GrainCorp has received a multi-million-dollar upgrade to its Condoblin rail site in New South Wales’ central west region.
The upgrade will expand the site’s loading capacity from 30 to 48 wagons, cutting turnaround times and supporting a shift from road to rail freight.
“By increasing rail capacity and efficiency, we’re strengthening the grains supply chain for NSW growers and ensuring they can access critical export markets and domestic customers, especially in bigger years when flexibility is key,” GrainCorp chief operating officer Klaus Pamminger said.
“Faster train cycles mean we can move grain to port more quickly, and increasing capacity and reducing turnaround times strengthens the entire supply chain with more efficient and cost-effective transport.
“This is one of several recent upgrades to sites that deliver a win-win of better efficiency for NSW growers and a safer, more connected regional network. We’re proud to have worked alongside government and industry partners to deliver this upgrade.”
The company expects the upgrades will enable up to 400,000 tonnes of grain to be moved by rail freight instead of road freight each year. The return trip from site to port and back will be reduced from 60 hours to 48 hours.
The Condobolin site receives around 177,000 tonnes of grain each harvest. The upgraded siding now allows each train to carry up to 2,822 tonnes – a 35 per cent increase in load capacity.
The funding contributions for the project came from GrainCorp ($6.75 million), NSW Government ($1.21 million) and ARTC ($190,000).
“This upgrade is a great example of how investing in regional rail infrastructure delivers real benefits across the supply chain, and in reducing road impacts,” NSW regional transport and roads minister Jenny Aitchison said.
“A stronger, more efficient freight network means lower transport costs and a more competitive grain industry.”