Rowan Lamont was asked to MC on Day 1 and present on Day 2 of the Somerset Rail Trail Conference giving him a unique perspective into creating visitor experiences and the steps to delivering new trail assets.
Three highlights were:
Linda Tillman from Tilma Group captivated the audience as she shared empathetic ways to surprise and delight. Explaining how trails make experiences, experiences are felt through our senses, and senses form memories! These tools reward business owners who take an empathetic approach to visitors coming to a region. Leveraging the initial trail experience beyond and create unique experiences that captivate and engage on new levels.
Day 2 Iain Lonsdale from Tweed Shire Council gave an in depth presentation demonstrating how optimism helped to realise the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. He emphasised the importance of creating a rigorous feasibility assessment, and how it should then be used to form the backbone of a successful business case.
Finally, the Q+A with elite riders provided insights into how trails are far more than training-aids used to build fitness and beat records on. The candid fire-side chat unearthed how rail trails provide connections into community, build family bonds, and support livelihoods.
Thank you Somerset Regional Council and Bicycle Queensland
Anna Beck Joris van der Tang Chevonne Arrowsmith Troy Szczurkowski
