Stage 1 of 4 of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is officially open as of 1 March 2023, repurposing the old unused railway corridor and transforming it into the region’s newest must-do experience – a safe and enchanting shared recreational and nature trail catering to walkers, cyclists, and individuals of all abilities.
Featuring 6 kilometres of sealed asphalt and 18 kilometres of solid compacted gravel, 26 bridges and 2 tunnels, the 24km section of the rail trail meanders through picturesque landscapes, offering breath-taking views of the surrounding hinterland and ecosystems. It connects small villages, providing opportunities to delve into local history and immerse oneself in the region’s unparalleled biodiversity.
The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is set to expand, connecting the Tweed Valley with Byron Shire, Lismore, and Casino. Delivered in multiple stages, the trail aims to become a premier experience, attracting thousands of visitors annually to discover the natural beauty of the Northern Rivers region.
Collaboration to success
This monumental project, a result of collaborative efforts by local community groups, local councils, and joint funding from the NSW and Australian governments, has been a long-anticipated success. The NSW Government contributed $7.8 million through the Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund, and the Australian Government provided $6.5 million through the Regional Jobs and Investment Packages Fund. An additional $600,000 from the NSW Government covers the project’s operating and maintenance costs for the first three years.
Moddex had the privilege of working with Hazell Bros (QLD) to design and install customised configurations of our proprietary Bridgerail bridge barriers with hardwood timber post coverings. Hazell Bros (QLD) also worked in partnership with Tweed Shire Council and NSW Public Works to ensure the project was delivered in such a manner that not only visitors benefit from this breath-taking experience, but local residents too.
The project stands as a testament to successful collaboration and the positive impact it can have on community engagement and regional development.
Customised Bridgerail and balustrade system
The customised configuration comprised a mix of Moddex’s pre-engineered Bridgerail configurations, ensuring compliance and seamless integration with the existing infrastructure. A distinctive feature of this tailored design was the incorporation of hardwood timber post coverings, adding both aesthetic charm and functional utility to the rail trail experience.
Notably, the hardwood panels served a dual purpose by featuring wood engravings, effectively transforming them into informative signs for trail users. These engraved markers, strategically placed at locations such as Mills Creek, contribute to the overall user experience by providing clear and engaging guidance along the trail.
Why were Moddex Bridgerail bridge barriers selected?
The choice of Moddex’s Bridgerail bridge barriers for Section 1 of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail was driven by a combination of safety, compliance, customisability, installation efficiency, and durability factors required to balustrade numerous bridges along the trail.
By choosing Bridgerail, any risk of corrosion is mitigated, as the modular design eliminates the need for site welding, reducing opportunities for corrosion and ensuring the construction site is void of hot works and toxic fumes. The absence of on-site welding not only contributes to the safety of the construction process but also aligns with environmental considerations, further emphasising Moddex’s commitment to responsible and sustainable infrastructure solutions.
Proud to contribute
Moddex takes pride in contributing to the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, an initiative that transcends infrastructure development, enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike.
Project details
Project: Northern Rivers Rail Trail – Tweed Section
Location: Tweed Valley, NSW
Client: Professional Bridge Services
Product: Bridgerail Bridge Barriers - BR40
