- An upgrade on a major freight route has been completed as part of a $4.26 million investment.
- The upgrade means more livestock can be transported by rail.
- Trains will also be able to be stored at Maxwelton, between Julia Creek and Richmond on the Mount Isa line, if needed.
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 capacity of the siding by almost five times its previous level, improving the efficiency of freight services in the region.
Quotes attributable to the Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey:
"This 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.
"To support other long-term freight opportunities, the upgraded loop will also enable the temporary storage of rollingstock at Maxwelton if required.
"The Government is continuing to deliver better services all over Queensland and supporting industry across the state.
"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.
Quotes attributable to Queensland Rail Head of Regional Scott Cornish:
"Construction crews have done 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.
"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.
"This upgrade is a big win for freight operators and has helped secure the vital longevity of this line."
Quotes attributable to Richmond Shire Council Mayor John Wharton:
"We're very excited about the new developments at Maxwelton.
"The loading facility will work for not only the cattle industry but for other freight industry too - we encourage them to come on board.
"The line has allowed for the construction of new, improved cattle loading yards which will be 600 metres east of the previous yards.
"In the meantime, temporary loading ramps have been constructed to allow us to make the most of this facility as soon as possible.
"Council is also looking at future development in the area including a feedlot to complement the new facilities.
"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.
"We're appreciative of the work Queensland Rail has done in the area, we have a good relationship with Queensland Rail, and we'll continue to work closely together as it's important for our community."
