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Local Aurizon employees and more than 20 Darumbal elders attended a naming ceremony at Rockhampton Station where the two new track machines were on display.

To acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which the machines will operate, the machines were named ‘Yugu Nunthi’ meaning ‘water lily country’ and emblazoned with indigenous artwork by Tosie Cora of the Darumbal people.

Aurizon’s Executive Vice President Alex Kummant highlighted the importance of strengthening Aurizon’s links with indigenous communities and the value that this brings.

“Today is about reflecting on and recognising that the land on which these machines will operate is the homeland of the Darumbal people,” Alex said.

“At Aurizon we believe in the importance of respect for indigenous history, cultures and customs, and we are committed to building stronger relationships in the local communities where we operate,” he said.

The new Dynamic tamper machines are part of an ongoing $180 million dollar investment by Aurizon in the latest track maintenance equipment, designed to keep the Central Queensland Coal Network operating at its peak.

The massive 193 tonne track machines are used for constructing and maintaining the $6 billion coal network that links more than 40 mines to Queensland’s export ports.

The major investment in machinery is part of Aurizon’s long term commitment to the coal supply chain, and will be used to maintain the safety and reliability of their 2, 670km network so that more tonnes of coal can be carried for customers.

“These state-of-the-art machines will be fundamental to keeping the rail network in top condition for the operation of more than 25,000 train services per year,” Alex said.

“Likewise, our highly-skilled, professional employees do a fantastic job and are delighted to welcome this new kit to their workplace.”

“The upgrade our mechanised maintenance fleet with the latest technology will significantly improve our capability and performance – the new machines are 50 per cent more productive than their older predecessors, which means better network utilisation and more capacity for our customers,” Alex said.

Mr Kummant acknowledged the significance of the work that Aurizon does in Central Queensland – both out in the field on the rail network and within the local area with organisations and community groups like the Darumbal people.

He said Aurizon’s indigenous programs aim to increase partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural people for the long-term by providing employment and other opportunities within the Company.

For more information, please contact: Brand & Communications: media@aurizon.com.au