Learn about the Mary to Bay Rail Trail and have your say

Fraser Coast residents wanting to have their say about the Mary to Bay Rail Trail are encouraged to complete an online survey and attend two community consultation events next week.

Fraser Coast Regional Council has engaged Mike Halliburton Associates to prepare a feasibility study to facilitate grant and subsidy applications and guide the development of what will be a significant regional attraction – a rail trail linking Maryborough to Hervey Bay.

Cr David Lewis said a short online survey was now available on the ‘Have Your Say’ section of the Council’s website and two drop-in sessions for residents to discuss the project would be held next week.

“Rail trails in other areas across Australia are drawing tourists as the popularity of cycling, especially among mature Australians, increases,” he said.

“Finishing the trail to link Hervey Bay and Maryborough would provide a safe link between the two cities for cyclists, walkers and runners away from the highway, as well as delivering a boost for our local tourism industry.”

Cr Lewis said artist’s impressions of what the rail trail might look like when it is completed would be available on-line and at the drop-in sessions.

“Photos of the corridor as it currently is, and artist’s impressions of what it may look like after construction will be on display,” he said.

“The display will also include photographic material from other rail trails. 

“The sessions are also designed to show and discuss common issues, drawing on successful rail trails elsewhere in Australia and New Zealand.”

The online survey is available at https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/have-your-say while the drop-in sessions will be held at:

• Maryborough – Wednesday January 30 from 5pm to 7:30pm in the Reception Room of the Maryborough City Hall. 
• Hervey Bay– Thursday January 31 from 5pm to 7:30pm in the Creative Space at the Fraser Coast Discovery Centre.