

Letters of support have been received from:
• Telstra
• Chris Gulaptis - Nationals MP for Clarence / Parlia-
mentary Secretary for North Coast
• Thomas George - MP State Member for Lismore
• Ben Franklin - Member of the Legislative Council
• Geoff Provest - MP State Member for Tweed
• Kerry Doyle - Chief Executive NSW Heart Founda-
tion
• Stokers Siding and Districts Community Associa-
tion
• Bill Tatchell - Chief Executive Officer Destination
Tweed Inc.
• Pat Grier - President Northern Rivers Rail Trail lnc.
Nine submissions were supportive of the Rail Trail,
eight were opposed and one was impartial. Six of the
submissions were not from people in Tweed Shire.
Objectors raised a number of issues including:
1. Land contamination: within rail corridor Council’s
Environmental Scientists have conducted preliminary
investigations into this issue, including acquiring
contamination reports from the Rail Authority, and have
concluded the risk of contamination is low and can
be easily managed through appropriate construction
methods and work practices.

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 43

2. Multi-modal corridor options: Extensive ‘multi-modal’
corridor sharing is not feasible because of narrow
tunnels, cuttings, high embankments and bridges along
the route.
3. Transport Administration Act 1988: Section 99A of the
Transport Administration Act 1988 remains a barrier to
the establishment of rail trails in NSW. State Government
removal of this barrier will be required before a rail trail
can go ahead.
4. Maintenance responsibility and funding: It is widely
recognised that Councils do not have the resources to
maintain a rail trail. In the long term the rail trail is not
proposed to be a Council asset. It is intended that a
rail trail central governance body (i.e. a trust) would be
established and would manage maintenance using non-
Council funding sources.
EXTERNAL CONSULTATION
There are many detailed studies and reports directly
pertaining to the development of the Rail Trail. These
reports have included an element of consultation to
assist in identifying community and user perceptions
on the Trail; determine and assess integration into other
tourism products and marketing strategies and to assist
in identifying the best management and governance
structures for the Trail.
These reports include but are not limited to:
• Arup (2012) Transport for NSW Casino to
Murwillumbah Transport Study
• NRRT Inc. (2013) Perspectives on the Feasibility
of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail.
• Arup (2014) Casino to Murwillumbah Rail Trail
Study.

5. Stokers Siding tunnel glow worm colony: Council

officers (and Northern Rivers Rail Trail representatives)
are aware of the glow worm colony and see it as a
potential highlight and attraction of the rail trail. At this
early stage, no detailed plan has been developed, though
it is intended to retain the glow worm colony

6. Return of trains/connection to Queensland:

These issues were addressed in the 2013 Casino to
Murwillumbah Transport Study and will not be revisited
here.

44 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE


The Rail Trail will encourage sustainable
transport, a healthier lifestyle; will reduce
congestion in our towns and at the same time
increase tourism visit. It will create a beautiful
pathway through some of most scenic country
in Australia and attract a different tourist
clientele
Chris Gulaptis
Nationals MP for Clarence
The rail trail has broad community support
with a significant level of public consultation
already undertaken
Thomas George
MP
State Member for Lismore
I firmly believe that the proposed Northern
Rivers Rail Trail is the best possible use for
the corridor and that inaction is a waste of a
valuable resource
Ben Franklin
Member of the Legislative Council
I am aware of the strong support within the
community for the development of a Rail Trail
and for the preservation of infrastructure along
the rail corridor and its historic bridges, tunnel
and station buildings, Using the rail corridor
in this fashion would ensure it remains in
public hands and this infrastructure would be
maintained
Geoff Provest
MP
State Member for Tweed
A number of studies confirm that Trails
and greenways are good for health, by
promoting physical activity and mental
health. The potential for the Northern Rivers
Rail Trail to support a healthier community
directly aligns with the Heart Foundations
goal for Australians to be more active.
Kerry Doyle
Chief Executive NSW
Heart Foundation
We believe this project will develop the
potential of Stokers Sidings unique cultural
and environmental attractions. Located just
32 kms south of Gold Coast airport the rail
trail would help the Stokers district access
the massive tourism market of the Gold
Coast.
Stokers Siding and Districts
Community Association
Support for the development of the
Rail Trail is included in both the current
Tweed and North Coast Destination
Management Plans. A Rail Trail will support
the development of a range of products
targeted at Experience Seekers – our key
target market segments for both domestic
and international markets.
Bill Thatchell
Chief Executive Officer
Destination Tweed Inc.
A Rail Trail here will be a significant
attraction for local, domestic and
international tourists. lt will boost the
local economy and create new business
opportunities in the communities adjacent
to the trail.
Pat Grier
President
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 45
GOVERNANCE & OPERATIONS

