Queensland Rail is actively monitoring track and weather conditions in North West Queensland, with flooding currently affecting the Mount Isa line, between Richmond and Flynn.
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CEO Nick Easy said Queensland Rail was utilising a number of remote cameras along the line to proactively monitor track sections of concern, between Julia Creek and Mount Isa, as well as deploying crews to inspect identified reports of flooding and track impacts where safe to do so.
“On Saturday, March 3 a track washout was identified west of Cloncurry, and on Monday March 5, Queensland Rail became aware of a fast flowing body of water over the Mount Isa line, approximately 10 kilometres west of Julia Creek,” Mr Easy said.
Queensland Rail network staff attended the Julia Creek site and have confirmed the body of water is approximately 500 metres wide and flowing at speed.
“As a result of these flooding impacts, Inlander services have been cancelled in both directions, and due to the Flinders Highway also being cut, transport of customers to their final destination by replacement road coach cannot be guaranteed.
“Freight services are not currently operational on the Mount Isa line due to flooding impacts.
“Queensland Rail will continue to monitor the situation and as soon as it is safe to do so, inspection and repair crews will conduct further track inspections and undertake repairs as necessary. At this stage, the line is expected to remain closed for several days while flood waters recede, and depending on the extent of the repairs required,” he said.
