John Holland Spearheads New Developments on Inland Rail’s Victorian Sites

In a significant move forward for Australian rail infrastructure, John Holland has been appointed to manage early commencement works and delivery activities across eight critical sites in Victoria for the ambitious Inland Rail project. This development is part of the Beveridge to Albury (B2A) – Tranche Two section, aiming to enhance the existing North East Rail Line to accommodate double-stack freight trains.

The designated sites include Benalla, Euroa, Wandong, the Hume Freeway at Tallarook, Seymour, and three locations in Broadford. The primary focus of these early stages will involve extensive design and preparatory efforts. John Holland is tasked with carrying out vital site investigations and advancing design work at each location, setting the stage for the transformative enhancements to follow.

Ed Walker, Inland Rail Program Delivery Director for the Beveridge to Albury section, highlighted the importance of these developments. “These works at the remaining eight sites in Victoria represent a crucial advancement for Australia’s largest infrastructure project,” Walker explained. The selection of John Holland for this project was based on their proven track record in delivering major civil and rail projects, including last year’s Inland Rail Narrabri to North Star Phase 1 and the 2021 North East Rail Line Upgrade.

Steve Butcher, Executive General Manager at John Holland, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s scope and its potential impact. “This is an exciting project that will transform how goods are moved around Australia,” Butcher said. He emphasised the project’s broader benefits, such as job creation and the opportunity to collaborate with local businesses, which are set to leave a lasting positive legacy in regional communities.

The activities planned for these sites are comprehensive and are set to include geotechnical investigations, groundwater monitoring, and additional surveys. These efforts are crucial for preparing the sites for the major construction phase, ensuring that all aspects of the rail line meet the high standards required for such a monumental infrastructure feat.

With the appointment of a construction partner for the remaining Victorian sites scheduled for mid-2024, the project is on track for construction to commence in early-2025, aiming for completion in 2027. Once completed, the 1600km Inland Rail will connect Melbourne and Brisbane via regional Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland, significantly boosting the efficiency and capacity of freight transportation across the country.

This project not only represents a leap forward in Australian rail capabilities but also underscores the commitment to enhancing national infrastructure to support economic growth and regional development. Through strategic partnerships and meticulous planning, the Inland Rail is set to redefine freight movement in Australia, ushering in a new era of connectivity and economic opportunities for the regions it traverses.