RESIDENTS of Beaudesert and Logan City have the chance to find out more about the Inland Rail at information sessions this week.
The sessions are hosted by the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) and will provide information about the Kagaru to Acacia Ridge/Bromelton (KAB) section of the 1700-kilometre inland rail line from Melbourne to Brisbane, which is expected to be in operation by 2024/25.
ARTC Inland Rail Queensland project delivery manager Rob McNamara said that the 52km section was already operated by ARTC as part of its interstate freight rail network.
“What we need to do is enhance this part of the track to bring it up to Inland Rail standard,” he said.
“It is anticipated that work will be contained to the current corridor and will involve lowering of the rail under five bridges at Beaudesert Road, Learoyd Road, Johnson Road, Middle Road and Pub Lane, as well as the construction of two new crossing loops and the extension of the current Greenbank and Bromelton crossing loops.
“This type of work is typical as part of ARTC’s role in maintaining and operating the interstate freight network.”
Mr McNamara said that the information sessions are open to everyone.
“Queensland stands to benefit from Inland Rail and it is important that people understand the proposals in their local area.”
“I’d really encourage those who haven’t met with us previously to come and learn more about this exciting project for Australia,” Mr McNamara said.
Community information sessions will be hosted by ARTC on the following dates:
- Monday July 17, 4pm - 7pm Acacia Ridge Hall, 13 Coley Street, Acacia Ridge
- Tuesday July 18, 4pm - 7pm Algester State School, 31 Endiandra Street, Algester
- Wednesday July 19, 4pm - 7pm Boronia Heights State School, 194 Middle Road, Boronia Heights.
- Friday July 21, 4pm - 7pm Greenbank Community Centre, 145 Teviot Road, Greenbank
- Saturday July 22, 10am - 12pm Beaudesert CWA, 86 Brisbane Street, Beaudesert
- Monday July 24, 4pm - 7pm Flagstone State School Hall, 1-45 Poinciana Drive, Flagstone
ARTC are also speaking with federal and state MP’s, councils, peak bodies and industry within the area to get an understanding of their views and gather further feedback.
Environmental field investigations are anticipated to start later in 2017 and may include studies into ecology, geology, noise, air quality and land use.
Freight hub
Scenic Rim Regional Council mayor Greg Christensen told the Times in May that the rail project had cemented Bromelton's position as a nationally significant freight and logisitics hub.
"The Inland Rail route will intersect with the existing coastal interstate rail at the northern end of the Bromelton State Development Area, putting the Scenic Rim at the crossroads of rail freight connectivity east and west of the Great Divide," he said.
Cr Christensen said the Australian Rail Track Corporation, which will deliver the rail project, has bought large tracts of land within the Bromelton precinct, reflecting the strategic role the area will play in the future of freight and logistics.
Contact Inland Rail via the information line 1800 732 761 or inlandrailenquiries@artc.com.au.
