Midland Railway track upgrade begins with $67M investment

Midland Railway track upgrade will begin in mid-2026 to boost freight capacity and durability between Mingenew and Carnamah in Western Australia. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Arc Infrastructure signed a $67 million agreement with the Western Australian Government to modernize the Midland Railway line. The investment includes $45 million in public funding and $22 million from Arc.

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The deal finalizes the planning stage and launches procurement for essential long-lead materials. It also marks a critical step in the Agricultural Supply Chain Improvements (ASCI) initiative.

Midland Railway track upgrade to improve load capacity

The project will replace 77 kilometers of timber sleepers with steel and concrete, and lay 96 kilometers of new rail. This upgrade will increase the line’s load capacity from 16 to 19 tonnes per axle.

CBH Group, the sole user of this railway, relies on it year-round to ship grain to Geraldton Port. Upgrading the line will reduce delays, increase efficiency, and strengthen regional logistics.

Arc Infrastructure and CBH Group developed a joint construction plan that requires closing large sections of the line. This coordinated approach enables safer work and better project control.

Arc to cut costs on Midland Railway track upgrade

By using in-house construction teams, Arc expects to reduce costs by over $30 million. This strategy ensures that ASCI funding is used efficiently and minimizes disruptions.

Nathan Speed, Acting CEO of Arc Infrastructure, said both parties are committed to ensuring smooth grain flow. “We’ll optimize grain movement before and during construction to avoid bottlenecks,” he stated.

Construction is expected to start in mid-2026 and will enhance rail service reliability for Western Australian growers.

This track renewal supports long-term agricultural competitiveness in the region. It also provides the foundation for future freight growth across the state.

The Midland route upgrade is a vital part of improving Western Australia’s rural rail infrastructure. With stronger materials and higher axle limits, the line will support modern freight demands.

Source: www.railexpress.com.au

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