Fischer to lead Victorian rail freight review

<p>Former National Party leader Tim Fischer would lead a comprehensive review of Victoria’s rail freight network, rail minister Lynne Kosky said yesterday (Wednesday, June 20).</p> <p>Ms Kosky said the Rail Freight Review would submit a report with options and recommendations by November 30.</p> <p>&#8220The taskforce will work to a tight timeframe and this is a reflection of the commitment of the Bracks Government to tackle these vital issues,&#8221 Ms Kosky said.</p> <p>&#8220This taskforce has been established in recognition of the challenges facing the rail freight network, particularly in regional areas. Victoria’s freight task is expected to double over the next 30 years and Victoria’s rail network will need to take up a higher share of the freight task.&#8221</p> <p>Other members of the taskforce will be: Peter Wilson AM (deputy chair), Kerry Murphy, John McQuilten, Rob Spence and Bruce McGowan.</p> <p>Issues to be examined will include:</p> <p>The physical condition of the network and maintenance needs</p> <p>Potential future demand</p> <p>Priority of lines for upgrade and&#47or standardisation </p> <p>Points arising from rail freight forecasts, maintenance cost benchmarking and access charges, track standards and above rail, costs for grain transportation</p> <p>The network’s future configuration, including impact on the road network and grain handling facilities and </p> <p>The impact of freight trends towards intermodal rail and road freight.</p> <p>&#8220A reference group will also be established to work with the taskforce, with key stakeholders, including V&#47Line, Pacific National, the Victorian Farmers Federation and grain handlers invited to participate,&#8221 Ms Kosky said.</p> <br />