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Register for news updatesFollowing the May 2026 news that a Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program (rPPP) funding application for the extension of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT) in New South Wales was unsuccessful, discussions with both Byron Shire Council and Lismore City Council have provided valuable insight into the current position and next steps for the NRRT.
While the funding outcome was disappointing, the discussions held since have been positive and constructive. Encouragingly, both councils remain firmly committed to completing the rail trail and continuing to pursue future funding opportunities.
Feedback received by the councils on the submission has provided useful clarity on how future applications can be strengthened, including a clearer pathway for progressing new funding bids and continuing advocacy across the region.
With the aim of moving towards an evidence based benefits and “shovel ready” position, both councils are focused on clearer staging of trail sections linked to funding submissions, backed by a full rail trail masterplan aligned to the long term regional vision for the project.
RTA will continue to engage with both councils to ensure we are well positioned to assist through advocacy, consultation, support in relation to future funding efforts, and helping wherever possible to maintain momentum towards completion of the NRRT.
by Tim Lane, RTA Regional Representative Northern NSW



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Stay up to date with the latest news about Rail Trails with our free email news.
Register for news updatesSouth Australia’s Barossa Council has received an additional $100,000 grant through the Government of South Austra...
Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT) has done it again – winning gold at the 2026 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards...
Rail Trail Australia’s (RTA) Community Grants program 2026-2027 is open and taking applications now. The scope and fun...
Grand Ridge Rail Trail Committee of Management (CoM) has installed brand new information signs along the 13km rail trail...
Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (BVRT) trail manager Qld Department of Transport and Main Roads has just completed a 10km sur...
Blue Mountains City Council (BMCC) is asking for public support to reopen Lapstone Tunnel in the lower Blue Mountains. R...
Show your support for Rail Trails Australia by purchasing from our range of branded Rail Trails Australia clothing inclu...
Rail Trails Australia (RTA) has opened early-bird registration for the 2026 Rail Trails Conference to be held in Canberr...
The Barossa Council in South Australia has installed 2 new bench seats along the Barossa Trail near Angaston. An inclusi...
Rail Trails Australia’s (RTA) Eastern Victoria representative John Birrell attended the July launch of the Great S...
The clearing of part of the Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail (BBIRT), from Barrimoon to Barrimoon Rd, towards Kalpowar, h...
Public consultation conducted by Armidale Regional Council in June 2026 resulted in 85% of formal submissions supporting...
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