27 TOP HONOUR FROM TRIPADVISOR AWARDED TO NORTHERN RIVERS’ ‘MUST-DO’ EXPERIENCE A Jewel in the Northern Rivers Rail Trail -The Tweed Section The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is a shared recreation and nature trail, and a ‘must do’ experience in the region. The first 24 km section opened in the Tweed on 1 March 2023 (stretching from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek). Since opening, the Tweed section of the Rail Trail has welcomed more than 146,000 users including locals, domestic and international visitors. The second section from Casino to Bentley in the Richmond Valley is 13.4 km and opened in March 2024 and the 16.3 km section from Lismore to Bentley is now also open. Eventually the Rail Trail will connect with Byron and Lismore and will be 132 km long. The Rail Trail is free to use and provides a safe environment for walkers, cyclists and people of all abilities to explore the beautiful Northern Rivers region. The Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is a remarkable showcase of how visionary projects can breathe new life into regional spaces. Spanning 24 kilometres from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek, this stretch is the first completed section of the broader rail trail project, setting the standard for its future development. This section traverses stunning landscapes, including lush farmland, rainforest pockets, and charming villages. Along the way, it offers breathtaking views of the Tweed Valley and the iconic Wollumbin (Mount Warning), creating an immersive experience that highlights the natural beauty and cultural significance of the region. For locals and visitors alike, the Tweed section offers a multi-use pathway perfect for walking, cycling, and horse riding. Designed to be inclusive, the trail accommodates people of all abilities, making it a space for everyone to enjoy. The trail also serves as a platform for storytelling, with interpretive signage that shares the history of the railway and the communities it connected. It’s a way to honour the past while forging a new identity for the region, one focused on sustainability and community well-being. Economically, the Tweed section is already making waves. Local businesses are seeing increased foot traffic, with cafes, accommodation providers, and bike hire services flourishing. Events along the trail are drawing visitors, further bolstering the region’s profile as a must-visit destination. More information including maps is available at www.northernriversrailtrail.com.au Tickets: $40 Standard $30 (Concession, Bond students/staff/alumini) www.eventbrite.com.au Enquiries: Robina Literary Club 5580 9118 To The Doctors and Staff Gold Coast University Hospital At the Gold Coast University Hospital, in April 2024, I was diagnosed with a rare cancer condition by Dr Feathers and his team of Doctors and Nurses. Then to the Oncology Ward for a treatment called OPDUALAG. The medical team at the Oncology Department from the volunteer ladies to receptionists, to Doctors and Nurses were so professional and cheerful it is a pleasure to be their patient. After eight months of treatment, it is showing signs of success. There are no doubt hundreds of other people having the same treatment as me. The general healthy public would not be aware of these cases, and I write this to inform them what wonderful medical teams we have in our Gold Coast University Hospital. They do not get the accolades which they so richly deserve. I wish you all the very best for 2025. Regards Roger Keelan, Golden Crest Manor, Nerang A letter of appreciation!
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