- Bridge deck renewals completed on 11 bridges across Victoria's North East Rail Line
- Project delivered more than original scope and within budget through efficient planning and delivery
- Upgrades reduce maintenance needs and strengthen safety and reliability for freight and passenger services
The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC), in collaboration with construction partner Brunton Engineering and Construction has completed a major program of bridge deck renewals across the North East Rail Line in Victoria, delivering stronger, safer and more resilient infrastructure for both freight and passenger services.
Following detailed inspections, ARTC identified a number of timber bridge decks on the west track requiring replacement. Renewal works were prioritised under ARTC's Resilience Program, which targets high-risk assets to improve long-term safety and reliability.
The delivery team focused on seven priority bridges, with flexibility to complete additional renewals if resources allowed.
Thanks to clever planning and efficient delivery, the project team achieved renewals on a total of 11 bridges, exceeding the original target and maximising value for money.
The upgrades involved replacing the ageing timber deck spans with modern concrete and steel bridge decks, designed to meet current ARTC structural standards. This approach will significantly reduce the need for reactive maintenance, lower inspection requirements, and enhance safety across the line.
Heather Parry, Director Infrastructure Projects, ARTC, said:
"This project shows how targeted investment and innovative delivery can strengthen our network and create long-term benefits.
"Renewing these bridge decks extends the life of critical assets and provides a safer, more reliable railway for freight and passenger customers.
"Delivering more than the original scope within budget is a credit to the team and our delivery partners.
"The bridge deck renewals form part of ARTC's broader Resilience Program - a package of works to improve safety, reliability and resilience across the national rail network, ensuring trains keep moving for the communities and industries that rely on them."
