More cattle will be transported along the Mount Isa line, with siding extension works at Maxwelton in Central North Queensland recently completed as part of a $4.26 million State Government investment.
Queensland Rail’s upgrade has extended the rail siding from 300 metres to approximately 1.4 kilometres in length, allowing more cattle to be transferred off trucks and onto full-length trains without interrupting the main rail line.
This has increased the capacity of the siding by almost five times its previous level, improving the efficiency of freight services in the region.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the new infrastructure will enable up to two cattle trains a week into the siding.
“It means it’s now much easier for the cattle industry to make the most of our rail network,” he said.
“To support other long-term freight opportunities, the upgraded loop will also enable the temporary storage of rolling stock at Maxwelton if required.
“This news comes off the back of our recent announcement that the nearby town of Julia Creek will also benefit from a $3 million investment upgrade to its cattle rail siding.”
Queensland Rail Head of Regional Scott Cornish added that construction crews did an outstanding job to complete this challenging task, working through prolonged wet weather to install new track and signalling infrastructure at Maxwelton.
“In collaboration with Richmond Shire Council, Queensland Rail has helped relocate the cattle loading area approximately 600 metres east of the previous loading area,” he said.
“Our works have laid the groundwork for the establishment of new cattle yards which council will now focus on constructing.
“The full-length siding allows trains to stow and other traffic to pass, increasing the capacity of the rail line while also providing operational flexibility for other services in the area,” Mr Cornish added.
“This upgrade is a big win for freight operators and has helped secure the vital longevity of this line.”
Richmond Shire Council Mayor John Wharton added that with the construction of Grain handling facilities at Maxwelton and the expansion of farming in the region, it is very possible that in the very near future, grain could be loaded on a train at Maxwelton for the Townsville Port.
An upgrade on a major freight route has been completed as part of a $4.26 million investment
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