Welcome to the Fraser Coast and the Mary2Bay Rail Trail

A Journey Through Urban Charm and Rustic Beauty

The Mary2Bay Rail Trail offers the local community and visitors to the Fraser Coast the special opportunity to walk, run, cycle through two distinct sections - the urban area of Hervey Bay as well as the rural section through beautiful forest areas between Nikenbah and Maryborough. This unique community asset is in the development stage with approximately 20 kilometres of the sealed urban section completed between Urangan pier and Nikenbah, Hervey Bay.

Nature's Haven: Urban to Rural

The trail re-commences with the rural section at Piggford Lane, Nikenbah or the Takura Trail Head, running through to near Colton, a distance of approximately 17 kilometres, adding an opportunity for horse riders. A further section is under development from Colton to Maryborough. Pending completion, the best access from Maryborough to the rural section is currently via Churchill Mine Road Trail Head, from Dundathu.

A Gateway to Tranquility

The linking of the heritage rich city of Maryborough through to the seaside attractions of Hervey Bay via the Trail will allow families and individuals to experience the natural beauty of the Fraser Coast, taking a more adventurous route. We hope that you will enjoy this special Fraser Coast experience and provide your support in the continued development of the M2BRT.

Maps

Trail Overview Map

Explore the diverse beauty of Fraser Coast on the Mary2Bay Rail Trail, a unique pathway that takes you through the urban charm of Hervey Bay to the serene rural landscapes between Nikenbah and Maryborough.

Download map

Urangan Pier to Nikenbah

Hervey Bay Tourist Bike Trail

Toogoom Bike trails

For endurance riders who regularly test their level of fitness, the Toogoom Mountain Bike Trails in the Vernon State Forest offer a great deal!

Recreational Pathways

Visitors of the region are encouraged to leave their car and jump on a bike. One of the best modes of transport to fully explore some of the Fraser Coast's most picturesque locations.

Competitive Cycling on the Fraser Coast

The increase in the number of competitive annual cycling events, including 100km and 50km triathlons, are also making the region a growing drawcard for cyclists.

Hervey Bay's Heritage

The Colton (north of Maryborough) to Urangan rail line played a key role in the early development of Hervey Bay. It was opened on 18 December 1896 as far as Pialba, and extended to Urangan in 1913. The rail line was used for passenger services and the cartage of freight (pineapples, sugar cane).

Railway Picnics: A Treasured Tradition

For many decades, major events on this line were the annual Railway Picnics with trains coming from as far away as Kingaroy, Gympie, Bundaberg, Childers and Maryborough. Train movements were complex and thousands of excited passengers would descend on one of Hervey Bay’s beaches for memorable picnics.

Reviving History: The Recreational Trail

The railway line was closed in 1993 and the line lifted from Takura to Urangan in 1995. The Fraser Coast Regional Council continues to develop the old rail corridor as a recreational trail to connect Maryborough to Hervey Bay, as both a tourist asset and local recreational route, returning the corridor to its former glory.

Timeline

M2BRT: Mary to Bay Trail FCRC: Fraser Coast Regional Council FCBUG: Fraser Coast Bicycle Users Group DTMR: Department of Transport and Main Roads

1896
Line opened to Pialba

1972
Passenger services ceased

1995
Line Removed Urangan to Takura

2004
Fraser Coast BUG Advocating for M2BRT to Maryborough

2011
M2BRT Vision Statement & Engineering Study Completed

2019
Second M2BRT Feasibility Study & Development Plan by FCRC done

2021
DTMR approves licence for FCBUG to develop 7km, Takura to Chruchill Mines Rd. DTMR & FCRC Grant Funds. Work well in hand

2023
M2BRT opens new section of the Rail trail starting at Takura

1913
Extended to Urangan then Pier

1993
Line officially closed

Late 1990
Hervey Bay Council started rail corridor Urangan Pier to Nikenbah

2009
M2BRT Concept Feasibility Report completed by FCBUG.

2016
M2BRT Sealed trail Pier to Nikenbah and gravel trail Piggford Lane to Stockyard Ck. completed

2020
M2BRT Facebook discussion Group Started FCBUG Reopened Talsk with FCRC regarding the remainder of M2BRT

2022
7km formation works finished. Takura railway yards being developed. Creek crossings being developed

Things to do on the Fraser Coast

Customs House and Residence

Maryborough Military and Colonial Museum

The Story Bank

Mary River Parklands

The historic Port of Maryborough area has been transformed into a stunning public park complete with outstanding public ...

Susan River Homestead

This is a hosted stay through Hipcamp, below is the information provided by the Host regarding their offering. Susan Ri...

Port of Maryborough

The marina, also known as the Port of Maryborough, is home to the last remnants of original wharves and is a must-see fo...

SplashSide Maryborough

SplashSide is located within Anzac Park, Maryborough and is an inclusive zero-depth water play area that provides a uniq...

Join the discussion

Join our vibrant Facebook group for The Mary2Bay Rail Trail and be part of an exciting journey! Stay updated, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and contribute to the development of this incredible community asset.

Learn more

Explore

Discover your gateway to adventure and natural beauty on the Fraser Coast. Whether you're a walker, runner, cyclist, or horse rider, there's something for everyone.

Things to Do

How can we help? Fill out the form below and one of our helpful Mary to Bay Rail Trail Committee will contact you. If you would like us to call you back - please provide a valid phone number. If you prefer email only please leave blank!

Etiquette and Safety Information

Follow this link to learn more about Trail Etiquette and Safety Information.