Over 400 local businesses have benefited from Cross River Rail so far, with 90 per cent of contracts going to Queensland-based businesses.
Minister for State Development and Minister for Cross River Rail Kate Jones said that a major rail project such as Cross River Rail can fuel the Queensland economy.
“Major State Government-funded infrastructure projects are crucial to Queensland’s economic recovery.
“Right now, Cross River Rail is already supporting more than 2,000 jobs. At the height of construction, that number will be more like 3,000,” said Jones.
Jones made the comments as she visited Clontarf business Avopiling, which had been awarded contracts close to $6 million.
“Avopiling supports 38 workers – people who have had job security during this pandemic thanks to Queensland’s largest infrastructure project,” said Jones.
Piling has been underway at the Woolloongabba and Albert Street sites to support new underground stations. 300 piles have been sunk in Woolloongabba, and Albert Street is soon to pass 100 piles.
“Avopiling has been operating out of their Clontarf facility for more than 15 years. And they’ve been working on Cross River Rail since November last year,” said Jones.
“They had two piling rigs and 11 workers putting in over 300 piles at Woolloongabba and now have one rig with eight workers at the Albert Street station.”
Graduate engineer Thenuja Srikanthan is working for Avopiling on the contract, which has provided hands-on experience while she completes her geotechnical engineering degree.
“I’ve had the opportunity get practical on the job experience and learn a lot while working at Cross River Rail’s Woolloongabba site,” she said.
Jones said that the Queensland government hopes that Cross River Rail continues to benefit local subcontractors and that the project prioritises Queensland companies.
“We’re seeing local subbies, hiring local workers and investing in new machinery,” Ms Jones said.
“This is putting Queensland companies in a better position to win even more contracts in the future.”
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