Kalgoorlie rail project hinges on public network control

Kalgoorlie rail development remains uncertain as Premier Roger Cook insists the state must regain control of its freight network to unlock the project’s full economic and logistical potential. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Kalgoorlie rail realignment requires network reform

Western Australia’s $170 million plan to realign the Kalgoorlie rail corridor would remove 25 kilometers of existing track and construct new lines connected to an intermodal hub.

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The route will bypass the Super Pit gold mine and connect with Arc Infrastructure’s lines, aiming to reduce pressure on Fremantle Port and streamline transport.

Premier Cook emphasized the need to return the freight network to public hands before construction can begin. He cited high shipping costs and inefficiencies caused by private ownership as major obstacles.

Arc Infrastructure, which holds a 50-year lease signed in 2000 for $586 million, is currently in complex early-stage negotiations with the state government.

Kalgoorlie rail upgrade boosts trade and mining

Industry leaders such as MLG’s Murray Leahy support the Kalgoorlie rail upgrade, noting it could eliminate hundreds of daily truck journeys and lower emissions.

Currently, freight is transported inefficiently by rail and truck, often doubling back to Kalgoorlie after passing through. Leahy believes the project will diversify the economy and de-bottleneck key routes.

Kalgoorlie-Boulder Mayor Glenn Wilson called it the region’s most important rail investment since 1968. He highlighted its potential to modernize outdated narrow-gauge corridors.

The $800 million rare earths refinery in Kalgoorlie would also benefit. Lynas Rare Earths, which holds a $258 million U.S. defense contract, relies on efficient logistics for its U.S.-bound materials.

Aurizon, Australia’s largest freight operator, welcomed the plan and urged authorities to prioritize cost-effective use of existing assets. Deloitte’s business case, expected mid-year, could determine the project’s viability and future scope.

Source: www.msn.com

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