Project Description
Mareeba Shire Council appointed Otium to investigate the feasibility of developing a section of an unused rail corridor between the Mareeba CBD and the township of Walkamin as a rail trail. The study needed to ascertain the feasibility of the trail by identifying the potential design, construction costs, whole of life costs, and management and operational models that would be suitable.
The Mareeba to Walkamin Rail Trail is a 15km section of former rail line between Mareeba and Walkamin. An established rail trail already existed between Walkamin and Atherton and the completion of the linkage to Mareeba would add to the network creating a key linkage between the major towns on the Tablelands. The Tablelands region had been developing a strong reputation for trails-based tourism, and the Mareeba Shire Council recognised the need to investigate the feasibility of developing the rail trail.
There was strong support from a number of stakeholder groups in the community and a positive return on the investment would accrue through economic, health and recreation benefits. The study identified four options for the trail development and management. It also identified that the full cost of the trail could not be funded from external grants and therefore a considerable capital contribution from Council would be required to progress the project.
Stage 1 of the upgrade to the trail was completed in October 2022.
Client:
Mareeba Shire Council