Following extensive community and stakeholder consultation, Hilltops Council has agreed on the next steps for the proposed Boorowa to Galong Rail Trail. A total of 601 formal submissions were received, along with participation from 90 people at community sessions, reflecting strong interest from residents, landholders, businesses, community organisations and regional stakeholders.
Council’s consultation process was undertaken in accordance with the NSW Rail Trail Development Framework and Hilltops Council’s Community Engagement Strategy. It aimed to increase community engagement, provide clear and accessible information, and gather feedback to inform Council’s decision-making.
Engagement activities included an online survey, community drop-in sessions in Boorowa and Galong, targeted consultation with adjoining landholders, and written, email and phone submissions. Direct mail was distributed to nearby residents, and notifications were shared with Council’s contact lists, local businesses, community groups and government agencies.
Feedback across all consultation methods shows a highly engaged community, with a range of views expressed on the proposed rail trail. Survey results indicated that among those who live in the region or adjacent to the rail trail, opposition is much stronger with 29.1% of all respondents strongly opposed to the project.
While respondents living outside the Hilltops region expressing the highest level of support with 52.8% of respondents strongly supporting the proposed rail trail. Ultimately, the results were spilt regarding support for the project. There is clear interest and support from some segments of the community, but an absence of a broad consensus of support.
Adjoining landholders were a major aspect of consideration in community consultation. Responses from adjoining landholders highlight their direct connection to the corridor, with 42.11% moving stock across it and a further 42.11% having residential boundaries adjoining it, alongside 39.47% grazing stock within the corridor—reinforcing the importance of recognising and respecting these key stakeholders in any future considerations.
At the March Ordinary Council Meeting, Council resolved to dissolve the existing Council Steering Committee, recognising that the project is best progressed at a community level with the support of key stakeholders.
Council wishes to acknowledge the large amount of work the community committee, Boorowa Galong Rail Trail Inc, have done regarding the project. Boorowa Galong Rail Trail Inc has played a key role in progressing the project and will continue its work independently, undertaking the recommended actions identified in the consultation report and reporting back to Council within 12 months.
Hilltops Council thanks all community members who contributed to the consultation process and remains supportive of initiatives that strengthen community engagement and regional growth.
To view the full consultation report or watch Councillors discuss this agenda item, please visit: https://hilltops.resolve.red/portal/Meeting/49/2199?type=2&docId=678