SAVE THE GREAT NORTHERN RAILWAY FROM DEMOLITION
CALL TO ACTION

Yesterday, Mayor Coupland confirmed that Armidale Regional Council (ARC) is pushing ahead with preliminary works for a rail trail north of Armidale — following its October 2025 decision to allocate over $1 million for studies and approvals.

This is happening despite strong community opposition and without seriously examining alternatives that could deliver a bike trail without ripping up the rail line.

Nearly 5,000 people have already signed my Change.org petition opposing the rail trail proposal. Trains North is collecting signatures for two additional petitions to both State and Federal Parliaments.

Let’s be clear:

A rail trail is not rail. It is the opposite.

Removing the tracks will set back any return of train services by another generation.

Once the rails are gone, the cost of rebuilding will skyrocket.

Ratepayers’ money — and renewable energy company  contributions for community benefits  — should not fund a project that destroys future transport options.

Instead of dismantling rail infrastructure, our councils should be advocating for better public transport and making strong submissions to Transport for NSW as it prepares the next 20-year Regional Transport Plan for New England–North West.

This is about protecting long-term infrastructure for freight, passengers, and future generations.

If you want to be part of a brainstorming session to discuss:

The Council’s rail trail plan
Its long-term consequences
What we can do next
Please email your interest to:

Dr Siri Gamage
Regional Rail Advocate
 Siri.gamage1951@gmail.com

Now is the time to speak up — before the tracks are gone for EVER.