46 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

GOVERNANCE & OPERATIONS
Extensive investigations have been held into the ongoing governance and financial operations
of the Rail Trail. To ensure the future sustainability of the Rail Trail, the final model adopted
should be one that reduces any ongoing management to the State Government with priority
given to a self sustaining model that achieves local, state and national policy outcomes.
Review of Existing Governance
Structures
Extensive investigations have been held into the
governance options and best practice structures to lead
and manage the ongoing options of the Rail Trail. Tweed
Shire Council recognises that the final governance
arrangements for the Trail will be a decision for the
NSW State Government. However based on extensive
research into the governance structures of existing trails
the following suggestions are made.
It is important to recognise that the Tweed Stage of
the NRRT is the first section of what will become the
full 130 Km NRRT from Murwillumbah to Casino Rail
Trail corridor. As such, the governance structure that is
established for this section should be one that is suitable
for the entire Trail.
On review of the governance structures used by other
trail systems, it is apparent that there are some common
tasks that need to be accomplished when managing a
trail system.
These tasks include:
• Ownership/Leadership Tasks. These are owner-
related tasks and tasks related to accomplishing
the vision of full trail completion and delivering an
effective, quality service to the public. They can
best be defined as policy tasks, as opposed to
day-to-day operations of the trail system.
• Management/Operational Tasks. These are
tasks associated with the day-to-day operations
of the trail and include everything from budget
management to managing the staff delivering
trail-related services, planning and implementing
capital projects, doing trail maintenance, and
addressing issues such as vegetation control,
litter pick-up, trail patrols, etc.
• Support Tasks. These tasks are ones that are
often accomplished by a dedicated support
group of volunteers—a Friends Group—such as
fundraising, planning and conducting special
events, working with and coordinating volunteers,
performing light trail maintenance, promoting
the trail as a benefit to local businesses, and
so forth. The role of a support group can be
relatively minor or it can be extensive.
Knowing what is to be achieved is important in
establishing an appropriate structure for the Rail Trail.
Governance Structure
Four governance structures have been investigated
and these include:
OPTION 1: Management Committee working with Local
Government
Examples of this format include the Great Victorian Rail
Trail and the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail. Both highly
successful Victorian Rail Trail’s.
OPTION 2: Management Committee of Volunteers
The Riesling Trail in South Australia’s Clare Valley is
managed under this format.
OPTION 3: Management by Local Government
For example, the Warburton Trail in Victoria and the
Coast to Vines Trail in South Australia are both managed
by their respective Local Governments
OPTION 4: Government Appointed Trust
Successful examples include the Bibbulbum Track and
Munda Biddi Trail in Western Australia. In New Zealand
the Hauraki Trail and Otago Central Rail Trail are also
managed under this format. The Western Sydney
Parklands trust was also reviewed.
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 47
 The Casino to Murwillumbah Rail Trail Feasibility Report
also recommended a trust arrangement to manage
operational aspects of the trail.
On investigation it was concluded a common theme
that distinguished successful trails from the less
successful was two key factors:
1. Community involvement and support
2. Ability to promote/market the trail
The structure that appears most appropriate to support
these themes is the Trust arrangement.
Trust Governance Model
A government-appointed Trust is suggested to be the
appropriate model for the NRRT. In this format the land
would be under the control of NSW Government. The
Trust would be established by the relevant Minister under
existing legislation and appointment to the Trust would
be made by the Minister, based on skills and including
stakeholder representation.
The Trust would manage the rail trail including the rail
corridor and its buildings. The Trust would employ its
own staff to operate and manage the trail and engage
other entities to undertake portions of its functions
outside the staff skillset. A key role performed by the
Trust is fundraising. Most trail systems have a non-profit
arm for purposes of attracting corporate and private
funding sources for both capital and maintenance.
STRUCTURE OPTIONS
OPTION 1 OPTION 2
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
+ LOCAL GOVERNMENT OF VOLUNTEERS
48 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE
Tweed Shire Council is committed to managing design
and construction of the Tweed stage and to be short-
term interim trail manager, if required.
Trust Membership
It is suggested that the Board of Trustees of the NRRT
Trust would include:
• An independent and experienced Chair;
• A representative of the relevant Minister/s,
Department/s and/or a representative of
Destination NSW;
• A representative of each of the four regional
councils (Richmond Valley, Lismore City, Byron
Shire, Tweed Shire);
• Local business persons (skills based position
selected for innovation and community
involvement);
• A member of the NSW Business Chamber Northern
Rivers Region; and
• A cultural heritage officer.
• Tourism industry representative
• “Friends of the NRRT” representative
Skill sets that would be useful for the Trust to have as a
whole include:
• Leadership skills—critical to hold the committee
together, to inspire and motivate, to advocate
to a wider audience and to maintain focus on a
long-term vision
• Community skills—the skills to motivate
community and volunteer efforts, the skills to
‘build bridges’ with those opposed to the rail trail
OPTION 3 OPTION 4
MANAGEMENT BY GOVERNMENT APPOINTED
LOCAL GOVERNMENT TRUST
R&D and KNOWLEDGE SHARING
 • Business skills—knowledge and skills to
understand and tap into locally based
businesses and the capacity to communicate to
businesses in ways that garner their support
• Entrepreneurial skills—a business-like approach
to running a rail trail is critical
• Administrative skills—expertise and knowledge
of government grants, and how to apply for
them. General administration skills are also
critical
• Environmental/scientific skills—
understanding of native flora and fauna and
wider environmental issues. The ability to
communicate these to a wider audience is
desirable
• Engineering skills—the capacity to understand
design and construction of all manner of trail
infrastructure
• Users—it is essential that the committee
understand the needs and requirements of
various targeted user groups.
These ‘selection criteria’ should be considered in
selecting committee members.
To create sustainable trails, their planning, development
and maintenance is dependent on stakeholders working
together. Organisations involved may include Federal,
State and Local Government, regional tourism boards,
peak bodies, special interest organisations, volunteers
and business operators.
Management Plan
The development of a Trail management plan is an
important process in the planning and development of
the Rail Trail. It is envisaged that a Rail Trail Management
Plan will be developed following securing of funding
to progress the Trail and confirmation of governance
structures.
Tweed Shire Council views the Rail Trail Management
Plan as essential to setting both the long-term and day-
to-day management objectives for the trail, and will
provide a framework against which a range of decisions
can be made.
Such a document, as with all management plans, should
be both flexible and responsive to change, yet set a
clear management framework for future directions and
priorities.
Key elements of the management plan for the Tweed
stage of the NRRT should include:
• A statement of guiding principles.
• Protection Policy
• Management Policies (usage and key issues)
Budget
A key element to the success and long term sustainability
of the Rail Trail is income generation to maintain and
market the Trail to a standard that meet demands of
users and ensures a positive user experience. These
estimates have been generated from the Expression of
Interest (EOI) for the NRRT Casino to Murwillumbah, the
EOI for NRRT Tweed Stage and data from the Hauraki
Rail Trail in NZ. Annexure 3 provides details of the
estimates.
INCOME GENERATION
In the initial stages, the trail will require financial support
from government. However, to be sustainable it is
