Logistical issues still flaw Queensland freight transportation capabilities

Queensland’s rail freight infrastructure is struggling to bounce back from this year’s disasters, with trucks still replacing trains as a means of transportation. 

Queensland Rail, which has responsibility for several flood and cyclone-affected rail freight networks says work is continuing to get the system back in business.

Coal rail lines under the responsibility of QR National, this year spun off the national rail operator and floated, were relatively unaffected.

However QR National is still using trucks as an alternate option to rail where possible on the North Coast line, which is operated by Queensland Rail.

Queensland Rail says it is taking measures to ensure the safety of its staff and customers in affected regions.

“We will aim to continue services, where it is safe to do so,” the company said.

“At Queensland Rail we are working hard to repair our damaged infrastructure, to ensure our services are up and running again as soon as possible.”

While most Queensland Rail lines are open, staff are working to repair those lines damaged by flooding and Cyclone Yasi. At present, the line from Townsville to Cairns remains closed with extensive repairs required, particularly to level crossing infrastructure.

Freight will be trucked from Townsville to Cairns until the line reopens in late February.
“We continue to work closely with affected customers on the Toowoomba line, as staff repair damage caused by flash flooding.” It is expected that line will be reopened in April,” Queensland Rail said.

In line with this aim, Queensland Rail says it has established a Regional Recovery Taskforce to repair cyclone and flood affected regional train lines as quickly as possible.

Queensland Transport Minister Rachel Nolan says the Taskforce will ensure a coordinated approach by bringing together senior Queensland Rail leaders from a number of regions and divisions.

“This taskforce includes representatives with a range of knowledge and skills, including expertise in human resource management, communications, workplace health and safety, customer relations and law,” she said.

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