Logistics News

RIFL Hub sees rail track and siding progress

High logistics efficiency hopes for Riverina Intermodal Freight and Logistics Hub

 

Construction of a new section of rail track to connect the Main Southern Railway to the future Riverina Intermodal Freight and Logistics (RiFL) Hub at Bomen in Wagga Wagga is now complete.

The outcome is seen as bringing greater rail connectivity to the Riverina a step closer.

NSW regional transport minister Paul Toole noted the newly completed master rail siding was part of the $14.4 million second stage, funded through the NSW government’s Fixing Rail Program and would enable freight trains to safely load and unload.

“The installation of this 4.9 kilometre section of track marks a significant milestone in the RiFL Hub program,” Toole said.

“Once complete, the precinct is set to become a thriving centre for freight servicing southern NSW and the rest of the state.

“This precinct, the Inland Rail and the Wagga Wagga Special Activation Precinct will work hand-in-hand to fast-track access and connectivity to national and international markets for regional businesses and products.”

Member for Wagga Wagga Dr Joe McGirr said the rail connection would service the future intermodal hub, allowing the safe transfer of freight containers between the road and rail development and adjoining industrial land development.

“Rail freight is the most cost-effective way to transport large quantities over long distances, with one 1,200-metre-long train carrying the equivalent load of more than 134 trucks,” McGirr observed.


Read how the siding construction began 11 months ago, here


Member of the Legislative Council Wes Fang said the hub was expected to be completed in late 2022.

“We are confident a connection of the terminal to the main Southern Railway will encourage a shift of freight and produce from road to rail, giving local roads back to the local community,” Fang added.

Work continues on the third stage, including completing the $29.2 million 60ha Bomen Industrial Precinct and the terminal services, funded by the state’s Growing Regional Economies program and Wagga Wagga City Council.

Council general manager Peter Thompson said the Riverina and Murray were important regions for the state’s economy, accounting for more than 12 per cent of agricultural production in NSW.

“Developing the RiFL Hub will generate up to 6,000 jobs in this region, and has the potential to drive the economic future of the city for decades,” Thompson said.

“Wagga Wagga is the largest inland city in NSW supporting a diverse range of industries including dairy, food and meat processing.

“The intermodal hub will be located centrally between Melbourne and Sydney, with Visy Logistics starting operations at the RiFL Hub terminal during 2022.

“The new rail freight connections will improve the import and export of local produce to the rest of the country and the world.”

 

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