Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail?

The trail will deliver recreation, social and health benefits to its users. It provides opportunities for families, bicycle tourists, mountain bike riders, outdoor education groups, horse riders and walkers to experience a major part of south east Queensland's landscape. Like other recreation trails, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail will provide opportunities for local businesses such as bed and breakfasts, tour guides, equipment hire and camping.

Who uses the trail?

Locals, regional visitors and tourists are the main users of the trails. Overseas tourists also enjoy walking and cycling through our wide open spaces. Motorised vehicles are not permitted to use the rail trail.

What will happen to the heritage rail bridges and tunnels?

Protecting the old rail line, including existing bridges and tunnels, is important to retaining the rail's heritage value. Wherever possible, bridges and tunnels will be retained with necessary measures put in place to ensure the safety of rail trail users.

How will people cross the Brisbane Valley Highway?

Although there are only a few road crossings on the trail, they will be properly designed, marked and signed for both trail and road users. Alternatives to level crossings over the Brisbane Valley Highway are currently being investigated.

How are motorised vehicles kept off the trail?

Except for maintenance and emergency vehicles, motorised vehicles are not permitted to use the rail trail. Access control measures such as bollards, locked gates, horse stiles and chicanes will prevent access to the trail by motorised vehicles.

What happens in an emergency?

Emergency vehicles will have full access to the rail trail. An emergency response plan was developed in consultation with the local police, fire and emergency services and is incorporated within the overall Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Plan.

How do you stop vandalism and crime along the trail?

Previous experience with rail rails in Australia and overseas has shown that the development of trails has not caused an increase in crime being reported. Surveillance by adjacent land owners and trail users can help reduce littering, graffiti, vandalism and crime. Blocking unauthorised vehicle access greatly reduces the chances that thieves or vandals will use the trail.