Off The Rails is the dream and design of passionate founder and managing director, Julian Simpson. Established in 2015, Off The Rails has become a large retailer and supplier of reclaimed Railway Sleepers on the East Coast of Australia. Julian’s passion for sustainability and his dedication to repurposing timber have set the foundation for this successful venture.
Off The Rails has set a new benchmark for sustainability by salvaging and sourcing reclaimed and recycled timber from railway lines, industrial buildings, and bridges across Australia. The company then repurposes the salvaged and reclaimed timber. Based in Byron Bay, where 90% of its operations are concentrated, Off The Rails supports 500 local building and landscaping projects each year and serves over 200 regional clients.
Since its inception in 2015, Off The Rails has reclaimed 5,000 tonnes of timber, sequestered 550 tonnes of CO2, and prevented 350 tonnes of emissions, achieving a total carbon offset of 900 tonnes. The business follows a zero-waste approach, converting unsold timber and offcuts into biochar, mulch, and firewood.
Julian shared that the biggest contract to date came during the Inland Rail Network Upgrade. Off The Rails purchased 31,500 railway sleepers. This purchase diverted 100 semi-trailers of timber from landfill which is the equivalent of 2,400 tonnes of timber that is able to be repurposed. Julian emphasised his passion for reclaiming timber and repurposing it over seeing additional trees cut down and cleared.
“That contract I’ve worked for two years now, selling those timbers, grading them, making by products out of them…[in] the past two years I have graded 16,000 sleepers by hand,” Julian explained.
For the grading, he would journey up to the site where the sleepers are stored and spend 12 days doing 12 hours each day hand grading each sleeper personally. He estimated he would get through approximately one semi-trailer per 12-hour day. After two years Off The Rails has recouped its expenses and repaid the investors. They will spend the next two years continuing to grade and repurpose the remaining timber.
Julian’s dedication to sustainability can be easily seen when he shared that, “In the end these things are more about being passionate about sustainability than making money.”
With a keen eye for quality and craftsmanship, Off The Rails is now expanding its reach into New Zealand and exploring opportunities to export to the South Pacific, Asia, and the UK, supplying prestigious builders and landscapers in those regions.
Local businesses
In an interview with Julian, he shared that his work shed space is partly leased out to smaller companies who purchase his reclaimed timber and use it to create fascinating pieces for inside homes. For example, one of the companies takes pieces of timber and turns them into chopping boards and artistically burns the pieces to give it a new look and feel. Off The Rails focuses on building products and landscaping, but it is also creating a hub for creative people to come in and explore what else can be made from the timber.
Off The Rails also looks to support the community, “there is at least three other guys that I just allow to use the space so long as they are buying timber off me” Julian explained.
Partnering with Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
Off The Rails is not only committed to sustainability and supporting local projects but they are also proud to be collaborating with the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. Off The Rails donates sustainable timber for the renovation and enhancement of the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary’s entrance signage and exhibits. This partnership reflects the commitment of Off The Rails to supporting causes that align with their sustainable values and the preservation of wildlife, by providing sustainable materials, the bio-park emphasises its dedication to responsible practices and reducing environmental impact. The Off The Rails donation aims to improve the sanctuary’s facilities, creating a welcoming and informative experience for visitors.
The sustainable timber will be used in the renovation of entrance signage, ensuring beautiful and eco-friendly displays for guests. Additionally, it will be incorporated into the other areas of the park, providing a natural backdrop that highlights the sanctuary’s diverse wildlife. Off The Rails has expressed that they are honoured to be part of this endeavour, working closely with the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary to establish a sustainable and educational space for both residents and tourists. Together, they aim to foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife and contribute to a more environmentally conscious future.
Byron Shire reclaimed timber business takes on Sydney
Off The Rails has recently celebrated regional success, earning an award and finalist nomination at the Northern Rivers Regional Business Awards, securing the Micro Business Award for their second consecutive year. Off The Rails innovative approach to sourcing and repurposing salvaged wood earned them a Sustainability Award nomination, of which they became a finalist, showcasing its commitment to eco-friendly practices. By redefining the use of reclaimed timber, Off The Rails is shaping the Byron region’s landscape, driving economic growth, and fostering ecological resilience, setting new standards for sustainable development.
“Our regional submission received high praise for responsible initiatives, like diverting materials from landfills and re-purpose in timber. Judges described us as a visionary model, focused on waste reduction” Julian shared.
They continued expressing that they are both proud and grateful to have won the Micro Business Award for the second year in a row and to have been a finalist for the Sustainability award. It is a huge honour to be recognised for their success, resilience, and positive impact. It is a fantastic win as they prepare to celebrate their 10th anniversary in 2025.
Off The Rails is also a nominee for the Business NSW State Finalist Awards. Business NSW outlined the design behind the awards: “The Business Awards honour the ingenuity, resilience, and commitment exhibited by businesses throughout NSW. We firmly believe that businesses are pivotal in propelling economic growth, generating employment, and contributing to the overall prosperity of our state. This is why we are dedicated to acknowledging the diligence and perseverance of businesses, regardless of their size or industry.”