Moura network affected by localised flooding, Goonyella and Newlands operations remain closed pending assessment
Operations at Aurizon’s Moura network have been closed due to localised flooding in the area, a company spokesperson informs ATN.
Further north, its Goonyella and Newlands systems will remain closed as the company assesses its network and facilities in the aftermath of Cyclone Debbie.
The company took preventative measures to ensure safety of its employees and facilities in the Central Queensland coal network, and will continue to do so during the assessment period, the company spokesperson says.
Assessment of damage will commence once the area has been declared safe to access.
“Aurizon is working closely today with supply chain partners (mines, ports and rail operators) on any potential flood threat to the Blackwater system,” the spokesperson says.
“We will continue to monitor network availability as the weather event progresses south-west.”
The rollingstock in its Goonyella and Newlands systems was stowed in preparation for the cyclone.
Aurizon’s Abbot Point coal terminal near Bowen, the Dalrymple Bay and Hay Point coal terminals, south of Mackay will remain closed, while operations from Mackay to Pring (near Bowen) will also remain suspended until the assessment is conducted.
The company says it will continue to liaise with Queensland Rail for general freight services on the following rail corridors:
- North Coast Line (Brisbane to Cairns)
- North West line (Townsville to Mt Isa)
- Central West line (Emerald to Winton).
“Aurizon’s coal train services in the Blackwater and Moura Coal systems into the Port of Gladstone have continued to operate overnight,” the company confirms.
ATN is awaiting network operations update from Queensland Rail.