A new passing loop built at Elmhurst between Ararat and Maryborough makes it easier for producers to get their wares from their paddocks in the state’s north west to port.
The loop enables two freight trains to pass each other, lifting freight capacity in this critical section of the Murray Bain rail freight network.
By doing this, the loop gives freight operators more flexibility and primary producers more options to move their product by rail.
Just one 50-wagon train using the loop can transport 3,000 tonnes of grain from paddock to port, effectively removing 70 B-double trucks from regional roads.
More than 2,000 metres of rail and 7,000 tonnes of ballast was installed for the passing loop, along with turnouts to connect the 900-metre loop to the main rail line.
Freight trains on the Ararat-Maryborough Line are already able to carry more produce following upgrades to the 88-kilometre section of track completed in late 2022.
The milestone was celebrated with a community event at the historic Maryborough Station, where a locomotive decorated with artwork by renowned St Arnaud artist Kyle Torney was unveiled.
An alliance of ACCIONA, Coleman Rail and SMEC delivered the Ouyen to Murrayville Line track upgrades, Ararat to Maryborough re-railing and the Merbein and Donald siding works.
The Alliance will also deliver passing loops at Emu, Elmhurst and Tourello, Ouyen refuelling and signalling upgrades at Maryborough and Ouyen yards.
Learn more about the Murray Basin Rail Project.
