We ask if a bike trail by itself is really the best thing for the Byron Shire?
Surely, looking to a more sustainable future, we need to really assess what the people need, not just a nice occasional recreational path, when there is such a strong need for public transport for so many in our region.
The article was close to being a ‘paid advert’ for the rail trail in Byron Shire as money is being requested from the public to support their cause.
The proposed train service will not require public funding nor will it request ongoing maintenance costs through rate contributions.
The community has never actually been asked by the Northern Rivers Rail Trail whether they want a bike path alone.
Northern Rivers Rail Ltd (NRRL) has carried out several surveys and found that the majority of the community want trains back for public transport, and to not lose that potential when we have so little usable public transport in our region.
Not everyone will benefit from a rail trail as the article boasts. A bike path is seen as a recreational activity and due to our climatic conditions is not going to assist those with disabilities or those that need regular transport between major town centres.
Transport options in the Byron Shire are fragmented, leading to problems, e.g. car dependency and social isolation. Rail is reliable, creating a certainty that encourages local business to invest in the long-term future of the precinct.
It will create stakeholder synergy by transparent communication with local residents to ensure developments reflect actual community needs.
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. 
