Parkes to host Inland Rail Symposium

The Indland Rail Symposium will be held in the regional centre of Parkes NSW, well known for its economic strengths and diversity including its developing status as a national transport hub. It will explore the key issues related to the development of this national infrastructure project.

A range of eminent speakers have been confirmed for the event including the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, the Hon Warren Truss MP, Shadow Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Mr Bryan Nye, CEO Australasian Railway Association, Professor Philip Laird, Wollongong University and Mr John Hearsch, Great Australian Trunk Rail. Former CEO of Queensland Rail, Vince O'Rourke will chair the Symposium.

"Regional business leaders and those with an interest in being updated on the delivery of this nation building project will not want to miss this event," urged Parkes Shire Mayor, Cr Ken Keith.

"We see this infrastructure as vital for the long term prosperity of Australia and the Symposium is an ideal platform to heighten the importance of commitment to this project.

"Given the Symposium format and content, Council remains confident of attracting a diverse range of delegates from all parts of the Eastern Seaboard," said Mayor Keith.

"This isn't a new idea, Parkes' forefather Sir Henry Parkes had visions back in 1889 when he famously proclaimed,

"...they had now, from South Australia to Queensland, a stretch of about 2,000 miles of railway, and if the four colonies could only combine to adopt a uniform gauge, it would be an immense advantage in the movement of troops, as well as in the operations of commerce and the various pursuits of society...".

"It will be great to see Sir Henry’s vision realised," commented Mayor Keith.

For further information and registration details visit www.inlandrail.com.au or email inlandrail@parkes.nsw.gov.au or contact the Parkes Visitor Information Centre on 02 6862 6000

Registrations close Thursday, 14 June 2012.