recognised the trail must transition to a self-funding
business model. A variety of potential income sources
to support trail operations have, been investigated and
estimates made (Annexure 3).
State Government Contribution
Currently, the State Government invests $750,000 in
maintenance on the Casino to Murwillumbah corridor.
If this is proportioned for the 24Km in Tweed Shire, an
amount of $135,000 (18%) should be available once the
rail trail is constructed in this area. Annexure 3 shows
the full $135,000 is only required to year 5 and is reduced
to almost zero by year 10.
Commission on bookings
The Hauraki Rail Trail generates revenue from bookings
made via its website. These bookings cover bike hire and
shuttle services, accommodation and additional tours.
The Hauraki data only budgets $25,500 for these
commissions. Based on a reported 21,000 visitors per
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 49
year, only a small proportion seems to use this booking
service. This may be due to the proportion of local versus
tourist users.
The NRRT Tweed Stage is forecasting 27,000 visitors
per year. This estimate takes a conservative approach
and assumes that user numbers increase steadily
to the predicted 27,000 in year 3. Good promotion
and marketing should see these numbers increased.
Annexure 3 assumes 5000 visitors in year 1 and 27,000
in year 3. It further assumes 20 percent will use the
booking service and a cost of $50 for bike hire and
shuttles (also conservatively assumes no local users will
hire bikes or use shuttle).
It may take some time for local businesses to establish.
Annexure 3 assumes no revenue from accommodation
bookings.
Sponsorships/Partnerships
The Hauraki Rail Trail only raises a small amount from
partnerships. The Queenstown trail raises significant
funds from naming rights to various trail features.
Queenstown raises further funds from operator
advertising/promotion on its website. Partnerships in
the Queenstown Trail cost $295 per annum plus $75 for
display advertising as an official partner (limited places).
The NRRT Tweed Stage will collaborate with Destination
Tweed and the Tweed Shire Council in promoting the
trail. This will be a significant tourism initiative in the
region. Existing and new local businesses will be keen
to benefit from the influx of trail users. This analysis
assumes 10 partners (rising to 20 partners in year 5 and
30 in year 10) with a cost per partner of $300.
The Queenstown trail lists over 100 sponsors on their
website with categories of Major, Platinum, Gold, Silver
and Bronze. These refer to organisations/people that
have made a significant contribution to the trail. These
contributions are both one-off and on-going and can be
financial or in-kind. This analysis assumes 10 financial
contributions averaging $2000 in year 1 and increasing
by a nominal 5% each year for the first 10 years.
Donations/Fundraising
NRRT Inc. has been active in promoting the establishment
of the rail trail. Unsolicited donations have averaged
50 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE
$10,000 per annum over two years. It is expected this
will increase over the life of the trail.
Some rail trails (eg Otago NZ for $10) sell passports for
the trail which can be stamped at various cafés/shops/
locations. This analysis assumes 20 percent of visitors
will purchase a passport at $10.
Leases
There is potential for significant lease revenue from the
overall NRRT, particularly at station sites. There is not so
much potential on the NRRT Tweed Stage. Murwillumbah
station is already used by CountryLink and a Visitor
Centre. There is a possibility of lease income for the rail
trail if the Trust could be given access to one or more
locations on the station. At Stokers Siding, the old station
building has been moved and is now a post office/
convenience store. Elsewhere in this section, station
buildings have been removed. But station sites remain
available and it may be possible to lease locations on
these old station sites for mobile businesses (café, bike
repair/hire) or for the reconstruction of station buildings.
More work is needed to accurately quantify the lease
revenue potential in the NRRT Tweed Stage. At this time,
lease revenue is assumed at $25,000 in year 1 rising to
$100,000 in year 5 and $200,000 in year 10.
Existing and future opportunities for income generating
leases include:
• Commercial floor space at Murwillumbah
Station (multiple tenancy opportunities)
• Industrial facility at Murwillumbah Station
(currently leased by Datco Glass)
• 2 x residences at Murwillumbah Station
(currently occupied)
• Stokers Siding post office/convenience store
(currently leased)
• Other station sites (future possibilities)
Operator Licensing
Hauraki Rail Trail makes $1,100 from operator licencing
per annum. It is unclear at this time how operator
licencing might work in the NRRT’s tourism/legal
frameworks.
For this Business Case no revenue is forecast until
further work is done.
Carbon Sequestration
There is an opportunity to explore carbon sequestration
as a potential income generator for the Rail Trail.
The 23.7 kilometres of proposed rail trail between
Murwillumbah and Crabbes Creek occupies a corridor
that averages 40 metres wide and totals 88 hectares.
Of this total area 28 hectares was covered in forest as
at 1989 (Carbon Farming Mapping Tool: http://ncat.
climatechange.gov.au/CMT/).
The balance of the proposed trail continuation is a
substantial package of land that holds great potential
for generating an income from the sale of Australia
Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) via future auctions held by
the Federal Government’s Emissions Reductions Fund
(ERF). These auctions are administered by the Clean
Energy Regulator (CER) and designed to contribute to
nationally set CO2 emissions reduction targets. Other
carbon credits can be sold via voluntary carbon offset
schemes that subscribe to the Gold Standard:
The Gold Standard is a standard for creating high-quality
emission reductions projects in the Clean Development
Mechanism (CDM) Joint Implementation (JI) and
Voluntary Carbon Market. It was designed to ensure
that carbon credits are not only real and verifiable but
that they make measurable contributions to sustainable
development worldwide.
Both the ERF Auctions and Gold Standard could
potentially be employed along the NRRT alignment
utilizing the variety of methods allowed within each to
measure and monitor the amount of carbon dioxide both
existing forests (at 1989) and revegetated, regenerated
and rehabilitated native forests that the NRRT has, or
is proposed to have. This opportunity would be further
explored once a governance structure is in place.
Other Potential Income Streams
Other Income Streams to be explored in the
development of a Management Plan include
• Advertising - On rail trail and website
• Rail Trail Passport
• Naming Rights for Features
• Souvenirs (i.e. dog spikes)
• Adopt a km
TRUST EXPENDITURE
Administration
Administration covers:
• Stakeholder engagement – landholders,
organisations, tourism bodies, supporters.
• Sponsorships, partnerships
• Business development – leasing, licensing
• Marketing/promotion - engaging with partners
such as Destination Tweed/Byron, Councils
• Contract management – repairs and
maintenance
• General administration – website, bookings,
enquiries, feedback
A part-time manager is needed to handle the above. There
may be extra work initially to establish arrangements
with stakeholders and organise marketing and contracts.
Some volunteer assistance will be available from NRRT
Inc. in both the short and long-term. It is anticipated
the manager will be able to find accommodation
within Tweed Shire Council facilities with some general
administrative assistance (on a cost recovery basis).
Estimated costs in year 1 are salaries/wages $60,000,
support costs $10,000, other administrative costs
$10,000. These costs total $120,000 by year 10.
Board Expenses
Board expenses include fees, meeting costs, other costs.
This analysis assumes a total of $15,000 in year 1 rising
to $20,000 in year 10.
Marketing/Promotion/Consultation
Marketing and promotion should be organised as part
of existing Tweed Council, Destination Tweed/Byron
and Destination NSW programs and campaigns. Some
specific material will be required (brochures, passports,
etc). An amount of $20,000 per annum has been allowed.
Repairs and Maintenance
Tweed Shire Council has used its rural roads
maintenance records to estimate a project specific cost
of maintenance of the Tweed Stage of the NRRT. The
following table (8) outlines the area and costs estimated.
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 51
A key element to the success and long term
sustainability of the Rail Trail is income generation
to maintain the Trail to meet demands of users and
ensure a positive user experience
.

