A Mount Isa Mines spokesperson said the upgrade would benefit the north west region’s mining industry.

“Securing agreeable rates and conditions surrounding the use of the Mount Isa to Townsville rail line will help Glencore’s regional operations, and other miners operating in the province to compete in the global market,” the spokesperson said. 

The 1.6 million tonnes of copper, zinc and consumables owned by Glencore were transported on the railway line in 2014. 

This cost Glencore $83 million in rail access and haulage costs. 

Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss said that, while promoting the White Paper on Developing Northern Australia earlier this month, that the upgrade was part of the $5 million freight rail feasibility package. 

“The study into upgrading the ageing Mount Isa to Townsville line is great news for the region, which supports a range of industries crucial to Australia’s economic success, including mineral resources and beef cattle exports,” Mr Truss said. 

Mount Isa Member Rob Katter said the railway should be upgraded regardless of a business case. 

The upgrades were an issue he has pushed for since he became the Mount Isa member in 2012. 

“The existing rail system is not living up to its potential as trains have been asked to travel at half their speed,” Mr Katter said.