It will be desirable and logical to develop this project in stages, to make it manageable for the team of commercial partners, community advocate groups, special stakeholders and campaigners, etc.
1. Gain government endorsement and commitment for the project.
The project would involve the Australian Government, the NSW Government and all the local governments along the routes.
The project would include the delivery of a passenger and freight rail lines a services
Train services must retain the highest priority along the GNR rail corridor. But our team support an off-formation shared pathway for walking and cycling along the GNR line, where the geography makes it safe and possible.
2. Document the project to gain the necessary approvals and funding.
Documentation will include budgets, plans, maps,specifications and appropriate planning documents or legal instruments.
3. Develop and sign relevant contracts to enable physical work to commence.
It is likely that contractors will be engaged to deliver the various facets of the required works.
4. Organise the necessary transport to deliver labour, materials and visitors to the work sites
Heritage rail and rolling stock operators would probably enjoy this role. It would also boost community enthusiasm for the project.
Training opportunities would assist in preparing people for employment positions once the track is operational.
5. Commence heritage and tourist rail services from Armidale north to the end of active works.
Heritage and tourist train journeys often involve journeys to “no where and back again” There would almost certainly be an opportunity for such outings once the trip exceeds thirty minutes. Again this will boost enthusiasm and facilitate training and employment
6. As significant milestones are achieved commence running freight and passenger trains.
The New England and South East QLD communities have learnt to live without rail, since GNR line was closed north of Armidale to Wallangarra QLD.
7. Modern rollings tock is needed before introducing new services
New rolling stock will deliver efficiencies and opportunities never before realised. It will take time for new strategies and ways of doing things to be adopted. Introducing new services will stimulate new methods and adjusting infrastructure.
8. Develop the operating strategy for trains from Newcastle to Toowoomba and Brisbane via Werris Creek and Tamworth.
9. Fine tune the draft timetable and freight management strategy
10. Celebrate and promote the reopening of the GNR line serving New England.
Rick Banyard
Project Director
New England Transport Plan
11-may-2025
