Aurizon welcomes approval for Hunter Valley rail facility
Aurizon today welcomed the approval by the New South Wales Government of a train support facility at Hexham in the Hunter Valley.
Aurizon today welcomed the approval by the New South Wales Government of a train support facility at Hexham in the Hunter Valley.
Today’s announcement of approval by Duncan Gay, the NSW Minister for Main Roads and Ports, marks the start of another major investment in the Hunter Valley economy by Australia’s largest rail freight company.
The facility, representing an investment of more than $100 million, will provide for operational management of Aurizon’s fleet in the Hunter Valley including servicing and routine maintenance and provisioning with fuel, water and other supplies.
Approximately 200 jobs will be created during construction with a range of work available for tender by local contractors. The facility will support approximately 30 long-term jobs when operational.
The Hexham Train Support Facility will underpin Aurizon’s growing New South Wales coal haulage, where it has established nearly 30% market share since commencing operations in 2005.
The facility will also benefit the community by reducing the activities of shunting and provisioning in and around Carrington and Kooragang Island.
Aurizon expects construction work to commence in early November with completion of the provisioning facility expected in late 2014. The combined maintenance facility is expected to be complete by February 2015.
Ed McKeiver, Senior Vice President Service Delivery Coal Markets, said that today’s announcement marked the start of another significant investment by Aurizon in the Hunter Valley economy.
“Aurizon is strongly committed to the Hunter Valley and has built a track record of success in the local community since 2005,” Mr McKeiver said.
“Our workforce has grown to 250 employees who live and work in the local community. Aurizon also continues the dual-club sponsorship of the Newcastle Knights and Jets through the Hunter Sports Group.”
"Aurizon is also delighted with the extensive rail safety campaigns we've run through local schools and the community, directly communicating with thousands of locals in recent times as part of this sponsorship and our ongoing commitment to the region."