Council on track to deliver first stage of Beaudesert to Bethania Rail Trail

Riders, walkers and runners are a step closer to having a new ‘training’ track in the Scenic Rim, with construction works on the first 1.8-kilometre section of the Bethania to Beaudesert Rail Trail set to commence soon. 

The full Bethania to Beaudesert Rail Trail spans approximately 43 kilometres, with most of the trail located within the Logan City Council area. Approximately eight kilometres of the trail runs through the Scenic Rim.  

Funding for the construction of the first section from Beaudesert to Gleneagle has been allocated within Scenic Rim Regional Council’s 2024-2025 financial year Capital Works Program, in partnership with the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR).  

This initial stage will include the installation of a deco surface and the construction of interim active travel crossings across two creeks. 

Scenic Rim Mayor Tom Sharp said Council looks forward to collaborating with TMR to deliver this important project. 

“Rail Trails are popular because they provide people with a unique environment to safely enjoy nature and the outdoors, on repurposed disused infrastructure that only rail users got to experience in years gone by,” he said.  

“The Bethania to Beaudesert Rail Trail has an attractive scenic appeal that will provide an enjoyable recreational corridor that people of all abilities can use.

“It will be another great attraction for visitors to experience in our spectacular region and provide economic benefits for local businesses.”  

Department of Transport and Main Roads’ General Manager of Portfolio Investment and Programming Tony Philp said rail trails provided benefits to local communities.   

“The Queensland Government’s funding contribution on the rail trail from Beaudesert to Gleneagle will provide substantial safety improvements to the local community by providing a safe alternative for riders and walkers,” Mr Philp said.   

“The rail trail will provide a safe route for residents of The Outlook and surrounding residential estates into Beaudesert town.” 

Drawing on TMR’s experience with other rail trails, the initial works will ensure Section 1 is opened to a basic standard, with appropriate improvements potentially delivered further down the track. 

Section 1 of the trail will begin at Helen Street, Beaudesert, behind Enright’s Sawmill, pass behind the Beaudesert Enterprise Precinct, and extend across Waters Creek to The Outlook.  

Future stages of the trail will extend towards Allan Creek Road and ultimately connect to the Logan City Council boundary at Walker Road. 

Once completed, it is anticipated that the Bethania to Beaudesert Rail Trail will become a premier example of how disused railway corridors can be repurposed for recreation, active transport, and tourism.