Imbil was once where The Valley Rattler used to travel from Gympie. The Rattler closed after damage to the railway line which was later repaired through to Amamoor, never making it back to Imbil.
Imbil hasn’t completely lost the historical memory of the railway era when locomotives steamed through the town, now a little quieter.
Some of the railway tracks have been kept, as has been a turntable that the valley rattler used to turn on during its stop in Imbil. Without active use, it doesn’t appear to be maintained so it will likely slowly deteriorate.
A steam locomotive has also been retained; the Class C17 Proud Mary sits close to the main road through Imbil. Wire fencing around it appears to be temporary when we were there. It still looks in good condition and possible it could be brought back into service in the future if the railway line ever gets repaired.
The railway trail follows the railway line south towards Brooloo. As is common with rail trails, there are no steep hills to contend with following the railway line corridor. The trail is 4.7km long each way. The gentle slopes make the trail a good spot for a short and easy bike ride too.
Pets are allowed to accompany you on the walk, however, they must be kept on a leash and under control. Horses are also welcomed on the rail trail.
An interesting addition to the rail trail is a 9-hole golf course. The holes are short and the fairways narrow, and the greens are not manicured for smooth putting. For a quick and unique game of golf, it is something different. A couple of high numbered irons and a putter will get you around the course. A few spare balls would be handy in case you lose a couple along the way.
Imbil Railway Bridge
Across the main road is the old Imbil Railway Bridge. It isn’t technically part of the rail trail but it is an extension of the railway history in Imbil. The bridge was built in 1915 for the railway, crossing over the Yabba Creek.
The Pony Truss bridge (or half-through Pratt Truss bridge) is one of six of its kind remaining in Queensland. The Pratt trussed bridges were built from 1908 for its increased structural strength. The bridge is just shy of 120 metres long with five steel half-though Pratt trusses.
Unfortunately, the bridge is only there to look at for the time being. If the railway line is not restored from Amamoor, it would be good to see the rail trail extended to the north and include a walk over the bridge.