TABLE 8: ANNUAL MAINTENANCE COSTS

AREA RATE/KM TOTAL
Trail-side Vegetation Control and
$ 1,900/Km $45,600.00
Rubbish

Pavement and Surface Maintenance $ 2,030/Km $48,720.00

Timber Bridge Maintenance (19) $ 5,000/bridge $95,000.00

Concrete/Steel Bridge Maintenance $ 1,100/bridge $3,300.00

Drainage and Culvert Maintenance $ 550/kilometre $13,200.00

Rate per km $ 8,575.83.

Total $ 205,820.00

Notes: For the first two years, this analysis assumes bridge and drainage/culvert maintenance is minimal
(10% of above costs), rising to full costs by year 5.

52 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

TOURISM INTEGRATION

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 53

TOURISM INTEGRATION
The Tweed stage of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail will assist in diversifying the tourism
product base of not only the Tweed but Northern Rivers Region and New South Wales.
Extensive market research supports the potential for new tourism product development to
support the Trail and integration with existing tourism providers in the Region.
The Northern Rivers region is a key tourism destination,
with the second highest level of international tourists
in NSW. The Tweed LGA attracted approximately
534,000 overnight visitors in 2014 (measured as a four
year annual average), generating a total of 2,054,000
visitor nights. Domestic travel contributed the majority
of visitors (96%) with 512,000 overnight visitors and
1,807,000 visitor nights, reflecting an average length
of stay of 3.5 nights. Tweed LGA attracted more than
910,000 domestic day visitors over the same period.
International travellers made up 22,000 visitors and
247,000 visitor nights (12% of total visitor nights) with
an average length of stay of 11.4 nights.
The main reason for visiting the Tweed region was for
a holiday, comprising almost half of the market. As a
result of being located in Northern NSW, Tweed LGA
predominantly attracts visitors from Queensland (58%
of domestic overnight).
Visitor Experience
The Tweed’s geographic location at the centre of
Australia’s Green Cauldron, gateway to the Legendary
Pacific Coast, the Gold Coast Airport on its border and
proximity to the SE Queensland market, places the
Tweed’s tourism industry and visitor economy in a
strong position to build experiences and product that
capitalise on its natural environment.
A central premise of the Tweed’s tourism experience
is engagement with the natural environment. It is
the natural environment and niche experiences that
ultimately define the Tweed’s strength as a tourist
destination.
Developing visitor opportunities that connect the
different destination themes is at the heart of creating
memorable visitor experiences.
54 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE
A crucial connection is that between the coast and
the hinterland – both in terms of building compelling
experiences and attracting visitors to the Tweed as a
destination in itself and as part of a journey through
Australia’s Green Cauldron or along The Legendary
Pacific Coast.
Participation in cycle tourism is a growing trend
domestically and internationally as tourists are
increasingly seeking environmentally sustainable
tourism experiences and modes of transport. A record
number of Australians are now making purchasing and
lifestyle choices that reflect their concerns about the
health and well-being of the environment along with
increasing interest in their own holistic health and well-
being.
The Region boasts captivating and unique natural
landscapes, quaint villages within close proximity to
each other and complementary tourism products,
accessibility to numerous trails and a climate and
terrain that is conducive to a variety of cycling activities.
Targeted niche tourism is seen as a key opportunity
for growth potential for the Tweed. An integrated
trails network - walking, cycling, mountain biking and
paddling trails, as well as drive routes will underpin the
development of the opportunities associated with the
identified experience themes.
‘The Rail Trail will provide a
unique opportunity to diversify
the region’s tourism product
and a feature will be product
packaging and integration with
other tourism operators in the
region. ’
Market Research
Cycle tourism is a growing market within the Australian
tourism sector, particularly within the nature-based
tourism segment. Available research demonstrates
that cycle tourism has the potential to make an active
contribution towards the economic revitalisation of
regional Australia as well as improve quality of life for
its residents.
Cycling tourism is an ecologically sustainable product,
which is expected to continue to grow in popularity.
Bicycle sales can be seen as a reflection of Australians
interest in cycling. Annual bikes sales in Australia have
increased from $131 million in 2002-2003 to $240
million in 2008-09 outselling motor vehicles for the ninth
consecutive year in numbers. General cycling was rated
as the fourth most popular activity in Australia in 2010,
with an estimated 2.1 million participants, an increase of
45 per cent over the period 2001-2010 .
It is estimated that 45.2 million trips on the EuroVelo
network (the European cycle route network) each year
generate approx $5 billion (Au) of direct revenue per
annum. In New Zealand, a 2009 study found that if cycle
tourism is developed correctly, tourists’ spending in this
segment could double to $640 million per year.
A number of identified key drivers have led to an increase
in the demand for cycle tourism, including:
• Consumer interest in holistic health and well-
being
• More Australians than ever are making purchasing
and lifestyle choices that reflect their concerns
about health and well-being, the environment and
sustainability
• Consumer driven response to sustainable
tourism
• Government promotion of sustainable tourism.
Research by Destination Tweed
The Tweed Valley Recreational Trails Options and Issues
Paper (Duke 2014) has drawn on extensive community,
user group and industry consultation to identify
existing and potential district and regional trails that
will provide an outstanding and appropriate diversity
of opportunities for trail users. The paper provides an
analysis of the demographics, profiles and infrastructure
and service related expectation of user groups – an
important consideration in setting industry development
priorities related to infrastructure and investment and
quality service and innovation, in addition to informing
marketing strategies.
The development of a Rail Trail with Murwillumbah
as the Trail head has synergy with the regional trail
opportunities and experiences identified in the Options
Paper. These include both options in the Tweed Valley
and options to enter or leave the trail from neighbouring
Shires. These have the potential to create iconic journeys
as hero experiences of Australia’s Green Cauldron –
making the rail trail the artery for circulation across the
region.
Visitors will be able to follow the trails that link the coast
and the hinterland; get close to and explore the Tweed’s
people, stories and landscapes; visit character filled
villages, find a luxury retreat or B&B down a country road
and stay the night, camp out on the journey; experience
the stillness and forests of the ancient volcano, stop
for supplies at a roadside stall or country store; refuel
at a café or pub; take the roads less travelled and ride
through National Parks to Nimbin or Mullumbimby.
Stakeholder Partnerships
Tweed Shire Council and the NRRT Inc committee
acknowledges that growing the awareness and usage
of the Rail Trail will be achieved through working in
partnership with a number of key private and public
stakeholders.
Federal, State and Local Government
There are several ‘layers’ of government involvement
(and potential for stronger links) with trail management.
To ensure the success of the Trail, continued Federal,
State and Local Government engagement will be
imperative. Tweed Shire Council and the established
Trust, should work closely with other Government
stakeholders and their various Departments to ensure
the integration of the Rail Trail in various marketing
activities and destination planning.
A key stakeholder will be Destination NSW, the peak
tourism body in NSW. Guidance and advice will be
sought from Destination NSW when developing the
Marketing Strategy for the Trail and integration with
Destination NSW marketing activities.
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 55
Regional Tourism Boards
Destination Tweed (DT) is the organisation responsible
for marketing and promoting tourism in the Tweed.
DT offers a range of services and platforms for the
promotion of Tweed’s tourist attractions and will be a
key player in marketing the rail trail.
Trail management, under the trust arrangement
discussed elsewhere, would work collaboratively with
DT to ensure the rail trail was well promoted; a critical
element in the success of the trail.
Special Interest Organisations and Volunteers
Fostering relationships with like-minded partner
organisations (whose personnel and members have
responsibility and passion for trail-based environments
and activities) will be crucial to the ongoing preservation
and patronage of trails.
Such organisations are significant stakeholders in
the trail sector and require ongoing engagement,
communication and consultation. These groups also act
as important ambassadors for trail-based experiences
and have valuable resources and contacts.
Organisations such as walking clubs and associations,
cycling groups, committees of management, as well
as volunteer programs will prove beneficial for trail
management, maintenance and promotion.
Private Operators
Encouraging trail-related business operations, including
guiding services and equipment hire, as well as
56 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE
associated tourism products that are desired by visitors,
will be crucial to increasing demand for, and uptake of,
trail experiences as well as boost regional economies.
The Tweed Destination Management Plan (p5) notes
“the central premise of the Tweeds tourism experience
is engagement with the natural environment; as outlined
in this document, it is the natural environment and niche
experiences that ultimately define the Tweeds strength
as a tourist destination.”
Tweed Shire Council views integration with other
attractions in the Region as a key to the success of the
Rail Trail. Building on the nature tourism experience
there are a wide range of regional experiences potentially
available to trail users, including package tours that
could include for example:
• Ride to Murwillumbah and then canoe or kayak
down the Tweed River, or cycle through Mount
Jerusalem and kayak the highly scenic Clarrie
Hall Dam.
• On the coast, access to surfing, snorkelling on
the Cook Island Marine Reserve reef, beaches
and whale watching
• Dining out at the many excellent restaurants and
cafés scattered throughout the coastal and hin-
terland villages and featuring fresh local produce
• Visit the Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret
Olley Art Centre
• Visit the eclectic, character filled Café/Galleries
of the Shire’s villages
• Take a river cruise and sample fresh local sea-
food, or visit Tropical Fruit World
Specific examples of experiences that will integrate well 5. Hosanna Farm Stay
with the Rail Trail include: Hosanna Farm Stay, just outside Stokers Siding, is
1. Canoe Hire and Tours - Mt Warning Tours directly adjacent the rail corridor. Hosanna offers
At Murwillumbah, the Northern terminus of the trail, accommodation, camping, bushwalking, group activities
access to the majestic Tweed River is approximately and farm stay experiences and is well placed to cater for
150m away. Trail users could store their bikes and hire a trail users wishing to extend their stay to visit one of the
canoe to do a paddle tour of the river. A canoe and stand- many other attractions on offer in the region. Links to the
up paddle board sales and hire business, Mt Warning rail trail are easily established as the Hosanna property
Tours, has recently been established in Prospero St, shares a boundary with the rail corridor.
South Murwillumbah and is well placed to facilitate
canoe hire and tours adventures on the river (http://
www.mountwarningtours.com.au/).
Marketing
Tweed Shire Council and the NRRT Inc. Committee
acknowledge effective tourism marketing and promotion
2. Art Galleries
of the Rail Trail will drive visitation by increasing
The Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art
consumer awareness of the different experiences the
Centre is one of Australia’s premiere regional galleries
Rail Trail has to offer as part of Tweed’s destination
(http://artgallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au/). Attracting
appeal.
around 127,000 visitors per year in its own right, with
surveys indicating 12% of these are interested in nature
Following the securing of funding to construct the Rail
experiences, coupled with its proximity to the rail corridor,
Trail, Tweed Shire Council in conjunction with NRRT Inc.
makes the gallery certain to be a popular stop on the rail
and other various stakeholders will develop a marketing
trail.
plan specifically targeting potential users of the Trail.
Key stakeholders include Destination Tweed, Destination
3. Nightcap Track
Northern Rivers and Tourism management bodies in
Although not yet established, there are plans afoot and
surrounding areas such as Lismore, Ballina, Byron Bay.
a large community groundswell behind a proposal to
open a series of trails in the hills surrounding Uki. The
As the Trail will commence in Murwillumbah it has the
“Nightcap Track and Highland Loop” trails pass close by
potential to attract tourists from Queensland either as
to the rail corridor and links can easily be established to
day trippers or overnight stays. The marketing strategy
join the 2 facilities. These 2 attractions will complement
for the Rail Trail should be developed with input from key
each other well as they appeal to similar target markets.
stakeholders locally and regionally. The Strategy will
Both fit the profile of the kind of tourist attraction that is
build a comprehensive brand positioning framework for
a priority for tourism in the Tweed.
the Rail Trail, utilising current data on visitor preferences
and experiences. Linking brand positioning with the
4. National Parks
Tweed Destination Management Plan and working with
The Tweed offers an array of national parks, state forests
other destinations to identify key features and promote
and conservation areas.. Mt Warning National Park, a
key strengths of the Trail is integral to the Strategy’s
Tweed icon, can be accessed off the rail trail from Stokers
Development. The Strategy should also investigate
Siding, via Smiths Creek Rd, or from Murwillumbah, via
integration with regional events and festivals, arts and
Kyogle Rd. Mooball National Park and Mt Jerusalem
culture, natural heritage and other relevant tourism
National Park are both in close proximity to the rail
products.
trail and links could be easily established. Tourism
opportunities in these 2 parks are under developed. The
Marketing and promotion should be organised as part
establishment of the rail trail could be the catalyst for
of existing Tweed Council, Destination Tweed/Byron
increased utilisation of these two parks.
and Destination NSW programs and campaigns. The
trust would work closely with Destination Management
authorities in the Region to ensure the inclusion of the
Trail in marketing efforts.

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 57


Initial market research has identified potential users
of the Trail have a heavy reliance on the Internet as
an information source and planning tool for travel
arrangements, therefore it is recognised that the Trail
has a strong online presence. This will assist in building
awareness and driving visitation.
At present, there is a dedicated website to the Northern
Rivers Rail Trail and on progression of the Tweed stage
a sub-domain will be developed that shares information
for consumers planning their visits as well as assisting
visitors while ‘in destination’.
The website will host information such as:
• Trail maps
• Trail history, features and highlights
• Activities permitted at specific trails
• Amenities and facilities available at various sites
• Advice on appropriate clothing and gear for
terrain and conditions
• Safety and etiquette tips
• Weather and incident warnings.
Northern Rivers Rail Trail)
• Develop an online trail-user community whose
members are interested in trail experiences and
events and keen to visit other regions’ walking or
riding tracks
• Engage with trail-users to encourage personal
safety as well as conservation of the trail
environment.
It is recommended that Marketing Program Assessment
in collaboration with key destination management
groups be undertaken that will enable the Trust to more
strategically assess the performance of the identified
target markets which will in turn guide the marketing
activities and ensure an appropriate return on marketing
investment.

