New rail trail embraced by cyclists, walkers and runners

Cyclists, walkers and runners have taken to the first stage of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail with huge enthusiasm.

Data released by Tweed Shire Council showed more than 70,500 people have used the first 24km section of the trail since its opening four months ago.

The first stage runs from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek and the project will eventually connect Murwillumbah to Casino.

The figures far exceed initial projections.

Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry said there had been significant interest in the opening success of the NRRT.

“I am really proud to confirm that since its opening on March 1, the Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail has welcomed approximately 70,550 people, which is an amazing achievement,” he said.

“Our Rail Trail is welcoming an average of 17,638 people per month, which is approximately 4,048 people per week or an average of 578 people per day.

“The original business case for the Tweed section of the NRRT referenced goals of 27,000 people per year. We have absolutely smashed that goal, attracting more than double the anticipated annual number of visitors in our first four months alone.

“We knew the Rail Trail would be extremely popular and there was a lot of interest in this facility but this has blown us away!

“With these impressive patronage numbers has also come confirmation that 87% of trail users have used an associated Rail Trail experience and spent money with a local business, whether it be one of the many cafés, restaurants, accommodation providers or bike-related businesses such as hire, shuttle or transport services.

“Many businesses along the Rail Trail have told us about their successes and we are continually working on trail improvements, addressing some of the impacts the popularity has had on the local villages.”

Surveys show 60% of Rail Trail users start their journey at the Murwillumbah Railway Station and more than 85% of users opt for round trips over a one-way journey.

The path features 26 bridges and two tunnels, including the 500m Burringbar Range tunnel that has micro bats and glow worms

For more info see northernriversrailtrail.com.au.

Walking, or running, in Sydney sunshine

 

I no longer run very much. Unless someone is chasing me. 

Which doesn't happen very often. 

But I do remember from my days living in Sydney that the city is a runner’s and walker's paradise. 

From the Bay Run and the Bondi to Coogee Walk to the Pool to Pool Run that takes you past some of the city’s most renowned sights, here are some suggestions from Destination NSW. 

The Bay Run

Just a 10-minute drive from the city centre in the inner western suburbs, this 7km loop around the shores of Iron Cove Bay links the suburbs of Drummoyne, Russell Lea, Rodd Point, Haberfield, Leichhardt, Rozelle and Balmain. It’s one of the most popular harbourside running tracks in Sydney, traversing the natural course of the cove and never more than 20 metres away from the water. The predominantly flat, well-maintained track is a local favourite, regularly frequented by cyclists, dog walkers and pram pushers. A recently added 500-metre extension for cyclists and pedestrians has just been opened to offer more space for everyone.

The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

One of Sydney’s most iconic tracks (above), this 6km run starts at the southern end of Bondi Beach and follows the coastline to Coogee via Tamarama and Bronte. Though the course is not particularly long, you’ll encounter stairs, hills and narrow parts along the path, as well as plenty of locals who take a more leisurely pace, taking two hours or so to complete their walk. You can choose to tackle portions of the track, then reward yourself with a dip in the water at one of the beaches and pools along the way including Clovelly, Gordons Bay, McIvers Baths, Wylies Baths and Giles Baths. For those looking for a further challenge, continue onwards from Coogee to Maroubra, another 5km stretch. 

The Manly to North Head Walk

On the Northern Beaches, a string of sandy beaches stretching north from Sydney, start this 10km stroll at the lagoon near Queenscliff, then head towards Manly Beach and Shelly Beach, admiring the cliff faces. From the path at the Shelly Beach carpark, you can begin your ascent to North Head - this run is a little more challenging due to the steep incline. Reach the Fairfax Walk at North Head for spectacular views across Sydney Harbour Heads. This paved track, ideal for a run, starts at the end of the North Head Scenic Drive and circles around the top of North Head, encompassing three lookouts. 

The Pool to Pool Run 

A perfect way to start a Sydney summer’s day, this invigorating run will have you sweating then swimming to cool right off. You’ll also pass some of the city’s most beloved spots. Starting at the pretty-as-a-picture North Sydney Olympic Pool at Milsons Point, this run will take you over the Sydney Harbour Bridge, along the Cahill Expressway passing Circular Quay. You can jog past the Sydney Opera House and then sprint into Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, finishing at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair and Andrew Boy Charlton Pool in a pocket alongside the garden for a recovery splash in the striking outdoor pool.