The reopening of the upgraded Midland Line is set to deliver grain transport efficiencies to the Mid West during another bumper WA grain harvest, thanks to the DTMI-led Agricultural Supply Chain Improvements (ASCI) Program.
Upgrades to the track between Carnamah and Mingenew from 16 tonne axle load (TAL) to 19 TAL mean a single wagon train will be able to carry 25 per cent more grain to Geraldton Port for export.
The improvements make grain on rail transport more cost efficient for growers, with CBH Group using the line to transport product to the port for export to major international markets.
Completion of the project has come at just the right time, with total grain tonnages for the region forecast to be some of the best on record.
Works have been delivered by Arc Infrastructure who invested $22 million in the project alongside $45 million from the Australian and Western Australian Governments.
The ASCI works program also includes rail siding upgrades at key CBH grain receival sites to strengthen the rail freight network and improve the resiliency and efficiency of the supply chain.
Both governments have funded the $200 million in the overall ASCI program, with project partner CBH Group also investing in rapid rail loading infrastructure complementary to the project.
The Midland Line is one of several ASCI projects now delivered, helping get more grain to port faster.