A dedicated website for the Tweed stage of the Trail will

provide wider opportunities for government agencies
and partnering organisations to be involved in this
Strategy to:
• Create itinerary and trip-planning applications
• Enable booking of packages, accommodation
and services
• Build a database of trail enthusiasts (broader

58 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 59

STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT
State, regional and local strategic plans for Tweed Shire, both over time and geographically,
reinforce the role of the Tweed’s natural beauty in destination appeal and liveability. The
development of the Rail Trail will assist in achieving many objectives outlined in a series of
strategic plans which are currently being implemented.
Regional Development
Australia Northern Rivers
The Project aligns with the following key priorities of the
RDA Northern Rivers Regional Strategic Plan:
Priority 1: Connected communities:
7.3: support initiatives to use existing or ageing infrastructure
to meet future needs.
The Tweed stage of the NRRT will see the revitalisation
of a disused rail line into a key regional recreational asset.
With one of the largest forecasted growing populations in
NSW, the Tweed population is expected to double in size
in the coming 15-20 years. This anticipated population
growth will bring demand for localised community
assets to meet the future needs of the Region. The
Rail Trail will provide a much needed community
space where local residents and visitors to the Region
can participate in sport and recreation in a dedicated
environment resulting in health and community capacity
building outcomes. Furthermore the Trail will connect
the rural communities of Murwillumbah, Stokers Siding,
Burringbar, Crabbes Creek and Mooball resulting in
regional community cohesion increasing the economic
activity in these towns and villages due to increased
visitation and spend by users of the Trail.
Priority 3. Natural infrastructure:
3.1 Support measures to maintain and improve the region’s
irreplaceable natural infrastructure, in particular the key
strategies and actions identified in the Northern Rivers
Catchment Action Plan.
Environmental management principles underpin the
planning, design and future management of the Rail
Trails natural ecosystem. One of the goals of the Rail
Trail is to ensure the protection of the Trail’s natural
areas while offering safe and enjoyable recreational
opportunities for all natural environment users through
the creation of a sustainable multi-use trail system.
The Trail will rehabilitate the natural ecosystem of the
Rail corridor, reconnecting an assortment of forest
remnants and ecosystems therefore enabling migration,
60 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE
colonisation and interbreeding of flora and fauna within
the Region.
Priority 4: Sustainable industry
4.7: Attract investment to the region to complement and
grow established and emerging new industries
The Rail Trail will assist in diversifying the region’s
tourism asset base through the creation of a natural
and recreational tourism asset. The addition of the
Trail will enable visitors to experience other attractions
integrated and packaged into the Trail including the
retail centres of smaller villages, art galleries and sports
based attractions. The Trail will strengthen the region’s
visitor economy through increasing length of stay and
therefore visitor expenditure in the Region.
Priority 6: Regional identity
6.2: Grow and develop the Northern Rivers’ visitor economy
consistent with the region’s identity
6.3: Promote the region’s rich natural asset pose and high
quality, clean, green image as a means of communicating
competitive advantage and accessing international, national
and regional markets.
The Rail Trail will assist in filling product gaps identified
in the Northern Rivers Destination Management Plan.
Recognised as a place of natural beauty the Trail will
provide a crucial connection between the coast and
the hinterland – both in terms of building compelling
experiences and attracting visitors to the Tweed as a
destination in itself - and as part of a journey through
Australia’s Green Cauldron or along The Legendary
Pacific Coast. The Trail will appeal to the growing cycling
tourism market. An integrated trails network - walking,
cycling, mountain biking and paddling trails, as well
will underpin the development of integrated tourism
experiences.
Priority 7: A collaborative region
7.7 Coordinate the region’s economic development planning,
promotion, facilitation and development activities using
cluster and/or place-based approaches.
The Tweed stage of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is
supported by surrounding Councils, operators and
industry. The Trail will contribute to the economic viability
of the Regions communities through increased tourism
spend, health benefits and positive economic impacts
during the construction stage. The Trail will help directly
facilitate a deeper connection between tourism and the
Arts by connecting visitors to surrounding galleries in
the Region.
The National Sport and Active
Recreation Framework
The National Sport and Active Recreation Framework
was endorsed by the Australian Government and all state
and territory governments in February 2011 and will
remain in place for the next ten years. This framework is
a guide for government activity and resource allocation
in the sport and active recreation sector. It provides a
mechanism for engaging the whole sport and recreation
industry in the achievement of agreed goals for sport
and active recreation.
The priority areas of the national framework are:
• Participation
• International Performance
• National Competitions
• System Sustainability
• System Alignment and Collaboration
• Helping to meet Broader Objectives
• Research and Data Review.
The Rail Trail will provide a key asset for residents
and tourists to participate in recreational activity by
walking, cycling or other means. The projects priorities
are closely aligned to the national framework. The
project fosters a federal, state/territory partnership with
a shared approach to investment, responsibility and
accountability.
The establishment of the Tweed stage of the Northern
Rivers Rail Trail will assist all three tiers of government
in meeting the objectives identified as follows:
• Providing leadership to the sport and active
recreation system.
• Collaborating, consulting and partnering in
system leadership.
• Facilitate a strategic approach to the provision
of sporting and active recreation infrastructure.
• Investing in outcomes and providing programs
covering the whole of sport pathways.
• Investing in sport and active recreation
infrastructure.
• Facilitate and encourage active recreation
through sustainable partnerships across the
public, private and non-government sectors,
supportive policy and legislation, physical and
social environments.
• Partner with service providers to improve
participation outcomes to targeted populations
(e.g. disabled, Indigenous, rural/remote,
culturally and linguistically diverse, women and
socially disadvantaged).
The Tweed stage of the NRRT will enable regional
associations/clubs/commercial providers and
community groups to meet the National Framework
through:
• Operating localised participation opportunities.
• Implementing activity/program and activities
development initiatives.
• Partnering in planning and management
of localised sport and active recreation
infrastructure.
• Providing membership services and delivery of
sport and active recreation.
• Increasing participation and encourage new
members in local sporting organisations who
will utilise the Rail Trail (eg Triathlons and
bicycle clubs such as BMX).
TOURISM 2020
A priority within the Tourism 2020 Strategy is the
support for demand driven tourism infrastructure. Major
tourism grants such as TQual and the Tourism Industry
Development Fund are now being realigned to reflect
this strategy. The aim is to multiply the benefits of any
government investment across the tourism sector. The
development of the Tweed stage of the NRRT fits well
within Tourism 2020 as economic and social returns are
spread throughout the Region and do not benefit one
particular segment of the tourism industry. The Project
will be a partnership between three tiers of government
to strengthen the Regions asset base for domestic,
interstate and international visitors to the Northern
Rivers.
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 61
The Trail will assist in building partnerships between Crabbes Creek and Mooball will attract economic
industry, government and community groups through activity due to increased visitation and spend. Research
implementing destination management principles and demonstrates that the development of rail trails has
rehabilitation of a natural environment into a stunning resulted in revitalisation of villages and businesses, the
regional show-piece. creation of new businesses and adaptation of farms and
other buildings as character accommodation.
Through integration with the creative industry, the
Trail will help directly facilitate a deeper connection Goal 11: Keep people healthy and out of hospital. The
between tourism and the Arts by connecting visitors to well-built, well-planned rail trail that is set in an attractive
surrounding galleries in the Region. environment will actively encourage people to exercise
more to maintain their health. This will contribute to
physical and mental health improvements, assisting
NSW 2021 with disease prevention particularly cardiovascular,
The Plan aligns with a number of objectives in the State
musculoskeletal, respiratory, nervous and endocrine
Governments strategic plan, NSW 2021. NSW 2021 is
systems as well as reducing obesity, hypertension,
the 10-year plan to rebuild the economy, provide quality
depression and anxiety. The provision of key recreational
services, renovate infrastructure, restore government
infrastructure will result in cost savings to the state and
accountability and strengthen our local environment and
federal governments through the increased physical and
communities.
mental well-being of users of the Trail. It will also provide
an opportunity to promote, encourage and enable health
Tourism was identified amongst the priorities for action
benefits to all age groups within the Tweed community
in NSW 2021, with a high potential for growth and a
as well as visitors to the Region.
key goal ‘to increase tourism in NSW with double the
overnight visitor expenditure by 2020’.
Goal 14: Increase opportunities for people with a
disability. Accessibility is an important part of the Trail’s
As demonstrated by the Business Case the Tweed stage
design and development, as it is recognised as the key to
of the NRRT is critically aligned to NSW 2021 Goals and
ensuring that trails are available to all groups, including
will assist in meeting many of the goals of NSW 2021.
the young, elderly and people with disabilities. The Trail
will create a recreational opportunity for those with a
These include:
disability to access free recreational infrastructure while
Goal 1: Improve the performance of the NSW economy.
exploring the natural environment.
The Rail Trail will assist in underpinning tourism in the
Region therefore boosting the visitor economy. Due to
Goal 19: Invest in critical infrastructure. The Rail Line
the close proximity to Queensland the Trail will attract
is currently disused with a 2013 Report determining
interstate visitation from Queensland. Marketing
that the Line would not meet the future transport
strategies and implementation will encourage length of
needs of the Region and some $900 million would be
stay through the collaboration with other operators in the
required to reinstate the line to working order. There
Region. Furthermore, the Project will create additional
is a unique opportunity to convert the line into a Rail
jobs during the construction stage of the Project and
Trail which would assist in delivering many social,
following completion.
economic and environmental benefits to the region.
Approximately $750,000 is currently being invested
Goal 3: Drive economic growth in regional NSW. The
into annual maintenance on the disused line which
Rail Trail will boost the regions economy through
could be reallocated at a lower rate to provide a regional
increased tourism expenditure. The Trail will attract new
community asset and tourism drawcard for the region
visitors to the Region and also assist in increasing the
and State.
length of stay of existing visitors through the provision
of a key tourism asset. The Rail Trail involves smaller
Goal 24: Make it easier for people to be involved in their
communities located in Regional NSW. The towns and
communities. The Rail Trail will link several regional
villages of Murwillumbah, Stokers Siding, Burringbar,
communities and encourage usage from residents in

