CONSTRUCTION accelerated on the Inland Rail project during an 88-hour “track possession” over the weekend.
Principal contractor Martinus targeted multiple sites on the Stockinbingal to Parkes section of the ARTC Melbourne to Sydney line while the line was closed between 9 and 12 March.
Level-crossing works were carried out at Daroobalgie, and piling works were completed at Forbes.
Track works commenced at Forbes Yard, including track removal of a turnout and yard lines, and resurfacing to achieve horizontal clearances between rail lines and structures.
Inland Rail considers these works are milestone towards the Inland Rail project being completed between Beveridge and Parkes by 2027, and connecting to existing rail networks between Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Adelaide and the Illawarra.
Melvyn Maylin, Inland Rail director of program Delivery for Albury to Parkes, said it was a group effort behind the scenes for both Inland Rail and Martinus teams to complete their planned works.
“This possession has allowed us to maintain momentum on time-critical items, with the team well on task to deliver this project on schedule or earlier,” he said.
“A big congratulations to all those who worked tirelessly to make this happen.
“We’d also like to thank the local community for their patience and understanding as we carried out these construction tasks.”
Martinus CEO Treaven Martinus said the teams delivered 100% of the planned scope of works during the 88-hour window.
“There were no safety incidents, near misses or environmental incidents reported,” he said.
“This is an extraordinary effort and shows what good planning, engineering and communication can achieve.
“The track was handed back ahead of schedule and train movements have resumed. I’m thrilled with the quality of the work the teams have delivered.”
