Glen Innes: Let's think beyond the rail trail.

I hope Glen Innes Severn Council makes a wise decision instead of simply following Armidale's rail trail path.

Armidale's proposed rail trail to Ben Lomond has already cost around $2 million, and after its $5.4 million funding bid failed in 2024, another application is now being prepared. There is no guarantee it will be funded.
Rather than spending years chasing grants for a recreational project, our councils should be united in demanding better public transport and investment in regional rail. Strong transport infrastructure is essential for economic growth, attracting investment, supporting tourism and giving young people a reason to stay in our region.

During my recent visit to China, I saw the scale of investment in high-speed rail and modern transport infrastructure. While other countries are planning for the future, why should regional Australia settle for removing rail infrastructure?
The real issues facing our communities are affordable housing, health services, water security, jobs, food production, environmental protection, decarbonisation, deteriorating roads and railways, and the high cost of air travel. We should not allow the debate to become simply "rail trails versus trains."
Bike and walking trails are valuable and can be built in many suitable locations without sacrificing strategic rail corridors. Once a rail corridor is converted, restoring rail services becomes far more difficult.

Our councils should put essential transport infrastructure ahead of non-essential recreational projects and work together to secure the long-term future of the New England region.

Let's think about the next 50 years—not just the next grant application.