62 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail Tweed Stage will sustainably grow the regional economy by
leveraging the regions stunning natural beauty, its popular galleries and creative attrac-
tions, and increase activity-based tourism along the rail corridor to the regions
picturesque villages”.
the Region. It will provide an area for healthy recreational
pursuits, social gatherings and events through open
space and designated rest areas.
The Trail will also foster opportunities for residents to be
involved as volunteers.
Goal 27: Enhance cultural, creative, sporting and
recreation opportunities. Opportunities will be created
for community participation in conservation and
re-vegetation work, fostering a sense of pride and
community identity. The Northern Rivers community will
be able to experience natural and cultural environments
previously unseen in their own area. Users will be
able to explore nearby art galleries and the Trail will
facilitate linkages between the large arts community
in Murwillumbah and the artists and groups located in
the regions smaller settlements and rural hinterland
therefore improving the social connectedness of the
Region.
The Visitor Economy Action
Plan
The Visitor Economy Action Plan outlines a number of
key priority actions to enable the achievement of the
NSW Governments goal ‘to increase tourism in NSW
with double the overnight visitor expenditure by 2020’.
A number of immediate actions outlined in the plan are
pertinent to the supply of tourist related infrastructure
and activities to encourage increased length of stay.
The Plan also advocates implementation of Destination
Management Planning to enable a coordinated approach
to addressing demand and supply, policy and planning
issues including infrastructure requirements and the
role of Crown land within the identified zones.
In this context Tweed Shire Council and NSW State
Government have a responsibility to respond to tourism
demand and to be aware of the dynamic character of the
tourist marketplace in the State and in the region. Through
collaboration the Rail Trail will see the development of a
strategic innovative tourism asset that can develop over
time providing the state with a range of economic, social
and environment benefits.
The Rail Trail will add to destination appeal and will be
integrated into a wide range of regional experiences
already on offer in the Tweed. Visitors using the rail trail
will bring money into the region and drive local economic
activity. In other destinations, cyclists on rail trails often
stay longer and spend on average more than other
visitors over the length of their stay.
This Rail Trail Business Case provides evidence that the
Project is sustainable beyond the life of construction and
will continue to assist the NSW Government’s aim of
doubling overnight expenditure beyond the construction
stage of the Project.
North Coast Regional Plan
(2016) - DRAFT
The Draft North Coast Regional Plan is the NSW
Government blueprint for the Mid North Coast and the
Far North Coast regions for the next 20 years.
The draft Plan outlines the vision, goals and actions that
focus on a sustainable future for the region as it grows
that protects the environment, builds a prosperous
community and offers attractive lifestyle choices for
residents.
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 63
The draft Plan provides the strategic policy, planning
and decision-making framework to guide the region to
sustainable growth over the next 20 years. “It integrates
economic, environmental and social considerations
to achieve ecologically sustainable development
considered a high priority for the region.”
The Plan places significance on the development and
strengthening of the North Coast economy. The plan
states “the region will need to maintain and enhance the
broad range of tourism experiences on offer; encourage
investment in facilities for nature-based and cultural
tourism; invigorate existing tourism assets, including
conference facilities; and develop new assets.”
The Northern Rivers Rail Trail
is directly stated in the 2016
Draft North Coast Regional
Plan as a tourism asset which
will enhance the broad range of
tourism experiences on offer;
encourage investment in facilities
for nature-based and cultural
tourism; and assist in invigorating
existing tourism assets.
ACTION 4.1.1 Facilitate the nature-based, events and
cultural tourism sectors on the North Coast:
“to identify ways to develop the Casino to Murwillumbah
rail corridor for environmentally friendly tourism and leisure
activities, particularly cycling and walking;”
Additionally the Plan states “There is an opportunity to
create a rail trail for cyclists and walkers along the Casino
to Murwillumbah rail corridor. This will develop the
region’s green/ active and nature-based tourism base.
This project can use existing infrastructure (subject to
safety upgrades) to provide economic benefits through
job creation, as well as support existing and emerging
64 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE
business ventures. The Casino to Murwillumbah Rail
Trail Study (2014) estimated a minimum of around
88,300 visitors a year.”
NORTHERN RIVERS NSW
GOVERNMENT REGIONAL ACTION
PLAN (2012)
The Northern Rivers Action Plan was informed by
community meetings held in the region to identify what
local individuals and groups considered to be priorities
for the Northern Rivers. The plan aligns with NSW 2021,
the NSW Government’s 10 year plan to make NSW
number one. It is also designed to fit in with the longer
term transport, land use and service planning being
rolled out across the region.
The Tweed stage of the NRRT meets several of the
objectives identified in the Northern Rivers Regional
Action Plan.
1) Improve access to public transport and improve
road safety. By investing in the Rail Trail the NSW
Government is assisting with planning for the current
and future transport needs of the Northern Rivers
community, helping improve regional infrastructure for
both residents and visitors to the area.
2) Support industry and grow local jobs. The Rail
Trail will deliver many economic benefits to the Region
and state of NSW on its completion. The Trail will drive
economic growth and employment opportunities past
the construction period. New business opportunities
will be created and existing businesses underpinned by
new tourism expenditure in the region.
3) Reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.
Research demonstrates that the provision of recreational
activities can reduce crime and community safety issues,
such as youth offending and anti-social behaviour. By
targeting those at risk of offending, participation in
recreation activities such as cycling and walking provides
positive alternatives by creating opportunities to learn
new skills, develop confidence, enhance self-esteem
and, importantly, to reduce boredom and apathy, both of
which can be triggers for at-risk behaviours. It can also
‘“Tweed Shire will continue to develop as a dynamic place for business and investment led
by growth in tourism health, retail, and knowledge industries”
Tweed Shire Economic development vision
target those young people most at risk of committing
crime and help their rehabilitation and development.
4) Age proof the region and improve access
to health services. It is recognised that sport and
recreation activities produce a healthier population,
which in turn places less stress on the health care
system. Research suggests a direct correlation between
the health of an individual and their level of productivity.
Healthy, fit employees are more likely to be productive,
with increased output due to attitude and motivation
changes from positive leisure experiences improving
their quality of life (Australian Government, 2004).
They are subsequently better equipped to deal with the
physical demands of their job and to cope with stress
and mental pressure. The Rail Trail will provide key
recreational infrastructure that will be utilised by all ages
and demographics.
Northern Rivers Regional
Social Plan 2013-2018
The Project aligns with the Northern Rivers Regional
Social Plan 2013-2018, which was developed in
conjunction with Regional Development Australia –
Northern Rivers. The Plan includes the voices of the
community, identifies regional community development
priorities and initiates key actions to address identified
social priorities across the seven local government areas
of Clarence Valley, Richmond Valley, Kyogle, Lismore,
Byron, Ballina and Tweed.
The Project will directly assist in achieving the following
outcomes of the plan:
• 1. A region where our children and young people
reach their potential
• 2. A region where people with disabilities reach
their fullest potential
• 3. A region that closes the gap between Aboriginal
and non-Aboriginal people
• 4. A region where people are healthy
• 5. A region where people participate in meaningful
employment and education
• 7. A region of people who value and enjoy our
unique natural, arts and cultural assets
• 9. A region with sustainable, viable, community
assets
• 10. A vibrant, innovative regional economy
The Project through the creation of open space and
recreational infrastructure will deliver many social
benefits for the region including building community
pride, strengthening the Tweed community, encouraging
social connectivity, providing access and assist in the
reduction of crime.
Tweed Shire Council Community
Strategic Plan 2013-23
The Tweed stage of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is
directly aligned with the objectives and priorities of
Tweed Shire Council Community Strategic Plan 2013/23,
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 65
specifically:
• Objective 1.1: Ensure actions taken and
decisions reached are based on the principles
of sustainability.
• Objective 1.2: Improve decision making by
engaging stakeholders and taking into account
community input.
• Objective 2.5: Provide vibrant and accessible
town, community and business centres.
• Objective 3.1: Expand employment, tourism
and education opportunities
• Objective 3.3: Maintain and enhance the
Tweed lifestyle and environmental qualities as
an attraction to business and tourism
• Objective 3.3.2: Facilitate government-funded
infrastructure.
• Objective 3.4.2: Ensure sustainable provision
of infrastructure (utilities, services and
transport) is available to support economic
development.
• Objective 4.1: Protect the environment and
natural beauty of the Tweed.
• Objective 4.4.3: Provide for appropriate public
access and use.
North Coast of NSW Tourism
Destination Management Plan
2013
The North Coast of NSW Destination Management Plan
is the creation of a united Regional Tourism Network.
The partnership includes Destination NSW, 14 Local
Government Areas, 14 Local Tourism Associations (or
association equivalent of) and over 3,500 combined
industry operators, community groups and agencies,
and cross regional border partners. The Plan provides
the roadmap to achieve a doubling of overnight visitor
expenditure by 2020.
The Rail Trail aligns with the objectives of the Plan
through the creation of a much needed nature based
tourism asset that will assist in dispersing visitors
throughout the Region. It will assist in sustaining and
increasing tourism product in the Region as well as
diversifying the product range, adding to destination
appeal and therefore resulting in increasing length of
stay and visitor spend.
Tweed Shire Economic
Development Strategy
The Tweed Shire Economic Development Strategy was
developed as a collaboration between Tweed Shire Council
