I feel compelled to write again regarding the use of the train tracks in our shire for public transport.
I disagree that the rail tracks should be just for the use of cyclists and walking enthusiasts only.
The history, culture, and romance needs to be there for all to enjoy, which includes public transport travel.
Additionally, and perhaps most importantly, is the ‘safety factor,’ of keeping the rail tracks in place for vehicular movement in the further event of flood. It is a significant regional, historical building block. This corridor rail line, specifically Byron to Mullumbimby, could be perhaps the only northerly approach when it is likely the region has another major flood. This could be the only way to travel, supply and get relief into Byron Bay or Mullumbimby.
When the water catchment at West Byron is filled and houses built upon it, the stormwater will be exacerbating flooding in Byron Bay.
So altogether I feel it is a sacrilege of our tradition, heritage, and cultural significance and especially the flood access safety issue that we must not extract our special ability to ride on any appropriate vehicle upon the tracks again.
The solar train from Elements into Byron Bay has made a real example of one way of how it can be done.
Walkers, bikers and rail track enthusiasts can all savour the journey from Byron to Mullumbimby again.
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. 
