January 13, 2016
Years of campaigning by local enthusiasts has paid off with the State Government confirming on Tuesday it has approved funding to complete the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail between Toogoolawah and Moore.
The completion of this section will result in a continuous 140km rail trail between Yarraman and Wanora (south of Fernvale).
Rail trail campaigner Paul Heymans, from Wivenhoe Pocket, received a letter confirming the approval from Matt Collins, chief of staff for Deputy Premier Jackie Trad.
Mr Collins said there were also “further plans to complete the remaining section between Wanora and Wulkuraka in collaboration with the Somerset Regional and Ipswich City councils”.
He said the announcement of funding for the Toogoolawah-Moore section was the result of collaborative efforts between the Department of Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning; the Department of Transport and Main Roads; and the Ipswich, Somerset, South Burnett and Toowoomba councils over many years to maintain and progressively develop the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.
The letter also praised Mr Heymans for his enthusiasm and hard work in promoting the rail trail.
In 2014 Mr Heymans launched a petition on Change.org in a bid to build pressure for the links to be developed.
He has also promoted regular cycling trips along existing sections of the trail.
