Tweed Shire Council investigating after section of Northern Rivers Rail Trail at Murwillumbah found damaged by 4WD

Police have urged residents to report crimes rather than taking to Facebook after the Northern Rivers Rail Trail was damaged by a 4WD. It follows an apparent nasty act of sabotage.

Damage to the trail Picture: Facebook

Police have urged Tweed residents to report crimes rather than taking to social media after a section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail was damaged by a four-wheel drive.

It comes as Tweed/Byron Police have already been investigating an apparent act of Rail Trail sabotage, involving hundreds of tacks, nails and screws scattered on the path.

Information about the damage to part of the trail in Murwillumbah was posted to the well-known Murwillumbah Matters community page, alongside photos.

“Idiots been on the trail through the night in a 4x4,” a post read.

“Driven through the tunnel & smashed the locked bollard. Damaged the edge of the trail.

“Let’s hope the police cameras catch them.”

Damage to the Murwillumbah trail. Picture: Facebook

Tweed police were approached for comment and an officer appeared frustrated authorities had not been informed about the damage.

One woman wrote on Facebook the situation was “Wrong on so many levels”

Tweed Shire Council destination, communications and customer manager Tiffany Stodart was saddened by the vandalism.

“We are bitterly disappointed to learn of such reckless and dangerous activity on the Rail Trail overnight,” she said on Wednesday.

“Considering there may have been walkers or cyclists on the trail at night – and particularly in the 524m-long tunnel – the chances of causing serious harm or injury are real and we are relieved no-one was hurt in this incident.

“We will continue to work with police around any reports of vandalism and dangerous behaviour such as this.”

Damage to the trail. Picture: Facebook

She said the rules of the trail were clear “and expressly state any cars, trailbikes, motorcycles, e-scooters, petrol-powered bicycles or similar are not allowed”.

“The Rail Trail’s safety rules and tips have been carefully devised to ensure all users are able to enjoy this incredible recreation and nature asset at their own pace,” she said.

“Our team will be repairing the damage caused by this incident promptly and measures are underway to try to prevent such activity from occurring again”.

Council has urged people to report problems on the trail online.