About

Off The Rails: award-winning supplier of  reclaimed timber, supplying railway sleepers, hardwoods & bridge timbers.

Julian Simpson

About Off The Rails

Off The Rails, founded and led by Julian Simpson, is an award-winning reclaimed timber business based in Byron Bay. Since 2015, the company has grown into the East Coast’s leading supplier of reclaimed railway sleepers, hardwoods, and bridge timbers.

The business champions sustainable building practices by supplying high-quality recycled timbers to landscapers, architects, and prestige builders. This approach not only delivers exceptional materials but also reduces environmental impact.

Julian grew up in Canberra in a family of environmental scientists, an experience that shaped his strong commitment to sustainability. Inspired by the natural beauty of the Byron Bay coast, he combined his love of timber with entrepreneurial drive to establish Off The Rails.

Today, the company continues to thrive as a trusted reclaimed timber supplier for projects across NSW and beyond. By promoting the environmental value of repurposed timber, Off The Rails is helping create a more sustainable future.

In his early days, Julian Simpson made an impact by organising events like Fair Go, a platform aimed at raising awareness for youth facilities. One notable achievement was his key role in raising funds for and designing the Ballina Skatepark, showcasing his dedication to community engagement and his ability to drive positive change.

Drawing on his creative background and academic foundation, Julian founded Off The Rails to salvage and source reclaimed materials from across Australia. Specialising in Railway Sleepers, Reclaimed and Bridge Timbers, Australian Hardwoods, and other railway-associated products, Julian’s business has become a leader in the industry. With an eye for quality craftsmanship, he is now exploring opportunities to expand into the South Pacific and Asia, supplying prestigious builders and landscapers in these regions.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Julian is a family man who finds peace in fishing, often casting a line in the crystal-clear waters of Byron Bay. He also enjoys skateboarding, embracing both the freedom it provides and the community it fosters.

Looking ahead, Julian’s creative mind is always brimming with new ideas. He envisions expanding Off The Rails’ product range and exploring innovative ways to repurpose timber. With his unwavering commitment to sustainability, Julian is determined to make a lasting impact in the industry. As a visionary entrepreneur and passionate advocate for sustainability, Julian’s innovative spirit will undoubtedly lead to exciting developments in the future.

Micro Business Winner

We are proud to win the Northern Rivers Business Award in the Micro Business category. A huge thank you goes to Tursa Employment & Training for sponsoring this award and backing small businesses across the region. We’re also grateful to our amazing clients — your support keeps us moving forward — and to the Always Keen Productions team for bringing our vision to life. Congratulations to all the talented finalists. We’re excited to represent the Northern Rivers at the State Business Awards in Sydney this November!

Northern Rivers Business

Julian Simpson, Owner and Managing Director of Off The Rails, was honoured to be a finalist in the 2022, 2023, and 2024 Northern Rivers Business Awards for Excellence in Sustainability. “It’s a privilege to be recognised in this category. I feel fortunate to work alongside such talented and creative people, all committed to building a sustainable future,” Julian said.

Off The Rails leads the way in sustainable timber practices and eco-conscious business decisions. Each year, millions of tonnes of timber go to landfill. Our business helps reduce this waste by reclaiming and repurposing railway sleepers, hardwoods, and bridge timbers. We operate with a zero-waste policy — every material is recycled and reused.

This year alone, we reduced landfill by 2,400 tonnes. That included securing 31,500 railway sleepers that would otherwise have been wasted — the equivalent of 100 semi-trailer loads.

We’re thrilled to win the Northern Rivers Business Award in the Micro Business category for the second year running. Huge thanks to Telstra for sponsoring the award, to our incredible clients for your ongoing support, and to the Always Keen Productions team for making it happen. Congratulations to all the finalists — it’s an honour to stand beside such talent. This win also takes us to the State Awards in Sydney later this year — bring it on!

Eco Warriors

We’re excited to announce that Off The Rails is a finalist in the Eco Warriors category at the Byron Bay Chamber of Commerce Awards. This nomination recognises our commitment to sustainability and to repurposing reclaimed timber — a cause close to our heart.

It’s an honour to be recognised among our peers and to contribute to our local community. A huge thank you goes to our clients, supporters, and the chamber for helping us foster a more sustainable future.

Sustainability Recognition
Off The Rails was named a finalist in the Eco Warriors category at the Byron Bay Chamber of Commerce Awards, held at Ember in November 2024.

Key Achievements

  • Reclaimed 5,000 tonnes of timber, sequestering 550 tonnes of CO₂ and offsetting 900 tonnes of carbon.

  • Diverted 100 semi-trailers of timber from landfill during the Inland Rail Network Upgrade.

  • Donated $30,000 worth of reclaimed timber to Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary.

  • Supplied over 500 building and landscaping projects annually in the Byron Shire.

Looking Ahead
As demand grows, Off The Rails is expanding internationally with plans to export reclaimed timbers to New Zealand, Japan, and the UK. Approaching our 10th anniversary in 2025, we remain committed to sustainable timber practices, community initiatives, and eco-conscious building solutions.

Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary

Off The Rails is proud to collaborate with the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, donating reclaimed timber for the renovation of entrance signage and exhibit areas. This partnership showcases our commitment to wildlife conservation, eco-friendly building, and community initiatives that reduce environmental impact.

The timber donation supports the sanctuary’s redevelopment, ensuring its signage and displays are both functional and environmentally responsible. By incorporating reclaimed timber throughout the park, the sanctuary highlights its dedication to sustainability while creating a natural backdrop for diverse wildlife.

We are honoured to contribute to this project and to support the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary in building a welcoming, educational space for residents and visitors alike. Together, we aim to deepen appreciation for wildlife, promote eco-conscious tourism, and demonstrate how sustainable materials can enhance both design and conservation outcomes.