Work on a new 500 metre extension of the Mary Valley Rail Trail (MVRT) to Imbil Rail Park on the corner of William Street and Yabba Creek Road will start soon.
Gympie Mayor, Glen Hartwig, said extending the existing Imbil to Brooloo section of the trail would provide an important link to Imbil town centre, shops, accommodation and hospitality outlets, community facilities and attractions.
A family enjoying the MVRT. IMAGE Brea Martin
Mayor Hartwig, who also announced funding to repair and improve a nine-kilometre section of the Kilkivan to Kingaroy Rail Trail, said council was growing the region’s rail trail network as a major tourism and recreational attraction.
‘The Mary Valley Rail Trail has become one of our region’s greatest tourism assets,’ Mayor Hartwig said.
Good reasons to extend
MVRT Association President, Craig Thomson, said extending the trail to the centre of Imbil township meant greater visibility of the trailhead, more car parking (the current carpark overflows on weekends) and closer access to town services including toilets and water.
IMAGE of MVRT President Craig Thompson by Brea Martin
As part of the project, the Imbil Rail Park precinct would receive additional landscaping, signage and new trail infrastructure.
Changes to gates
Gates on the current rail trail corridor will be improved or removed (where feasible) making the trail easier for bike and horse riders.
The project is due to be completed by June 2027.
Cyclists enjoying the MVRT. IMAGE supplied
Mr Thomson said Gympie Council was currently completing the detailed design phase of the Imbil to Amamoor extension of the MVRT.
IMAGE at top of story of MVRT President Craig Thompson by Brea Martin Photography
