Inland Rail has reached a key milestone with the opening of Wangaratta Station, advancing efforts to modernize freight transport between Melbourne and Brisbane. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Inland Rail has reached a key milestone with the opening of Wangaratta Station, advancing efforts to modernize freight transport between Melbourne and Brisbane.
Image: Inland Rail

The newly completed station forms part of Tranche 1 of the Beveridge to Albury (B2A) section. This stretch is critical for supporting high-capacity, double-stacked freight trains designed to operate on the Inland Rail corridor.

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The redevelopment involved replacing the Green Street bridge and adjusting nearby track alignments. Engineers added a western platform, relocated the east track, and built a pedestrian underpass beneath the new bridge.

Improvements also include upgraded access points with lifts, ramps, and stairs, plus a western car park and 35 surveillance cameras. These features enhance passenger safety while supporting growing freight demands.

Inland Rail Supports Economic Growth and Regional Jobs

Inland Rail is not only a freight initiative—it’s an engine for local job creation. Over 1,650 workers contributed to Tranche 1, including 1,578 from regional areas and 488 from Wangaratta alone.

Of those, 59 were First Nations individuals, 124 were women, and 176 were under the age of 25. Additionally, 39 apprentices gained experience on the project, boosting local workforce development.

The program also delivered economic benefits through $161.3 million in contracts to 346 local businesses. Wangaratta companies received $18 million, helping stimulate the regional economy.

Inland Rail Promotes Sustainability and Faster Logistics

According to the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC), Inland Rail will carry mostly domestic goods—up to 70%—including food, moving them more quickly from producers to markets.

By shifting freight from roads to rail, Inland Rail could cut transport emissions by as much as 75%. This transition also reduces highway congestion and supports environmental goals.

Infrastructure Minister Catherine King called the station opening “a significant step” in reshaping national freight. Inland Rail CEO Nick Miller emphasized the project’s local impact and long-term legacy.

With Tranche 2 underway, ARTC plans to maintain this inclusive, sustainable approach along the remaining route to Brisbane.

Source: www.fullyloaded.com.au

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