The 2026 Rail Trails Conference will be held in Canberra in November, with the theme ‘Exploring successes and opportunities of rail trails’.

Among the projects highlighted will be Northern Rivers Rail Trail, with Regional Lead Dean Cooper giving a presentation titled ‘Beyond the Ribbon Cutting – How the Northern Rivers Rail Trail continues to evolve and grow’.

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail recently won Gold in both the Tourist Attractions and Excellence in Accessible Tourism categories at the 2026 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards.

It has also been recognised as one of Australia’s best visitor experiences, taking home Silver in the Tourist Attractions category at the 2025 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

The 2026 Rail Trails Conference will be held on 6 November 2026, bringing together rail trail managers and proponents from around Australia and inspiring prospective NSW rail trail groups to develop and enhance rail trails.

Topics explored will include management styles and strategies for improving the rail trail experience for those who use them – from adding art to linking nearby businesses.

The program will include a keynote speaker, expert panels and discussions, alongside networking opportunities.

The 2026 Rail Trails Conference will be held at Canberra Labor Club, Belconnen ACT. Learn more here.