
If you’ve taken a walk or ride along the Casino to Bentley Rail Trail in the last twelve months, you will have noticed the fabulous environmental works occurring either side of the trail in the Naughtons Gap area.
Emma Stone from Border Ranges/Richmond Valley Landcare says 700 trees, shrubs and native grasses have already been planted, and are now beginning to show their potential.
‘The momentum is continuing, and we are ready to roll with the next round of planting. A further 500 trees and grasses will be going in the ground to expand this effort adjacent to the tunnel to provide future habitat and shade for those using the Rail Trail.’
We would love to have you involved!
Emma says that all who love the rail trail are welcome to join Landcare for this next community planting event, which was originally scheduled for 23 October, but had to be postponed due to the very dry conditions at that time.

‘Fortunately, with the weather conditions softening and finally some moisture around, we will be proceeding with the event tomorrow. It looks to be a great day, with the forecast offering some rain in the days prior and then again the following weekend.’
The planting event is happening tomorrow, Thursday 13 November, from 8.30am until noon, at Naughtons Gap, on the southern flanks of the hill.
Parking is on the north side of the bridge on Naughtons Gap Road (a ‘field day sign’ will mark the parking area). There will be a 600m walk (or ride if you bring your bike) from the parking area to the planting zone.
No tools or hard labour required
Organisers suggest BYO drinking water, hat, gloves, long pants and closed boots.
No tools are required. The holes will be pre-dug. Morning tea will be provided.
Emma Stone says participants should feel free to bring along anyone else who might be interested. ‘We would appreciate if people register their attendance to ensure we have sufficient morning tea for everyone.’
You can register here: https://form.jotform.com/252731905095863.
The event will continue in mild wet weather. Should heavy rain or extreme heat occur, it will be rescheduled.


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.