About

Julian Simpson

Off The Rails, founded and led by Julian Simpson, is an award-winning business located in the coastal paradise of Byron Bay. Established in 2015, Off The Rails has quickly become the East Coast’s leading retailer and supplier of reclaimed Railway Sleepers. Julian’s commitment to sustainability and his passion for repurposing timber have been key to the company’s success.

Growing up in the Bush capital of Canberra, Julian was deeply influenced by his family’s background in environmental science. However, it was the natural beauty of the coast that ultimately drew him to Byron Bay, where he combined his love for timber with his entrepreneurial spirit to build Off The Rails into a thriving business.

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.

Winner of the Northern Rivers Business Award in the Micro Business category!
A massive shout-out to Tursa Employment and Training for sponsoring our award and for making it possible. Your support means the world to us and many other businesses here in the Northern Rivers.
Big love and appreciation to all my awesome clients. You guys rock! Your support has been the fuel that keeps me going.
A special mention goes to the other amazing finalists in the Micro Business category. It’s an honor to stand among such talented individuals. Let’s keep pushing the envelope together!
And of course, a huge round of applause for the Always Keen Productions team who’s helping to make the dream happen. You’re rockstars.
Winning this award fills me with pride and motivates me to keep raising the bar. I’m excited for what the future holds and ready to make an even bigger impact!
To everyone who contributed to our success, thank you from the bottom of my heart. This win is for all of us!
Heading to Sydney on November 9, 2023 for the State Awards.

Owner and Managing Director, Julian Simpson was thrilled to be named as a finalist in the 2022, 2023 and 2024 Northern Rivers Business Awards for Excellence in Sustainability.

“It’s an absolute honour to be named as a finalist in this category. I am lucky to be surrounded by incredibly talented and creative people, who all play their part in creating a sustainable future.”

The business was recognised for leading the way with its sustainable initiatives and eco-conscious business decisions. With millions of tonnes per year of timber going to landfill, they have been proudly playing a role in reducing those figures.

“We have a zero-waste policy, whereby nothing goes to landfill – all our materials are 100% recycled and reused. This year, we have already reached a target of reducing 2,400 tonnes of landfill, securing 31,500 railway sleepers previously destined for landfill which is equivalent to 100 semi-trailer loads,” Julian Simpson said.

Winner of the Northern Rivers Business Award in the Micro Business category for the second consecutive year.
A massive shout-out to Telstra for sponsoring our award and for making it possible. Your support means the world to us and many other businesses here in the Northern Rivers.
Big love and appreciation to all my awesome clients. You guys rock! Your support has been the fuel that keeps me going.
A special mention goes to the other amazing finalists in the Micro Business category. It’s an honor to stand among such talented individuals. Let’s keep pushing the envelope together!
And of course, a huge round of applause for the Always Keen Productions team who’s helping to make the dream happen. You’re rockstars.
Winning this award fills me with pride and motivates me to keep raising the bar. I’m excited for what the future holds and ready to make an even bigger impact!
To everyone who contributed to our success, thank you from the bottom of my heart. This win is for all of us!
This win put us in the finalist category for the State Sydney Awards which will be held later in the year.

We are beyond excited to announce that we’ve made it as Finalists for the Byron Bay Chamber of Commerce Uniquely Byron Business Awards! We are nominated for the Eco Warriors: Excellence in Sustainability  category! One that’s true to our heart.

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

Named finalist in the Eco Warriors category at the Byron Bay Chamber of Commerce Awards, held at Ember in Byron Bay last November ’24. This nomination recognises the commitment to sustainability and repurposing reclaimed timber.

Key achievements include:

  • Reclaiming 5,000 tonnes of timber, sequestering 550 tonnes of CO₂, and offsetting 900 tonnes of carbon emissions.
  • Diverting 100 semi-trailers of timber from landfills during the Inland Rail Network Upgrade.
  • Donating $30,000 worth of timber to the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary for its bio-park redevelopment.
  • Contributed to over 500 building and landscaping projects annually in the Byron Shire, playing a key role in shaping the region’s sustainable design movement.

The company is expanding internationally, with plans to export reclaimed timbers to New Zealand, Japan, and the UK. As the business approaches its 10th anniversary in 2025, Off The Rails remains committed to sustainable practices, community initiatives, and supporting eco-conscious design solutions.

We have proudly collaborating with the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, donating sustainable timber for their renovation and enhancement of their entrance signage and exhibits. This partnership reflects our commitment to supporting causes that align with our sustainable values and the preservation of wildlife, by providing sustainable materials, the bio-park emphasises its dedication to responsible practices and reducing environmental impact. Our 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. We 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 resident sand tourists. Together, we can foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife and contribute to a more environmentally conscious future.