Over the past few weeks, many of you have been asking what our position is on the proposed development of a Rail Trail through the Queanbeyan to Bombala rail corridor. As a Heritage Railway that has been a part of the Monaro region for over 30 years, we have always worked hard to support the economic development of the local community by promoting tourism in the region and attracting visitors from across the state.

We believe the development of a bike trail through the rail corridor, installed beside the existing track alignment and designed in conjunction with the railway will give the Monaro a one-of-a-kind attraction that will not only enhance the reputation of the Monaro Region as a year-round tourist destination but also provide the catalyst for the economic recovery of our regional towns along the corridor.

As our own plans for heritage train operations progress, we continue to develop our concept plans for the rail corridor which not only include restoration of existing railway infrastructure but development of new infrastructure to integrate and support a trail, including:

🔹Installation of a new platform at Lake Williams, providing walking access to Nimmitabel township and connecting up with proposed trail heads.
🔹Installation of additional new platforms at key trail locations along the corridor to allow for rail transport of riders, walkers and bikes between sections of the trail.
🔹Installation of a new platform and viewing facilities on Mount Cooper, linking up with trail users and providing rail passengers easy access to one of the most scenic sections of the line.
🔹Installation of communication facilities at key points along the corridor to support rail operations and provide trail users with access to emergency communications in areas where mobile phone coverage is not available.

As residents of the Monaro, we feel that it is important that any financial investment from Snowy Monaro Regional Council is spent effectively and in the interests of everyone in the community. After reaching out to our friends at the Monaro Rail Trail group in December 2021 to collaborate on what a shared railway corridor might look like, we’ve since had the opportunity to meet collectively with MRT and a number of stakeholders with an interest in the rail corridor. As a group, we’re committed to finding a solution that works for all involved and more importantly, provides the Monaro with an attraction that will continue to strengthen the local economy for generations to come.

We hope that you share our vision and will continue to support us on our journey to returning trains to the Monaro once more.

If you would like to support any of our projects or just contribute toward the getting trains back on the rails in the Monaro, please visit our online store:
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https://cooma-monaro-railway.square.site/shop/Donations/4

All donations over $2.00 are tax deductible.