QR says its recovery efforts are in full swing to repair flood-damaged sections of the Mount Isa rail line following flooding between Torrens Creek to Prairie.
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QR said they anticipate the line between Townsville and Mount Isa could reopen by Tuesday February 11, weather conditions permitting.
QR CEO Nick Easy, said crews were working as quickly as possible to recover damaged sections, with significant repair work at Prairie Creek and Little Emu Creek.
"Access to the damaged sites has been the first challenge, with flood waters needing to recede before detailed track inspections could take place. More than 800m of Duro Base Mats have been brought in to establish safe access roads in wet conditions," Mr Easy said. "At Prairie Creek, crews have completed repairs on approach to the western end of the rail bridge extensively washed out by significant rain in a short period of time and fast flowing water. They are also replacing the track and ballast.
"At Little Emu Creek, rail bridge works and earthworks are also required, due to the strong flood current experienced in this area.
"Cranes commenced work on Thursday (Feb 6) to assist in removing concrete bridge slabs, allowing engineers to undertake detailed inspections of the bridge's piers and determine the full scope of repairs. Thankfully, only cosmetic damage has been identified, he said.
"Approximately 60 Queensland Rail employees will be involved in the recovery works to ensure we restore this important supply chain for the community as quickly as possible."
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Derek Barry
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
