THE AUSTRALIAN Rail Track Corporation has finished upgrading a freight line positioned to become an important link between Northern NSW, the Inland Rail and the port of Newcastle.
Completion of the Narrabri to Turrawan Line Upgrade, announced today (13 November), comes just in time for what is expected to be one of the largest grain harvests for farmers in north-west NSW.
The upgraded rail aligns with the future interface of the Inland Rail at Narrabri north, which the government says will position “position the region as a key hub for freight movement across NSW and beyond”.
The 35-kilometre project involved the replacement of outdated steel and timber sleepers with heavy-duty concrete sleepers, upgrading existing rail and associated civil works.
The upgrade supports heavier train loads, allowing each train to carry more freight – up to 25 tonnes per axle, increasing the total weight bearing load for each train while enabling trains to travel at up to 80 kilometres per hour along the corridor.
The project was fully funded by a $44.7-million investment from the federal government.
Federal infrastructure and transport minister Catherine King the government was proud to have funded the upgrade.
“These improvements not only strengthen the rail network but also boost economic growth by facilitating the transport of grain and other freight,” she said.
“This means more grain and goods can be transported in a single trip, providing a smoother connection and reducing transportation costs.”
ARTC managing director and CEO Wayne Johnson said completion of the upgrade improves the efficiency of logistics for agricultural producers and freight movers.
“We extend our gratitude to all stakeholders involved in this project, including our customers and the Australian government, for their collaboration and support in delivering this essential upgrade,” he said.
“We would also like to extend our thanks to our Australian supply chain and project delivery partners – most notably, Daracon Contractors, Rhomberg Sersa Australia, and THEE Group – as well as the dedicated survey, geotechnical, environmental, design and major material suppliers who played an integral role in delivering this project.”
