Major Rail Upgrade Completed at Branxton to Boost Hunter Valley Freight Efficiency

11 November 2024

newy.com.au – The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) has successfully completed a rail infrastructure upgrade at Branxton, North-West of Newcastle, a critical juncture on the Hunter Valley rail line. The project, finalised during a 72-hour scheduled track closure, aims to enhance the safety and reliability of one of Australia’s most vital freight corridors.

The upgrade involved the comprehensive removal of outdated infrastructure and the installation of a new rail crossover, along with essential signalling equipment. Crews also reconstructed the track formation, improved drainage systems, and laid new ballast to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the track.

“Turnouts are crucial components that allow trains to switch tracks efficiently,” an ARTC spokesperson told Newy 87.8. “Upgrading these crossovers will improve asset reliability and help maintain service during disruptions, strengthening the overall resilience of the network.”

Branxton features two crossovers that enable trains to move seamlessly between the up and down main lines. While the first crossover has been upgraded, Stage 2 of the project, which includes the replacement of the second crossover, is scheduled for completion during the next Hunter Valley track closure from 19 to 22 November.

The Hunter Valley rail network is a lifeline for the region’s economy, facilitating the movement of coal, agricultural products, and general freight. It connects industries to ports and markets, both domestically and internationally. ARTC manages over 8,500 kilometres of track across five states, including the busy Hunter Valley coal rail network.

Established in 1998, ARTC is a government-owned entity that plays a pivotal role in Australia’s transport supply chain. By maintaining and operating rail lines nationwide, it ensures the efficient transit of more than 430 trains daily, linking communities and supporting industries.

The corporation’s customers range from passenger and freight train operators to coal producers. Major operators using the network include Pacific National, NSW Trains, and Aurizon, among others. In the Hunter Valley, ARTC commits to providing sufficient capacity for contracted coal volumes, serving clients like Glencore Coal, Whitehaven Coal, and Yancoal Australia.

ARTC routinely undertakes maintenance and improvement works to ensure safety and reliability across its rail network. The recent upgrades at Branxton are part of these ongoing efforts to keep the region’s economic supply chain functioning efficiently.

“Our focus has always been on modernising the network to meet current and future demands,” the spokesperson added. “These upgrades not only benefit our customers but also contribute to the broader economy by ensuring that goods can be transported safely and reliably.”

Residents and businesses in the region can expect minimal disruptions during the upcoming Stage 2 works, as ARTC continues to coordinate closely with all stakeholders to mitigate impact.

For a glimpse into the scale and efficiency of the upgrade, ARTC has released photos and videos showcasing the impressive feat of completing such extensive work in just three days.

The Australian Rail Track Corporation is one of the nation’s largest rail network managers, overseeing a vast network that spans five states. As champions of rail transport, ARTC promotes it as a safe, responsible, and cost-effective way to move people and products. The corporation is also involved in future projects, such as the Inland Rail, a new 1,600-kilometre freight line connecting Melbourne and Brisbane, which will further expand Australia’s rail capabilities.

ARTC’s commitment to improving the nation’s rail infrastructure doesn’t stop at Branxton. The upcoming Stage 2 works are part of a broader strategy to modernise the network, ensuring it can handle increasing freight demands and continue to support Australia’s economic growth.