ARTC signs historic deal with OneSteel

Australian Rail Track Corporation today signed one of the largest rail infrastructure supply deals in a decade with OneSteel to produce steel rail for projects announced as part of the equity investment by the Australian Government in the May Budget.

Specifically, OneSteel has been commissioned to supply 2,200kms of steel rail to be used as part of the $110 million Albury – Melbourne – Geelong re-railing project; and the $312 million Whyalla – Broken Hill and Parkes – Cootamundra re-railing project.

Once produced, the rail will be transported by train to welding teams, where the short lengths will be welded into longer strings.

The rail will be produced at OneSteel’s Whyalla Steelworks. As a result of this project, OneSteel will be employing an additional 27 people and increase the shifts in its rail processing plant to cover a 7 day 24 hour roster for the duration of the project.

ARTC Chief Executive Officer, David Marchant explained that this project was not only essential for the re-railing projects, but also for the local, state and national economy.

“ARTC is proud to partner with a successful Australian company as we hit the ground running with the upgrade of rail infrastructure in Victoria, South Australia and NSW.

“This is perhaps the largest rail infrastructure supply contract in over a decade. It represents an economic and employment boost to the Whyalla community over the next two years.”

OneSteel Whyalla Chief Executive, Mark Parry explained how the new deal will boost their operations.

“The new work to produce rail for ARTC’s infrastructure upgrades will allow us to employ more people and has potential flow on benefits for the local community as a direct result of this employment and additional maintenance work for contractors on site.”