Who are the

Friends of New England Rail Trail?

Why do the

Friends of New England Rail Trail Exist?

With an an estimated 3000 kms of disused rail corridors in New South Wales, passionate locals noted the ever-deteriorating rail infrastructure. A committee was established and action for locals, cyclists, rail enthusiasts and general tourism was sought to make this piece of Australian history a landmark as the New England Rail Trail. The committee of the Friends of New England Rail Trail was born out of this.

Aims of the Friends of New England Rail Trail:

Community involvement in design and development of a sustainable rail trail project with councils and government agencies.
Promotion and marketing, merchandise creation to help boost tourism and community engagement in the local and supporting region.
Encourage a healthy lifestyle through the development and use of the rail trail for recreational and fitness activities with access for all ages and abilities.
Support local economic growth by attracting visitors and promoting regional tourism, and supporting new local business development.

If you’d like to support the efforts of this group, your membership will go a long way to making the Rail Trail a reality.

Meet the

Board Members

Greg is a lifelong Armidale local with a knack for mechanics. He started in management at a local electronics manufacturer, then led the development of agricultural equipment. After the company closed, he and his wife launched a cleaning business, growing it to 34 employees and expanding into supplies and equipment. Greg spent over 16 years on the Rapid co operative board, including four years as chairman. Now semi-retired, he serves on the FofNERT board, bringing his business and management experience to support community development. Passionate about Armidale, he’s committed to enhancing local amenities and services.

Lived in the New England since 1987. Career in public land management, followed by the first NSW Cross Border Commissioner. Thirteen years as an elected Councillor and nine years as Mayor, Glen Innes Severn Council. Bachelor Science (Forestry).

Keen cyclist and understand the benefits of keeping fit. Rail trails offer a safe, pleasant riding, walking and running experience with gentle grades. They offer a valuable space for both local residents and visitors.

A fifth-generation local, she grew up on a sheep grazing property west of Guyra and has always embraced an active, outdoor lifestyle. She works in administration with Armidale Catholic Schools and, alongside her husband David, operates a primary production business breeding Angus cattle on their Armidale and Guyra properties. They have two adult children. Passionate about New England’s untapped tourism potential, she believes the region’s natural beauty, elevation, and wildlife offer incredible opportunities. She is motivated to support the NERT project, confident it will promote healthy lifestyles and attract tourism, making New England a sought-after travel destination.

Steve has lived in Llangothlin Guyra for 30 years. He retired in April 2021 from NSW Rural Fire Service where I was Superintendent. Fire Control Officer and Zone Manager for the New England Zone which included former Guyra, Armidale, Walcha and Uralla LGAs. Over the past 20 years, I maintained a critical partnership with all councils. Owner / Operator High Country Productions & Steve Mepham Management Services with over 35 years experience in Business. Steve has had extensive Community Leadership experience which includes 15 years of service with local community groups, currently he is involved in a number of groups in the local area holding varied executive positions.

David Mills is a member of Friends of NERT, and is probably the reason that NERT exists. He has been working towards making the New England Rail Trail a reality since 2013.

An avid cyclist and family man, David has also owned a small business in Guyra and believes in the spirit of the community.

A UNE graduate in Agricultural Economics and Business Management, he began his career with the Australian Bureau of Agricultural Economics in Canberra in the early 1980s, focusing on economic research and industry forecasting. He later owned a commodity trading and exporting business in Armidale, employing up to 24 people. From 2001 to 2022, he served as Business Development Manager for the New England with the NSW State Government, working with councils, industry groups, investors, and small businesses. Now retired, he is married with three adult children and seven grandchildren, and continues to enjoy life in the New England region.

Born in Holland and raised in Grafton, he moved to Australia at six and attended Newcastle Teachers College. After two years of teaching, he served in the Australian Regular Army for 11 years and the Army Reserve for another 11, reaching Lieutenant Colonel. While serving, he completed a degree in Educational Psychology through the University of Queensland. Following discharge, he worked in corporate training and later ran a management consulting business for 13 years. Relocating to Guyra in 2006, he served as Mayor for eight years and chaired regional land services. Married with two children and four grandchildren.

Jenny has lived in Armidale most of her life. Her employment history has included disability services, early childhood education, local manufacturing and for the last 30 years has operated a successful local business, alongside her husband Greg. Her community involvement has given her a sound understanding of the importance of community and respecting those who share it.

With a love for the outdoors and her enjoyment of our natural surroundings she is keen to see the New England Rail Trail bring economic growth the the villages along its path.

Timeline for the

New England Rail Trail

We know it’s got so much value for our community that we’ve been fighting for the Rail Trail for over 15 years. Take a
look at the journey we’ve been on.

Testimonial for the

New England Rail Trail

Susanna Greig

Member & Local Riding Enthusiast

I cycle everywhere and no longer drive following a nasty car accident. I’ve had significant physical challenges following my accident, but cycling is my thing!

I’ve been so lucky to cycle rail trails in different parts of Australia as well as overseas. I have experienced these great assets and seen first-hand how they have enhanced these regions! I’m terribly supportive and excited for the New England Rail Trail initiative.

Join us

Become a Member!

We have lost some battles, but we haven’t given up on our Rail Trail! To support us and stay in the loop about developments of the New England Rail Trail consider purchasing a membership, adding your voice to the ever-growing movement of supporters for this transformative regional development project.

Who are the

Friends of New England Rail Trail?

Why do the