- The Mount Isa line has reopened after being impacted by monsoonal rain since late last year.
- More than 100 dedicated Queensland Rail personnel were mobilised to restore the line, completing major works between Richmond and Cloncurry.
- The first freight train ran through the affected section this afternoon (Sunday, 1 February).
A major Queensland Rail recovery effort across the Mount Isa line has been completed, allowing the vital freight corridor to reopen to rail traffic this weekend.
Over the last month, crews have been working around the clock to repair 13 kilometres of track and more than 50 individual track defects, ranging from culvert damage to ballast replacement, across a vast and isolated area.
Specialised machinery, including a fleet of hi-rail vehicles, was deployed to safely access and repair damaged sections.
Bog mats were also used to stabilise muddy ground and enable rapid movement of equipment and crews across saturated terrain.
Parts of the Mount Isa line have been closed in different locations since 29 December 2025, following monsoonal rain causing severe flooding across the region and the impacts of ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.
Queensland Rail Head of Regional Scott Cornish said he was proud of the extraordinary efforts of crews from across the region who worked safely and tirelessly to restore services.
"Reopening the Mount Isa line is a testament to the resilience, skill, and dedication of our crews," Mr Cornish said.
"Despite ongoing wet weather conditions, our teams have pushed through to ensure this vital freight and passenger link is back in operation.
"Tonnes of ballast were used to complete washout, scouring, formation and track resurfacing works.
"We know how important this rail line is to connect communities and support supply chains across North West Queensland.
"Last week, while parts of the line remained closed, we worked with freight operators to recommence partial operations between Hughenden and the Port of Townsville, with a temporary terminal stood up at Hughenden to support the unloading and loading of containers from trains.
"Freight operators will resume movements across the full line today, and Inlander passenger services will recommence from Wednesday, as per the regular timetable.
"We thank our customers, local communities, and industry partners for their patience and support throughout the recovery period."
While the Mount Isa line has reopened, crews are monitoring weather conditions in the Far North and recovery works are continuing on the Central West line between Longreach and Winton.
Spirit of the Outback services, which operate from Brisbane to Longreach have also resumed operations following flooding impacts.
