Loop returning to network

TRACK upgrades are set to commence at the Gheringhap loop as part of the State Government’s initiative to boost the capacity of the regional freight network.

Minister for Ports and Freight, Melissa Horne, visited the site on Tuesday and said the works will allow for the reopening and increased capabilities for the track.

“By reinstating this loop on the network, it means we’ll be able to have trains… up to 800 metres long that will be able to get in and out of the ports much more efficiently,” she said.

“This will allow longer, heavier trains to be able to come in and out of the port of Geelong.

“Having a train even longer will drive that efficiency to take 40 to 50 B-double trucks off the road which of course drives down the need for road maintenance.

“It will add about another 40 to 50 wagons onto the existing capacity on those trains that come in with bulk goods.”

Money for the works will come from the State Government’s freight maintenance funding pool of $181 million.

The announcement occurred alongside the signing of a memorandum of understanding between freight and supply industry representatives.

Andrew Thomson, chief commercial officer for Pacific National said the deal will maximise the efficiency of the regional network upgrades.

“It’s really important that we find a way to work with key customers and partners and to be able to produce reliance into the system,” he said.

“Anything we can do to introduce efficiency, cheaper cost into the supply chain will also flow through into the community.”