The long-dreamed of Nimbin Rainbow Walk became a reality when it was officially opened to the public today.
Featuring well-formed pathways, picturesque boardwalks, and sturdy bridges, the 750-metre walk seamlessly blends into the surrounding landscape. Interpretive signage, locally crafted artworks, comfortable park furniture, a large timber pergola and more than 5700 new native plantings enhance the experience.
Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the walk would attract both locals who want to exercise and tourists.
"This project has always been driven by the community and it's very humbling to finally open it after many years of hoping and lobbying by the Nimbin community," he said.
"Nimbin is one of Australia's most popular tourist attractions, and this adds to the village's appeal and encourages visitors to spend more time exploring everything Nimbin has to offer."
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said the Albanese Government is working with all levels of government to help communities rebuild.
"This project will not only support the local community to recover but help boost the local economy.
"With upgraded pathways and new signage, the Nimbin Rainbow Walk will showcase the natural landscapes and help bring in new visitors."
Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said this project is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when local communities, councils and government work together.
"Through the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund, we've invested in projects like the Nimbin Rainbow Walk that help regional communities recover, grow and thrive," Minister Moriarty said.
"This will be a lasting asset for Nimbin, supporting tourism, boosting the local economy and providing a special place for locals to enjoy for years to come."
Minister for Recovery, Small Business and the North Coast, and Lismore MP, Janelle Saffin said she had strongly backed in the Nimbin Rainbow Walk from the outset, had walked its length with Nimbin community representatives to get a real feel for the project's many potential benefits, and followed its progress during the construction phase.
"The walk is much more than a public pathway; it's a well-planned tactile and visual experience, improving connectivity for local residents of all ages and abilities through the very heart of Nimbin, and offering an easy-to-access tourist attraction for visitors," she said.
"I acknowledge and thank the dedicated Aquarius Landcare group for co-ordinating volunteers who have significantly enhanced the Nimbin Rainbow Walk and Aquarius Park with mass plantings of native trees and shrubs.
"This is a game changer and a great source of pride for Nimbin, and I encourage everyone to come along to celebrate the Nimbin Community Centre's grand opening of these inviting new public spaces on Sunday (23 March)."
Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said it was fantastic to see this project come to life after years of hard work by the community.
"This walk not only showcases Nimbin's natural beauty, but further strengthens the local economy by attracting more visitors," he said.
"Investments like this are about creating long-term opportunities for both tourism and local businesses, and I'm proud to have helped secure the funding to make it happen."
During both the concept design and construction stages, Council worked with key Nimbin community groups and stakeholders to ensure the project reflected the unique nature and story of Nimbin, both environmentally and socially.
Council extends its gratitude to the Nimbin Community, Community Centre, Nimbin Chamber of Commerce, Nimbin Headers Sports Club, the Rainbow Power Company and private landowners for their support and collaboration on this project.
A dedicated Landcare Group has also been established to care for the site.
The $2.5 million project was jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund.
