- The Queensland Train Manufacturing Program's (QTMP) Ormeau rail facility is going 'off-grid'
- Gold Coast supplier, Black Diamond Group will deliver an off-grid solar power initiative for the Ormeau site during construction
The Queensland Train Manufacturing Program is taking the lead in construction sustainability by engaging local supplier Black Diamond Group to deliver a 100 per cent off-grid solar-power initiative for the Ormeau rail facility, during its construction.
The team is working with Black Diamond Group, supplier of portable buildings, and their energy partner Zero Emissions Developments, to harness the power of green energy to power equipment onsite, including computers, refrigerators, lighting, security systems and air conditioning. Both companies are based locally at Stapylton on the Gold Coast.
The purpose-built system spans 4250 square metres and includes a 600-kilowatt solar panel collection. This will guarantee offices and other site facilities are completely off-grid, showcasing a commitment to environmental responsibility, underpinned by sound economic management within the broader project.
This initiative will significantly reduce project-related greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate noise and air emissions compared to alternatives, and will bring substantial economic benefits, costing significantly less than fossil fuel alternatives.
Targeting a carbon-neutral system, back-up generators will use biodiesel which is produced from plants that absorb CO2 to further reduce the facility's carbon footprint.
The partnership will help ensure the Queensland Government achieves its emissions reduction target of 75 per cent by 2035.
The Ormeau rail facility will be used for train maintenance and stabling.
Construction of the Ormeau rail facility is currently underway, with a new temporary heavy vehicle access road now open.
This package of works is part of the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program, which will support 1,300 jobs throughout the life of the project.
As stated by Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing, Glenn Butcher:
"The Miles Government is proud to deliver the QTMP; a program that is bringing train manufacturing back to Maryborough and to Queensland.
"We see it as our role to lead from the front, and deliver infrastructure with sustainable outcomes such as this, which are directly linked to our government's emissions reduction target.
"I've always said if local businesses can do the job, then they absolutely should. So it was great to see Black Diamond Group being engaged to carry out these works.
"The Queensland Train Manufacturing Program is creating local jobs right here, right now and will continue to benefit our community.
"This is in stark contrast to the LNP, who sent train manufacturing and job opportunities overseas and cut industry support programs, which resulted in thousands of job losses."
As stated by Assistant Minister for Train Manufacturing, Regional Development and Jobs and Maryborough MP, Bruce Saunders:
"The 65 new QTMP trains will deliver more rail services, more often for Queenslanders.
"The LNP does not back the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program and they don't back local jobs.
"Under Campbell Newman and David Crisafulli, Maryborough's manufacturing heartland was gutted, and hundreds of jobs were lost."
As stated by Gaven MP, Meaghan Scanlon:
"Our government is investing in next-generation trains and technology to deliver better journeys and keep Queensland moving.
"It's great to see Gold Coast businesses play a vital role in building our state's transportation network.
"Only a Labor Government will invest in jobs and growth in Queensland."
As stated by Downer, Executive General Manager, Passenger North & Contractors Representative, QTMP, Kamal Habibullah:
"Downer is proud to embed sustainability in the way we deliver our services and operate our business. To us, sustainability means not only being environmentally sustainable, but it also includes advancing the communities where we work so they continue to thrive now and into the future.
"By integrating sustainability into the process for building the Ormeau rail facility, Downer has enabled a culture of innovation."
As stated by DT Infrastructure, CEO, Darren Crichton:
"Along with the Queensland Government and Downer, DT Infrastructure is dedicated to building essential infrastructure that will ensure Queenslanders have world-class transport options.
"DT Infrastructure has extensive experience in delivering large-scale rail projects and we understand the importance of maximising opportunities for local companies to be involved in the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program."
As stated by Black Diamond Group, Vice President WFS Australia, Matt Harris:
"Our solution was conceptualised and presented to the DT Infrastructure team as part of our innovative offering, and we believe it plays a pivotal role in the project's success.
"As a proud local supplier, we are incredibly excited to be part of making solar energy cleaner and more reliable here and around the world."
Further Information:
QTMP will build 65 six-car passenger trains at a purpose-built manufacturing facility at Torbanlea in the Fraser Coast region. As part of the program, a new rail facility will also be constructed at Ormeau, on the Gold Coast.
Downer was awarded the contract for QTMP in June 2023. They have sub-contracted DT Infrastructure to manage the design and construction of the maintenance facility at Ormeau.
QTMP will support South East Queensland's population and economic growth, as well as Cross River Rail and the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The first QTMP train is anticipated to be manufactured and begin testing by late 2026, with all trains expected to be in service by 2032.
The new, modern train fleet will provide passengers with more efficient, reliable, and accessible travel across South East Queensland.
