- Major track, rail bridge and level crossing works have been delivered between St Lawrence and Cairns on Queensland Rail's North Coast rail line following a temporary maintenance closure.
- These improvements mean a more reliable path for thousands of freight and passenger rail services which travel along the line each year.
- The works were undertaken during a scheduled track closure last month.
Major maintenance upgrades have been undertaken Queensland Rail's North Coast line across Far North, North and Central Queensland - improving the reliability and longevity of this vital passenger and freight route.
Queensland Rail Head of Regional Scott Cornish said it was fantastic to see the upgrades safely delivered during a scheduled track closure.
"If you've ever wondered why our railway network needs to close from time to time, essential maintenance like what's happened here is why," Mr Cornish said.
"This investment is about supporting regional Queensland by safeguarding and improving the reliability of our railway line for freight and passengers, and ensuring this vital corridor remains safe and efficient for decades to come."
Mr Cornish said the successful delivery of works was the result of meticulous planning and collaboration.
"During the closure, we had 25 different teams from across Queensland mobilised at 18 worksites between St Lawrence and Cairns," Mr Cornish said.
"Over the five days, a range of works were completed including the replacement of 1,740 sleepers between Townsville and Cairns, timber bridge repairs between Ingham and Cairns at Clarkson Creek, Codfish Creek and Coroboree Creek, level crossing maintenance south of Home Hill at Fredrick Field Road and Daniel Road, 3.5 kilometres of track renewals north of Cardwell and turnout and formation repairs.
"I want to thank all involved in delivering this critical project safely and efficiently."
Spanning approximately 1,435 kilometres, the North Coast line - which runs from Brisbane to Cairns - is a key artery for Queensland. It supports 8,000 train movements each year, including containerised freight, livestock and sugar, in addition to long-distance passenger services including the Spirit of Queensland, Spirit of the Outback, Bundaberg and Rockhampton Tilt Trains.
These essential upgrades help ensure the line continues to support Queensland's economy, communities and transport needs, now and into the future.
During the temporary closure, travellers were still able to get to their destinations by replacement road coaches.
