Since 2018, Council has backed the Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail Incorporated’s (BBIRT Inc) vision to establish and promote the trail as a one-of-a-kind destination as part of the Queensland Inland Rail Trail Network.

After securing 100 per cent funding through the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads’ Rail Trail Local Government Grants Program, Council engaged consultancy group JFP to prepare Concept Designs for three distinct sections of the rail corridor.

The sections, located between the hinterland townships of Calliope and Gayndah, are known as:

• Awoonga Lake Rail Trail
• Kalpowar Tunnels Rail Trail
• Burnett River Bridges Rail Trail.

In September 2021, the BBIRT Inc. officially opened the Golembil to Barrimoon section of the Kalpowar Tunnels Rail Trail, which includes six heritage tunnels located in the Dawes Ranges.

The BBIRT is designed to attract active families, avid hikers, and rail trail and adventure enthusiasts to experience the scenic landscapes and historic rail heritage of both the Gladstone and North Burnett Regional Council regions.

This includes the Gladstone Area Water Board (GAWB) controlled Awoonga Dam area. Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett said Council will continue to promote the BBIRT as it is proud to support this community-led initiative.

“The Kalpowar Tunnels Rail Trail has already proven to be a unique recreational attraction for our region enjoying significant patronage since opening, and once complete, the combined trails will be the longest rail trail in Australia at 270km,” Councillor Burnett said.

“Establishing a highly recognised rail trail will improve the regional economy, provide new business opportunities and benefit community connectivity between the towns and villages located along the corridor.”

To stay informed and receive updates on BBIRT or any of Council’s projects, join Conversations.

Visit https://conversations.gladstone.qld.gov.au to find out more.

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