I think this topic is of broader interest than touring so forgive me for posting it here. It is about a Rail Trail project in Australia.
I am a late fifty-something Australian cycle-tourer, cycle-commuter with a strong interest in cycle-tourism as a way of contributing to the economy and health of regional and rural communities. I also happen to own two outstanding Thorn bikes. The reddest Thorn Audax Mark 3 on the planet is my favourite bike and everyday ride.
The Australian state of New South Wales is lagging in the development of rail trails compared to the U.S., New Zealand, Victoria Australia and probably everywhere else. However, there is some progress. Proposals are being sought by the state government and the advocacy has begun. Several project proposals are being developed and discussed.
My favourite project is the one from my home region even though I don't live there now. It is in New England. No...not New England USA; It's in New England, New South Wales Australia. A lot of Scots settled there in the 1800s but I am sure you forgive them for that. They have assimilated nicely.
My ask is for you to check out their FB site. If you like what you see...give them a "Like" or an encouraging comment or a suggestion for their fledgling New England Rail Trail (NERT) project.
Or simply spread the good word to people who you think would be interested and supportive of the project from a distance. If this trail is established, it'll be the highest, longest rail trail in Oz. It'll be an excellent section of touring trail to ride on your Thorn should you want include it in a tour from say Brisbane to Sydney, or Brisbane to Melbourne.
https://www.facebook.com/NERailTrail