Statement attributable to an ARTC spokesperson:
Australian Rail Track Corporation is working towards restoring full operations following Tuesday's freight train derailment on the East West rail corridor north of Port Pirie, South Australia.
Works to rebuild the track are now underway following the removal of the final derailed wagons.
Conditions for crews on the ground remain challenging due to extreme heat and strong winds, and these conditions are affecting the pace of works.
Network operations remain suspended for all rail services travelling between Sydney and Perth, Melbourne and Perth, and Adelaide and Darwin.
At this stage, the current estimate for a return to service is Saturday evening, 10 January, subject to recovery progress and safety requirements.
Safety remains the priority as work continues to restore the rail line to service. Members of the public are asked not to approach the site.
The cause of the derailment is under investigation, and ARTC will continue to work closely with the train operator and the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator.
