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Works to the Kilkivan to Kingaroy section of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (BVRT) have been given the go ahead with the allocation of $2 million to develop the multi-use recreational track.         

Queensland Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney recently announced the grant, stating “this project will complement the South Burnett’s already strong reputation as an attractive bed and breakfast tourism destination for Brisbane residents and beyond.”

The section of trail to improved spans about 60 kilometres and development will be funded by the Queensland Government’s Royalties to Regions program.

The BVRT follows the disused Brisbane Valley rail line that commenced construction at Wulkaraka near Ipswich in 1884 and was completed at Yarraman in 1913.

Situated within a two-hour drive from Brisbane, the 161 kilometre trail provides walkers, cyclists and horse riders an opportunity to experience a unique history and diversity of rural landscapes. Being on the old railway alignment and broken into sections, the BVRT provides an easy climb up the valley for day trippers, overnight camping or longer term adventures.

The trail winds its way along the western side of the Brisbane River traversing farm land, forests, picturesque rural settings and country towns. These productive landscapes were at their peak in the early 1900s and produced a range of dairy products, forestry timbers, beef, sheep and pork. The rail line was the vital link that connected these rural enterprises to markets in Ipswich, Brisbane and further afield.

The productivity of the Brisbane Valley supported the staged extension of the rail through the towns of Fernvale, Coominya, Esk, Toogoolawah, Harlin, Moore and Linville before heading up the range and through the forested hills around Blackbutt, Benarkin and onto Yarraman. Changing economic conditions through the mid 1900s lead to the rail being closed in 1989.

Cyclists, walkers and horse riders are catered for by a full range of services, accommodation and facilities located in the frequent towns situated along the trail.

Completed in 2012 for dedicated recreational uses, the BVRT it is one of the longest rail trails in Australia.

Click here to visit the BVRT website.

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