Northern Rivers Rail Trail named finalist in two categories at the NSW Tourism Awards 2025
14 October 2025
The Northern Rivers Rail Trail has been announced as a finalist in not one, but 2 categories at the prestigious NSW Tourism Awards 2025: Adventure Tourism and Tourist Attraction. This double recognition celebrates the trail’s growing reputation as a must-do experience for locals and visitors alike, offering a unique blend of nature, culture and community connection.
The NSW Tourism Association revealed this year’s finalists following a record-breaking 230 nominations from across the state, with 125 finalists selected across 30 categories.
Dean Cooper, Regional Lead, Northern Rivers Rail Trail, said:
“It’s incredibly exciting to be involved in these awards for the second consecutive year and to watch this product shine as a newcomer in the market. Our community and supporters are the heartbeat of this trail, so this recognition is truly for them.”
The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is a shared pathway that winds through the heart of Bundjalung Country, connecting communities, cultures and countryside across 2 spectacular sections.
“The northern section, stretching 24km from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek, opened in early 2023 and quickly became a favourite for walkers, riders and families. It’s been incredible to see how locals and visitors have embraced it.”
“Then in 2024, we extended the southern section which is now a 29.7km journey from Casino to Lismore, adding even more adventure, heritage and natural beauty to the experience.
“Together, these 2 sections offer a unique blend of sustainable tourism, regional storytelling and accessible recreation that’s truly special.
“Entering the NSW Tourism Awards was a chance to celebrate the incredible support from our community, volunteers and local businesses who’ve helped bring the trail to life. Being named a finalist is a tribute to their passion and the trail’s growing impact as a newcomer in the tourism landscape,” Mr Cooper said.
The 2025 NSW Tourism Awards finalists are recognised across the following categories:
• Tours, Attractions & Experiences
• Festivals & Events
• Accommodation
• Food & Drink Tourism
• Sustainable Tourism
• Tourism Services
• New Tourism Businesses
The full list of 2025 finalists can be viewed here: https://nswtourismassociation.com.au/nsw-tourism-awards
Destination NSW is a proud supporter of this awards program and congratulates all the finalists.
The winners of the 2025 NSW Tourism Awards will be announced at the NSW Tourism Gala on Thursday, 27 November 2025 at Waterview in Bicentennial Park, Sydney Olympic Park.