As a cyclist I’m definitely in favour of a rail trail. I’m also definitely not a fan of ripping up the rails. There is no need when they can be used to facilitate the trail and, in the event of trains returning, can be as easily restored. Unless, of course, you intend to make a huge amount of money ripping them up and selling them.
Lydia Kindred is right when she perceives very few cyclists in this area. With little bike infrastructure our narrow country roads are a potentially dangerous place to be and many would-be cyclists are understandably reluctant. A car free transport corridor through the middle of our region would give the opportunity for our highly creative residents to redefine local transport.
Electric bikes are getting very reliable and, with the huge global uptake, prices are falling. An Ebike capable of reliably traveling that corridor at 25kph can be had for less than $1,000 and there is so much choice. For DIY, motors as little as $200 and batteries around $400 plus a donor bike. What’s more the technology can be applied to any bike-based vehicle, something to get creative with.
In one of the most perfect climates and environments for cycling we have the opportunity to redefine local transport and secure the corridor in public hands. But not for much longer as the developers probably have their eyes on it.
Robin Harrison, Binna Burra
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
