past events
Murwillumbah Arts Trail
In 2024 the Northern Rivers Rail Trail was thrilled to be a part of the Murwillumbah Arts Trail. On 10 – 11 May, 2024 this bi-annual event immersed visitors in the luscious landscapes of Northern NSW.
The Arts Trail presents a rare opportunity for the public to venture into artists’ studios, historic halls, and pop-up galleries scattered across quaint villages. The event celebrates a wide spectrum of art forms, spanning from traditional painting and printmaking to intricate jewellery, imposing sculptures, finely crafted glassworks, and dazzling mosaics. It offers an excellent platform for art enthusiasts, collectors, fellow creators or curious minds to gain insights into the artistic process, discover emerging talents, and avail studio sales.
For more information visit Murwillumbah Arts Trail.
Richmond Valley opening weekend
The opening weekend of the Richmond Valley section took place on Saturday 23 March, 2024. The community were enthralled by an array of activities and experiences that celebrated the essence of the Northern Rivers region. From immersive encounters with microbats to savoury BBQ delights, mesmerising Taiko drum performances, and expert bike checks, there was something to delight everyone. It was an unforgettable weekend to be part of the vibrant tapestry of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail community!
Tweed Community Celebration weekend
On 25 and 26 March, 2023 we celebrated the opening of the Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail with a two-day event filled will pedal-powered activities, music and games. The Community Celebration brought together locals and visitors alike, creating a lively atmosphere that was enjoyed by all. This event was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the hard work that has gone into the development of the Rail Trail, as well as the spirit of community that surrounds it. Please enjoy this gallery that captures the excitement and joy of the weekend.
Making Tracks Street Party
On Saturday 30 November, in South Murwillumbah along Prospero Street and the Northern Rivers Rail Trail at the Murwillumbah Railway Station precinct, visitors could marvel at exquisite cars, explore vibrant street art in the underground carpark, hop aboard a trackless train ride, explore exhibitions, learn to skateboard, hunt for treasures at the vintage clothes stalls, and unwind with friends, delicious food, and live music.
This fun filled event celebrated 130 years of the Lismore to Murwillumbah Railway and exciting evolution of Prospero Street and the Northern Rivers Rail Trail at the Murwillumbah Railway Station precinct into a hub of creativity, community and businesses.
Lismore to Bentley section opening
The Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail officially opened on 14 December 2024. This incredible addition now connects Lismore to Casino via an interrupted trail 29.7 km in length. The opening brought together locals and visitors alike, creating a lively atmosphere that was enjoyed by all. This event was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the hard work that has gone into the development of the Rail Trail, as well as the spirit of community that surrounds it. Please enjoy this gallery that captures the excitement and joy of the weekend.
Hosting events or large group activities
We know everyone is super excited about the trail opening and planning group rides and other exciting opportunities. We can’t wait to host you either but our immediate focus for our small team is on opening, having safe operations and creating great guest experiences for locals and visitors.
While we progress our event management and permit requirements to efficiently, safely and legally coordinate events and large groups on the trail, it means that we will not be considering or approving organised trail events until 2025 (with the exception of the Rail Trail opening events coordinated by council).
Tweed Shire Council is responsible for the management of organised events on the Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. Richmond Valley Council is responsible for the management of organised events on the Richmond section. Once a rail trail event application process is up and running, an event permit will be required to host and run a events on the Northern Rivers Rail Trail.
Types of organised events include but are not limited to:
- commercial events – an event where a business or organisation charges money or obtains another benefit from supplying goods and services (for example, guided or organised tours)
- competitive events
- social (non-competitive) events
- fundraising and charitable events.
Private groups (30 people or less) and individuals involved in recreational activities, other than for commercial purposes, do not need a permit. Examples include social rides, bushwalking or nature study groups, bird watching or general outdoor activities.
However, we strongly encourage groups to be mindful of the safety tips and rules, break into smaller groups for a great trail experience for yourself and others and to book ahead at any experiences or cafes so they know you are coming.
For now, this approach will help us provide ample opening time to test out the new trail, our infrastructure and importantly to let locals and visitors enjoy the trail. In the background we will be preparing our event strategy and processes and look forward to opening the event applications for ideas and thoughts soon.
Thanks for your understanding and please feel free to contact us to discuss any rail trail events at marketing@northernriversrailtrail.com.au.