News
23 September, 2025
Cycling to success
THE Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is set to receive a $1.6 million upgrade, including the refurbishment and decking of the Chasewater Gully bridge near Esk, and the improvement of safety, accessibility, and user experience on the trail.
These improvements will help support regional tourism and active transport.
State Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington, called the upgrade “great news” for the region, as the Rail Trail has grown “from strength to strength”, having become a ‘bucket list’ item for cyclists, horse riders and hikers.
“This investment will not only improve the user experience but will also support local businesses and unlock new ecotourism opportunities along the trail,” she said.
Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt called the announcement “fantastic”, as any funding that’s put into the Rail Trail will come back into the community, as it improves the tourist user experience.
“I think the Rail Trail has proven its worth to the region,” he said.
“As we morph from a total agricultural economy into a partial tourist economy, the Trail is a significant contributor to that.
“It’s attracting new businesses, attracting new people to the region, and having people spend money in our region.”
Cr Wendt added any funding towards safety “is always welcome”, as it helps the community and tourists enjoy the Trail in a safe environment.
The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail upgrade is part of a broader $3.5m commitment to upgrade four regional rail trails across Queensland, supporting the Destination 2045 strategy to grow the State’s ecotourism potential and strengthen regional communities.
Other projects to receive funding are Pioneer Valley Rail Trail ($75,000), Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail ($1.6m) and Bundaberg to Gin Gin Rail Trail ($147,000).
Funded through the Department of Transport and Main Road’s Rail Trail Program, these upgrades hope to help grow Queensland’s bike tourism offerings, providing more ways for people to connect with the natural environment.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the Rail Trail Program would increase visitation and economic activity in regional areas.
“Cycling tourism is growing rapidly, and rail trails play a vital role in supporting the economies of regional towns,” Minister Mickelberg said.
“This investment helps revitalise disused infrastructure, connect people with nature, and create new opportunities for communities to grow and prosper.”
The works are scheduled to start early next year.
