Council calls for feedback on latest design for Mt Morgan Rail Trai

Published on 26 April 2022

Plans for a multi-use rail trail from Mount Morgan to Gracemere are continuing to make tracks, with Rockhampton Regional Council releasing a preliminary design to the public this week.

The design is the next stage of the project that could provide a recreational route for cyclists, walkers and potentially horse riders and cover a distance of almost 30km.

Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said the design released this week offers a detailed look at the proposed track and incorporates a wide range of feedback received from the community over the past months.

“Last year we carried out community consultation for this project and asked the community to share their thoughts on an initial concept design we had developed,” Mayor Williams said.

“We received feedback on a whole range of things including the trail’s alignment, potential rest stops, picnic areas and also things like fencing, gating and trail access - all of this has helped shape a detailed preliminary design.

“This design provides a lot more detail into what the proposed trail will look like, as well as its final route and even the type of surfaces at certain sections of the trail.”

Parks Sport and Public Spaces Councillor Cherie Rutherford said Council is now inviting the community to review the preliminary design and provide their thoughts on the plan to date.

“It’s the next big step in assessing this project’s potential and how likely it is that we will be able to see it come to fruition,” Cr Rutherford said.

“While it’s a really exciting project, no decision has been made as to whether it will definitely proceed and any feedback we receive from the community helps to inform our final decision.”

Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said the design work was supported with a $250,000 grant from the Palaszczuk Government’s Transport and Main Roads Rail Trail Local Government Grants Program.

“Rail trails are a great way to repurpose the space for those keen on getting out and about,” Mr O’Rourke said.

“They support active, healthy lifestyles, and contribute to environmental preservation and management.

“And we know that, on average, every dollar we invest in bike-riding infrastructure will return nearly five dollars in economic benefit to Queensland with improved health outcomes, reduced traffic congestion, and lower transport costs.

“In addition to jobs in construction, tourism, and new opportunities for local businesses and residents.

“They also create diversity in local economies and encourage the growth and creation of small businesses in hospitality and tourism.

"That’s why the Queensland Government has committed $252 million in funding over the next four years to support and encourage bike riding across the state, including investigating options to turn disused rail corridors into vibrant bike riding facilities for locals and tourists alike, getting more people riding more often.”

To provide your thoughts on the design, head to Council’s Engagement website.

Feedback closes on 22 May 2022.