and Destination Tweed. Both organisations play a key role
in the economic development and promotion of Tweed
Shire.
The aim of the Economic Development Strategy is to identify
practical actions for the enhancement of the Tweed Shire
economy, responding to the opportunities and constraints
to economic and business growth in Tweed Shire and the
values of the Tweed Shire community.
Tweed Shire Council’s role in economic development is
to facilitate business investment, implement policy and
create an environment conducive to appropriate industry.
The Rail Trail Project directly aligns with achieving many of
the Economic Development Strategy’s objectives including:
• Maintain a diverse industry and business base;
• Provide investment certainty;
• Support existing businesses;
• Increase job participation and inclusion;
• Grow jobs in Tweed Shire;
• Promote and develop business sustainability
(economic, environmental, and social); and
• Grow and develop an economy which does not
negatively affect the natural environment and
landscape values of Tweed Shire.
The various components of the Rail Trail are inter-linked but
are predicated on providing an active recreational space for
residents and visitors to the Region. The Rail Trail will assist
in the economic growth of the region and have numerous
other related health, social and environmental benefits. A
key benefit will be the increase in tourism visitation and
length of stay in the Region therefore increasing visitor
expenditure in the local economy and in particular rural
villages located directly en route of the Rail Trail.
In addition, the Project will also assist with the provision of
employment opportunities through the creation of jobs in
the construction and tourism sectors helping to strengthen
the diversity of industry sectors.
Northern Rivers Catchment
Action Plan 2013-2023
The Northern Rivers Catchment Action Plan prepared
by Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority
working with the NSW Department of Planning and
local government provides a co-ordinated approach
for all natural resource work within the region through
partnerships and collaborations with community groups,
individuals, industry and government.
The Rail Trail is consistent with this plan through ensuring
that the economic potential of the region is realised
while maintaining or improving the quality of the natural
environment for visitors and the local community.
TWEED SHIRE ACCESS AND
INCLUSION PLAN
There are many actions in the Access and Inclusion Plan
that apply to the Rail Trail. These include improving
access in open spaces and facilities for those physically
impaired. The Rail Trail will provide a facility for those in
wheelchairs to safely enjoy recreational activities.
There is a significantly high population of older residents
in the Tweed Region and the Rail Trail will provide an
appropriate walking trail for gentle physical exercise.
The Access and Inclusion Policy also commits Council to
providing universal access and social inclusion wherever
possible.
Tweed Shire Environmental
Sustainability Prioritisation
Strategy (ESPS)
Council’s Environmental Sustainability Prioritisation
Strategy highlights lead actions to enable Council to
improve environmental outcomes in the Tweed Shire.
The Rail Trail will assist Tweed Shire Council in
embedding assessment processes and environmental
improvements in capital works, and implementing
controls to protect high value environments and
landscapes.
CAPACITY TO DELIVER
CAPACITY TO DELIVER
Tweed Shire Council is well recognised as a leader in project management and community
service. Council is prepared to manage design and construction of the Rail Trail and maintain
the trail until such time as a central governance body is in place.
Funding Arrangements
Establishment of the 24 km stage is estimated to cost
$13,035,000. The NSW Government has commited
$6.518m towards the Project reinforcing the alignment of
the Project to facilitate and assist in delivering numerous
State and Federal Government policy objectives. Tweed
Shire Council has committed $275,000 towards the
project and expended considerable resources developing
and delivering an extensive stakeholder engagement
program and plans and designs ($129,039 to date).
The Project has been analysed with regard to Tweed
Shire Council’s future cash flows and it is not within
the capacity of the Council’s financial position to fund
ongoing support expenditure including maintenance on
an ongoing basis. The ongoing funding to maintain the
Trail could potentially be reallocated from the annual
$750,000 allocated for funding maintenance of the
currently disused rail line until the Rail Trail is financially
sustainable. Council has the staff capacity, ability and
experience to undertake any ongoing maintenance
works.
Tweed Shire Council has the capabilities and experience
to manage the funding arrangements of the Project
until such time as a Trust is appointed for the Trail.
The Council is experienced in managing and acquitting
State and Federal Government Grants with the Council
successfully acquitting over $130 million of grant
funding over the past six years. Examples of Tweed
Shire Council’s experience and capacity to deliver major
projects are provided in Table 7.
The Council has a fully staffed financial services unit
with 27 people employed across Council’s Financial
Services including the roles of Management, Financial/
Asset/Management Accounting, Corporate Reporting,
Taxation, Treasury, Payroll, Accounts Payable and
Revenue. The section includes 2 qualified Chartered
Professional Accountants and the remaining staff
have minimum Tertiary qualifications in Commerce,
Business or Accounting and post graduate
qualifications.
This Unit is responsible for the administration of
financial activities to ensure and secure a sustainable
financial future of Council and residents of Tweed.
The Unit currently manages a $194 million operating
budget, which incorporates grant funding of
approximately $21.6 million per annum.
The Tweed Shire Council budget is allocated into various
cost centres. Each project is designated its own cost
centre and budget. These cost centres are framed in
the context of Council’s four year delivery program
and annual operational budget. Council produces a
quarterly report that is publicly available, which details
all incumbent expenditure for all cost centres, and is
subject to year end audit to ensure that the accounts
reflect an accurate and transparent view. These
procedures ensure the financial accountability of public
monies are executed and managed in accordance with
the relevant Acts that the Tweed Shire Council operates
under.
Risk Management
Tweed Shire Council recognises that managing risks in
infrastructure projects is a very important management
process in order to achieve the Project objectives in
terms of time, cost, quality, safety and environmental
sustainability. As such, to identify and appropriately treat
risks affecting the project, Council’s Management Team
have developed a comprehensive Risk Management
Plan for the Rail Trail.
The aim of the Project Risk Management Plan is
to identify, assess and treat risks to the project’s
‘“In 2011, Tweed Shire Council
received the AR Bluett local
government award for
management excellence.“
TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 69
objectives and its delivery. The Plan is a living document
that is completed and updated throughout the life
of the project. The high level Risk Analysis includes
identified risk estimates and schedule items, new
risks, secondary risks, scope changes, change orders
and actual costs, so as to provide a graphic depiction
of the changing nature of project risk over time.
Due to the nature of risks involved in the implementation
of the Tweed stage of the NRRT Council recognises
that the Risk Management Plan will require regular
review. The Project Manager will be responsible for
maintaining the Plan and associated registers.
The National standard AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 Risk
Management – Principles and Guidelines provides the
generic framework for risk management strategies for
this project.
Internal and external policies adopted to guide the risk
management procedures in the Project include:
• Tweed Shire Council’s Risk Management
policies;
• TPP 09-05 : Internal Audit and Risk
Management Policy for the NSW public sector
by New South Wales Treasury;
• HB 327:201 Communicating and Consulting
about Risk;
• IEC/ISO 31010:2009 Risk Management –
Risk Assessment Techniques; ISO Guide 73:
2009 Risk Management – Vocabulary; and
• HB 436:2004 Risk Management Guidelines
Companion to AS/NZS 4360:20
Tweed Shire Council believes that good risk
management involves the entire project team including
design, engineering, business, contracts, finance,
purchasing, estimating and project controls.
The process is ongoing, a never ending cycle and
iterative process of identification, quantification,
modelling, management and monitoring. As such
senior management will promulgate organisational
risk management policy, and actively support the
risk management actions required for the project and
ensure that all project stakeholders and participants
support these actions.
The Project Manager will lead the project team
and is assigned the authority and responsibility for
70 TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE
meeting the project objectives including the overall
management of the risks identified within the project.
Ongoing Asset Management
To enable the community to access and enjoy all the
services and facilities that Tweed has to offer, the Tweed
Shire Council owns and maintains a large portfolio of
assets.
With an infrastructure asset replacement value of over
$2.6 billion, the efficient management of these assets is
vital in maintaining safe, reliable and efficient services
that help achieve the strategic priorities and goals of
Council. The various assets created as a result of the
Project will be managed in accordance with best practice
asset management. The assets created as a result of
the completion of the Project would be maintained in
accordance with Council’s Asset Management Plan and
any planned maintenance and capital funding reviewed
and allocated annually.
Council recognises that failure to adequately plan for
the renewal of assets and the development of new
assets will result in the needs of the community, now
and into the future, not being met. As such Council has
developed an Asset Management Strategy, Council’s
Asset Management Policy as part of Council’s
goal to adopt contemporary best practice in Asset
Management.
The Asset Management Strategy provides clear
courses of action for Asset Management at Council and
supports the Tweed Shire’s Community Strategic Plan
and Asset Management Policy. The Asset Management
Strategy is also the basis for outlining and monitoring
Key Performance Indicators and provides Council with
the ability to monitor, measure and report on asset
management plans and processes.
These key documents allow Council the:
• Ability to provide better outputs with fewer
resources by better aligning Council resources
and needs.
• Ability to understand what condition the assets
are in by monitoring the effect actions are
having on them. Having a key set of actions
that will allow Council to manage the provision
of these assets into the future at lowest long-
term cost.
 • Ability to assign appropriate levels of funding for
each asset class in line with the respective service
level targets. Being able to clearly define what
service levels Council can deliver to customers, the
rate-payers and users.

