WestNet, WA government strike truce

Train operations on the four lines which WestNet Rail suspended last week have resumed after the Western Australian government agreed to work with the grain rail operator to ensure the network’s sustainability.

The line from Deloraince to Mole Creek in the Northern Area was closed in the early 1990s. Author's picture taken in March this year

WestNet Rail ceased operations on the lines on June 15, after its request for $45m funding from the government to re-sleeper the key Northam-Albany line, fell on deaf ears.
However, the company announced yesterday that the State Government will work with WestNet to drum up a strategy and an investment decision will be made before the end of the year.
The strategy will complement the review of the grain rail freight network currently being undertaken by the Strategic Grain Network Committee.
WestNet Rail GM Paul Larsen said the decision by the state government would provide certainty about the future of the 2300km grain freight network.
We are particularly pleased with the governments decision to identify the Northam-Albany line as high priority for assessment for investment, as this line is one of the most critical for growers to move their grain to port in a timely and efficient manner, Larsen said.
We anticipate a clear recommendation from the Strategic Grain Network Committee on funding for the line upgrade in the very near future.
Source: Lloyd's List Daily Commercial News - www.lloydslistdcn.com.au

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