Boost to Queensland’s rail manufacturing capacity at Maryborough

The Palaszczuk Government is investing in the state’s rail industry announcing $10 million for infrastructure improvements at Downer EDI’s rail manufacturing plant at Maryborough.

These infrastructure improvements will upgrade the existing facilities to better accommodate six car trains, and ensure the longevity of rail manufacturing at the Maryborough site.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the Palaszczuk Government was partnering with the disability sector on the designs for the rectification works to provide improved functionality and compliance with disability standards.

This design work is scheduled for completion later this year, and will inform construction timeframes for the rectification works in Maryborough.

“It is important that we get this design work right, working alongside disability advocates,” Mr Bailey said.

“The LNP didn’t care about rail manufacturing in Queensland, or about jobs in Maryborough, when they purchased half price trains from overseas.

“This investment will mean the rail plant at Maryborough will be set up for the future, and ready to start work on accessibility upgrades for the six car NGR trains, reducing the need for unnecessary work on the rollingstock.”

Member for Maryborough Bruce Saunders said this funding showed the Palaszczuk Government’s continued commitment to the local manufacturing sector.

“The Palaszczuk Government is delivering on its election commitment to invest in Downer EDI’s Maryborough plant, providing long term secure jobs for locals,” Mr Saunders said.

“Unlike the LNP, the Palaszczuk Government will ensure all new rail manufacturing and maintenance contracts are carried out by Queensland workers.

“This funding is an investment in local jobs.”

The improvement works at the Maryborough rail plant will include:

• upgrades to overhead power lines to support six-car static testing;
• installation of a new section of track to support weighing, levelling and water egress testing;
• installation of a new run-around road and an additional spur to ease shunting restrictions and improve stabling capacity;
• additional cranes; and
• general infrastructure upgrades to support the rectification work.

Design work on the NGR accessibility upgrades is progressing in partnership with Bombardier, Downer EDI and Queensland Rail and in consultation with the disability sector. 

The Queensland Government is also taking active measures to promote consideration of accessibility across procurement activities, including:

• a requirement for all procurement contracts to include an explicit obligation to comply with the Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992;
• the appointment of disability advocates to the industry advisory groups under the Government’s Buy Queensland Procurement Policy; and
• the creation of a new Accessible Transport Networks team within the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

There are currently 17 NGR trains available for passenger services on the Gold Coast, Airport and Doomben lines.

ENDS

Media contact:  Dominic Geiger 0447 355 565