TABLE 9: TWEED SHIRE COUNCILS MAJOR PROJECT EXPERIENCE

COST BRIEF EXPERIENCE DETAILS

1. Jack Evans Boat Harbour Foreshore and Parkland

This project was a complex project which utilised Council’s contract

$5.5 million management, project management, design and civil engineering
Redevelopment of a major CBD foreshore park skills as well as utilising a large national civil construction firm.
at Tweed Heads CBD area. Includes extensive
FUNDING PARTNERS upgrade of park facilities and new boardwalks
This resulted in the project coming in on time and on budget. The
Federal Government ‘Jobs Fund’ and beach foreshore improvements. This project
has won the Landscape Architect’s Institute of financial management of Local Governments in New South Wales
Program $1.82m is closely monitored by the NSW State Government, through the
Australia Award.
NSW Government $73,000 Local Government Act 1993 (NSW).
Tweed Shire Council: $3.607m
2. Bray Park Water Treatment Plant
The $76 million Bray Park Water Treatment Plant
$76 million is one
of the most advanced water treatment plants in The plant was designed by Hunter Water Australia, constructed by
FUNDING PARTNERS Australia. The treatment process at the Plant the Reeds Group and project managed by NSW Public Works and
Tweed Shire Council (Loans): has been designed to meet and in many cases Tweed Shire Council. Work began in November 2007 with the Plant
$76m exceed the requirements of the Australian being commissioned in April 2010.
Drinking Water
Guidelines
3. Arkinstall Park
$7.7 million This project was a complex project which utilised Council’s contract
The staged development of Arkinstall Park in
management, project management, design and civil engineering
FUNDING PARTNERS Tweed Heads as a regional sporting complex.
skills. Construction was undertaken utilising Council’s day labour
Regional Development Australia Stages completed so far include the construction
force, as well as, specialist building and tennis/netball court
of a regional tennis facility and a regional netball
Fund: $4.991m contractors. This resulted in the project coming in on time and on
facility.
Tweed Shire Council: $2.75m budget.
Other Sources: $130,000
Kingscliff North Holiday Park Upgrade.
Reconstruction of the existing tourist park to The upgrade was designed by Tweed Shire Council with input from
$2.8 million provide a contemporary Holiday Park with specialist electrical and landscape sub consultants. The project was
updated facilities including new amenities constructed by a local contractor. Project Management was
FUNDING PARTNERS building and cabins, new access roads and undertaken by Tweed Shire Council and the project was delivered
Tweed Coast Holiday Parks: $2.8m water/sewer services, new landscaping and on time and on budget.
beautification works.

5. Margaret Olley Art Centre

$4 million The Margaret Olley Art Centre (MOAC) is the

third and final stage of the Tweed Regional Initially the project involved detailed survey and photographic
FUNDING PARTNERS Gallery. MOAC combines exhibitions of records (600 photos) and cataloguing of Olley’s home studio by
Federal Gov’: $1m paintings and objects, an interactive multimedia Council staff so that 21,000 items could be positioned exactly as left
State Gov’: $200,000 drawing activity, research library and education by Olley.
Tweed River Art Gallery Foundation workshop, and is complemented by the Nancy
Ltd: $620,000 Fairfax Artist in Residence Studio. Central to Project management of the complex project was carried out by
Friends of the Tweed River Gallery the MOAC is the re-creation of areas of Olley’s Tweed Shire Council and involved overseeing the Architectural
Inc. $80,000 famous home studio, principally the Hat Factory design process and then the construction process.
Tweed Shire Council: $1.1 m and the Yellow Room.

TWEED STAGE NRRT BUSINESS CASE 71

ANNEXURES
ANNEXURE ONE
TWEED STAGE NORTHERN RIVERS RAIL TRAIL ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT
ANNEXURE TWO
TWEED STAGE NORTHERN RIVERS RAIL TRAIL COMMUNICATIONS PLAN
ANNEXURE THREE
TWEED STAGE NORTHERN RIVERS RAIL TRAIL OPERATIONAL BUDGET
ANNEXURE FOUR
LETTERS OF SUPPORT
 TWEED SHIRE COUNCIL
TWEED STAGE OF THE NORTHERN
RIVERS RAIL TRAIL

Tweed Shire Council

PO Box 816
Murwillumbah NSW 2484
(02) 6670 2400

Prepared by Business Sense

For Tweed Shire Council