Boorowa To Galong Rail Trail Project Steams Ahead

Boorowa to Galong Rail Trail Inc. has made a significant leap towards the realisation of the Boorowa Galong Rail Trail with the funding committed to complete the Development Plan for the 27km proposed route.

The committee was formed after Jim Ryan attended the Rail Trail forum held at Tumbarumba in April 2021.

Committee members include Chair, Jim Ryan, Secretary, Paul Parker, Treasurer, Julie Poplin, Treasurer, David and Julie Henderson, Alan Mostyn, Paul Young, Will and Marg Kelly, and Gail Flanery.

They quickly raised the funds from Boorwa Galong Progress Association and Hilltops Council for a Feasibility Study completed by Mike Halliburton and Mike Maher in November 2022.

The small village of Galong is on the main Sydney to Melbourne Railway line. The line to Boorowa was a branch line only as far as Boorowa. The last train ran in 1977.

Galong has an active Progress Association supporting the Rail Trail proposal.

On the proposed Rail Trail route is a significant and well-maintained historic cemetery with many impressive monuments. The old railway timber trestle bridge over the Boorowa River is in a state of serious disrepair but, if restored, would be a highlight of the Trail.

Boorowa is a bustling town of some 2000 residents with cafes, accommodation, hotels, clubs, a museum and a golf course. The region is known for its agricultural excellence, especially its fine merino wool production.

The old railway station has disappeared but there is an impressive locomotive turntable near the end of the rail line. The trailhead in Boorowa would be in an existing recreation park near the old station and only a short distance from the centre of town. Boorowa is an hour and a half drive from Canberra and about three hours from Sydney.

The Rail Trail is located within the Hilltops Shire boundary.

The Rotary Club of Boorowa and Galong Progress Association have supported funding the development plan along with local businesses and landowners.

The Trail is expected to boost the local economy by $1.9 million per year due to its similarities to the very successful Tumbarumba to Rosewood Rail Trail.

Mike Halliburton and Mike Maher have been commissioned to create the plan and will commence work on November 30 with the plan expected to be completed by March 2024.

The committee thanks all those who have contributed either financially, by voicing their support for the project or by suggesting ways the project can provide business opportunities for the community.

• Topics:

• Community Groups
• Tourism