The first grain train is expected to run on the recently upgraded Benalla to Oaklands line this Sunday, Public Transport Minister Martin Pakula announced today.
The 126 kilometre Benalla to Oaklands rail freight line has been standardised and upgraded as part of the Brumby Labor Government’s $38.7 million Silver Lines package.
"The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to further strengthen regional economies and investing in our regional rail network is a key part of our strategy to boost economic growth and trade from our regions," Mr Pakula said today.
"I am very pleased to see the railway operational for this year’s grain season giving grain producers direct access to the national rail freight network, enabling the movement of product between New South Wales and Victoria via rail.
"The Brumby Labor Government has invested in the Benalla to Oaklands freight line to ensure it remains connected to the main north east line, and that local agriculture industry can continue to thrive.
"The upgrade of this branch line will deliver significant benefits to a key section of Victoria’s rail freight network, which carries 80 per cent of the state’s export grain."
Works to standardise and upgrade the Benalla to Oaklands freight railway were completed on time and within budget in December, delivering a boost to the efficiency and capacity of the line ahead of this season’s grain harvest.
It is expected the first train coming from Melbourne will enter the freight line at Benalla on Sunday morning, arriving at Oaklands to load grain and then return later that day to the Port of Melbourne to unload.
Four grain trains are scheduled this week to operate between Melbourne and Oaklands each carrying 2,200 tonnes of grain. During the coming year it is expected that in excess of 120,000 tonnes of grain will be transported along the railway.
Upper House Member for Northern Victoria Candy Broad MLC said conversion of the Benalla to Oaklands line from broad to standard gauge gives grain producers along the line direct access to the national rail freight network, enabling the movement of product between New South Wales and Victoria via rail.
"The Victorian Government’s investment in rail freight infrastructure means Victoria’s farmers and grain handlers are able to decide how best to move their crop," Ms Broad said.
"The grain industry has indicated its commitment to rail freight transportation over the long-term and this has been a key factor in the government’s investment in the network.
"As part of the $16.5 million Benalla to Oaklands project, nearly 50,000 timber sleepers were replaced and more than 70 jobs were created through the project."
Mr Pakula urged motorists in the region to take care when approaching the line.
"Motorists should slow down when approaching any level crossing and obey road signs and crossing protection measures," he said.
"My message to motorists is just ‘Don’t Risk It’ and be aware that trains will be running along the recently upgraded line."