As part of a multi-million-dollar investment, Queensland Rail has awarded three major contracts to overhaul more than 100 bogies across its regional fleet, including the iconic Kuranda Scenic Rail, L-Series and 1720 class diesel electric locomotives.
Queensland Rail regional head Scott Cornish said he was pleased to see the project progress, with contractors Wulguru and UGL enlisted to deliver the comprehensive upgrades on the bogies.
“The bogies of our rolling stock are the essential wheelsets that have kept our carriages moving across the state for almost 60 years,” he said.
“Over the next four years, the bogie overhaul works will entail extensive engineering upgrades, bolstering the safety and reliability of our Kuranda Scenic Railway and Western line services including the Spirit of the Outback, Westlander and Inlander.
“We know how important these services are to our regional communities and visitors from across the world which is why we are committed to keeping them running for many more years to come.
“Not only are these works improving the safety and reliability of the fleet, they’re also supporting regional jobs with all works to be undertaken in Townsville.”
Wulguru Group general manager Wayne Landrigan said it was an important contract not only for Wulguru Group but the North Queensland region.
“It provides employment opportunities and skills development for the next generation of tradespeople,” he said.
“It also solidifies our decision to invest to build a purpose-built rail wagon manufacturing facility right here in Townsville.”
UGL executive general manager for transport, Ian Quarrie, said UGL had a history in regional rail dating back to 1899.
“We’re pleased to continue our contribution to regional communities through our ongoing work to keep this iconic rolling stock moving across Queensland,” he said.
