Inland Rail’s Narrabri to North Star Phase 1 project has garnered an ‘Excellent’ As Built rating from the Infrastructure Sustainability Council (ISC), cementing its place as a leader in sustainable and safe infrastructure. Spanning 176 kilometers, this stretch of rail is the longest linear infrastructure certified by the ISC, a testament to its impactful design and execution. The project included significant upgrades to seven bridges and improved safety measures at 57 level crossings. Notably, ten passive crossings were transformed into active ones, equipped with bells, lights, and boom gates, thereby elevating the safety standards considerably. Remarkably, the project demonstrated resilience by withstanding the worst flood in a decade in Moree during 2022.
Stephen Jones, Inland Rail’s Executive Director of Health, Safety, Environment, and Sustainability, voiced pride in the recognition, underscoring the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and industry excellence. This project not only met but exceeded its environmental sustainability targets. The construction process utilized an innovative steel rail shape from Liberty Primary Steel, which enhances wheel-to-track contact and reduces minor revisions, making the rail safer and more efficient. Such advancements underline Inland Rail’s dedication to adopting cutting-edge technologies for robust infrastructure.
Commitment to Environmental Sustainability
The Narrabri to North Star project excelled notably in environmental sustainability by reusing earthworks to support the rails, sleepers, and ballast, a move that significantly minimized the need for new earth-moving activities. This strategy was economically and environmentally beneficial, cutting down on material costs and reducing the project’s ecological footprint. Additionally, the project secured environmental offsets leading to an 86% improvement in ecological values. Inland Rail displayed a robust commitment to minimizing its environmental impact, evidenced by these thoughtful and impactful measures.
The project showcased efficiency and sustainability by making the most of available resources. This approach is particularly significant in the construction industry, which frequently grapples with the challenge of balancing developmental needs with environmental preservation. By employing practices that prioritize resource reuse and recycling, Inland Rail has set a noteworthy example that others in the industry can follow. This dedication aligns perfectly with broader global goals of achieving sustainable development and reducing carbon footprints in large-scale infrastructure projects.
Economic Impact and Local Engagement
Economically, the Narrabri to North Star project had a profound impact on the local community. Inland Rail invested over $246.4 million into local businesses, demonstrating a strong commitment to regional development and economic empowerment. This investment included $9.4 million spent with First Nations businesses, highlighting a focused effort to support indigenous entrepreneurship and economic inclusion. Such initiatives fostered positive relationships and created opportunities for lasting economic benefits in the communities along the rail corridor.
The project employed over 2000 people, significantly boosting local employment. This workforce included 678 local residents and 185 First Nations individuals, further illustrating Inland Rail’s dedication to community engagement and support. The numerous employment opportunities not only provided immediate economic relief but also enhanced skillsets and employability within the community, offering long-term advantages beyond the project’s lifecycle. Such comprehensive community involvement is crucial for the sustainable success of large-scale infrastructure initiatives.
Previous Achievements and Continuous Improvement
Inland Rail’s Narrabri to North Star Phase 1 project earned an ‘Excellent’ As Built rating from the Infrastructure Sustainability Council (ISC), reflecting its leadership in sustainable and safe infrastructure. Spanning 176 kilometers, this segment is the longest linear infrastructure certified by the ISC, showcasing impressive design and execution. The upgrades included notable improvements to seven bridges and enhanced safety at 57 level crossings. Significantly, ten passive crossings were converted to active ones, equipped with bells, lights, and boom gates, thus greatly boosting safety standards. The project also demonstrated remarkable resilience by withstanding the worst flood in a decade in Moree during 2022.
Stephen Jones, Executive Director of Health, Safety, Environment, and Sustainability at Inland Rail, expressed pride in this accolade, emphasizing the company’s strong commitment to sustainability and industry excellence. The project surpassed its environmental targets, using innovative steel rail from Liberty Primary Steel that improves wheel-to-track contact and reduces minor revisions. These advancements highlight Inland Rail’s commitment to adopting advanced technologies for robust, efficient infrastructure.