THE ILLABO to Stockinbingal section of Inland Rail has received approval from the Australian Government, giving the project the green light to move into the construction phase in 2025.
The 39-kilometre Illabo to Stockinbingal section of the project will create a new direct route from east of Illabo tracking north to Stockinbingal in New South Wales, and is the only new section of track from Beveridge to Parkes.
Inland Rail says the project was assessed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, which focuses on the avoidance, minimisation, and management of impacts on biodiversity matters of national significance.
The Federal Government’s conditions of approval supplement the NSW approval to protect threatened species and habitats in the project area.
The route will bypass the townships of Cootamundra and Bethungra and the steep section of track known as the Bethungra Spiral on the Main South line, which is expected to open a more efficient way to transport freight.
Works on the Illabo to Stockinbingal section will be carried out by construction partner John Holland, which has been awarded the design and construct contract.
Inland Rail says the work will include the construction of several bridges and level crossings, numerous culverts, as well as a new crossing loop.
Nick Miller, CEO of Inland Rail said the approvals process has been a rigorous undertaking, with the NSW Government and Federal Government both giving their consent and confirming Inland Rail has met the expectations of all key stakeholders.
“The granting of approval means we can now start construction in partnership with our contractor, John Holland, which we anticipate will take place in the second half of 2025,” Mr Miller said.
“We are fully committed to delivering Inland Rail South of Parkes by 2027 and this milestone is another important step on that journey.”
Since July last year, Inland Rail says it has spent $7.4 million with 86 local businesses on the project between Albury and Parkes, and has employed a total of 434 people on the same section.
John Holland executive general manager Steve Butcher said the project will create jobs and help the company to work with local businesses to boost regional economies and leave a positive legacy.
“We’re thrilled to be a part of another section of the Inland Rail – a significant project which will improve Australia’s ability to move freight in a safer and more sustainable way,” Mr Butcher said.
“We are proud to continue our partnership with Inland Rail to deliver another section of this important project, allowing us to leverage our skills and experience from the other sections of this significant project while also drawing on our long-standing experience in end-to-end rail solutions.”
